Filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 25, 2019
Securities Act of 1933 File No. 002-80859
Investment Company Act of 1940 File No. 811-03651  
 
 
 
UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM N-1A
 
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 ý
 
Pre-Effective Amendment No.
 
Post-Effective Amendment No. 200
 
and/or
 
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 ý
 
Amendment No. 200
 
(Check appropriate box or boxes.)
 
TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
 
303 Broadway, Suite 1100, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
Registrant’s Telephone Number, including Area Code: (800) 638-8194
 
Jill T. McGruder, 303 Broadway, Suite 1100, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
 
With Copies to:
Deborah Bielicke Eades, Esq.
Vedder Price P.C.
222 North LaSalle Street
Chicago, Illinois 60601
(312) 609-7661
 
Renee M. Hardt, Esq.
Vedder Price P.C.
222 North LaSalle Street
Chicago, Illinois 60601
(312) 609-7616
 
It is proposed that this filing will become effective
(check appropriate box)
o immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
ý on July 29, 2019 pursuant to paragraph (b)
o 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)
o on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)
o 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
o on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of rule 485.
o This post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.
 




July 30, 2019
Prospectus
 
Touchstone Strategic Trust
 
 
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional
Class
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund
 
FFSAX
 
FRACX
 
MXIIX
 
TFSLX
Touchstone Focused Fund
 
TFOAX
 
TFFCX
 
TFFYX
 
TFFIX
Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund
 
TEQAX
 
TEQCX
 
TIQIX
 
TROCX
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund
 
TGVFX
 
TGVCX
 
TGVYX
 
TGVVX
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
TEGAX
 
TOECX
 
TEGYX
 
TEGIX
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
TSMGX
 
TEGCX
 
TSEMX
 
TSEGX
 
The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or determined if this prospectus is accurate or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the Touchstone Funds' annual and semi-annual shareholder reports will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the shareholder reports from Touchstone Funds or from your financial intermediary, such as a broker-dealer or bank. Instead, annual and semi-annual shareholder reports will be available on the Touchstone Funds' website (TouchstoneInvestments.com/Resources), and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.

You may elect to receive all future annual and semi-annual shareholder reports in paper, free of charge. If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. To elect to receive paper copies of shareholder reports through the mail or otherwise change your delivery method, contact your financial intermediary, or if you hold your shares directly through Touchstone Funds, visit TouchstoneInvestments.com/Resources/Edelivery or call Touchstone Funds toll-free at 1.800.543.0407. Your election to receive shareholder reports in paper will apply to all Touchstone Funds that you hold through your financial intermediary or directly with Touchstone.





Table of Contents

 
Page
TOUCHSTONE FLEXIBLE INCOME FUND SUMMARY
3

TOUCHSTONE FOCUSED FUND SUMMARY
9

TOUCHSTONE GLOBAL ESG EQUITY FUND SUMMARY
14

TOUCHSTONE GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND SUMMARY
20

TOUCHSTONE MID CAP GROWTH FUND SUMMARY
25

TOUCHSTONE SANDS CAPITAL EMERGING MARKETS GROWTH FUND SUMMARY
30

PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS
35

THE FUNDS’ MANAGEMENT
43

CHOOSING A CLASS OF SHARES
48

DISTRIBUTIONS AND SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS
52

INVESTING WITH TOUCHSTONE
54

DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
63

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
66

APPENDIX A INTERMEDIARY-SPECIFIC SALES CHARGES WAIVERS AND DISCOUNTS
87


2



TOUCHSTONE FLEXIBLE INCOME FUND SUMMARY
 
The Fund’s Investment Goal
 
The Touchstone Flexible Income Fund (the “Fund”) seeks total return through a combination of income and capital appreciation.

The Fund’s Fees and Expenses
 
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund.   You may qualify for sales charge discounts for Class A shares of Touchstone equity funds and Touchstone fixed income funds if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $25,000 or $50,000, respectively, in Touchstone funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional, in the section titled “Choosing a Class of Shares” in the Fund’s prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") on page 48 and 63 , respectively, and in Appendix A–Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts to the Fund's prospectus. If you purchase Class Y shares through a broker acting solely as an agent on behalf of its customers, that broker may charge you a commission. Such commissions, if any, are not charged by the Fund and are not reflected in the fee table or expense example below. 

 
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional
Class
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)
 
2.00%
 
None
 
None
 
None
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of original purchase price or the amount redeemed, whichever is less)
 
None
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Wire Redemption Fee *
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fees
 
0.56%
 
0.56%
 
0.56%
 
0.56%
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees
 
0.25%
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Other Expenses
 
0.30%
 
0.30%
 
0.28%
 
0.26%
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses (AFFE)
 
0.05%
 
0.05%
 
0.05%
 
0.05%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (1)
 
1.16%
 
1.91%
 
0.89%
 
0.87%
Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (2)
 
(0.07)%
 
(0.07)%
 
(0.05)%
 
(0.13)%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (1)(2)
 
1.09%
 
1.84%
 
0.84%
 
0.74%
_______________________________________ ____
* The wire redemption fee is capped at $15. In addition, the wire redemption fee may not exceed two percent (2%) of the amount being redeemed.
(1) Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses include Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses and will differ from the ratios of expenses to average net assets that is included in the Fund’s annual report for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019.
(2) Touchstone Advisors, Inc. (the "Advisor" or "Touchstone Advisors") and Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”) have entered into a contractual expense limitation agreement whereby Touchstone Advisors will waive a portion of its fees or reimburse certain Fund expenses (excluding dividend and interest expenses relating to short sales; interest; taxes; brokerage commissions and other transaction costs; portfolio transaction and investment related expenses, including expenses associated with the Fund's liquidity providers; other expenditures which are capitalized in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; the cost of “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses,” if any; and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of business) in order to limit annual Fund operating expenses to 1.04%, 1.79%, 0.79%, and 0.69% of average daily net assets for Classes A, C, Y, and Institutional Class shares, respectively. This contractual expense limitation is effective through July 29, 2020 , but can be terminated by a vote of the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) if it deems the termination to be beneficial to the Fund’s shareholders. The terms of the contractual expense limitation agreement provide that Touchstone Advisors is entitled to recoup, subject to approval by the Board, such amounts waived or reimbursed for a period of up to three years from the date on which the Advisor reduced its compensation or assumed expenses for the Fund. The Fund will make repayments to the Advisor only if such repayment does not cause the annual Fund operating expenses (after the repayment is taken into account) to exceed both (1) the expense cap in place when such amounts were waived or reimbursed and (2) the Fund’s current expense limitation.

Example. This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then, except as indicated, redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year, that the Fund’s operating expenses remain the same and that all fee waivers or expense limits for the Fund will expire after one year.  Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:


3



 
Assuming Redemption at End of Period
 
Assuming No Redemption
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
 
Class C
1 Year
$
309

 
$
287

 
$
86

 
$
76

 
$
187

3 Years
$
554

 
$
593

 
$
279

 
$
265

 
$
593

5 Years
$
819

 
$
1,025

 
$
488

 
$
469

 
$
1,025

10 Years
$
1,575

 
$
2,227

 
$
1,091

 
$
1,061

 
$
2,227


Portfolio Turnover.   The Fund pays transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio).  A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account.  These costs, which are not reflected in total annual Fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund’s performance.  During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 171% of the average value of its portfolio.
 
The Fund’s Principal Investment Strategies

Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 80% of its assets in income-producing securities such as investment grade corporate bonds, high yield bonds (i.e., junk bonds), preferred stocks, municipal bonds, and U.S. Treasuries. The Fund’s 80% policy is a non-fundamental investment policy that can be changed by the Fund upon 60 days’ prior notice to shareholders.

The Fund’s sub-advisor, Bramshill Investments LLC (“Bramshill” or the “Sub-Advisor”), implements a tactical fixed-income strategy, actively managing the portfolio by rotating among asset classes and tactically hedging during various interest rate and market environments. Bramshill seeks to identify relative value across asset classes and capture opportunities primarily within the corporate, US Treasury, municipal and preferred security markets. The Fund focuses on liquid securities with transparent pricing and actively-traded capital structures.

Bramshill seeks to maintain the Fund’s portfolio at an average credit rating of investment grade, but may invest up to 40% of Fund assets in high yield bonds (i.e., junk bonds), which are defined as debt securities rated below Baa by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's"), or equivalently rated by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services ("S&P") or Fitch, Inc. ("Fitch"), or, if unrated, determined by the Advisor to be of comparable quality. The Fund may also invest up to 25% of Fund assets in fixed income exchange traded funds (“ETFs”) and foreign issuers of U.S. dollar denominated fixed income securities.

The Fund may invest in fixed-income securities of any duration or maturity. The Fund may also invest in fixed income closed-end funds, dividend-paying equities and other debt securities, including but not limited to U.S. government agency securities, variable- and floating-rate instruments, and mortgage- and asset-backed securities. Bramshill periodically shifts the portfolio’s duration opportunistically seeking to generate alpha in both falling and rising interest rate environments. In order to hedge certain risks, the Fund may invest in futures contracts, which are a type of derivative instrument.

The Fund may engage in frequent and active trading as part of its principal investment strategies.
 
The Fund’s Principal Risks
 
The Fund’s share price will fluctuate. You could lose money on your investment in the Fund and the Fund could also return less than other investments. Investments in the Fund are not bank guaranteed, are not deposits, and are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency.

As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.  You can find more information about the Fund’s investments and risks under the “Principal Investment Strategies and Risks” section of the Fund’s prospectus. The Fund is subject to the principal risks summarized below.

Convertible Securities Risk: Convertible securities are subject to the risks of both debt securities and equity securities. The values of convertible securities tend to decline as interest rates rise and, due to the conversion feature, tend to vary with fluctuations in the market value of the underlying security.
 
Derivatives Risk: The use of derivatives may expose the Fund to additional risks that it would not be subject to if it invested directly in the securities underlying those derivatives. Risks associated with derivatives may include the risk that the derivative does not correlate well with the security, index, or currency to which it relates, the risk that the Fund will be unable to sell or close out the derivative due to an illiquid market, the risk that the counterparty may be unwilling or unable to meet its obligations, and

4



the risk that the derivative could expose the Fund to the risk of magnified losses resulting from leverage. These additional risks could cause the Fund to experience losses to which it would otherwise not be subject.

Futures Contracts Risk: The risks associated with the Fund’s futures positions include liquidity and counterparty risks associated with derivative instruments.

Equity Securities Risk: The Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by these companies may decline in response to such developments, which could result in a decline in the value of the Fund’s shares.

Preferred Stock Risk: In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds take precedence over the claims of those who own preferred and common stock. If interest rates rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing the price of preferred stocks to decline.

Fixed-Income Risk: The market value of the Fund’s fixed-income securities responds to economic developments, particularly interest rate changes, as well as to perceptions about the creditworthiness of individual issuers, including governments. Generally, the Fund’s fixed-income securities will decrease in value if interest rates rise and increase in value if interest rates fall. Normally, the longer the maturity or duration of the fixed-income securities the Fund owns, the more sensitive the value of the Fund’s shares will be to changes in interest rates.
 
Asset-Backed Securities Risk: Asset-backed securities are fixed-income securities backed by other assets such as credit card, automobile or consumer loan receivables, retail installment loans, or participations in pools of leases. The values of these securities are sensitive to changes in the credit quality of the underlying collateral, the credit strength of any credit enhancement feature, changes in interest rates, and, at times, the financial condition of the issuer.
 
Credit Risk: The fixed-income securities in the Fund’s portfolio are subject to the possibility that a deterioration, whether sudden or gradual, in the financial condition of an issuer, or a deterioration in general economic conditions, could cause an issuer to fail to make timely payments of principal or interest, when due. This may cause the issuer’s securities to decline in value.
 
Interest Rate Risk: In general, when interest rates rise, the prices of debt securities fall, and when interest rates fall, the prices of debt securities rise. The price volatility of a debt security also depends on its maturity. Longer-term securities are generally more volatile, so the longer the average maturity or duration of these securities, the greater their price risk. Duration is a measure of the expected life, taking into account any prepayment or call features of the security, that is used to determine the price sensitivity of the security for a given change in interest rates. Maturity, on the other hand, is the date on which a fixed-income security becomes due for payment of principal.
 
Investment-Grade Debt Securities Risk: Investment-grade debt securities may be downgraded by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (" NRSRO") to below-investment-grade status, which would increase the risk of holding these securities. Investment-grade debt securities rated in the lowest rating category by a NRSRO involve a higher degree of risk than fixed-income securities with higher credit ratings.
 
Mortgage-Backed Securities Risk:   Mortgage-backed securities are fixed-income securities representing an interest in a pool of underlying mortgage loans. Mortgage-backed securities are sensitive to changes in interest rates, but may respond to these changes differently from other fixed-income securities due to the possibility of prepayment of the underlying mortgage loans. Mortgage-backed securities may fluctuate in price based on deterioration in the value of the collateral underlying the pool of mortgage loans, which may result in the collateral being worth less than the remaining principal amount owed on the mortgages in the pool.

Non-Investment-Grade Debt Securities Risk: Non-investment-grade debt securities are sometimes referred to as “junk bonds” and are considered speculative with respect to their issuers’ ability to make payments of interest and principal. There is a high risk that the Fund could suffer a loss from investments in non-investment-grade debt securities caused by the default of an issuer of such securities. Non-investment-grade debt securities may also be less liquid than investment-grade debt securities.
 
U.S. Government Agencies Securities Risk:  Certain U.S. government agency securities are backed by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury while others are supported only by the credit of the issuer or instrumentality. 

5



While the U.S. government is able to provide financial support to U.S. government-sponsored agencies or instrumentalities, no assurance can be given that it will always do so.
 
Foreign Securities Risk: Investing in foreign securities poses additional risks since political and economic events unique in a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers, while such events may not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign securities are generally denominated in foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. There are also risks associated with foreign accounting standards, government regulation, market information, and clearance and settlement procedures. Foreign markets may be less liquid and more volatile than U.S. markets and offer less protection to investors.
 
Management Risk: In managing the Fund’s portfolio, the Advisor engages one or more sub-advisors to make investment decisions for a portion of or the entire portfolio. There is a risk that the Advisor may be unable to identify and retain sub-advisors who achieve superior investment returns relative to other similar sub-advisors.

Municipal Securities Risk : The value of municipal securities may be affected by uncertainties in the municipal market related to legislation or litigation involving the taxation of municipal securities or the rights of municipal securities holders in the event of bankruptcy. In addition, a downturn in the national economy may negatively impact the economic performance of issuers of municipal securities, and may increase the likelihood that issuers of securities in which the Fund may invest may be unable to meet their obligations. Also, some municipal obligations may be backed by a letter of credit issued by a bank or other financial institution. Adverse developments affecting banks or other financial institutions could have a negative effect on the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities.
 
Other Investment Companies Risk:  The Fund’s investments in other investment companies will be subject to substantially the same risks as those associated with the direct ownership of the securities comprising the portfolios of such investment companies, and the value of the Fund's investment will fluctuate in response to the performance of such portfolios. In addition, if the Fund acquires shares of investment companies, shareholders of the Fund will bear their proportionate share of the fees and expenses of the Fund and, indirectly, the fees and expenses of the investment companies.

Portfolio Turnover Risk: Frequent and active trading may result in greater expenses to the Fund, which may lower the Fund's performance and may result in the realization of substantial capital gains, including net short-term capital gains. As a result, high portfolio turnover may reduce the Fund's returns.  

The Fund’s Performance

The bar chart and performance table below illustrate some indication of the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund’s performance from calendar year to calendar year and by showing how the Fund’s average annual total returns for one year, five years, and ten years compare with the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index. The bar chart does not reflect any sales charges, which would reduce your return. The performance table reflects any applicable sales charges. Past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. More recent performance information is available at no cost by visiting TouchstoneInvestments.com or by calling 1.800.543.0407.

On November 30, 2018, the Fund changed its principal investment strategies and sub-advisor. Consequently, performance prior to November 30, 2018 reflects the prior sub-advisor’s flexible income strategy.
 

6



Touchstone Flexible Income Fund — Class A Shares Total Return as of December 31
 
CHART-A9BEE94AC2A357C0A47.JPG
Best Quarter: 2nd Quarter 2009 21.98%
Worst Quarter: 1st Quarter 2009 (5.64)%
 
The calendar year-to-date return for the Fund’s Class A shares as of June 30, 2019 is 6.63% .

Before the Fund commenced operations, all of the assets and liabilities of the Fifth Third Strategic Income Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) were transferred to the Fund in a tax-free reorganization (the “Reorganization”). The investment objectives, guidelines, and restrictions of the Predecessor Fund were substantially similar to those of the Fund. The Reorganization occurred on September 10, 2012. As a result of the Reorganization, the Fund assumed the performance and accounting history of the Predecessor Fund,. Financial and performance information prior to September 10, 2012 included in the Fund’s prospectus is that of the Predecessor Fund.

After-tax returns are calculated using the highest individual marginal federal income tax rates in effect on a given distribution reinvestment date and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Your actual after-tax returns may differ from those shown and depend on your tax situation. The after-tax returns do not apply to shares held in an individual retirement account ("IRA"), 401(k), or other tax-advantaged account. The after-tax returns shown in the table are for Class A shares only. The after-tax returns for other classes of shares offered by the Fund will differ from the Class A shares' after-tax returns.
 
The inception date of Institutional Class shares was September 10, 2012. Institutional Class shares’ performance was calculated using the historical performance of Class Y shares for the periods prior to September 10, 2012.

Average Annual Total Returns
For the periods ended December 31, 2018
 
1 Year
 
5 Years
 
10 Years
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund — Class A
 
 

 
 

 
 

Return Before Taxes
 
(7.47
)%
 
2.26
%
 
7.14
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions
 
(8.73
)%
 
0.98
%
 
5.44
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares (1)
 
(4.29
)%
 
1.22
%
 
5.01
%
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund — Class C
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(3.44
)%
 
2.72
%
 
6.98
%
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund — Class Y
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(1.47
)%
 
3.77
%
 
8.06
%
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund — Institutional Class
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(1.37
)%
 
3.87
%
 
8.12
%
Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index  (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
 
0.01
 %
 
2.52
%
 
3.48
%
(1) The Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares may be greater than other returns for the same period due to a tax benefit of realizing a capital loss on the sale of Fund shares.

7




The Fund’s Management
 
Investment Advisor
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
Sub-Advisor
 
Portfolio Managers
 
Investment Experience  with the Fund
 
Primary Title with Sub-Advisor
Bramshill Investments, LLC
 
Art DeGaetano
 
Since November 2018
 
Founder and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Derek Pines
 
Since November 2018
 
Co-Portfolio Manager
 
 
Michael Hirschfield, CFA
 
Since November 2018
 
Co-Portfolio Manager
 
 
Paul van Lingen
 
Since November 2018
 
Co-Portfolio Manager
 
Buying and Selling Fund Shares

Minimum Investment Requirements
 
Classes A, C, and Y
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
2,500

 
$
50

Retirement Account or Custodial Account under the Uniform Gifts/Transfers to Minors Act
$
1,000

 
$
50

Investments through the Automatic Investment Plan
$
100

 
$
50

 
 
Institutional Class
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
500,000

 
$
50

 
Fund shares may be purchased and sold on days that the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading. Existing Class A, Class C and Institutional Class shareholders may purchase shares directly through Touchstone Funds via the transfer agent, BNY Mellon, or through their financial intermediary. Class Y shares are available only through financial intermediaries who have appropriate selling agreements in place with Touchstone Securities. Shares may be purchased or sold by writing to Touchstone Securities at P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, calling 1.800.543.0407, or visiting the Touchstone Funds’ website: TouchstoneInvestments.com. You may only sell shares over the telephone or via the Internet if the value of the shares sold is less than or equal to $100,000. Shares held in IRA accounts and qualified retirement plans cannot be sold via the Internet. If your shares are held by a processing organization or financial intermediary you will need to follow its purchase and redemption procedures. For more information about buying and selling shares, see the “Investing with Touchstone” section of the Fund’s prospectus or call 1.800.543.0407.

Tax Information

The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains except when shares are held through a tax-advantaged account, such as a 401(k) plan or an IRA. Withdrawals from a tax-advantaged account, however, may be taxable.

Financial Intermediary Compensation

If you purchase shares in the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services.  These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other financial intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment.  Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.

8



TOUCHSTONE FOCUSED FUND SUMMARY
 
The Fund’s Investment Goal
 
The Touchstone Focused Fund (the “Fund”) seeks to provide investors with capital appreciation.
 
The Fund’s Fees and Expenses
 
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund.   You may qualify for sales charge discounts for Class A shares of Touchstone equity funds and Touchstone fixed income funds if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $25,000 or $50,000, respectively, in Touchstone funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional, in the section titled “Choosing a Class of Shares” in the Fund’s prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") on page 48 and 63 , respectively, and in Appendix A–Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts to the Fund's prospectus.
 
 
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional
Class
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)
 
5.00%
 
None
 
None
 
None
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of original purchase price or the amount redeemed, whichever is less)
 
None
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Wire Redemption Fee *
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fees
 
0.63%
 
0.63%
 
0.63%
 
0.63%
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees
 
0.25%
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Other Expenses
 
0.44%
 
0.32%
 
0.28%
 
0.29%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
 
1.32%
 
1.95%
 
0.91%
 
0.92%
Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (1)
 
(0.12)%
 
0.00%
 
0.00%
 
(0.09)%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (1)
 
1.20%
 
1.95%
 
0.91%
 
0.83%
___________________________________________
* The wire redemption fee is capped at $15. In addition, the wire redemption fee may not exceed two percent (2%) of the amount being redeemed.
(1) Touchstone Advisors, Inc. (the "Advisor" or "Touchstone Advisors") and Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”) have entered into a contractual expense limitation agreement whereby Touchstone Advisors will waive a portion of its fees or reimburse certain Fund expenses (excluding dividend and interest expenses relating to short sales; interest; taxes; brokerage commissions and other transaction costs; portfolio transaction and investment related expenses, including expenses associated with the Fund's liquidity providers; other expenditures which are capitalized in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; the cost of “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses,” if any; and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of business) in order to limit annual Fund operating expenses to 1.20%, 1.95%, 0.95%, and 0.83% of average daily net assets for Classes A, C, Y, and Institutional Class shares, respectively. This contractual expense limitation is effective through July 29, 2020 , but can be terminated by a vote of the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) if it deems the termination to be beneficial to the Fund’s shareholders. The terms of the contractual expense limitation agreement provide that Touchstone Advisors is entitled to recoup, subject to approval by the Board, such amounts waived or reimbursed for a period of up to three years from the date on which the Advisor reduced its compensation or assumed expenses for the Fund. The Fund will make repayments to the Advisor only if such repayment does not cause the annual Fund operating expenses (after the repayment is taken into account) to exceed both (1) the expense cap in place when such amounts were waived or reimbursed and (2) the Fund’s current expense limitation.

Example. This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then, except as indicated, redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year, that the Fund’s operating expenses remain the same and that all fee waivers or expense limits for the Fund will expire after one year.  Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:

9



 
Assuming Redemption at End of Period
 
Assuming No Redemption
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
 
Class C
1 Year
$
616

 
$
298

 
$
93

 
$
85

 
$
198

3 Years
$
886

 
$
612

 
$
290

 
$
284

 
$
612

5 Years
$
1,176

 
$
1,052

 
$
504

 
$
500

 
$
1,052

10 Years
$
2,001

 
$
2,275

 
$
1,120

 
$
1,123

 
$
2,275

 
Portfolio Turnover.   The Fund pays transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio).  A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account.  These costs, which are not reflected in total annual Fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund’s performance.  During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 12% of the average value of its portfolio.
 
The Fund’s Principal Investment Strategies
 
The Fund invests, under normal market conditions, at least 80% of its assets in equity securities. The Fund’s 80% policy is a non-fundamental investment policy that can be changed by the Fund upon 60 days’ prior notice to shareholders. Equity securities include common stock and preferred stock. The Fund may invest in companies of any market capitalization in seeking to achieve its investment goal. These securities may be listed on an exchange or traded over-the-counter.
 
In selecting securities for the Fund, the Fund’s sub-advisor, Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. (“Fort Washington”), seeks to invest in companies that:

Are trading below its estimate of the companies’ intrinsic value; and
Have a sustainable competitive advantage or a high barrier to entry in place. The barrier(s) to entry can be created through a cost advantage, economies of scale, high customer loyalty, or a government barrier (e.g., license or subsidy). Fort Washington believes that the strongest barrier to entry is the combination of economies of scale and higher customer loyalty.
 
The Fund will generally hold 25 to 45 companies, with residual cash and equivalents expected to represent less than 10% of the Fund’s net assets. The Fund may, at times, hold fewer securities and a higher percentage of cash and equivalents when, among other reasons, Fort Washington cannot find a sufficient number of securities that meets its purchase requirements.
 
The Fund may invest up to 35% of its assets in securities of foreign issuers through the use of ordinary shares or depositary receipts such as American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). The Fund may also invest in securities of emerging market countries.
 
The Fund will generally sell a security if it reaches Fort Washington’s estimate of fair value, if a more attractive investment opportunity is available, or if a structural change has taken place and Fort Washington cannot reliably estimate the impact of the change on the business fundamentals.

The Fund's investment strategy often involves overweighting the Fund's position in the industry sectors which Fort Washington believes are mis-priced in the market. The Fund is non-diversified and may invest a significant percentage of its assets in the securities of a single company.
 
The Fund’s Principal Risks
 
The Fund’s share price will fluctuate. You could lose money on your investment in the Fund and the Fund could also return less than other investments. Investments in the Fund are not bank guaranteed, are not deposits, and are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency.
 
As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.  You can find more information about the Fund’s investments and risks under the “Principal Investment Strategies and Risks” section of the Fund’s prospectus. The Fund is subject to the principal risks summarized below.

Equity Securities Risk: The Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of

10



securities issued by these companies may decline in response to such developments, which could result in a decline in the value of the Fund’s shares.

Large-Cap Risk: Large-cap companies may be unable to respond quickly to new competitive challenges, such as changes in technology and consumer tastes, and also may not be able to attain the high growth rate of successful smaller companies, especially during extended periods of economic expansion.
 
Mid-Cap Risk:  Stocks of mid-sized companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Mid-sized companies may have limited product lines or financial resources, and may be dependent upon a particular niche of the market.
 
Preferred Stock Risk: In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds take precedence over the claims of those who own preferred and common stock. If interest rates rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing the price of preferred stocks to decline.
 
Small-Cap Risk: Stocks of smaller companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Small companies may have limited product lines or financial resources and may be dependent upon a small or inexperienced management group.
 
Foreign Securities Risk: Investing in foreign securities poses additional risks since political and economic events unique in a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers, while such events may not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign securities are generally denominated in foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. There are also risks associated with foreign accounting standards, government regulation, market information, and clearance and settlement procedures. Foreign markets may be less liquid and more volatile than U.S. markets and offer less protection to investors.
 
Depositary Receipts Risk: Foreign receipts, which include ADRs, Global Depositary Receipts, and European Depositary Receipts, are securities that evidence ownership interests in a security or a pool of securities issued by a foreign issuer. The risks of depositary receipts include many risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
 
Emerging Markets Risk: Emerging markets may be more likely to experience political turmoil or rapid changes in market or economic conditions than more developed countries. In addition, the financial stability of issuers (including governments) in emerging market countries may be more precarious than that of issuers in other countries.
 
Management Risk: In managing the Fund’s portfolio, the Advisor engages one or more sub-advisors to make investment decisions for a portion of or the entire portfolio. There is a risk that the Advisor may be unable to identify and retain sub-advisors who achieve superior investment returns relative to other similar sub-advisors.
 
Non-Diversification Risk: The Fund is non-diversified, which means that it may invest a greater percentage of its assets than a diversified mutual fund in the securities of a limited number of issuers. The use of a non-diversified investment strategy may increase the volatility of the Fund’s investment performance, as the Fund may be more susceptible to risks associated with a single economic, political or regulatory event.
 
Sector and Industry Focus Risk:  The Fund may invest a high percentage of its assets in specific sectors and/or industries of the market in order to achieve a potentially greater investment return. As a result, the Fund may be more susceptible to economic, political, and regulatory developments in a particular sector or industry of the market, positive or negative, than a fund that does not invest a high percentage of its assets in specific sectors or industries.

The Fund’s Performance
 
The bar chart and performance table below illustrate some indication of the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund’s performance from calendar year to calendar year and by showing how the Fund’s average annual total returns for one year, five years, and ten years compare with the Russell 3000 ®  Index and the S&P 500 ®  Index. The bar chart does not reflect any sales charges, which would reduce your return. The performance table reflects any applicable sales charges. Past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. More recent performance information is available at no cost by visiting TouchstoneInvestments.com or by calling 1.800.543.0407.
 

11



Touchstone Focused Fund — Class A Shares Total Return as of December 31
CHART-D9FE49405034595E96A.JPG
Best Quarter: 2nd Quarter 2009 19.46%
Worst Quarter: 3rd Quarter 2011 (15.90)%
 
The calendar year-to-date return for the Fund’s Class A shares as of June 30, 2019 is 15.17% .

After-tax returns are calculated using the highest individual marginal federal income tax rates in effect on a given distribution reinvestment date and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Your actual after-tax returns may differ from those shown and depend on your tax situation. The after-tax returns do not apply to shares held in an individual retirement account ("IRA"), 401(k), or other tax-advantaged account. The after-tax returns shown in the table are for Class A shares only. The after-tax returns for other classes of shares offered by the Fund will differ from the Class A shares' after-tax returns.
 
The inception date of Class C shares was April 12, 2012. Class C shares’ performance was calculated using the historical performance of Class Y shares for the periods prior to April 12, 2012. Performance for these periods has been restated to reflect the impact of the fees and expenses applicable to Class C shares.
Average Annual Total Returns
For the periods ended December 31, 2018
 
1 Year
 
5 Years
 
10 Years
Touchstone Focused Fund — Class A
 
 

 
 

 
 

Return Before Taxes
 
(13.09
)%
 
3.91
%
 
11.37
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions
 
(13.98
)%
 
3.16
%
 
10.70
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares (1)
 
(7.05
)%
 
3.01
%
 
9.33
%
Touchstone Focused Fund — Class C
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(9.31
)%
 
4.37
%
 
11.40
%
Touchstone Focused Fund — Class Y
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(7.47
)%
 
5.45
%
 
12.32
%
Touchstone Focused Fund — Institutional Class
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(7.41
)%
 
5.55
%
 
12.48
%
Russell 3000 ®  Index  (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
 
(5.24
)%
 
7.91
%
 
13.18
%
S&P 500 ®  Index  (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
 
(4.38
)%
 
8.49
%
 
13.12
%
(1) The Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares may be greater than other returns for the same period due to a tax benefit of realizing a capital loss on the sale of Fund shares.










12



The Fund’s Management
 
Investment Advisor
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
Sub-Advisor
 
Portfolio Manager
 
Investment Experience with the Fund
 
Primary Title with Sub-Advisor
Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc.
 
James Wilhelm
 
Since 2012
 
Managing Director, Head of Public Equities, Senior Portfolio Manager
 
Buying and Selling Fund Shares

Minimum Investment Requirements
 
Classes A, C, and Y
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
2,500

 
$
50

Retirement Account or Custodial Account under the Uniform Gifts/Transfers to Minors Act
$
1,000

 
$
50

Investments through the Automatic Investment Plan
$
100

 
$
50


 
Institutional Class
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
500,000

 
$
50

 
Fund shares may be purchased and sold on days that the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading. Existing Class A, Class C and Institutional Class shareholders may purchase shares directly through Touchstone Funds via the transfer agent, BNY Mellon, or through their financial intermediary. Class Y shares are available only through financial intermediaries who have appropriate selling agreements in place with Touchstone Securities. Shares may be purchased or sold by writing to Touchstone Securities at P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, calling 1.800.543.0407, or visiting the Touchstone Funds’ website: TouchstoneInvestments.com. You may only sell shares over the telephone or via the Internet if the value of the shares sold is less than or equal to $100,000. Shares held in IRA accounts and qualified retirement plans cannot be sold via the Internet. If your shares are held by a processing organization or financial intermediary you will need to follow its purchase and redemption procedures. For more information about buying and selling shares see the “Investing with Touchstone” section of the Fund’s prospectus or call 1.800.543.0407.

Tax Information

The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains except when shares are held through a tax-advantaged account, such as a 401(k) plan or an IRA. Withdrawals from a tax-advantaged account, however, may be taxable.
 
Financial Intermediary Compensation

If you purchase shares in the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services.  These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other financial intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment.  Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.

13



TOUCHSTONE GLOBAL ESG EQUITY FUND SUMMARY
 
The Fund’s Investment Goal
 
The Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund (the “Fund”) (formerly, Touchstone Sustainability and Impact Equity Fund) seeks long-term growth of capital.
 
The Fund’s Fees and Expenses
 
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund.   You may qualify for sales charge discounts for Class A shares of Touchstone equity funds and Touchstone fixed income funds if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $25,000 or $50,000, respectively, in Touchstone funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional, in the section titled “Choosing a Class of Shares” in the Fund’s prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") on page 48 and 63 , respectively, and in Appendix A–Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts to the Fund's prospectus.

 
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
S hareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
 
 
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)
 
5.00%
 
None
 
None
 
None
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of original purchase price or the amount redeemed, whichever is less)
 
None
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Wire Redemption Fee *
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fees
 
0.65%
 
0.65%
 
0.65%
 
0.65%
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees
 
0.25%
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Other Expenses
 
0.27%
 
0.38%
 
0.28%
 
0.28%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
 
1.17%
 
2.03%
 
0.93%
 
0.93%
Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (1)
 
0.00%
 
(0.04)%
 
(0.03)%
 
(0.04)%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (1)
 
1.17%

1.99%
 
0.90%
 
0.89%
________ ___________________________________
* The wire redemption fee is capped at $15. In addition, the wire redemption fee may not exceed two percent (2%) of the amount being redeemed.
(1) Touchstone Advisors, Inc. (the "Advisor" or "Touchstone Advisors") and Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”) have entered into a contractual expense limitation agreement whereby Touchstone Advisors will waive a portion of its fees or reimburse certain Fund expenses (excluding dividend and interest expenses relating to short sales; interest; taxes; brokerage commissions and other transaction costs; portfolio transaction and investment related expenses, including expenses associated with the Fund's liquidity providers; other expenditures which are capitalized in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; the cost of “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses,” if any; and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of business) in order to limit annual Fund operating expenses to 1.17%, 1.99%, 0.90% and 0.89% of average daily net assets for Classes A, C, Y, and Institutional Class shares, respectively. This contractual expense limitation is effective through July 29, 2020 , but can be terminated by a vote of the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) if it deems the termination to be beneficial to the Fund’s shareholders. The terms of the contractual expense limitation agreement provide that Touchstone Advisors is entitled to recoup, subject to approval by the Board, such amounts waived or reimbursed for a period of up to three years from the date on which the Advisor reduced its compensation or assumed expenses for the Fund. The Fund will make repayments to the Advisor only if such repayment does not cause the annual Fund operating expenses (after the repayment is taken into account) to exceed both (1) the expense cap in place when such amounts were waived or reimbursed and (2) the Fund’s current expense limitation.
 
Example. This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then, except as indicated, redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year, that the Fund’s operating expenses remain the same and that all fee waivers or expense limits for the Fund will expire after one year.  Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:

14



 
 
Assuming Redemption at End of Period
 
Assuming No Redemption

 
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
 
Class C
1 Year
 
$
613

 
$
302

 
$
92

 
$
91

 
$
202

3 Years
 
$
853

 
$
633

 
$
293

 
$
292

 
$
633

5 Years
 
$
1,111

 
$
1,089

 
$
512

 
$
511

 
$
1,089

10 Years
 
$
1,849

 
$
2,355

 
$
1,140

 
$
1,139

 
$
2,355

 
Portfolio Turnover.   The Fund pays transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio).  A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account.  These costs, which are not reflected in total annual Fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund’s performance.  During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 40% of the average value of its portfolio.
 
The Fund’s Principal Investment Strategies
 
The Fund invests, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of its assets in equity securities of U.S. and non-U.S. companies that meet certain financial and environmental, social, and governance ("ESG") criteria. The Fund’s 80% policy is a non-fundamental investment policy that can be changed by the Fund upon 60 days’ prior notice to shareholders. Equity securities include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, depositary receipts such as American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”), Global Depositary Receipts (“GDRs”) and European Depositary Receipts (“EDRs”), and interests in other investment companies, including exchange-traded funds ("ETFs") that invest in equity securities.
 
The Fund’s sub-advisor, Rockefel ler & Co. LLC (“Rockefeller”), selects investments for the Fund based on an evaluation of a company’s financial condition and its ESG practices. Rockefeller applies “bottom-up” security analysis that includes fundamental, sector-based research in seeking to identify businesses that have high or improving returns on capital, barriers to competition, and compelling valuations. Rockefeller’s ESG evaluation considers ESG criteria such as corporate governance practices, product quality and safety, workplace diversity practices, environmental impact and sustainability, community investment and development, and human rights record.
 
The Fund invests in securities of any size, but generally focuses on larger, more established companies. The Fund invests primarily in securities of companies domiciled in developed markets, but may invest up to 30% of its net assets in securities of companies domiciled in emerging and frontier markets. Emerging markets are defined as those countries not included in the MSCI World Index, a developed market index. As of March 31, 2019, the countries in the MSCI World Index included: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The country composition of the MSCI World Index can change over time.  Frontier markets are those emerging market countries that have the smallest, least mature economies and least developed capital markets.
 
The Fund’s Principal Risks
 
The Fund’s share price will fluctuate. You could lose money on your investment in the Fund and the Fund could also return less than other investments. Investments in the Fund are not bank guaranteed, are not deposits, and are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency.
 
As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.  You can find more information about the Fund’s investments and risks under the “Principal Investment Strategies and Risks” section of the Fund’s prospectus. The Fund is subject to the principal risks summarized below.

Convertible Securities Risk: Convertible securities are subject to the risks of both debt securities and equity securities. The values of convertible securities tend to decline as interest rates rise and, due to the conversion feature, tend to vary with fluctuations in the market value of the underlying security.
 
Environmental, Social and Governance Investing Risk: The Fund’s environmental, social and corporate governance criteria may cause the Fund to forgo opportunities to buy certain securities, or forgo opportunities to gain exposure to certain industries, sectors, regions and countries. In addition, the Fund may be required to sell a security when it might otherwise be disadvantageous for it to do so.


15



Equity Securities Risk: The Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by these companies may decline in response to such developments, which could result in a decline in the value of the Fund’s shares.

Large-Cap Risk: Large-cap companies may be unable to respond quickly to new competitive challenges, such as changes in technology and consumer tastes, and also may not be able to attain the high growth rate of successful smaller companies, especially during extended periods of economic expansion.
 
Mid-Cap Risk:  Stocks of mid-sized companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Mid-sized companies may have limited product lines or financial resources, and may be dependent upon a particular niche of the market.
 
Preferred Stock Risk: In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds take precedence over the claims of those who own preferred and common stock. If interest rates rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing the price of preferred stocks to decline.
 
Small-Cap Risk: Stocks of smaller companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Small companies may have limited product lines or financial resources and may be dependent upon a small or inexperienced management group.
 
Foreign Securities Risk: Investing in foreign securities poses additional risks since political and economic events unique in a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers, while such events may not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign securities are generally denominated in foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. There are also risks associated with foreign accounting standards, government regulation, market information, and clearance and settlement procedures. Foreign markets may be less liquid and more volatile than U.S. markets and offer less protection to investors.
 
Depositary Receipts Risk: Foreign receipts, which include ADRs, Global Depositary Receipts, and European Depositary Receipts, are securities that evidence ownership interests in a security or a pool of securities issued by a foreign issuer. The risks of depositary receipts include many risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.

Emerging Markets Risk: Emerging markets may be more likely to experience political turmoil or rapid changes in market or economic conditions than more developed countries. In addition, the financial stability of issuers (including governments) in emerging market countries may be more precarious than that of issuers in other countries.
 
Frontier Markets Risk:  Frontier markets have similar risks to emerging markets, except that these risks are often magnified in a frontier market due to its smaller and less developed economy. As a result, frontier markets may experience greater changes in market or economic conditions, financial stability, price volatility, currency fluctuations, and other risks inherent in foreign securities.
 
Management Risk: In managing the Fund’s portfolio, the Advisor engages one or more sub-advisors to make investment decisions for a portion of or the entire portfolio. There is a risk that the Advisor may be unable to identify and retain sub-advisors who achieve superior investment returns relative to other similar sub-advisors.

Other Investment Companies Risk (including Exchange-Traded Funds Risk): The Fund’s investments in other investment companies, including ETFs, will be subject to substantially the same risks as those associated with the direct ownership of the securities comprising the portfolios of such investment companies, and the value of the Fund’s investment will fluctuate in response to the performance of such portfolios. In addition, if the Fund acquires shares of investment companies, shareholders of the Fund will bear both their proportionate share of the fees and expenses of the Fund (including management and advisory fees) and, indirectly, the fees expenses of the investment companies.
 

 


16



The Fund’s Performance
 
The bar chart and performance table below illustrate some indication of the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund’s performance from calendar year to calendar year and by showing how the Fund’s average annual total returns for one year, five years, and ten years compare with the MSCI All Country World Index (“ACWI”). The bar chart does not reflect any sales charges, which would reduce your return. The performance table reflects any applicable sales charges. Past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. More recent performance information is available at no cost by visiting TouchstoneInvestments.com or by calling 1.800.543.0407.
 
Before the Fund changed its name, principal investment strategies and sub-advisor on May 4, 2015, the Fund was managed as the Touchstone Large Cap Growth Fund. Consequently, performance prior to May 4, 2015 reflects the prior sub-advisor's large cap growth strategy.
 
Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund — Class A Shares Total Return as of December 31
CHART-238F8F3BAD61500185E.JPG  
 
Best Quarter: 3rd Quarter 2009 14.98%
Worst Quarter: 4th Quarter 2018 (14.26)%
 
The calendar year-to-date return for the Fund’s Class A shares as of June 30, 2019 is 13.45% .
 
After-tax returns are calculated using the highest individual marginal federal income tax rates in effect on a given distribution reinvestment date and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Your actual after-tax returns may differ from those shown and depend on your tax situation. The after-tax returns do not apply to shares held in an individual retirement account ("IRA"), 401(k), or other tax-advantaged account. The after-tax returns shown in the table are for Class A shares only. The after-tax returns for other classes of shares offered by the Fund will differ from the Class A shares' after-tax returns.
 
The inception date of Institutional Class shares was May 4, 2015. Institutional Class shares’ performance was calculated using the historical performance of Class A shares for periods prior to May 4, 2015. Performance for these periods has been restated to reflect to reflect a share class' lower fees applicable to Institutional Class shares.

17




Average Annual Total Returns
For the periods ended December 31, 2018
 
1 Year
 
5 Years
 
10 Years
Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund — Class A
 
 

 
 

 
 

Return Before Taxes
 
(15.02
)%
 
4.31
%
 
10.36
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions
 
(16.88
)%
 
0.34
%
 
8.00
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares (1)
 
(7.45
)%
 
2.80
%
 
8.21
%
Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund — Class C
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(11.39
)%
 
4.74
%
 
10.16
%
Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund — Class Y
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(9.55
)%
 
5.83
%
 
11.30
%
Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund — Institutional Class
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(9.54
)%
 
5.87
%
 
11.32
%
MSCI ACWI (2)  (reflects no deductions for fees, expenses or taxes)
 
(9.42
)%
 
4.26
%
 
9.46
%
(1) The Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares may be greater than other returns for the same period due to a tax benefit of realizing a capital loss on the sale of Fund shares.
(2) The MSCI ACWI returns disclosed are net of withholding taxes.


The Fund’s Management
 
Investment Advisor
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
Sub-Advisor
 
Portfolio Managers
 
Investment Experience  with the Fund
 
Primary Title with Sub-Advisor
Rockefeller & Co., LLC
 
David P. Harris
 
Since 2015
 
Managing Director, Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Jimmy C. Chang
 
Since 2015
 
Managing Director, Chief Equity Strategist, Senior Portfolio Manager
 
Buying and Selling Fund Shares

Minimum Investment Requirements
 
Classes A, C, and Y
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
2,500

 
$
50

Retirement Account or Custodial Account under the Uniform Gifts/Transfers to Minors Act
$
1,000

 
$
50

Investments through the Automatic Investment Plan
$
100

 
$
50

 
 
 
 
 
Institutional Class
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
500,000

 
$
50

 
Fund shares may be purchased and sold on days that the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading. Existing Class A, Class C and Institutional Class shareholders may purchase shares directly through Touchstone Funds via the transfer agent, BNY Mellon, or through their financial intermediary. Class Y shares are available only through financial intermediaries who have appropriate selling agreements in place with Touchstone Securities. Shares may be purchased or sold by writing to Touchstone Securities at P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, calling 1.800.543.0407, or visiting the Touchstone Funds’ website: TouchstoneInvestments.com. Shares held in IRA accounts and qualified retirement plans cannot be sold via the Internet. If your shares are held by a processing organization or financial intermediary you will need to follow its purchase and redemption procedures. For more information about buying and selling shares see the “Investing with Touchstone” section of the Fund’s prospectus or call 1.800.543.0407.

18




Tax Information

The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains except when shares are held through a tax-advantaged account, such as a 401(k) plan or an IRA. Withdrawals from a tax-advantaged account, however, may be taxable.
 
Financial Intermediary Compensation

If you purchase shares in the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services.  These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other financial intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment.  Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.

19



TOUCHSTONE GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND SUMMARY
 
The Fund’s Investment Goal
 
The Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund (the “Fund”) seeks long-term growth of capital.
 
The Fund’s Fees and Expenses
 
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund.   You may qualify for sales charge discounts for Class A shares of Touchstone equity funds and Touchstone fixed income funds if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $25,000 or $50,000, respectively, in Touchstone funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional, in the section titled “Choosing a Class of Shares” in the Fund’s prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") on page 48 and 63 , respectively, and in Appendix A–Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts to the Fund's prospectus.

 
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)
 
5.00%
 
None
 
None
 
None
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of original purchase price or the amount redeemed, whichever is less)
 
None
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Wire Redemption Fee *
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fees
 
0.75%
 
0.75%
 
0.75%
 
0.75%
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees
 
0.25%
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Other Expenses
 
0.37%
 
0.57%
 
0.33%
 
0.26%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
 
1.37%
 
2.32%
 
1.08%
 
1.01%
Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (1)
 
(0.13)%
 
(0.33)%
 
(0.09)%
 
(0.12)%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (1)
 
1.24%
 
1.99%
 
0.99%
 
0.89%
_________________________ __________________
* The wire redemption fee is capped at $15. In addition, the wire redemption fee may not exceed two percent (2%) of the amount being redeemed.
(1) Touchstone Advisors, Inc. (the "Advisor" or "Touchstone Advisors") and Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”) have entered into a contractual expense limitation agreement whereby Touchstone Advisors will waive a portion of its fees or reimburse certain Fund expenses (excluding dividend and interest expenses relating to short sales; interest; taxes; brokerage commissions and other transaction costs; portfolio transaction and investment related expenses, including expenses associated with the Fund's liquidity providers; other expenditures which are capitalized in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; the cost of “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses,” if any; and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of business) in order to limit annual Fund operating expenses to 1.24%, 1.99%, 0.99%, and 0.89% of average daily net assets for Classes A, C, Y, and Institutional Class shares, respectively. This contractual expense limitation is effective through July 29, 2020 , but can be terminated by a vote of the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) if it deems the termination to be beneficial to the Fund’s shareholders. The terms of the contractual expense limitation agreement provide that Touchstone Advisors is entitled to recoup, subject to approval by the Board, such amounts waived or reimbursed for a period of up to three years from the date on which the Advisor reduced its compensation or assumed expenses for the Fund. The Fund will make repayments to the Advisor only if such repayment does not cause the annual Fund operating expenses (after the repayment is taken into account) to exceed both (1) the expense cap in place when such amounts were waived or reimbursed and (2) the Fund’s current expense limitation.

Example. This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then, except as indicated, redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year, that the Fund’s operating expenses remain the same and that all fee waivers or expense limits for the Fund will expire after one year.  Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:

20



 
Assuming Redemption at End of Period
 
Assuming No Redemption
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
 
Class C
1 Year
$
620

 
$
302

 
$
101

 
$
91

 
$
202

3 Years
$
900

 
$
693

 
$
335

 
$
310

 
$
693

5 Years
$
1,201

 
$
1,210

 
$
587

 
$
546

 
$
1,210

10 Years
$
2,063

 
$
2,631

 
$
1,309

 
$
1,225

 
$
2,631

 
Portfolio Turnover.   The Fund pays transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio).  A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account.  These costs, which are not reflected in total annual Fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund’s performance.  During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 94% of the average value of its portfolio.

The Fund’s Principal Investment Strategies
 
The Fund invests primarily in stocks of domestic growth companies that the sub-advisor, Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. (“Westfield”), believes have a demonstrated record of achievement with excellent prospects for earnings growth over a one- to three-year period. In choosing securities, Westfield looks for companies that it believes are reasonably priced with high forecasted earnings potential. The Fund may invest in companies of any market capitalization.
 
Westfield expects to hold investments in the Fund for an average of 12 to 24 months. However, changes in Westfield’s outlook and market conditions may significantly affect the amount of time the Fund holds a security. The Fund’s portfolio turnover may vary greatly from year to year and during a particular year. As a result, the Fund may engage in frequent and active trading as part of its principal investment strategy.
 
The Fund generally will sell a security if one or more of the following occurs: Westfield’s predetermined price target objective is exceeded; there is an alteration to the original investment case; valuation relative to the stock’s peer group is no longer attractive; or  better risk/reward opportunities may be found in other stocks.
 
The Fund is non-diversified and may invest a significant percentage of its assets in the securities of a single company.
 
The Fund’s Principal Risks
 
The Fund’s share price will fluctuate. You could lose money on your investment in the Fund and the Fund could also return less than other investments. Investments in the Fund are not bank guaranteed, are not deposits, and are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency.
 
As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.  You can find more information about the Fund’s investments and risks under the “Principal Investment Strategies and Risks” section of the Fund’s prospectus. The Fund is subject to the principal risks summarized below.

Equity Securities Risk: The Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by these companies may decline in response to such developments, which could result in a decline in the value of the Fund’s shares.
 
Large-Cap Risk: Large-cap companies may be unable to respond quickly to new competitive challenges, such as changes in technology and consumer tastes, and also may not be able to attain the high growth rate of successful smaller companies, especially during extended periods of economic expansion.
 
Mid-Cap Risk:  Stocks of mid-sized companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Mid-sized companies may have limited product lines or financial resources, and may be dependent upon a particular niche of the market.
 
Small-Cap Risk: Stocks of smaller companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Small companies may have limited product lines or financial resources and may be dependent upon a small or inexperienced management group.

21



Growth-Investing Risk:   Growth-oriented funds may underperform when value investing is in favor, and growth stocks may be more volatile than other stocks because they are more sensitive to investor perceptions of the issuing company’s growth of earnings potential.
 
Management Risk: In managing the Fund’s portfolio, the Advisor engages one or more sub-advisors to make investment decisions for a portion of or the entire portfolio. There is a risk that the Advisor may be unable to identify and retain sub-advisors who achieve superior investment returns relative to other similar sub-advisors.
 
Non-Diversification Risk: The Fund is non-diversified, which means that it may invest a greater percentage of its assets than a diversified mutual fund in the securities of a limited number of issuers. The use of a non-diversified investment strategy may increase the volatility of the Fund’s investment performance, as the Fund may be more susceptible to risks associated with a single economic, political or regulatory event.
 
Portfolio Turnover Risk: Frequent and active trading may result in greater expenses to the Fund, which may lower the Fund's performance and may result in the realization of substantial capital gains, including net short-term capital gains. As a result, high portfolio turnover may reduce the Fund's returns.

The Fund’s Performance
 
The bar chart and performance table below illustrate some indication of the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund’s performance from calendar year to calendar year and by showing how the Fund’s average annual total returns for one year, five years, and ten years compare with the Russell 3000 ®  Growth Index. The bar chart does not reflect any sales charges, which would reduce your return. The performance table reflects any applicable sales charges. Past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. More recent performance information is available at no cost by visiting TouchstoneInvestments.com or by calling 1.800.543.0407.
 
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund — Class A Shares Total Return as of December 31
CHART-D78B81545FEA5026879.JPG  
Best Quarter: 1st Quarter 2012 17.56%
Worst Quarter: 3rd Quarter 2011 (18.82)%
 
The calendar year-to-date return for the Fund’s Class A shares as of June 30, 2019 is 24.36% .

After-tax returns are calculated using the highest individual marginal federal income tax rates in effect on a given distribution reinvestment date and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Your actual after-tax returns may differ from those shown and depend on your tax situation. The after-tax returns do not apply to shares held in an individual retirement account ("IRA"), 401(k), or other tax-advantaged account. The after-tax returns shown in the table are for Class A shares only. The after-tax returns for other classes of shares offered by the Fund will differ from the Class A shares' after-tax returns.
 
The inception date of Class Y shares and Institutional Class shares was February 2, 2009. Class Y shares’ performance and Institutional Class shares’ performance was calculated using the historical performance of Class A shares for the periods prior to February 2, 2009. Performance for these periods has been restated to reflect the impact of the fees applicable to Class Y and Institutional Class shares.

22



Average Annual Total Returns
For the periods ended December 31, 2018
 
1 Year
 
5 Years
 
10 Years
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund — Class A
 
 

 
 

 
 

Return Before Taxes
 
(9.67
)%
 
4.91
%
 
12.27
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions
 
(12.19
)%
 
1.86
%
 
10.19
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares (1)
 
(4.53
)%
 
2.81
%
 
9.44
%
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund — Class C
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(5.68
)%
 
5.37
%
 
12.11
%
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund — Class Y
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(3.89
)%
 
6.44
%
 
13.23
%
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund — Institutional Class
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(3.80
)%
 
6.54
%
 
13.36
%
Russell 3000 ®  Growth Index  (reflects no deductions for fees, expenses or taxes)
 
(2.12
)%
 
9.99
%
 
15.15
%
(1) The Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares may be greater than other returns for the same period due to a tax benefit of realizing a capital loss on the sale of Fund shares.

 
The Fund’s Management
 
Investment Advisor
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
Sub-Advisor
 
Portfolio Managers
 
Investment Experience  with the Fund
 
Primary Title with Sub-Advisor
Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P.
 
William A. Muggia
 
Since 2006
 
President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Investment Officer and Managing Partner
 
 
Richard D. Lee, CFA
 
Since 2006
 
Managing Partner and Deputy Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Ethan J. Meyers, CFA
 
Since 2006
 
Managing Partner and Director of Research
 
 
John M. Montgomery
 
Since 2006
 
Managing Partner, Portfolio Strategist and Chief Operating Officer
 
Buying and Selling Fund Shares

Minimum Investment Requirements
 
Classes A, C, and Y
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
2,500

 
$
50

Retirement Account or Custodial Account under the Uniform Gifts/Transfers to Minors Act
$
1,000

 
$
50

Investments through the Automatic Investment Plan
$
100

 
$
50

 
 
Institutional Class
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
500,000

 
$
50

 
Fund shares may be purchased and sold on days that the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading. Existing Class A, Class C and Institutional Class shareholders may purchase shares directly through Touchstone Funds via the transfer agent, BNY Mellon, or through their financial intermediary. Class Y shares are available only through financial intermediaries who have appropriate selling agreements in place with Touchstone Securities. Shares may be purchased or sold by writing to Touchstone Securities at

23



P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, calling 1.800.543.0407, or visiting the Touchstone Funds’ website: TouchstoneInvestments.com. You may only sell shares over the telephone or via the Internet if the value of the shares sold is less than or equal to $100,000. Shares held in IRA accounts and qualified retirement plans cannot be sold via the Internet. If your shares are held by a processing organization or financial intermediary you will need to follow its purchase and redemption procedures. For more information about buying and selling shares see the “Investing with Touchstone” section of the Fund’s prospectus or call 1.800.543.0407.

Tax Information

The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains except when shares are held through a tax-advantaged account, such as a 401(k) plan or an IRA. Withdrawals from a tax-advantaged account, however, may be taxable.

Financial Intermediary Compensation

If you purchase shares in the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services.  These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other financial intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment.  Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.

24



TOUCHSTONE MID CAP GROWTH FUND SUMMARY
 
The Fund’s Investment Goal
 
The Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”) seeks to increase the value of Fund shares as a primary goal and to earn income as a secondary goal.
 
The Fund’s Fees and Expenses
 
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund.   You may qualify for sales charge discounts for Class A shares of Touchstone equity funds and Touchstone fixed income funds if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $25,000 or $50,000, respectively, in Touchstone funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional, in the section titled “Choosing a Class of Shares” in the Fund’s prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") on page 48 and 63 , respectively, and in Appendix A–Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts to the Fund's prospectus.
 
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
 
 
 
 
 
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)
 
5.00%
 
None
 
None
 
None
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of original purchase price or the amount redeemed, whichever is less)
 
None
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Wire Redemption Fee *
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
 
Up to $15
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fees
 
0.72%
 
0.72%
 
0.72%
 
0.72%
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees
 
0.25%
 
1.00%
 
None
 
None
Other Expenses
 
0.30%
 
0.32%
 
0.30%
 
0.25%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
 
1.27%
 
2.04%
 
1.02%
 
0.97%
* The wire redemption fee is capped at $15. In addition, the wire redemption fee may not exceed two percent (2%) of the amount being redeemed.

Example. This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then, except as indicated, redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods.  The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund’s operating expenses remain the same.  Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
 
 
 
Assuming Redemption at End of Period
 
Assuming No Redemption

 
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
 
Class C
1 Year
 
$
623

 
$
307

 
$
104

 
$
99

 
$
207

3 Years
 
$
883

 
$
640

 
$
325

 
$
309

 
$
640

5 Years
 
$
1,162

 
$
1,098

 
$
563

 
$
536

 
$
1,098

10 Years
 
$
1,957

 
$
2,369

 
$
1,248

 
$
1,190

 
$
2,369

 
Portfolio Turnover.   The Fund pays transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio).  A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account.  These costs, which are not reflected in total annual Fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund’s performance.  During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 71% of the average value of its portfolio.
 
The Fund’s Principal Investment Strategies
 
Under normal circumstances, the Fund will invest at least 80% of its assets in common stocks of mid-cap U.S. companies. The Fund’s 80% policy is a non-fundamental investment policy that can be changed by the Fund upon 60 days’ prior notice to shareholders. A mid-cap company is defined as a company, at the time of purchase, that has a market capitalization between $1.5

25



billion and $12 billion or falls within the range of market capitalizations represented in the Russell Midcap ®  Index (between $662 million and $50.9 billion as of June 30, 2019). The size of the companies in the Russell Midcap ®  Index will change with market conditions.
 
The Fund invests primarily in stocks of domestic growth companies that the sub-advisor, Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. (“Westfield”), believes have a demonstrated record of achievement with excellent prospects for earnings growth over a one to three year period. The Fund may also invest up to 20% of its total assets in foreign securities. In choosing securities, Westfield looks for companies that it believes are reasonably priced with high forecasted earnings potential. The Fund will invest in companies that Westfield believes have shown above-average and consistent long-term growth in earnings and have excellent prospects for future growth.
 
The Fund generally will sell a security if one or more of the following occurs: Westfield’s predetermined price target objective is exceeded; there is an alteration to the original investment case; valuation relative to the stock’s peer group is no longer attractive; or better risk/reward opportunities may be found in other stocks.
 
The Fund may engage in frequent and active trading and focus on a particular market sector as part of its principal investment strategy.
 
The Fund’s Principal Risks
 
The Fund’s share price will fluctuate. You could lose money on your investment in the Fund and the Fund could also return less than other investments. Investments in the Fund are not bank guaranteed, are not deposits, and are not insured by the FDIC or any other federal government agency.

As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.  You can find more information about the Fund’s investments and risks under the “Principal Investment Strategies and Risks” section of the Fund’s prospectus. The Fund is subject to the principal risks summarized below.
 
Equity Securities Risk: The Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by these companies may decline in response to such developments, which could result in a decline in the value of the Fund’s shares.
 
Mid-Cap Risk:  Stocks of mid-sized companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Mid-sized companies may have limited product lines or financial resources, and may be dependent upon a particular niche of the market.
 
Foreign Securities Risk: Investing in foreign securities poses additional risks since political and economic events unique in a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers, while such events may not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign securities are generally denominated in foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. There are also risks associated with foreign accounting standards, government regulation, market information, and clearance and settlement procedures. Foreign markets may be less liquid and more volatile than U.S. markets and offer less protection to investors.
 
Growth-Investing Risk:   Growth-oriented funds may underperform when value investing is in favor, and growth stocks may be more volatile than other stocks because they are more sensitive to investor perceptions of the issuing company’s growth of earnings potential.

Management Risk: In managing the Fund’s portfolio, the Advisor engages one or more sub-advisors to make investment decisions for a portion of or the entire portfolio. There is a risk that the Advisor may be unable to identify and retain sub-advisors who achieve superior investment returns relative to other similar sub-advisors.
 
Portfolio Turnover Risk: Frequent and active trading may result in greater expenses to the Fund, which may lower the Fund's performance and may result in the realization of substantial capital gains, including net short-term capital gains. As a result, high portfolio turnover may reduce the Fund's returns.
 
Sector Focus Risk: A fund that focuses its investments in the securities of a particular market sector is subject to the risk that adverse circumstances will have a greater impact on the fund than a fund that does not focus its investments in a particular sector.

26



 
The Fund’s Performance
 
The bar chart and performance table below illustrate some indication of the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund’s performance from calendar year to calendar year and by showing how the Fund’s average annual total returns for one year, five years, and ten years compare with the Russell Midcap ®  Growth Index. The bar chart does not reflect any sales charges, which would reduce your return. The performance table reflects any applicable sales charges. Past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. More recent performance information is available at no cost by visiting TouchstoneInvestments.com or by calling 1.800.543.0407.
 
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund — Class A Shares Total Return as of December 31
CHART-DD6E912F75145BDA884.JPG   
Best Quarter: 3rd Quarter 2009 19.29%
Worst Quarter: 3rd Quarter 2011 (23.22)%

The calendar year-to-date return for the Fund’s Class A shares as of June 30, 2019 is 27.80% .
 
After-tax returns are calculated using the highest individual marginal federal income tax rates in effect on a given distribution reinvestment date and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Your actual after-tax returns may differ from those shown and depend on your tax situation. The after-tax returns do not apply to shares held in an individual retirement account ("IRA"), 401(k), or other tax-advantaged account. The after-tax returns shown in the table are for Class A shares only. The after-tax returns for other classes of shares offered by the Fund will differ from the Class A shares' after-tax returns.
 
The inception dates of Class Y shares and Institutional Class shares was February 2, 2009 and April 1, 2011, respectively. Class Y shares’ performance and Institutional Class shares’ performance was calculated using the historical performance of Class A shares for the periods prior to February 2, 2009 and April 1, 2011, respectively. Performance for these periods has been restated to reflect the impact of the fees applicable to Class Y and Institutional Class shares.


27



Average Annual Total Returns
For the periods ended December 31, 2018
 
1 Year
 
5 Years
 
10 Years
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund — Class A
 
 

 
 

 
 

Return Before Taxes
 
(9.34
)%
 
6.06
%
 
12.29
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions
 
(11.05
)%
 
3.85
%
 
10.60
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares (1)
 
(4.36
)%
 
4.38
%
 
9.95
%
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund — Class C
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(5.37
)%
 
6.52
%
 
12.11
%
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund — Class Y
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(3.52
)%
 
7.60
%
 
13.27
%
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund — Institutional Class
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(3.49
)%
 
7.68
%
 
13.27
%
Russell Midcap ®  Growth Index  (reflects no deductions for fees, expenses or taxes)
 
(4.75
)%
 
7.42
%
 
15.12
%
(1) The Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares may be greater than other returns for the same period due to a tax benefit of realizing a capital loss on the sale of Fund shares.


The Fund’s Management
 
Investment Advisor
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
Sub-Advisor
 
Portfolio Managers
 
Investment Experience with the Fund
 
Primary Title with Sub-Advisor
Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P.
 
William A. Muggia
 
Since 1999
 
President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Investment Officer and Managing Partner
 
 
Richard D. Lee, CFA
 
Since 2004
 
Managing Partner and Deputy Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Ethan J. Meyers, CFA
 
Since 1999
 
Managing Partner and Director of Research
 
 
John M. Montgomery
 
Since 2006
 
Managing Partner, Portfolio Strategist and Chief Operating Officer
 
Buying and Selling Fund Shares

Minimum Investment Requirements
 
Classes A, C, and Y
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
2,500

 
$
50

Retirement Account or Custodial Account under the Uniform Gifts/Transfers to Minors Act
$
1,000

 
$
50

Investments through the Automatic Investment Plan
$
100

 
$
50

 
 
Institutional Class
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
500,000

 
$
50

 
Fund shares may be purchased and sold on days that the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading. Existing Class A, Class C and Institutional Class shareholders may purchase shares directly through Touchstone Funds via the transfer agent, BNY Mellon, or through their financial intermediary. Class Y shares are available only through financial intermediaries who have appropriate

28



selling agreements in place with Touchstone Securities. Shares may be purchased or sold by writing to Touchstone Securities at P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, calling 1.800.543.0407, or visiting the Touchstone Funds’ website: TouchstoneInvestments.com. You may only sell shares over the telephone or via the Internet if the value of the shares sold is less than or equal to $100,000. Shares held in IRA accounts and qualified retirement plans cannot be sold via the Internet. If your shares are held by a processing organization or financial intermediary you will need to follow its purchase and redemption procedures. For more information about buying and selling shares see the “Investing with Touchstone” section of the Fund’s prospectus or call 1.800.543.0407.

Tax Information

The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains except when shares are held through a tax-advantaged account, such as a 401(k) plan or an IRA. Withdrawals from a tax-advantaged account, however, may be taxable.

Financial Intermediary Compensation

If you purchase shares in the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services.  These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other financial intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment.  Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.

29



TOUCHSTONE SANDS CAPITAL EMERGING MARKETS GROWTH FUND SUMMARY
 
The Fund’s Investment Goal
 
The Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund (the “Fund”) seeks long-term capital appreciation.
 
The Fund’s Fees and Expenses

This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund.   You may qualify for sales charge discounts for Class A shares of Touchstone equity funds and Touchstone fixed income funds if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $25,000 or $50,000, respectively, in Touchstone funds. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional, in the section titled “Choosing a Class of Shares” in the Fund’s prospectus and Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") on page 48 and 63 , respectively, and in Appendix A–Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts to the Fund's prospectus.

 
Class A
Class C
Class Y
Institutional Class
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment)
 
 
 
 
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price)
5.00%

None

None

None

Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as a percentage of original purchase price or the amount redeemed, whichever is less)
None

1.00%

None

None

Wire Redemption Fee *
Up to $15

Up to $15

Up to $15

Up to $15

Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Management Fees
1.00
 %
1.00
 %
1.00
%
1.00
 %
Distribution and/or Shareholder Service (12b-1) Fees
0.25
 %
1.00
 %
None

None

Other Expenses (1)
3.64
 %
55.88
 %
0.35
%
0.27
 %
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses (AFFE)
0.01
 %
0.01
 %
0.01
%
0.01
 %
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (2)
4.90
 %
57.89
 %
1.36
%
1.28
 %
Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (3)
(3.29
)%
(55.53
)%
0.00
%
(0.02
)%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement (2)(3)
1.61
 %
2.36
 %
1.36
%
1.26
 %
___________________________________________
* The wire redemption fee is capped at $15. In addition, the wire redemption fee may not exceed two percent (2%) of the amount being redeemed.
(1) Other Expenses for Class A and Class C have been annualized based on actual expense incurred between November 16, 2018 (commencement of operations) and March 31, 2019.
(2) Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses include Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses and will differ from the ratios of expenses to average net assets that is included in the Fund’s annual report for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019.
(3) Touchstone Advisors, Inc. (the "Advisor" or "Touchstone Advisors") and Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”) have entered into a contractual expense limitation agreement whereby Touchstone Advisors will waive a portion of its fees or reimburse certain Fund expenses (excluding dividend and interest expenses relating to short sales; interest; taxes; brokerage commissions and other transaction costs; portfolio transaction and investment related expenses, including expenses associated with the Fund's liquidity providers; other expenditures which are capitalized in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; the cost of “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses,” if any; and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of business) in order to limit annual Fund operating expenses to 1.60%, 2.35%, 1.35%, and 1.25% of average daily net assets for Classes A, C, Y, and Institutional Class shares, respectively. This contractual expense limitation is effective through November 16, 2020 , but can be terminated by a vote of the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) if it deems the termination to be beneficial to the Fund’s shareholders. The terms of the contractual expense limitation agreement provide that Touchstone Advisors is entitled to recoup, subject to approval by the Board, such amounts waived or reimbursed for a period of up to three years from the date on which the Advisor reduced its compensation or assumed expenses for the Fund. The Fund will make repayments to the Advisor only if such repayment does not cause the annual Fund operating expenses (after the repayment is taken into account) to exceed both (1) the expense cap in place when such amounts were waived or reimbursed and (2) the Fund’s current expense limitation.

Example. This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then, except as indicated, redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year, that the Fund’s operating expenses remain the same and that all fee waivers or expense limits for the Fund will expire after one year.  Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
 

30



 
 
Assuming Redemption at End of Period
 
Assuming No Redemption
 
 
Class A
Class C
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
 
Class C
1 Year
 
$
656

$
339

$
138

 
$
128

 
$
239

3 Years
 
$
1,619

$
6,669

$
431

 
$
404

 
$
6,669

5 Years
 
$
2,585

$
8,096

$
745

 
$
700

 
$
8,096

10 Years
 
$
5,007

$
8,493

$
1,635

 
$
1,543

 
$
8,493


Portfolio Turnover.   The Fund pays transaction costs, such as brokerage commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio).  A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account.  These costs, which are not reflected in total annual Fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund’s performance.  During the most recent fiscal year, the Fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 31% of the average value of its portfolio.

The Fund’s Principal Investment Strategies
 
The Fund invests, under normal market conditions, at least 80% of its assets (including borrowings for investment purposes) in equity and equity-related securities issued by companies in “emerging” or “frontier” market countries.  The Fund’s 80% policy is a non-fundamental investment policy that can be changed by the Fund upon 60 days’ prior notice to shareholders. The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of equity securities such as common stock, preferred stock, and depositary receipts. Emerging or frontier market companies are companies of any size that are economically tied to emerging or frontier markets. The Fund will generally consider qualifying investments to be in companies that are organized under the laws of, or maintain their principal place of business in, an emerging or frontier market country; have securities that are principally traded in such countries; or derive at least 50% of revenues or profits from, or have at least 50% of their assets in, such countries. The Fund generally invests in a portfolio of 30 to 50 issuers selected on the basis of “bottom-up” research undertaken by the sub-advisor, Sands Capital Management, LLC (“Sands Capital”).

The Fund classifies emerging markets as those countries not included in the MSCI World Index, a developed market index. As of March 31, 2019, the countries in the MSCI World Index included: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The country composition of the MSCI World Index can change over time. Frontier markets are those emerging market countries that have the smallest, least mature economies and least developed capital markets.
 
Sands Capital uses a “bottom-up” approach to investment selection, as opposed to sector or regional allocations that focuses on a company’s long-term business fundamentals. Therefore, the Fund may overweight certain geographies or sectors and may underweight other geographies or sectors. Sands Capital looks for companies that have: sustainable above-average earnings growth; a leadership position in a promising business space; significant competitive advantages, such as profitability, superior quality, or distribution relative to competitors, or strong brand and consumer loyalty; a clear mission in an understandable business model; financial strength; and a rational valuation in relation to competitors, the market, and business prospects.
 
Sands Capital generally intends for the Fund’s investments to be held for an average term of three to five years, although the Fund may hold any investment for any length of time. Sands Capital generally considers selling a security when it no longer meets the investment criteria outlined above, for risk management purposes, or if a more attractive investment opportunity presents itself.
 
The Fund is non-diversified and may invest a significant percentage of its assets in the securities of a single company.
 
The Fund’s Principal Risks
 
The Fund’s share price will fluctuate. You could lose money on your investment in the Fund and the Fund could also return less than other investments. As with any mutual fund, there is no guarantee that the Fund will achieve its investment goal.  You can find more information about the Fund’s investments and risks under the “Principal Investment Strategies and Risks” section of the Fund’s prospectus. The Fund is subject to the principal risks summarized below.

Equity Securities Risk: The Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by these companies may decline in response to such developments, which could result in a decline in the value of the Fund’s shares.

31



 
Large-Cap Risk: Large-cap companies may be unable to respond quickly to new competitive challenges, such as changes in technology and consumer tastes, and also may not be able to attain the high growth rate of successful smaller companies, especially during extended periods of economic expansion.
 
Mid-Cap Risk:  Stocks of mid-sized companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Mid-sized companies may have limited product lines or financial resources, and may be dependent upon a particular niche of the market.

Preferred Stock Risk: In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds take precedence over the claims of those who own preferred and common stock. If interest rates rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing the price of preferred stocks to decline.
 
Small-Cap Risk: Stocks of smaller companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Small companies may have limited product lines or financial resources and may be dependent upon a small or inexperienced management group.

Foreign Securities Risk: Investing in foreign securities poses additional risks since political and economic events unique in a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers, while such events may not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign securities are generally denominated in foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect (positively or negatively) the value of the Fund's investments. There are also risks associated with foreign accounting standards, government regulation, market information, and clearance and settlement procedures. Foreign markets may be less liquid and more volatile than U.S. markets and offer less protection to investors.

Depositary Receipts Risk: Foreign receipts, which include ADRs, Global Depositary Receipts, and European Depositary Receipts, are securities that evidence ownership interests in a security or a pool of securities issued by a foreign issuer. The risks of depositary receipts include many risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities.
 
Emerging Markets Risk: Emerging markets may be more likely to experience political turmoil or rapid changes in market or economic conditions than more developed countries. In addition, the financial stability of issuers (including governments) in emerging market countries may be more precarious than that of issuers in other countries.
 
Frontier Markets Risk:  Frontier markets have similar risks to emerging markets, except that these risks are often magnified in a frontier market due to its smaller and less developed economy. As a result, frontier markets may experience greater changes in market or economic conditions, financial stability, price volatility, currency fluctuations, and other risks inherent in foreign securities.
 
Growth-Investing Risk:   Growth-oriented funds may underperform when value investing is in favor, and growth stocks may be more volatile than other stocks because they are more sensitive to investor perceptions of the issuing company’s growth of earnings potential.
 
Management Risk: In managing the Fund’s portfolio, the Advisor engages one or more sub-advisors to make investment decisions for a portion of or the entire portfolio. There is a risk that the Advisor may be unable to identify and retain sub-advisors who achieve superior investment returns relative to other similar sub-advisors.
 
Non-Diversification Risk: The Fund is non-diversified, which means that it may invest a greater percentage of its assets than a diversified mutual fund in the securities of a limited number of issuers. The use of a non-diversified investment strategy may increase the volatility of the Fund’s investment performance, as the Fund may be more susceptible to risks associated with a single economic, political or regulatory event.
 
This Fund should only be purchased by investors seeking capital appreciation who can withstand the share price volatility of emerging markets investing.
 
The Fund’s Performance
  
The bar chart and performance table below illustrate some indication of the risks and volatility of an investment in the Fund by showing changes in the Fund’s performance from calendar year to calendar year and by showing how the Fund’s average annual total returns for one year and since inception compare with the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, Net. The performance table reflects

32



any applicable sales charges. Past performance (before and after taxes) does not necessarily indicate how the Fund will perform in the future. More recent performance information is available at no cost by visiting TouchstoneInvestments.com or by calling 1.800.543.0407.

Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund — Class Y Shares Total Return as of December 31
CHART-B2677F550FAC5587A67.JPG  
Best Quarter: 1st Quarter 2017 13.35%
Worst Quarter: 3rd Quarter 2015 (16.05)%
 
The calendar year-to-date return for the Fund’s Class Y shares as of June 30, 2019 is 16.17% .

After-tax returns are calculated using the highest individual marginal federal income tax rates in effect on a given distribution reinvestment date and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Your actual after-tax returns may differ from those shown and depend on your tax situation. The after-tax returns do not apply to shares held in an individual retirement account ("IRA"), 401(k), or other tax-advantaged account. The after-tax returns shown in the table are for Class Y shares only. The after-tax returns for other classes of shares offered by the Fund will differ from the Class Y shares' after-tax returns.

The inception dates of Class A shares, Class C shares, Class Y shares and Institutional Class shares was November 16, 2018, November 16, 2018, May 9, 2014 and May 9, 2014, respectively. Class A shares’ performance and Class C shares’ performance was calculated using the historical performance of Class Y shares for the periods prior to November 16, 2018. Performance for these periods has been restated to reflect the impact of the fees and expenses applicable to Class A and Class C shares.

Average Annual Total Returns
For the periods ended December 31, 2018
 
1 Year
 
Since Inception (May 9, 2014)
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund — Class Y
 
 

 
 

Return Before Taxes
 
(13.32
)%
 
2.70
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions
 
(13.32
)%
 
2.70
%
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares (1)
 
(7.89
)%
 
2.08
%
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund — Class A
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(17.86
)%
 
1.32
%
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund — Class C
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(15.10
)%
 
1.67
%
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund — Institutional Class
 
 
 
 
Return Before Taxes
 
(13.28
)%
 
2.78
%
MSCI Emerging Markets Index, Net (reflects no deductions for fees, expenses or taxes)
 
(14.58
)%
 
1.53
%
(1) The Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares may be greater than other returns for the same period due to a tax benefit of realizing a capital loss on the sale of Fund shares.

The Fund’s Management
 

33



Investment Advisor
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
Sub-Advisor
 
Portfolio Managers
 
Investment Experience  with the Fund
 
Primary Title with  Sub-Advisor
Sands Capital Management, LLC
 
Brian A. Christiansen, CFA
 
Since inception in 2014
 
Sr. Portfolio Manager
 
 
Ashraf A. Haque
 
Since inception in 2014
 
Sr. Portfolio Manager
 
 
Neil Kansari
 
Since inception in 2014
 
Sr. Portfolio Manager

Buying and Selling Fund Shares

Minimum Investment Requirements

 
Class A, C, and Y
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
2,500

 
$
50

Retirement Account or Custodial Account under the Uniform Gifts/Transfers to Minors Act
$
1,000

 
$
50

Investments through the Automatic Investment Plan
$
100

 
$
50

 
 
Institutional Class
 
Initial
Investment
 
Additional
Investment
Regular Account
$
500,000

 
$
50


Fund shares may be purchased and sold on days that the New York Stock Exchange is open for trading. Existing Class A, Class C and Institutional Class shareholders may purchase shares directly through Touchstone Funds via the transfer agent, BNY Mellon, or through their financial intermediary. Class Y shares are available only through financial intermediaries who have appropriate selling agreements in place with Touchstone Securities. Shares may be purchased or sold by writing to Touchstone Securities at P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, calling 1.800.543.0407, or visiting the Touchstone Funds’ website: TouchstoneInvestments.com. You may only sell shares over the telephone or via the Internet if the value of the shares sold is less than or equal to $100,000. Shares held in IRA accounts and qualified retirement plans cannot be sold via the Internet. If your shares are held by a processing organization or financial intermediary you will need to follow its purchase and redemption procedures. For more information about buying and selling shares see the “Investing with Touchstone” section of the Fund’s prospectus or call 1.800.543.0407.

Tax Information

The Fund intends to make distributions that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains except when shares are held through a tax-advantaged account, such as a 401(k) plan or an IRA. Withdrawals from a tax-advantaged account, however, may be taxable.
 
Financial Intermediary Compensation

If you purchase shares in the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services.  These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other financial intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment.  Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.

34




PROSPECTUS
 
This prospectus applies to the Touchstone Flexible Income Fund (the “Flexible Income Fund”), Touchstone Focused Fund (the “Focused Fund”), Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund (the “Global ESG Equity Fund”), Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund (the “Growth Opportunities Fund”), Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund (the “Mid Cap Growth Fund”), and Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund (the “Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund”) (each, a “Fund”, and collectively, the “Funds”).
 
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS

How Do The Funds Implement Their Investment Goal?

The investment objective(s) and principal investment strategies of the Funds are described in the "Principal Investment Strategies" sections above.

Flexible Income Fund. The Fund’s sub-advisor, Bramshill Investments LLC (“Bramshill” or the “Sub-Advisor”), implements a tactical fixed-income strategy, actively managing the portfolio by rotating among asset classes and tactically hedging during various interest rate and market environments. Bramshill seeks to identify relative value across asset classes and capture opportunities primarily within the corporate, US Treasury, municipal and preferred security markets. The Fund focuses on liquid securities with transparent pricing and actively-traded capital structures.

Focused Fund. The Fund will generally hold 25 to 45 companies, with residual cash and equivalents expected to represent less than 10% of the Fund’s net assets. The Fund may, at times, hold fewer securities and a higher percentage of cash and equivalents when, among other reasons, the Fund's sub-advisor, Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. ("Fort Washington"), cannot find a sufficient number of securities that meets its purchase requirements.
 
The Fund may invest up to 35% of its assets in securities of foreign issuers through the use of ordinary shares or depositary receipts such as American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Non-U.S. issuers or foreign companies (or issuers) are companies that: (i) are organized under the laws of, (ii) maintain their principal place of business in, (iii) have the principal trading market for their securities in, (iv) derive at least 50% of revenues or profits from operation in, or (v) have at least 50% of their assets in, foreign countries. The Fund may also invest in securities of emerging market countries. Emerging market countries are generally countries not included in the MSCI World Index. As of March 31, 2019, the countries in the MSCI World Index included: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The country composition of the MSCI World Index can change over time. The Fund’s investment strategy often involves overweighting the Fund’s position in the industry sectors which Fort Washington believes are the most mis-priced by the market.
 
The Fund will generally sell a security if it reaches Fort Washington’s estimate of fair value, if a more attractive investment opportunity is available, or if a structural change has taken place and Fort Washington cannot reliably estimate the impact of the change on the business fundamentals.

Global ESG Equity Fund. The Fund’s sub-advisor, Rockefeller & Co. LLC ("Rockefeller"), selects investments for the Fund based on an evaluation of a company’s financial condition and its ESG practices. Rockefeller applies “bottom-up” security analysis that includes fundamental, sector-based research in seeking to identify businesses that have high or improving returns on capital, barriers to competition, and compelling valuations. Rockefeller’s ESG evaluation considers ESG criteria such as corporate governance practices, product quality and safety, workplace diversity practices, environmental impact and sustainability, community investment and development, and human rights record. Rockefeller analyzes the potential environmental, social and governance impacts and risks of a company, considers how well the company manages these impacts and risks, and ascertains the company’s willingness and ability to take a leadership position in implementing best practices. Through this evaluation and ongoing engagement, Rockefeller seeks to support and encourage the company’s progress toward sustainability.

Growth Opportunities Fund. The Fund will invest in companies that the Fund's sub-advisor, Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. ("Westfield"), believes have shown above-average and consistent long-term growth in earnings and have excellent prospects for future growth. Westfield evaluates companies by using fundamental analysis of the company’s financial statements, interviews with management, analysis of the company’s operations and product development and consideration of the company’s industry category.


35



The Fund generally will sell a security if one or more of the following occurs: Westfield’s predetermined price target objective is exceeded; there is an alteration to the original investment case; valuation relative to the stock’s peer group is no longer attractive; or  better risk/reward opportunities may be found in other stocks.

Mid Cap Growth Fund. The Fund invests primarily in stocks of domestic growth companies that the Fund's sub-advisor, Westfield, believes have a demonstrated record of achievement with excellent prospects for earnings growth over a one to three year period. The Fund may also invest up to 20% of its total assets in foreign securities. In choosing securities, Westfield looks for companies that it believes are reasonably priced with high forecasted earnings potential. The Fund will invest in companies that Westfield believes have shown above-average and consistent long-term growth in earnings and have excellent prospects for future growth. Westfield evaluates companies by using fundamental analysis of the company’s financial statements, interviews with management, analysis of the company’s operations, and product development and consideration of the company’s industry category.
 
The Fund generally will sell a security if one or more of the following occurs: Westfield’s predetermined price target objective is exceeded; there is an alteration to the original investment case; valuation relative to the stock’s peer group is no longer attractive; or better risk/reward opportunities may be found in other stocks.
 
Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund. The Fund's sub-advisor, Sands Capital Management, LLC ("Sands Capital") uses a “bottom-up” approach to investment selection, as opposed to sector or regional allocations, that focuses on a company’s long-term business fundamentals. Therefore, the Fund may overweight certain geographies or sectors and may underweight other geographies or sectors.
 
The Fund classifies emerging markets as those countries not included in the MSCI World Index, a developed market index. As of March 31, 2019, the countries in the MSCI World Index included: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The country composition of the MSCI World Index can change over time. Frontier markets are those emerging market countries that have the smallest, least mature economies and least developed capital markets. The Fund classifies frontier markets as those countries included in the MSCI Frontier Markets Index. As of March 31, 2019, the countries in the MSCI Frontier Markets Index included: Bahrain, Bangladesh, Burkina Faso, Benin, Croatia, Estonia, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lebanon, Lithuania, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Mali, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Romania, Serbia, Senegal, Slovenia, Sri Lanka, Togo, Tunisia and Vietnam.

Sands Capital looks for companies that have: sustainable above-average earnings growth; a leadership position in a promising business space; significant competitive advantages, such as profitability, superior quality, or distribution relative to competitors, or strong brand and consumer loyalty; a clear mission in an understandable business model; financial strength; and a rational valuation in relation to competitors, the market, and business prospects.
 
Companies that Sands Capital determines may meet its investment criteria are then evaluated with additional in-depth qualitative research, including proprietary financial modeling. Importantly, this investment approach may include identifying the key metrics for a particular business or industry, and specific risks or issues relating to a company. Through this process Sands Capital may vary the Fund’s sector and geographic allocations based upon relevant macroeconomic factors that matter for each business in the Fund’s portfolio; as a result, the Fund may have significant exposure to particular jurisdictions and sectors.
 
Sands Capital generally intends for the Fund’s investments to be held for an average term of three to five years, although the Fund may hold any investment for any length of time. Sands Capital generally considers selling a security when it no longer meets the investment criteria outlined above, for risk management purposes, or if a more attractive investment opportunity presents itself. In managing risk, Sands Capital regularly assesses each investment’s relevant business risk, the market’s macroeconomic risk, and the Fund’s portfolio-level risk.
 


36





Can a Fund Depart From its Principal Investment Strategies?
 
In addition to the investments and strategies described in this prospectus, each Fund may invest in other securities, use other strategies and engage in other investment practices. These permitted investments and strategies are described in detail in the Funds’ Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”).
 
Each Fund’s investment goal is non-fundamental, and may be changed by the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the "Board") without shareholder approval.  Shareholders will be notified at least 60 days before any change takes effect.
 
The investments and strategies described throughout this prospectus are those that the Funds use under normal circumstances.  During unusual economic or market conditions, or for temporary defensive purposes, each Fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in cash, repurchase agreements, and short-term obligations (i.e., fixed and variable rate securities and high quality debt securities of corporate and government issuers) that would not ordinarily be consistent with the Funds’ goals.  This defensive investing may increase a Fund’s taxable income, and when a Fund is invested defensively, it may not achieve its investment goal.  A Fund will do so only if the Fund’s sub-advisor believes that the risk of loss in using the Fund’s normal strategies and investments outweighs the opportunity for gains.  Of course, there can be no guarantee that any Fund will achieve its investment goal.
 
In addition to the defensive measures above, for defensive purposes in periods of high stock market volatility, the Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund may invest in other transferable securities in any country, including securities in developed markets.
 
80% Investment Policy. Certain of the Funds have adopted a policy to invest, under normal circumstances, at least 80% of the value of its “assets” in certain types of investments suggested by its name (the “80% Policy”). For purposes of this 80% Policy, the term “assets” means net assets plus the amount of borrowings for investment purposes. A Fund must comply with its 80% Policy at the time the Fund invests its assets. Accordingly, when a Fund no longer meets the 80% requirement as a result of circumstances beyond its control, such as changes in the value of portfolio holdings, it would not have to sell its holdings but would have to make any new investments in such a way as to comply with the 80% Policy.
 
Change in Market Capitalization. A Fund may specify in its principal investment strategy a market capitalization range for acquiring portfolio securities. If a security that is within the range for a Fund at the time of purchase later falls outside the range, which is most likely to happen because of market fluctuation, the Fund may continue to hold the security if, in the sub-advisor’s judgment, the security remains otherwise consistent with the Fund’s investment goal and strategies. However, this change in market capitalization could affect the Fund’s flexibility in making new investments.
 
The Mid Cap Growth Fund has specified a market capitalization range for acquiring portfolio securities.
 
Other Investment Companies.   A Fund may invest in securities issued by other investment companies to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act, the rules thereunder and applicable Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) staff interpretations thereof, or applicable exemptive relief granted by the SEC.
 
Lending of Portfolio Securities. The Funds may lend their portfolio securities to brokers, dealers, and financial institutions under guidelines adopted by the Board, including a requirement that a Fund must receive collateral equal to no less than 100% of the market value of the securities loaned. The risk in lending portfolio securities, as with other extensions of credit, consists of possible loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower fail financially. In determining whether to lend securities, the Advisor will consider all relevant facts and circumstances, including the creditworthiness of the borrower. More information on securities lending is available in the SAI.

ReFlow Liquidity Program . The Funds may participate in the ReFlow liquidity program, which is designed to provide an alternative liquidity source for mutual funds experiencing net redemptions of their shares. Pursuant to the program, ReFlow Fund, LLC ( ReFlow ) provides participating mutual funds with a source of cash to meet net shareholder redemptions by standing ready each business day to purchase fund shares up to the value of the net shares redeemed by other shareholders that are to settle the next business day. Following purchases of Fund shares, ReFlow then generally redeems those shares when the Fund experiences net sales, at the end of a maximum holding period determined by ReFlow, or at other times at ReFlow’s discretion. While ReFlow holds Fund shares, it will have the same rights and privileges with respect to those shares as any other shareholder. In the event the Fund uses the ReFlow service, the Fund will pay a fee to ReFlow each time ReFlow purchases Fund shares, calculated by applying to the purchase amount a fee rate determined through an automated daily auction among participating mutual funds. ReFlow’s purchases of Fund shares through the liquidity program are made on an investment-blind basis without regard to the

37



Fund’s objective, policies or anticipated performance. In accordance with federal securities laws, ReFlow is prohibited from acquiring more than 3% of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund.

What are the Principal Risks of Investing in the Funds?
 
The following is a list of principal risks that may apply to your investment in a Fund.  Further information about investment risks is available in the Funds’ SAI:
 
 
 
Equity Funds
 
Fixed-Income
Fund
Risks
 
Focused
Fund
 
Global ESG
Equity
Fund
 
Growth
Opportunities
Fund
 
Mid
Cap
Growth
Fund
 
Sands
Capital
Emerging Markets
Growth
Fund
 
Flexible
Income
Fund
Asset-Backed Securities Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Convertible Securities Risk
 
 
 
X
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Credit Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Depositary Receipts Risk
 
X
 
X
 
 
 
 
 
X
 
 
Derivatives Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Emerging Markets Risk
 
X
 
X
 
 
 
 
 
X
 
 
Environmental, Social and Governance Investing Risk
 
 
 
X
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Equity Securities Risk
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
X
Equity-Related Securities Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
 
 
Fixed-Income Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Foreign Securities Risk
 
X
 
X
 
 
 
X
 
X
 
X
Frontier Markets Risk
 
 
 
X
 
 
 
 
 
X
 
 
Futures Contracts Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Growth Investing Risk
 
 
 
 
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
 
Interest Rate Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Investment-Grade Debt Securities Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Large-Cap Risk
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
 
 
X
 
 
Management Risk
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
X
Mid-Cap Risk
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
 
Mortgage-Backed Securities Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Municipal Securities Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Non-Diversification Risk
 
X
 
 
 
X
 
 
 
X
 
 
Non-Investment-Grade Debt Securities Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Other Investment Companies Risk
 
 
 
X
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
Portfolio Turnover Risk
 
 
 
 
 
X
 
X
 
 
 
X
Preferred Stock Risk
 
X
 
X
 
 
 
 
 
X
 
X
Sector and Industry Focus Risk
 
X
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sector Focus Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
 
 
 
 
Small-Cap Risk
 
X
 
X
 
X
 
 
 
X
 
 
U.S. Government Agency Securities Risk
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
X
 
Convertible Securities Risk: Convertible securities are subject to the risks of both debt securities and equity securities. The values of convertible securities tend to decline as interest rates rise and, due to the conversion feature, tend to vary with fluctuations in the market value of the underlying security.
 
Derivatives Risk: The use of derivatives may expose the Fund to additional risks that it would not be subject to if it invested directly in the securities underlying those derivatives. Risks associated with derivatives may include correlation risk, which is the risk that the derivative does not correlate well with the security, index, or currency to which it relates. Other risks include liquidity risk, which is the risk that the Fund may be unable to sell or close out the derivative due to an illiquid market, counterparty risk, which is the risk that the counterparty to a derivative instrument may be unwilling or unable to make required payments or otherwise

38



meet its obligations, and leverage risk, which is the risk that a derivative could expose the Fund to magnified losses resulting from leverage. The use of derivatives for hedging purposes may result in losses that partially or completely offset gains in portfolio positions. Using derivatives can increase the volatility of the Fund’s share price. For some derivatives, it is possible for the Fund to lose more than the amount invested in the derivative instrument. Derivatives may, for federal income tax purposes, affect the character of gain and loss realized by the Fund, accelerate recognition of income to the Fund, affect the holding periods for certain of the Fund’s assets and defer recognition of certain of the Fund’s losses. The Fund’s ability to invest in derivatives may be restricted by certain provisions of the federal income tax laws relating to the Fund’s qualification as a regulated investment company (“RIC”). These additional risks could cause the Fund to experience losses to which it would otherwise not be subject.
 
Equity-Related Securities Risk: The Fund may invest in equity-related securities, including low-exercise-price options (“LEPOs”), low exercise price warrants (“LEPWs”), and participatory notes (“P-notes”) to gain exposure to issuers in certain emerging or frontier market countries. LEPOs, LEPWs, and P-notes are offshore derivative instruments issued to foreign institutional investors and their sub-accounts against underlying securities traded in emerging or frontier markets. These securities may be listed on an exchange or traded over-the-counter, and are similar to ADRs. As a result, the risks of investing in LEPOs, LEPWs, and P-notes are similar to depositary receipts risk and foreign securities risk in general. Specifically these securities entail both counterparty risk—the risk that the issuer of the LEPO, LEPW, or P-Note may not be able to fulfill its obligations or that the holder and counterparty or issuer may disagree as to the meaning or application of contractual terms—and liquidity risk—the risk that a liquid market may not exist for such securities.
  
Futures Contracts Risk: Futures contracts provide for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified amount of a specific security at a specified future time and at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in exchange for a premium, to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price during the term of the option. There are risks associated with these activities, including the following: (1) the success of a hedging strategy may depend on an ability to predict movements in the prices of individual securities, fluctuations in markets and movements in interest rates; (2) there may be an imperfect or no correlation between the changes in market value of the securities held by a Fund and the prices of futures and options on futures; (3) there may not be a liquid secondary market for a futures contract or option; (4) trading restrictions or limitations may be imposed by an exchange; and (5) government regulations may restrict trading in futures contracts and futures options.
  
Environmental, Social and Governance Investing Risk: The Fund’s environmental, social and corporate governance criteria may cause the Fund to forgo opportunities to buy certain securities, or forgo opportunities to gain exposure to certain industries, sectors, regions and countries. In addition, the Fund may be required to sell a security when it might otherwise be disadvantageous for it to do so.

Equity Securities Risk:   A Fund is subject to the risk that stock prices will fall over short or extended periods of time. Individual companies may report poor results or be negatively affected by industry and/or economic trends and developments. The prices of securities issued by these companies may decline in response to such developments, which could result in a decline in the value of the Funds’ shares. These factors contribute to price volatility. In addition, common stocks represent a share of ownership in a company, and rank after bonds and preferred stock in their claim on the company’s assets in the event of liquidation.
 
Large-Cap Risk: A Fund is subject to the risk that stocks of larger companies may underperform relative to those of small- and mid-sized companies. Large-cap companies may be unable to respond quickly to new competitive challenges, such as changes in technology and consumer tastes, and also may not be able to attain the high growth rate of successful smaller companies, especially during extended periods of economic expansion.     

Mid-Cap Risk:  A Fund is subject to the risk that medium capitalization stocks may underperform other types of stocks or the equity markets as a whole. Stocks of mid-sized companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Mid-sized companies may have limited product lines or financial resources, and may be dependent upon a particular niche of the market.
 
Preferred Stock Risk:    Preferred stock represents an equity interest in an issuer that pays dividends at a specified rate and that has precedence over common stock in the payment of dividends. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds take precedence over the claims of those who own preferred and common stock. If interest rates rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing the price of preferred stocks to decline. Preferred stock may have mandatory sinking fund provisions, as well as provisions allowing the stock to be called or redeemed prior to its maturity, both of which can have a negative impact on the stock’s price when interest rates decline.
 

39



Small-Cap Risk:  The Fund is subject to the risk that small capitalization stocks may underperform other types of stocks or the equity markets as a whole. Stocks of smaller companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements than stocks of larger, more established companies. Small companies may have limited product lines or financial resources, or may be dependent upon a small or inexperienced management group. In addition, small-cap stocks typically are traded in lower volume, and their issuers typically are subject to greater degrees of changes in their earnings and prospects.
 
Fixed Income Risk: The market value of the Fund’s fixed-income securities responds to economic developments, particularly interest rate changes, as well as to perceptions about the creditworthiness of individual issuers, including governments. Generally, the Fund’s fixed-income securities will decrease in value if interest rates rise and increase in value if interest rates fall. Normally, the longer the maturity or duration of the fixed-income securities the Fund owns, the more sensitive the value of the Fund’s shares will be to changes in interest rates.
 
Asset-Backed Securities Risk: Asset-backed securities are fixed income securities backed by other assets such as credit card, automobile or consumer loan receivables, retail installment loans, or participations in pools of leases. Credit support for these securities may be based on the structural features such as subordination or overcollateralization and/or provided through credit enhancements by a third party. Even with a credit enhancement by a third party, there is still risk of loss. There could be inadequate collateral or no collateral for asset-backed securities. The values of these securities are sensitive to changes in the credit quality of the underlying collateral, the credit strength of the credit enhancement, changes in interest rates, and, at times, the financial condition of the issuer. Some asset-backed securities also may receive prepayments that can change the securities’ effective durations.
 
Credit Risk: The fixed-income securities in the Fund’s portfolio are subject to the possibility that a deterioration, whether sudden or gradual, in the financial condition of an issuer, or a deterioration in general economic conditions, could cause an issuer to fail to make timely payments of principal or interest when due. This may cause the issuer’s securities to decline in value. Credit risk is particularly relevant to those portfolios that invest a significant amount of their assets in non-investment grade (or "junk") bonds or lower-rated securities.

Interest Rate Risk:  The market price of debt securities is generally linked to the prevailing market interest rates. In general, when interest rates rise, the prices of debt securities fall, and when interest rates fall, the prices of debt securities rise. The price volatility of a debt security also depends on its maturity. Longer-term securities are generally more volatile, so the longer the average maturity or duration of these securities, the greater their price risk. Duration is a measure of the expected life, taking into account any prepayment or call features of the security, that is used to determine the price sensitivity of the security for a given change in interest rates. Specifically, duration is the change in the value of a fixed-income security that will result from a 1% change in interest rates, and generally is stated in years. For example, as a general rule a 1% rise in interest rates means a 1% fall in value for every year of duration. Maturity, on the other hand, is the date on which a fixed-income security becomes due for payment of principal. There may be less governmental intervention in the securities markets in the near future. An increase in interest rates could negatively impact a Fund’s net asset value.
 
Investment-Grade Debt Securities Risk:  Investment-grade debt securities may be downgraded by a NRSRO to below-investment-grade status, which would increase the risk of holding these securities. Investment-grade debt securities rated in the lowest rating category by a NRSRO involve a higher degree of risk than fixed-income securities with higher credit ratings. While such securities are considered investment-grade quality and are deemed to have adequate capacity for payment of principal and interest, such securities lack outstanding investment characteristics and may share certain speculative characteristics with non-investment-grade securities.

Mortgage-Backed Securities Risk: Mortgage-backed securities are fixed income securities representing an interest in a pool of underlying mortgage loans. Mortgage-backed securities are sensitive to changes in interest rates, but may respond to these changes differently from other fixed income securities due to the possibility of prepayment of the underlying mortgage loans. As a result, it may not be possible to determine in advance the actual maturity date or average life of a mortgage-backed security. Rising interest rates tend to discourage re-financings, with the result that the average life and volatility of the security will increase, exacerbating its decrease in market price. When interest rates fall, however, mortgage-backed securities may not gain as much in market value because of the expectation of additional mortgage prepayments that must be reinvested at lower interest rates. Prepayment risk may make it difficult to calculate the average duration of the Fund’s mortgage-backed securities and, therefore, to fully assess the interest rate risk of the Fund. An unexpectedly high rate of defaults on the mortgages held by a mortgage pool may adversely affect the value of mortgage-backed securities and could result in losses to the Fund. The risk of such defaults is generally higher in the cases of mortgage pools that include subprime mortgages. Subprime mortgages refer to loans made to borrowers with weakened credit histories or with lower capacity to make timely payments on their mortgages. In addition, mortgage-backed securities

40



may fluctuate in price based on deterioration in the perceived or actual value of the collateral underlying the pool of mortgage loans, typically residential or commercial real estate, which may result in negative amortization or negative equity meaning that the value of the collateral would be worth less than the remaining principal amount owed on the mortgages in the pool.
 
Non-Investment-Grade Debt Securities Risk: Non-investment-grade debt securities are sometimes referred to as “junk bonds” and are considered speculative with respect to their issuers’ ability to make payments of interest and principal. There is a high risk that a Fund could suffer a loss from investments in non-investment-grade debt securities caused by the default of an issuer of such securities. Part of the reason for this high risk is that non-investment-grade debt securities are generally unsecured and therefore, in the event of a default or bankruptcy, holders of non-investment-grade debt securities generally will not receive payments until the holders of all other debt have been paid. Non-investment-grade debt securities may also be less liquid than investment-grade debt securities.
 
U.S. Government Agency Securities Risk:  Certain U.S. government agency securities are backed by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury while others are supported only by the credit of the issuer or instrumentality. While the U.S. government is able to provide financial support to U.S. government-sponsored agencies or instrumentalities, no assurance can be given that it will always do so. Such securities are neither issued nor guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury.
 
Foreign Securities Risk: Investing in foreign securities poses additional risks since political and economic events unique in a country or region will affect those markets and their issuers, while such events may not necessarily affect the U.S. economy or issuers located in the United States. In addition, investments in foreign securities are generally denominated in foreign currency. As a result, changes in the value of those currencies compared to the U.S. dollar may affect the value of the Fund’s investments. These currency movements may happen separately from, or in response to, events that do not otherwise affect the value of the security in the issuer’s home country. There is a risk that issuers of foreign securities may not be subject to accounting standards or governmental supervision comparable to those to which U.S. companies are subject and that less public information about their operations may exist. There is risk associated with the clearance and settlement procedures in non-U.S. markets, which may be unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions and may cause delays. Foreign markets may be less liquid and more volatile than U.S. markets and offer less protection to investors. Over-the-counter securities may also be less liquid than exchange-traded securities. Investments in securities of foreign issuers may be subject to foreign withholding and other taxes. In addition, it may be more difficult and costly for the Fund to seek recovery from an issuer located outside the United States in the event of a default on a portfolio security or an issuer’s insolvency proceeding. To the extent a Fund focuses its investments in a single country or only a few countries in a particular geographic region, economic, political, regulatory or other conditions affecting such country or region may have a greater impact on Fund performance relative to a more geographically diversified fund.

While a Fund’s net assets are valued in U.S. dollars, the securities of foreign companies are frequently denominated in foreign currencies. Thus, a change in the value of a foreign currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a corresponding change in value of securities denominated in that currency. Some of the factors that may impair the investments denominated in a foreign currency are: (1) it may be expensive to convert foreign currencies into U.S. dollars and vice versa; (2) complex political and economic factors may significantly affect the values of various currencies, including U.S. dollars, and their exchange rates; (3) government intervention may increase risks involved in purchasing or selling foreign currency options, forward contracts and futures contracts, since exchange rates may not be free to fluctuate in response to other market forces; (4) there may be no systematic reporting of last sale information for foreign currencies or regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or other market sources be firm or revised on a timely basis; (5) available quotation information is generally representative of very large round-lot transactions in the inter-bank market and thus may not reflect exchange rates for smaller odd-lot transactions (less than $1 million) where rates may be less favorable; and (6) the inter-bank market in foreign currencies is a global, around-the-clock market. To the extent that a market is closed while the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, certain markets may not always reflect significant price and rate movements.
 
Depositary Receipts Risk: Foreign receipts, which include American Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), Global Depositary Receipts, and European Depositary Receipts, are securities that evidence ownership interests in a security or a pool of securities issued by a foreign issuer. The risks of depositary receipts include many risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities, such as individual country risk and liquidity risk. Unsponsored ADRs, which are issued by a depositary bank without the participation or consent of the issuer, involve additional risks because U.S. reporting requirements do not apply, and the issuing bank will recover shareholder distribution costs from movement of share prices and payment of dividends.
 
Emerging Markets Risk:   Emerging markets may be more likely to experience political turmoil or rapid changes in market or economic conditions than more developed countries. In addition, the financial stability of issuers (including

41



governments) in emerging market countries may be more precarious than that of issuers in other countries. As a result, there will tend to be an increased risk of price volatility associated with the Fund’s investments in securities of issuers located in emerging market countries, which may be magnified by currency fluctuations relative to the U.S. dollar.
 
Frontier Markets Risk:  Frontier markets have similar risks to emerging markets, except that these risks are often magnified in a frontier market due to its smaller and less developed economy. As a result, frontier markets may experience greater changes in market or economic conditions, financial stability, price volatility, currency fluctuations, and other risks inherent in foreign securities.
 
Growth-Investing Risk:   Growth-oriented funds may underperform when value investing is in favor, and growth stocks may be more volatile than other stocks because they are more sensitive to investor perceptions of the issuing company’s growth of earnings potential. Also, because growth companies usually reinvest a high portion of earnings in their businesses, growth stocks may lack the dividends of some value stocks that can cushion stock prices in a falling market.
 
Management Risk:   In managing a Fund’s portfolio, the Advisor may engage one or more sub-advisors to make investment decisions on a portion of or the entire portfolio.  There is a risk that the Advisor may be unable to identify and retain sub-advisors who achieve superior investment returns relative to other similar sub-advisors.  The value of your investment may decrease if the sub-advisor incorrectly judges the attractiveness, value, or market trends affecting a particular security, issuer, industry, or sector.

Municipal Securities Risk: The value of municipal securities may be affected by uncertainties in the municipal market related to legislation or litigation involving the taxation of municipal securities or the rights of municipal securities holders in the event of a bankruptcy. In addition, the ongoing issues facing the national economy may negatively impact the economic performance of issuers of municipal securities, and may increase the likelihood that issuers of securities in which the Fund may invest may be unable to meet their obligations. Proposals to restrict or eliminate the federal income tax exemption for interest on municipal securities are introduced before Congress from time to time. Proposals also may be introduced before state legislatures that would affect the state tax treatment of a municipal fund's distributions. If such proposals were enacted, the availability of municipal securities and the value of a municipal fund's holdings would be affected. Municipal bankruptcies are relatively rare, and certain provisions of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code governing such bankruptcies are unclear and remain untested. Further, the application of state law to municipal issuers could produce varying results among the states or among municipal securities issuers within a state. The ability of a municipal issuer to seek bankruptcy protection may be subject to the authorization of the executive or legislative branch of the state's government, and a municipal bankruptcy may be subject to challenge in the state's courts.  These legal uncertainties could affect the municipal securities market generally, certain specific segments of the market, or the relative credit quality of particular securities. There is also the possibility that as a result of litigation or other conditions, the power or ability of issuers to meet their obligations for the payment of interest and principal on their municipal securities may be materially affected or their obligations may be found to be invalid or unenforceable. Such litigation or conditions may from time to time have the effect of introducing uncertainties in the market for municipal securities or certain segments thereof, or of materially affecting the credit risk with respect to particular bonds. Adverse economic, business, legal or political developments might affect all or a substantial portion of the Fund's municipal securities in the same manner. Also, some municipal obligations may be backed by a letter of credit issued by a bank or other financial institution. Adverse developments affecting banks or other financial institutions could have a negative effect on the value of the Fund's portfolio securities.

In making investments, the Fund and the investment sub-advisor will rely on the opinion of issuers' bond counsel. Neither the Fund nor the sub-advisor will independently review the basis for those tax opinions. If any of those tax opinions are ultimately determined to be incorrect, the Fund and its shareholders could be subject to substantial tax liabilities. Certain provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), relating to the issuance of municipal obligations may reduce the volume of municipal securities that qualify for federal tax exemptions. Proposals that may further restrict or eliminate the income tax exemptions for interest on municipal obligations may be introduced in the future. If any such proposal became law, it may reduce the number of municipal obligations available for purchase by the Fund and could adversely affect the Fund's shareholders by subjecting the income from the Fund to tax. Bramshill will reevaluate the Fund's investment goals and policies to the extent that legislative or legal developments materially affect the Fund.
 
Non-Diversification Risk:   A non-diversified Fund may invest a significant percentage of its assets in the securities of a limited number of issuers, subject to federal income tax restrictions relating to the Fund’s qualification as a regulated investment company. Because a higher percentage of a non-diversified Fund’s holdings may be invested in the securities of a limited number of issuers, the Fund may be more susceptible to risks associated with a single economic, business, political or regulatory event than a diversified fund.
 
Other Investment Companies Risk:  The Fund’s investments in other investment companies, such as exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) and closed-end funds, will be subject to substantially the same risks as those associated with the direct ownership of the

42



securities comprising the portfolios of such investment companies, and the value of the Fund’s investment will fluctuate in response to the performance of such portfolios.  The value of the shares of closed-end funds may be lower than the value of the portfolio securities held by the closed-end fund.  Also, although many ETFs seek to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of a particular market index, the price movement of an ETF may not track the underlying index.  In addition, if the Fund acquires shares of investment companies, shareholders of the Fund will bear both their proportionate share of the fees and expenses of the Fund (including management and advisory fees) and, indirectly, the fees and expenses of the investment companies.  There may also not be an active trading market available for shares of some investment companies.  Additionally, trading of investment company shares may be halted or delisted by the listing exchange.  To the extent the Fund is held by an affiliated fund, the ability of the Fund itself to hold other investment companies may be limited.

Portfolio Turnover Risk: Each Fund may sell its portfolio securities, regardless of the length of time that they have been held, if the sub-advisor determines that it would be in the Fund’s best interest to do so. It may be appropriate to buy or sell portfolio securities due to economic, market, or other factors that are not within the sub-advisor’s control. These transactions will increase a Fund’s “portfolio turnover.” A 100% portfolio turnover rate would occur if all of the securities in the Fund were replaced during a given period. Frequent and active trading may result in greater expenses to the Fund, which may lower the Fund’s performance and may result in the realization of substantial capital gains, including net short-term capital gains. As a result, high portfolio turnover may reduce the Fund’s returns.
 
Sector and Industry Focus Risk: The Fund may invest a high percentage of its assets in specific sectors and/or industries of the market in order to achieve a potentially greater investment return. As a result, the Fund may be more susceptible to economic, political, and regulatory developments in a particular sector or industry of the market, positive or negative, than a fund that does not invest a high percentage of its assets in specific sectors or industries.

Sector Focus Risk:   A Fund that focuses its investments in the securities of a particular market sector is subject to the risk that adverse circumstances will have a greater impact on the fund than a fund that does not focus its investments in a particular sector. It is possible that economic, business or political developments or other changes affecting one security in the sector of focus will affect other securities in that sector of focus in the same manner, thereby increasing the risk of such investments.
 
Where Can I Find Information About the Funds’ Portfolio Holdings Disclosure Policies?
 
A description of the Funds’ policies and procedures for disclosing portfolio securities to any person is available in the SAI and can also be found on the Funds’ website at TouchstoneInvestments.com.
 
THE FUNDS’ MANAGEMENT
 
Investment Advisor
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway, Suite 1100, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Touchstone Advisors has been a registered investment advisor since 1994. As of June 30, 2019, Touchstone Advisors had approximately $18.0 billion in assets under management. As the Funds’ investment advisor, Touchstone Advisors reviews, supervises, and administers the Funds’ investment programs and also ensures compliance with the Funds’ investment policies and guidelines.
 
Touchstone Advisors is responsible for selecting each Fund’s sub-advisor(s), subject to approval by the Board.  Touchstone Advisors selects a sub-advisor that has shown good investment performance in its areas of expertise.  Touchstone Advisors considers various factors in evaluating a sub-advisor, including:
 
Level of knowledge and skill;
Performance as compared to its peers or benchmark;
Consistency of performance over 5 years or more;
Level of compliance with investment rules and strategies;
Employees, facilities and financial strength; and
Quality of service.
 
Touchstone Advisors will also continually monitor each sub-advisor’s performance through various analyses and through in-person, telephone, and written consultations with a sub-advisor.  Touchstone Advisors discusses its expectations for performance

43



with each sub-advisor and provides evaluations and recommendations to the Board of Trustees, including whether or not a sub-advisor’s contract should be renewed, modified, or terminated.
 
The SEC has granted an exemptive order that permits Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”) or Touchstone Advisors, under certain conditions, to select or change unaffiliated sub-advisors, enter into new sub-advisory agreements, or amend existing sub-advisory agreements without first obtaining shareholder approval.  The Funds must still obtain shareholder approval of any sub-advisory agreement with a sub-advisor affiliated with the Trust or Touchstone Advisors other than by reason of serving as a sub-advisor to one or more Funds. Shareholders of a Fund will be notified of any changes in its sub-advisor.

Two or more sub-advisors may manage a Fund, from time to time, with each managing a portion of the Fund’s assets.  If a Fund has more than one sub-advisor, Touchstone Advisors allocates how much of a Fund’s assets are managed by each sub-advisor. Touchstone Advisors may change these allocations from time to time, often based upon the results of its evaluations of the sub-advisors.
 
Touchstone Advisors is also responsible for running all of the operations of the Funds, except those that are subcontracted to a sub-advisor, custodian, transfer agent, sub-administrative agent or other parties.  For its services, Touchstone Advisors is entitled to receive an investment advisory fee from each Fund at an annualized rate, based on the average daily net assets of the Fund.  The Annual Fee Rate below is the fee paid to Touchstone Advisors by each Fund, net of any advisory fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements, for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019. Touchstone Advisors pays sub-advisory fees to each sub-advisor from its advisory fee.
 
Fund
 
Net Annual Fee Rate as a % of
 Average Daily Net Assets

Flexible Income Fund
 
0.55%
Focused Fund
 
0.62%
Global ESG Equity Fund
 
0.64%
Growth Opportunities Fund
 
0.70%
Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
0.72%
Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
0.99%

Advisory and Sub-Advisory Agreement Approval. A discussion of the basis for the Board's approval of the Funds’ advisory and sub-advisory agreements can be found in the Trust’s March 31, 2019 annual report.
 
Additional Information

The Trustees of the Trust oversee generally the operations of each Fund and the Trust. The Trust enters into contractual arrangements with various parties, including, among others, the Funds' investment advisor, custodian, transfer agent, accountants and distributor, who provide services to each Fund. Shareholders are not parties to, or intended (or “third-party”) beneficiaries of, any of those contractual arrangements, and those contractual arrangements are not intended to create in any such individual shareholder or group of shareholders any right to enforce the terms of the contractual arrangements against the service providers or to seek any remedy under the contractual arrangements against the service providers, either directly or on behalf of the Trust.

This prospectus provides information concerning the Trust and the Funds that you should consider in determining whether to purchase shares of a Fund. The Funds may make changes to this information from time to time. Neither this prospectus, the SAI or any document filed as an exhibit to the Trust’s registration statement, is intended to, nor does it, give rise to an agreement or contract between the Trust or a Fund and its shareholders, or give rise to any contract or other rights in any such individual shareholder, group of shareholders or other person other than any rights conferred explicitly by federal or state securities laws that may not be waived.

Sub-Advisors and Portfolio Managers
 
Listed below are the sub-advisors and their respective portfolio managers that have responsibility for the day-to-day management of each Fund. A brief biographical description of each portfolio manager is also provided. The SAI provides additional information about the portfolio managers’ investments in the Fund or Funds that they manage, a description of their compensation structure, and information regarding other accounts that they manage.
 


44



Flexible Income Fund
 
Bramshill Investments, LLC (“Bramshill”) , located at 411 Hackensack Avenue, 9th floor, Hackensack, New Jersey 07601, serves as sub-advisor to the Flexible Income Fund. As the sub-advisor, Bramshill makes investment decisions for the Fund and also ensures compliance with the Fund’s investment policies and guidelines. As of March 31, 2019, Bramshill had approximately $2.3 billion of assets under management.

The following individuals are jointly and primarily responsible for the management of the Fund’s portfolio:
 
Art DeGaetano , Founder and Chief Investment Officer. Mr. DeGaetano founded Bramshill in 2012. Prior to founding Bramshill, Mr. DeGaetano was a Senior Portfolio Manager at GLG Partners LP where he managed the predecessor to the Bramshill Income Performance Strategy and a levered US Credit Portfolio for the GLG Market Neutral Fund.

Derek Pines , Co-Portfolio Manager. Mr. Pines joined Bramshill in 2012. Prior to joining Bramshill, Derek spent over a decade as a Proprietary Trader and Portfolio Manager leading a multi-asset class strategy, which specialized in quantitative modeling techniques and utilized fundamental research to determine relative value.

Michael Hirschfield, CFA , Co-Portfolio Manager. Mr. Hirschfield joined Bramshill in 2018. Prior to joining Bramshill, Michael served over nine years as Portfolio Manager for the Man Group, the world’s largest publicly listed hedge fund. He worked alongside Mr. DeGaetano at GLG Partners, helping to develop the predecessor to the Bramshill Income Performance Strategy in 2009. Additionally, he ran the US Credit Portfolio for the GLG Market Neutral Fund, a multi-strategy credit fund.

Paul van Lingen , Co-Portfolio Manager. Mr. van Lingen joined Bramshill in 2017. Prior to joining Bramshill, Paul was a Managing Director, Principal, and Portfolio Manager at Rimrock Capital Management where he served as Head of All Structured Products. Prior to that Mr. van Lingen was a Managing Director at RBS Greenwich Capital where he managed day to day trading activities.
 
Focused Fund
 
Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. (“Fort Washington”) , a SEC-registered investment advisor located at 303 Broadway, Suite 1200, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202, serves as the sub-advisor to the Focused Fund. As the sub-advisor, Fort Washington makes investment decisions for the Fund and also ensures compliance with the Fund’s investment policies and guidelines. As of March 31, 2019, Fort Washington managed approximately $59.2 billion * in assets.

* Assets under management by Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. of $59.2 billion includes $55.4 billion in assets under management by Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc., and $3.8 billion in commitments managed by Fort Washington Capital Partners Group, a division.

The following individual is primarily responsible for the management of the Fund's portfolio:

James Wilhelm , Managing Director, Head of Public Equities, Senior Portfolio Manager joined Fort Washington in 2002. He has investment experience dating back to 1993. He began as a Senior Equity Analyst in 2002 and was named Portfolio Manager in 2005. He became Assistant Vice President in 2007, Vice President in 2008, Managing Director in 2014, and Head of Public Equities in 2015.
 
Global ESG Equity Fund
 
Rockefeller & Co. LLC (“Rockefeller”) , located at 45 Rockefeller Plaza, Fifth Floor, New York, New York 10111, serves as sub-advisor to the Global ESG Equity Fund. As sub-advisor, Rockefeller makes investment decisions for the Fund and also ensures compliance with the Fund’s investment policies and guidelines. Headquartered in New York City, Rockefeller is a global investment advisory and asset management firm that provides a wide array of services to high net-worth individuals, families, trusts, family offices, mutual funds, foundations, endowments and other institutions and accounts. Rockefeller’s history, through its predecessors, dates back to 1882 when John D. Rockefeller established a New York office to manage the Rockefeller family’s investment, personal, and philanthropic interests. Effective March 1, 2018, Rockefeller became an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Rockefeller Capital Management L.P., a new holding company controlled by Viking Global Investors L.P., a global investment firm founded in 1999. The Fund’s investment strategy reflects Rockefeller's Global ESG Equity strategy (named Global Sustainability and Impact Equity prior to April 1, 2018), which is managed by two portfolio managers and supported by a team of financial analysts and dedicated sustainability and impact analysts. As of March 31, 2019, Rockefeller had approximately $13.1

45



billion in net assets under management. Rockefeller Capital Management is the marketing name for Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. and its affiliates, including Rockefeller.
 
The following individuals are jointly and primarily responsible for the management of the Fund’s portfolio:
 
David P. Harris, CFA, Chief Investment Officer and Managing Director, joined Rockefeller in 1999 and began managing the Fund in 2015. Prior to joining Rockefeller, Mr. Harris spent over three years with Stein Roe & Farnham, as Portfolio Manager of the Stein Roe International Fund and Stein Roe Emerging Markets Fund. He is a CFA ® charterholder and received an MBA with Distinction in Finance from Cornell University and a BA in Economics from the University of Michigan.
 
Jimmy C. Chang, CFA, Chief Investment Strategist, Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager, joined Rockefeller in 2004 and began managing the Fund in 2015. Prior to joining Rockefeller, Mr. Chang served as a Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Strategist and Senior Technology Analyst at the U.S. Trust Company of New York, where he led technology equity research and co-managed a technology fund. He is a CFA ® charterholder and received an MBA in Finance/International Business from New York University and a BS (summa cum laude) in Electrical Engineering from The Cooper Union.
 
Prior Performance of Similar Accounts Managed by Rockefeller.   Rockefeller has been managing Global ESG Equity portfolios since 1991. Rockefeller Asset Management (“RAM”), a division of Rockefeller and the “Firm” for purposes of the Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS ® ), began maintaining a composite of substantially similarly managed accounts using this strategy on January 1, 2006. This Global ESG Equity composite (named the Global Sustainability and Impact Equity composite prior to April 1, 2018) and the Global ESG Equity Fund have substantially similar investment objectives, policies and strategies. The information for the Global ESG Equity composite is provided to show RAM’s past performance in managing the Global ESG Equity composite, as measured against a specified market index. The performance of the Global ESG Equity composite does not represent the historical performance of the Global ESG Equity Fund and should not be considered indicative of future performance of the Global ESG Equity Fund. Results may differ because of, among other things, differences in brokerage commissions, account expenses, including management fees, the size of positions taken in relation to account size and diversification of securities, timing of purchases and sales, and availability of cash for new investments. In addition, the accounts included in the Global ESG Equity composite are not subject to certain investment limitations, diversification or other restrictions imposed by the 1940 Act and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, which, if applicable, may have adversely affected the performance results of the Global ESG Equity composite. The results for different periods may vary. All of RAM’s substantially similar accounts and funds that have substantially similar investment objectives, policies and strategies as the Global ESG Equity Fund are included in the Global ESG Equity composite returns presented below. The performance return information presented below was provided by Rockefeller.
 
Net of Fees performance returns shown reflect the gross performance after the deduction of an annual investment management fee of 1.20% deducted monthly—the highest breakpoint in effect under historical fee schedules during the periods shown. The composite has not been adjusted to reflect the higher expenses of the Global ESG Equity Fund. If the Global ESG Equity Fund’s higher expenses were reflected, the Global ESG Equity composite performance presented would be lower. The Global ESG Equity composite’s rate of return includes realized and unrealized gains plus income. Returns from cash and cash equivalents in the Global ESG Equity composite are included in the performance calculations, and the cash and cash equivalents are included in the total assets on which the performance is calculated.
 
From January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2018, the Global ESG Equity composite performance information is calculated in accordance with GIPS ® , created and administered by the CFA Institute. This method of calculating performance differs from the SEC’s standardized methodology used to calculate mutual fund performance and may result in an average annual total return that may be higher than that derived from the SEC’s standardized methodology.  RAM has been independently verified for the period January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2018. Verification assesses whether (1) the firm has complied with all of the composite construction requirements of the GIPS standards on a firm-wide basis and (2) the firm’s policies and procedures are designed to calculate and present performance in compliance with the GIPS standards. The Global ESG Equity Composite has been examined for the period January 1, 2006 through December 31, 2018.

46






  Average Annual Total Returns
For the periods ended December 31, 2018
 
 
1 Year
3 Year
 
5 Year
 
Since
Inception (1/1/2006)
Rockefeller’s Global ESG Equity Composite (net of fees)
 
(9.98
)%
5.90
%
 
4.16
%
 
5.79
%
MSCI ACWI *
 
(9.42
)%
6.60
%
 
4.26
%
 
5.18
%
* The MSCI ACWI measures the equity market performance of developed and emerging markets.  Source: MSCI.  MSCI makes no express or implied warranties or representations and shall have no liability whatsoever with respect to any MSCI data contained herein. The MSCI data may not be further redistributed or used to create indices or financial products.  This report is not approved or produced by MSCI.  The MSCI ACWI returns disclosed are net of withholding taxes.

Growth Opportunities Fund and Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. (“Westfield”) , located at One Financial Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, serves as sub-advisor to the Growth Opportunities Fund and the Mid Cap Growth Fund. Westfield has been a registered investment advisor since 1989 and has managed the Growth Opportunities Fund since July 2006 and the Mid Cap Growth Fund since its inception. As sub-advisor, Westfield makes investment decisions for the Funds and also ensures compliance with the Funds’ investment policies and guidelines. As of March 31, 2019, Westfield managed approximately $13.5 billion in assets.
 
Investment decisions for the Funds are made by consensus of the Westfield Investment Committee (the “Committee”), which is chaired by William A. Muggia. Although the Committee collectively acts as portfolio manager for the Funds, Westfield lists the following Committee members, based either on seniority or role within the Committee, as having day-to-day management responsibilities.
 
William A. Muggia, President, Chief Executive Officer, Chief Investment Officer, and Managing Partner of Westfield. He covers the Healthcare and Energy sectors, as well as provides overall market strategy. He has been at Westfield since 1994 and has managed the Growth Opportunities Fund since 2006 and Mid Cap Growth Fund since 1999.

Richard D. Lee, CFA, Managing Partner and Deputy Chief Investment Officer of Westfield. He covers Hardware and Semiconductors. He has been at Westfield since 2004 and has managed the Growth Opportunities Fund since 2006 and Mid Cap Growth Fund since 2004.

Ethan J. Meyers, CFA, Managing Partner and Director of Research of Westfield. He covers Consumer, Financials and Business Services. He has been at Westfield since 1999 and has managed the Growth Opportunities Fund since 2006 and Mid Cap Growth Fund since 1999.

John M. Montgomery, Managing Partner, Portfolio Strategist and Chief Operating Officer of Westfield. He has been at Westfield since 2006 and has managed the Growth Opportunities Fund and the Mid Cap Growth Fund since 2006.

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
Sands Capital Management, LLC (“Sands Capital”) , located at 1000 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 3000 Arlington, Virginia 22209, serves as sub-advisor to the Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund. As sub-advisor, Sands Capital makes investment decisions for the Fund and also ensures compliance with the Fund’s investment policies and guidelines. As of March 31, 2019, Sands Capital had approximately $40.6 billion in assets under management.

The following individuals are jointly and primarily responsible for the management of the Fund’s portfolio:
 
Brian A. Christiansen , CFA, Research Analyst and Senior Portfolio Manager, joined Sands Capital in June 2006 as a Research Associate. He has investment experience dating back to 2006. Mr. Christiansen received his BA in Economics from Yale University (2005). He also earned his MBA from Yale School of Management (2009). Mr. Christiansen is a CFA ® charterholder.
 
Ashraf A. Haque , Research Analyst and Senior Portfolio Manager, joined Sands Capital in August 2008 as a Research Analyst. Prior to 2008, Mr. Haque worked as an Investment Analyst for Chesapeake Partners in Baltimore, Maryland

47



from 2007 to 2008. From 2003 to 2005, he worked as a Business Analyst for McKinsey & Company in Chicago, Illinois, and as a Director, Business Development for GH Smart & Company in Chicago, Illinois from 2001 to 2003. Mr. Haque received his BA in Mathematical Methods in Social Sciences and Economics from Northwestern University (2001). He also earned his MBA from the Harvard Business School (2007).
 
Neil Kansari , Research Analyst and Senior Portfolio Manager, joined Sands Capital in June 2008. Prior to 2008, Mr. Kansari worked as an Associate, Sr. Business Analyst at PRTM in Waltham, Massachusetts, from 2002 to 2006. From 1999 to 2002, he worked as a Graduate Research Assistant for the Department of Electrical Engineering at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia. From 1996 to 1999, he worked as an Application Analyst at Millennium Solutions, Universal Impex and as an Accounting Trainee at Mahajan & Aibara: Shah Gupta & Co. in Mumbai, India. Mr. Kansari earned his BE in Electronics Engineering from the University of Mumbai (1996), and his MS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Virginia (2002). He also earned his MBA from the Darden School of Business (2008).

Prior Performance for Similar Accounts Managed by Sands Capital. The following table sets forth composite performance data relating to the historical performance of all accounts managed by Sands Capital for the periods indicated with investment objectives, policies, strategies, and risks substantially similar to those of the Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund (the “Composite”). The data is provided to illustrate the past performance of Sands Capital in managing substantially similar accounts as measured against market indices and does not represent the performance of the Fund.

Average Annual Total Returns (NET)
For the periods ended December 31, 2018
 
1 Year
 
3 Years
 
5 Years
 
Since Inception
(1/1/2013)
Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Composite (NET)
(14.0)%
 
7.1%
 
3.4%
 
4.9%
MSCI Emerging Markets Index
(14.6)%
 
9.3%
 
1.7%
 
0.9%

The Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Composite (the “Composite”), which is managed by Sands Capital, represents the investment performance track record of Sands Capital’s emerging markets growth strategy, which is the strategy used by Sands Capital to manage the Emerging Markets Growth Fund. As of December 31, 2018, the Composite was comprised of 10 accounts, including the Fund. The other accounts comprising the Composite are not subject to the same types of expenses to which the Fund is subject, certain investment limitations, diversification requirements, and other restrictions imposed by the 1940 Act and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Thus, the performance results for the accounts could have been adversely affected if the accounts had been regulated as investment companies under federal securities and tax laws.
The returns of Sands Capital have been independently verified since February 7, 1992 by Ashland Partners & Company, LLP. Verification assesses whether (1) the firm has complied with all the composite construction requirements of the Global Investment Performance Standards (“GIPS”) on a firm-wide basis and (2) the firm’s policies and procedures are designed to calculate and present performance in compliance with GIPS.
The Composite’s returns are net of actual fees and expenses and reflect the reinvestment of all income. Actual fees are not reflective of the expenses of the Emerging Markets Growth Fund and may vary depending on, among other things, the applicable fee schedule and portfolio size. All returns are expressed in U.S. dollars. The Fund’s fees are reflected in its fee table in the Summary of this prospectus.
Past performance of the Composite is not indicative of future results. As with any investment there is always the potential for gains as well as the possibility of losses.

CHOOSING A CLASS OF SHARES
 
Share Class Offerings.   Each class of shares has different sales charges and distribution fees.  The amount of sales charges and distribution fees you pay will depend on which class of shares you decide to purchase. In addition, certain intermediaries may provide different sales charge discounts and waivers. These sales charge variations and the applicable intermediaries are described in Appendix A – Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts to this prospectus.
 

48



Class A Shares

The offering price of Class A shares of each Fund is equal to its net asset value (“NAV”) plus a front-end sales charge that you pay when you buy your shares. The front-end sales charge is generally deducted from the amount of your investment. Class A shares are subject to a Rule 12b-1 distribution fee of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets allocable to Class A shares.
 
Class A Sales Charge. The following tables show the amount of front-end sales charge you will pay on purchases of Class A shares of the Touchstone equity funds and the Touchstone fixed income funds based on the total amount of your investment in the Touchstone Fund Complex. All funds managed by the Advisor are part of the "Touchstone Fund Complex."

For these purposes, the following Funds are "Touchstone equity funds": Focused Fund, Global ESG Equity Fund, Growth Opportunities Fund, Mid Cap Growth Fund, and Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund, and the following Fund is a "Touchstone fixed income fund": Flexible Income Fund.

Applicable to Touchstone equity funds:  
Amount of Your Investment
Sales Charge as % of
Offering Price
 
Sales Charge as % of
Net Amount Invested
 
Dealer Reallowance as %
of Offering Price
Under $25,000
5.00
%
 
 
5.26
%
 
 
4.50
%
 
$25,000 but less than $50,000
4.50
%
 
 
4.71
%
 
 
4.25
%
 
$50,000 but less than $100,000
4.00
%
 
 
4.17
%
 
 
3.75
%
 
$100,000 but less than $250,000
3.00
%
 
 
3.09
%
 
 
2.75
%
 
$250,000 but less than $1 million
2.00
%
 
 
2.04
%
 
 
1.75
%
 
$1 million or more
0.00
%
 
 
0.00
%
 
 
None*
* Distributor may pay a Finder's Fee (as defined in the Funds' SAI) on qualifying assets to dealers who initiate purchases of Class A shares of the Touchstone equity funds of $1,000,000 or more. However if shares are redeemed prior to 12 months after the date of purchase they may be subject to a CDSC of up to 1.00%.

Applicable to Touchstone fixed income funds:
Amount of Your Investment
 
Sales Charge as % of
Offering Price
 
 
Sales Charge as % of
Net Amount Invested
 
 
Dealer Reallowance as %
of Offering Price
 
Under $50,000
 
2.00
%
 
 
2.04%

 
 
1.75
%
 
$50,000 but less than $100,000
 
1.50
%
 
 
1.52%

 
 
1.25
%
 
$100,000 but less than $250,000
 
1.00
%
 
 
1.01%

 
 
0.85
%
 
$250,000 but less than $500,000
 
0.50
%
 
 
0.50%

 
 
0.40
%
 
$500,000 or more
 
0.00
%
 
 
0.00
%
 
 
 None

*
* Distributor may pay a Finder's Fee on qualifying assets to dealers who initiate purchases of Class A shares of the Touchstone fixed income funds of $500,000 or more. However if shares are redeemed prior to 12 months after the date of purchase they may be subject to a CDSC of up to 0.50%. No Finder's Fee is payable on purchases of the Touchstone Ultra Short Duration Fixed Income Fund, a Touchstone fund offered in a separate prospectus.

Waiver of Class A Sales Charge. * There is no front-end sales charge if you invest $1 million or more in any share class of the Touchstone equity funds. Additionally, there is no front-end sales charge if you invest $500,000 or more in any share class of the Touchstone fixed income funds. If you redeem shares that were part of the $1 million or $500,000 breakpoint purchase within one year of that purchase, you may pay a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) of up to 1.00% or 0.50%, respectively, on the shares redeemed if a commission was paid by Touchstone Securities, Inc. (the "Distributor" or "Touchstone Securities") to a participating unaffiliated broker-dealer. There is no front-end sales charge on exchanges between Funds with the same load schedule or from a higher load schedule to a lower load schedule. In addition, there is no front-end sales charge on the following purchases:
 
Purchases by registered representatives or other employees** (and their immediate family members***) of financial intermediaries having selling agreements with Touchstone Securities.
Purchases in accounts as to which a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary charges an asset management fee economically comparable to a sales charge, provided the broker-dealer or other financial intermediary has a selling agreement with Touchstone Securities.
Purchases by a trust department of any financial intermediary serving in a fiduciary capacity as trustee to any trust over which it has discretionary trading authority.
Purchases through a financial intermediary that has agreements with Touchstone Securities, or whose programs are available through financial intermediaries that have agreements with Touchstone Securities relating to mutual fund supermarket programs, fee-based wrap or asset allocation programs.

49



Purchases by an employee benefit plan having more than 25 eligible employees or a minimum of $250,000 in plan assets.  This waiver applies to any investing employee benefit plan meeting the minimum eligibility requirements and whose transactions are executed through a financial intermediary that has entered into an agreement with Touchstone Securities to use the Touchstone Funds in connection with the plan’s accounts.  The term “employee benefit plan” applies to qualified pension, profit-sharing, or other employee benefit plans.
Purchases by an employee benefit plan that is provided administrative services by a third party administrator that has entered into a special service arrangement with Touchstone Securities.
Reinvestment of redemption proceeds from Class A shares of any Touchstone Fund if the reinvestment occurs within 90 days of redemption.

* Please see Appendix A – Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts in the prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch ,Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial, and Raymond James.

**The term “employee” is deemed to include current and retired employees.

***Immediate family members are defined as the parents, mother-in-law or father-in-law, spouse, brother or sister, brother-in-law or sister-in-law, son-in-law or daughter-in-law, niece or nephew and children of a registered representative or employee, and any other individual to whom the registered representative or employee provides material support.
 
Touchstone Securities has agreed to waive the Class A sales charge for clients of financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with Touchstone Securities to offer shares to self-directed investment brokerage accounts that may or may not charge a transaction fee to their customers. As of the date of this Prospectus, this arrangement applies to shareholders purchasing Fund shares through platforms at the following intermediaries:

Merrill Lynch
RBC
JP Morgan Securities
Morgan Stanley
Raymond James
Ameriprise Financial

Please see  Appendix A – Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts  in the prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial, and Raymond James. You should ask your financial intermediary if it offers and you are eligible to participate in such a mutual fund program and whether participation in the program is consistent with your investment goals.  The intermediaries sponsoring or participating in these mutual fund programs may also offer their clients other classes of shares of the funds and investors may receive different levels of services or pay different fees depending upon the class of shares included in the program.  Investors should carefully consider any separate transaction fee or other fees charged by these programs in connection with investing in each available share class before selecting a share class.
 
You must notify your financial intermediary (or Touchstone Securities for purchases made directly from the Funds) at the time of purchase that you believe you qualify for a sales charge waiver, in addition to providing appropriate proof of your eligibility. Failure to provide such notification and proof may result in you not receiving the sales charge waiver to which you are otherwise entitled. For direct purchases through Touchstone Securities you may apply for a waiver by marking the appropriate section on the investment application and completing the “Special Account Options” form.  You can obtain the application and form by calling Touchstone at 1.800.543.0407 or by visiting the Touchstone Funds' website: TouchstoneInvestments.com.  Purchases at NAV may be made for investment only, and the shares may not be resold except through redemption by or on behalf of the Fund.  At the option of the Fund, the front-end sales charge may be included on future purchases.
 
Reduced Class A Sales Charge. You may also purchase Class A shares of a Fund at the reduced sales charges shown in the table above through the Rights of Accumulation Program or by signing a Letter of Intent.  The following purchasers (“Qualified Purchasers”) may qualify for a reduced sales charge under the Rights of Accumulation Program or Letter of Intent:
 
an individual, an individual’s spouse, or an individual’s children under the age of 21; or
a trustee or other fiduciary purchasing shares for a single fiduciary account although more than one beneficiary is involved.
 
The following accounts ("Qualified Accounts") held in the Touchstone Fund Complex may be grouped together to qualify for the reduced sales charge under the Rights of Accumulation Program or Letter of Intent:

50



 
Individual accounts
Joint tenant with rights of survivorship accounts
Uniform Gifts/Transfers to Minors Act (“UGTMA”) Accounts
Trust accounts
Estate accounts
Guardian/Conservator accounts
Individual Retirement Accounts ("IRAs"), including Traditional, Roth, Simplified Employee Pension Plans ("SEP") and Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees ("SIMPLE")
Coverdell Education Savings Accounts ("Education IRAs")
 
Please see  Appendix A – Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts  in the prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial, and Raymond James.

Rights of Accumulation Program. Under the Rights of Accumulation Program, you may qualify for a reduced sales charge by aggregating all of your investments in the Touchstone Fund Complex held in Qualified Accounts.  You or your dealer must notify Touchstone Securities at the time of purchase that a purchase qualifies for a reduced sales charge under the Rights of Accumulation Program and must provide either a list of account numbers or copies of account statements verifying your qualification.  If your shares are held directly in a Touchstone Fund or through a dealer, you may combine the historical cost or current NAV (whichever is higher) of your existing shares of any Touchstone Fund with the amount of your current purchase in order to take advantage of the reduced sales charge.  Historical cost is the price you actually paid for the shares you own, plus your reinvested dividends and capital gains.  If you are using historical cost to qualify for a reduced sales charge, you should retain any records to substantiate your historical costs since the Fund, its transfer agent or your broker-dealer may not maintain this information.
 
If your shares are held through a financial intermediary, you may combine the current NAV of your existing shares of any Touchstone Fund with the amount of your current purchase in order to take advantage of the reduced sales charge.  You or your financial intermediary must notify Touchstone at the time of purchase that a purchase qualifies for a reduced sales charge under the Rights of Accumulation Program and must provide copies of account statements dated within three months of your current purchase verifying your qualification.

Upon receipt of the above referenced supporting documentation, Touchstone Securities will calculate the combined value of all of the Qualified Purchaser’s Qualified Accounts to determine if the current purchase is eligible for a reduced sales charge.  Purchases made for nominee or street name accounts (securities held in the name of a dealer or another nominee such as a bank trust department instead of the customer) may not be aggregated with purchases for other accounts and may not be aggregated with other nominee or street name accounts unless otherwise qualified as described above.
 
Please see  Appendix A – Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts  in the prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial, and Raymond James.

Letter of Intent. If you plan to invest at least $25,000 in Class A shares of Touchstone equity funds sold with a front-end sales charge or $50,000 in Class A shares of Touchstone fixed income funds sold with a front-end sales charge (excluding any reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions) during the next 13 months you may qualify for a reduced sales charge by completing the Letter of Intent section of your account application. A Letter of Intent indicates your intent to purchase at least $25,000 in Class A shares of any Touchstone equity fund sold with a front-end sales charge or at least $50,000 in Class A shares of any Touchstone fixed income fund sold with a front-end sales charge over the next 13 months in exchange for a reduced sales charge indicated on the above chart. The minimum initial investment under a Letter of Intent is $10,000. You are not obligated to purchase additional shares if you complete a Letter of Intent. If you do not buy enough shares to qualify for the projected level of sales charge by the end of the 13-month period (or when you sell your shares, if earlier), then your sales charge will be recalculated to reflect your actual purchase level. During the term of the Letter of Intent, shares representing 5% of your intended purchase will be held in escrow. If you do not purchase enough shares during the 13-month period to qualify for the projected reduced sales charge, the additional sales charge will be deducted from your escrow account. If you have purchased Class A shares of any Touchstone Fund sold with a front-end sales charge within 90 days prior to signing a Letter of Intent, they may be included as part of your intended purchase, however, previous purchase transactions will not be recalculated with the proposed new breakpoint. You must provide either a list of account numbers or copies of account statements verifying your purchases within the past 90 days.
 

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Please see  Appendix A – Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts  in the prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial, and Raymond James.

Other Information.  Information about the Touchstone Fund Complex Class A share sales charges and breakpoints is also available in a clear and prominent format on the Touchstone Funds' website: TouchstoneInvestments.com. You can access this information by selecting the “Mutual Funds” link and then the "Sales Charges for Class A Shares" link under the heading "Sales Charges and Breakpoints."  For more information about qualifying for a reduced or waived sales charge, contact your financial advisor or contact Touchstone at 1.800.543.0407.
 
Class C Shares
 
Class C shares of the Funds are sold at NAV without an initial sales charge so that the full amount of your purchase payment may be immediately invested in the Funds.  Class C shares are subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee.  A CDSC of 1.00% will be charged on Class C shares redeemed within 1 year after you purchased them.  In most cases it is more advantageous to purchase Class A shares for amounts of $1 million or more.  Therefore, a request to purchase Class C shares for $1 million or more will be considered as a purchase request for Class A shares or declined. Please see  Appendix A - Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts in the prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial, and Raymond James.

Effective January 1, 2019 (the “Effective Date”), Class C shares of each Fund will automatically convert into Class A shares of the same Fund after they have been held for 10 years. The conversion will not be considered a taxable event for federal income tax purposes. These automatic conversions will be executed without any sales charge (including CDSCs), redemption or transaction fee, or other charge. After such a conversion takes place, the shares will be subject to all features, rights and expenses of Class A shares. If you hold Class C shares through certain financial intermediaries, such as an omnibus account or group retirement record keeping platform, your intermediary may not be able to track the amount of time you held your Class C shares purchased before January 1, 2019. In these instances, Class C shares held prior to the Effective Date would convert to Class A shares 10 years after the Effective Date.
 
Class Y Shares
 
Class Y shares of the Funds are sold at NAV without an initial sales charge so that the full amount of your purchase payment may be immediately invested in the Funds.  Class Y shares are not subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee or CDSC. In addition, Class Y shares may be purchased through certain mutual fund programs sponsored by qualified intermediaries, such as broker-dealers and investment advisors.  In each case, the intermediary has entered into an agreement with Touchstone Securities to include the Touchstone Funds in their program where the intermediary provides investors participating in their program with additional services, including advisory, asset allocation, recordkeeping or other services.  You should ask your financial institution if it offers and you are eligible to participate in such a mutual fund program and whether participation in the program is consistent with your investment goals.  The intermediaries sponsoring or participating in these mutual fund programs may also offer their clients other classes of shares of the funds and investors may receive different levels of services or pay different fees depending upon the class of shares included in the program. If you purchase Class Y shares through a broker acting solely as an agent on behalf of its customers, that broker may charge you a commission. Such commissions, if any, are not charged by the Touchstone Funds and are not reflected in the fee tables or expense examples in this prospectus. Investors should carefully consider any separate transaction fee or other fees charged by these programs in connection with investing in each available share class before selecting a share class.

Institutional Class Shares
 
Institutional Class shares of the Funds are sold at NAV without an initial sales charge so that the full amount of your purchase payment may be immediately invested in the Funds.  Institutional Class shares are not subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee or CDSC.

DISTRIBUTION AND SHAREHOLDER SERVICING ARRANGEMENTS

Rule 12b-1 Distribution Plans. Each Fund offering Class A shares and Class C shares has adopted a distribution plan under Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act. The plans allow each Fund to pay distribution and other fees for the sale and distribution of its shares and for services provided to shareholders. Under the Class A plan, the Funds pay an annual fee of up to 0.25% of average daily net assets that are attributable to Class A shares. Under the Class C plan, the Funds pay an annual fee of up to 1.00% of average daily net assets that are attributable to Class C shares (of which up to 0.75% is a distribution fee and up to 0.25% is a shareholder

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servicing fee). Because these fees are paid out of a Fund’s assets on an ongoing basis, they will increase the cost of your investment and over time may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
 
Additional Compensation to Financial Intermediaries.  Touchstone Securities, the Trust’s principal underwriter, at its expense (from a designated percentage of its income) currently provides additional compensation to certain dealers.  Touchstone Securities pursues a focused distribution strategy with a limited number of dealers who have sold shares of a Fund or other Touchstone Funds.  Touchstone Securities reviews and makes changes to the focused distribution strategy on a periodic basis.  These payments are generally based on a pro rata share of a dealer’s sales.  Touchstone Securities may also provide compensation in connection with conferences, sales or training programs for employees, seminars for the public, advertising and other dealer-sponsored programs.
 
Touchstone Advisors, at its own expense, may also provide additional compensation to certain affiliated and unaffiliated dealers, financial intermediaries or service providers for certain services including distribution, administrative, sub-accounting, sub-transfer agency and/or shareholder servicing activities.  These additional cash payments to a financial intermediary are payments over and above sales commissions or reallowances, distribution fees or servicing fees (including networking, administration and sub-transfer agency fees).  These additional cash payments also may be made as an expense reimbursement in cases where the financial intermediary bears certain costs in connection with providing shareholder services to Fund shareholders.  Touchstone Advisors may also reimburse Touchstone Securities for making these payments.
 
Touchstone Advisors and its affiliates may also pay cash compensation in the form of finders’ fees or referral fees that vary depending on the dollar amount of shares sold.  The amount and value of additional cash payments vary for each financial intermediary.  The additional cash payment arrangement between a particular financial intermediary and Touchstone Advisors or its affiliates may provide for increased rates of compensation as the dollar value of the Fund’s shares or particular class of shares sold or invested through such financial intermediary increases.  The availability of these additional cash payments, the varying fee structure within a particular additional cash payment arrangement and the basis for and manner in which a financial intermediary compensates its sales representatives may create a financial incentive for a particular financial intermediary and its sales representatives to recommend a Fund’s shares over the shares of other mutual funds based, at least in part, on the level of compensation paid.  You should consult with your financial advisor and review carefully any disclosure by the financial firm as to compensation received by your financial advisor.  Although the Funds may use financial firms that sell the Funds’ shares to effect portfolio transactions for the Funds, the Funds and Touchstone Advisors will not consider the sale of a Fund’s shares as a factor when choosing financial firms to effect those transactions.  For more information on payment arrangements, please see the section entitled “Touchstone Securities” in the SAI.

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INVESTING WITH TOUCHSTONE

Choosing the Appropriate Investments to Match Your Goals.  Investing well requires a plan.  We recommend that you meet with your financial advisor to plan a strategy that will best meet your financial goals.
 
Purchasing Your Shares
 
Please read this prospectus carefully and then determine how much you want to invest.
 
Classes A and C shares may be purchased directly through Touchstone Securities, Inc. ("Touchstone Securities") or through your financial intermediary.
Class Y shares are available through certain financial intermediaries who have appropriate selling agreements in place with Touchstone Securities.
Institutional Class shares may be purchased directly through Touchstone Securities or through your financial intermediary.

Subject to the restrictions on new accounts described in the section of this prospectus entitled “Buying and Selling Fund Shares,” you may purchase shares of the Fund directly from Touchstone Securities, Inc. or through your financial intermediary. 
 
In order to open an account you must complete an investment application. You can obtain an investment application from Touchstone Securities, your financial advisor or other financial intermediary, or by visiting TouchstoneInvestments.com.  You may purchase shares in the Fund on a day when the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for trading ("Business Day"). For more information about how to purchase shares, call Touchstone Securities at 1.800.543.0407.

Investor Alert:  Each Touchstone Fund reserves the right to restrict or reject any purchase request, including exchanges from other Touchstone Funds, which it regards as disruptive to efficient portfolio management.  For example, a purchase request could be rejected because of the timing of the investment or because of a history of excessive trading by the investor.  (See “Market Timing Policy” in this prospectus.)  Touchstone Securities may change applicable initial and additional investment minimums at any time.
 
Opening an Account

Important Information About Procedures for Opening an Account. Federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each person who opens an account.  What this means for you: When you open an account, we will ask for your name, residential address, date of birth, government identification number and other information that will allow us to identify you.  We may also ask to see your driver’s license or other identifying documents.  If we do not receive these required pieces of information, there will be a delay in processing your investment request, which could subject your investment to market risk.  If we are unable to immediately verify your identity, the Fund may restrict further investment until your identity is verified.  However, if we are unable to completely verify your identity through our verification process, the Fund reserves the right to close your account without notice and return your investment to you at the price determined at the end of business (usually 4:00 p.m. Eastern time ), on the day that your account is closed.  If we close your account because we are unable to completely verify your identity, your investment will be subject to market fluctuation, which could result in a loss of a portion of your principal investment.
 
Investing in the Funds
 
By mail or through your financial advisor
 
Please make your check (drawn on a U.S. bank and payable in U.S. dollars) payable to the Touchstone Funds.  We do not accept third party checks for initial investments.
Send your check with the completed investment application by regular mail to Touchstone Investments, P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, or by overnight mail to Touchstone Investments, c/o BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc., 4400 Computer Drive, Westborough, Massachusetts 01581.
Your application will be processed subject to your check clearing.  If your check is returned for insufficient funds or uncollected funds, you may be charged a fee and you will be responsible for any resulting loss to the Fund.
You may also open an account through your financial advisor.
 




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By wire or Automated Clearing House (“ACH”)
 
You may open an account by purchasing shares by wire or ACH transfer.  Call Touchstone Investments at 1.800.543.0407 for wire or ACH instructions.
Touchstone Securities will not process wire or ACH purchases until it receives a completed investment application.
There is no charge imposed by the Funds to make a wire or ACH purchase.  Your bank, financial intermediary or processing organization may charge a fee to send a wire or ACH purchase to Touchstone Securities.

Through your financial intermediary
 
You may invest in certain share classes by establishing an account through financial intermediaries that have appropriate selling agreements with Touchstone Securities.
Your financial intermediary will act as the shareholder of record of your shares.
Financial intermediaries may set different minimum initial and additional investment requirements, may impose other restrictions or may charge you fees for their services.
Financial intermediaries may designate intermediaries to accept purchase and sales orders on the Funds’ behalf.
Your financial intermediaries may receive compensation from the Funds, Touchstone Securities, Touchstone Advisors or their affiliates.
Before investing in the Funds through your financial intermediary, you should read any materials provided by your financial intermediary together with this prospectus.
 
By exchange. Touchstone Funds may be exchanged pursuant to the exchange rules outlined below:
 
Class A shares may be exchanged into Class A shares of any other Touchstone Fund at NAV, although Touchstone Funds that are closed to new investors may not accept exchanges.
Class C shares may be exchanged into Class C shares of any other Touchstone Fund, although Touchstone Funds that are closed to new investors may not accept exchanges.
Class Y shares of a Fund are exchangeable for Class Y shares of any other Touchstone Fund, as long as investment minimums and proper selling agreement requirements are met. Class Y shares may be available through financial intermediaries that have appropriate selling agreements with Touchstone Securities, or through “processing organizations” (e.g., mutual fund supermarkets) that purchase shares for their customers. Touchstone Funds that are closed to new investors may not accept exchanges.
Institutional Class shares of the Funds are exchangeable for Institutional Class shares of any other Touchstone Fund as long as investment minimums and proper selling agreement requirements are met, although Touchstone Funds that are closed to new investors may not accept exchanges.
Class A, C, and Y shareholders who are eligible to invest in Institutional Class shares are eligible to exchange their Class A shares, Class C shares, and Class Y shares for Institutional Class shares of the same Fund, if offered in their state, and such an exchange can be accommodated by their financial intermediary.  Please see the Statement of Additional Information for more information under “Choosing a Class of Shares.”
Class A and Class C shareholders who are eligible to invest in Class Y shares are eligible to exchange their Class A shares and/or Class C shares for Class Y shares of the same Fund, if offered in their state and such an exchange can be accommodated by their financial intermediary. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT EXCHANGES: Shares otherwise subject to a CDSC will not be charged a CDSC in an exchange.  However, when you redeem the shares acquired through the exchange, the shares you redeem may be subject to a CDSC, depending on when you originally purchased the exchanged shares.  For purposes of computing the CDSC, the length of time you have owned your shares will be measured from the date of original purchase and will not be affected by any exchange.

Before making an exchange of your Fund shares, you should carefully review the disclosure provided in the prospectus relating to the Fund into which you are exchanging. Touchstone Funds that are closed to new investors may not accept exchanges. You do not have to pay any exchange fee for your exchange, but if you exchange from a Fund with a lower load schedule to a Fund with a higher load schedule you may be charged the load differential.

You may realize a taxable gain if you exchange shares of a Fund for shares of another Fund.  See “Distributions and Taxes — Federal Income Tax Information” for more information and the federal income tax consequences of such an exchange.

Through retirement plans. You may invest in certain Funds through various retirement plans.  These include individual retirement plans and employer sponsored retirement plans.
 

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Individual Retirement Plans
 
Traditional IRAs
SIMPLE IRAs
Spousal IRAs
Roth IRAs
Education IRAs
SEP IRAs

Employer Sponsored Retirement Plans
 
Defined benefit plans
Defined contribution plans (including 401(k) plans, profit sharing plans and money purchase plans)
457 plans
 
To determine which type of retirement plan is appropriate for you, please contact your tax advisor.
 
For further information about any of the plans, agreements, applications and annual fees, contact Touchstone at 1.800.543.0407 or contact your financial intermediary.
 
Through a processing organization. You may also purchase shares of the Funds through a “processing organization,” (e.g., a mutual fund supermarket) which is a broker-dealer, bank or other financial institution that purchases shares for its customers.  Some of the Touchstone Funds have authorized certain processing organizations (“Authorized Processing Organizations”) to receive purchase and sales orders on their behalf.  Before investing in the Funds through a processing organization, you should read any materials provided by the processing organization together with this prospectus.  You should also ask the processing organization if they are authorized by Touchstone Securities to receive purchase and sales orders on their behalf.  If the processing organization is not authorized, then your purchase order could be rejected which could subject your investment to market risk.  When shares are purchased through an Authorized Processing Organization, there may be various differences compared to investing directly with Touchstone Securities.  The Authorized Processing Organization may:
 
Charge a fee for its services
Act as the shareholder of record of the shares
Set different minimum initial and additional investment requirements
Impose other charges and restrictions
Designate intermediaries to accept purchase and sales orders on the Funds’ behalf

Touchstone Securities considers a purchase or sales order as received when an Authorized Processing Organization, or its authorized designee, receives the order in proper form.
 
Shares held through an Authorized Processing Organization may be transferred into your name following procedures established by your Authorized Processing Organization and Touchstone Securities.  Certain Authorized Processing Organizations may receive compensation from the Funds, Touchstone Securities, Touchstone Advisors or their affiliates. It is the responsibility of an Authorized Processing Organization to transmit properly completed orders so that they will be received by Touchstone Securities in a timely manner.

Pricing of Purchases

Purchase orders received in proper form by Touchstone Securities, an Authorized Processing Organization, or a financial intermediary, by the close of the regular session of trading on the NYSE, generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time, are processed at that day’s public offering price (NAV plus any applicable sales charge). Purchase orders received after the close of the regular session of trading on the NYSE are processed at the public offering price determined on the following business day. It is the responsibility of the financial intermediary or Authorized Processing Organization to transmit orders that will be received by Touchstone Securities in proper form and in a timely manner.
 
Adding to Your Account
 
By check
 
Complete the investment form provided with a recent account statement.

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Make your check (drawn on a U.S. bank and payable in U.S. dollars) payable to Touchstone Funds.
Write your account number on the check.
Either mail the check with the investment form to (1) Touchstone Securities; or (2) to your financial intermediary at the address printed on your account statement. Your financial advisor or financial intermediary is responsible for forwarding payment promptly to Touchstone Securities.
If your check is returned for insufficient funds or uncollected funds, you may be charged a fee and you will be responsible for any resulting loss to the Fund.

Through Touchstone Securities - By telephone or Internet
 
You can exchange your shares over the telephone by calling Touchstone Securities at 1.800.543.0407, unless you have specifically declined this option. If you do not wish to have this ability, you must mark the appropriate section of the investment application.
You may also exchange your shares online via the Touchstone Funds’ website TouchstoneInvestments.com. You may only sell shares over the telephone or via the Internet if the value of the shares sold is less than or equal to $100,000.
In order to protect your investment assets, Touchstone Securities will only follow instructions received by telephone that it reasonably believes to be genuine. However, there is no guarantee that the instructions relied upon will always be genuine and Touchstone Securities will not be liable, in those cases. Touchstone Securities has certain procedures to confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. If it does not follow such procedures in a particular case, it may be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent instructions. Some of these procedures may include:

Requiring personal identification.
Making checks payable only to the owner(s) of the account shown on Touchstone Securities’ records.
Mailing checks only to the account address shown on Touchstone Securities’ records.
Directing wires only to the bank account shown on Touchstone Securities’ records.
Providing written confirmation for transactions requested by telephone.
Digitally recording instructions received by telephone.

By wire or ACH
 
Contact your bank and ask it to wire or ACH funds to Touchstone Securities.  Specify your name and account number when remitting the funds.
Your bank may charge a fee for handling wire transfers.  ACH transactions take 2-3 business days but can be transferred from most banks without a fee.
If you hold your shares directly with Touchstone Securities and have ACH instructions on file for your non-retirement individual or joint account you may initiate a purchase transaction through the Touchstone Funds’ website at TouchstoneInvestments.com.
Purchases in the Funds will be processed at that day’s NAV (or public offering price, if applicable) if Touchstone Securities receives a properly executed wire or ACH by the close of the regular session of trading on the NYSE, generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time, on a day when the NYSE is open for regular trading.
Contact Touchstone Securities or your financial intermediary for further instructions.
 
By exchange
 
You may add to your account by exchanging shares from another Touchstone Fund.
For information about how to exchange shares among the Touchstone Funds, see “Investing in the Funds - By exchange” in this prospectus.
Exchange transactions can also be initiated for non-retirement individual or joint accounts via the Touchstone Funds’ website TouchstoneInvestments.com.

Purchases with Securities
 
Shares may be purchased by tendering payment in-kind in the form of marketable securities, including but not limited to, shares of common stock, provided the acquisition of such securities is consistent with the applicable Fund’s investment goal and is otherwise acceptable to Touchstone Advisors. Transactions of this type are generally a taxable transaction.  Shareholders should consult with their particular tax advisor regarding their personal tax situation.
 

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Automatic Investment Options
 
The various ways that you can automatically invest in the Funds are outlined below.  Touchstone Securities does not charge any fees for these services.  For further details about these services, call Touchstone Securities at 1.800.543.0407.  If you hold your shares through a financial intermediary or Authorized Processing Organization, please contact them for further details on automatic investment options.
 
Automatic Investment Plan. You can pre-authorize monthly investments in a Fund of $50 or more to be processed electronically from a checking or savings account.  You will need to complete the appropriate section in the investment application or special account options to do this.  Amounts that are automatically invested in a Fund will not be available for redemption until three business days after the automatic reinvestment.
 
Reinvestment/Cross Reinvestment. Dividends and capital gains can be automatically reinvested in the Fund that pays them or in another Touchstone Fund within the same class of shares without a fee or sales charge. Dividends and capital gains will be reinvested in the Fund that pays them, unless you indicate otherwise on your investment application. You may also choose to have your dividends or capital gains paid to you in cash if such amounts are greater than $25; lesser amounts will be automatically reinvested in the Fund. Dividends are taxable for federal income tax purposes whether you reinvest such dividends in additional shares of a Fund or choose to receive cash. If you elect to receive dividends and distributions in cash for a non–retirement account and the payment (1) is returned and marked as “undeliverable” or (2) is not cashed for six months, your cash election will be changed automatically and future dividends will be reinvested in the Fund at the per share NAV determined as of the payable date. In addition, any undeliverable checks from non-retirement accounts will be deposited into an account for potential escheatment to your state of residence. Checks from open non-retirement accounts that are not cashed for six months will be cancelled and then reinvested in the Fund at the per share NAV determined as of the date of cancellation, which may be higher or lower than the NAV at which your shares were initially redeemed. Otherwise, no action will be taken regarding undeliverable or uncashed checks.
 
Direct Deposit Purchase Plan. You may automatically invest Social Security checks, private payroll checks, pension payouts or any other pre-authorized government or private recurring payments in our Funds.
 
Dollar Cost Averaging. Our dollar cost averaging program allows you to diversify your investments by investing the same amount on a regular basis.  You can set up periodic automatic exchanges of at least $50 from one Touchstone Fund to any other.  The applicable sales charge, if any, will be assessed.
 
Selling Your Shares
 
If you elect to receive your redemption proceeds from a non–retirement account in cash, the payment is not cashed for six months and the account remains open, the redemption check will be cancelled and then reinvested in the Fund at the per share NAV determined as of the date of cancellation, which may be higher or lower than the NAV at which your shares were initially redeemed. Otherwise, no action will be taken.
 
Through Touchstone Securities - By telephone or Internet
 
You can sell your shares over the telephone by calling Touchstone Securities at 1.800.543.0407, unless you have specifically declined this option.  If you do not wish to have this ability, you must mark the appropriate section of the investment application.
You may also sell your shares online via the Touchstone Funds’ website: TouchstoneInvestments.com.
You may sell shares over the telephone or via the Internet only if the value of the shares sold is less than or equal to $100,000.
Shares held in qualified retirement plans cannot be sold via Internet.
If we receive your sale request by the close of the regular session of trading on the NYSE, generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time, on a day when the NYSE is open for regular trading, the sale of your shares will be processed at the next determined NAV on that Business Day.  Otherwise it will occur on the next Business Day.
Interruptions in telephone or Internet service could prevent you from selling your shares when you want to.  When you have difficulty making telephone or Internet sales, you should mail to Touchstone Securities (or send by overnight delivery) a written request for the sale of your shares.
In order to protect your investment assets, Touchstone Securities will only follow instructions received by telephone that it reasonably believes to be genuine.  However, there is no guarantee that the instructions relied upon will always be genuine and Touchstone Securities will not be liable, in those cases.  Touchstone Securities has certain procedures to confirm that telephone instructions are genuine.  If it does not follow such procedures in a particular case, it may be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent instructions.  Some of these procedures may include:

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Requiring personal identification.
Making checks payable only to the owner(s) of the account shown on Touchstone Securities’ records.
Mailing checks only to the account address shown on Touchstone Securities’ records.
Directing wires only to the bank account shown on Touchstone Securities’ records.
Providing written confirmation for transactions requested by telephone.
Digitally recording instructions received by telephone.
 
Through Touchstone Securities - By mail
 
Write to Touchstone Securities, P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940.
Indicate the number of shares or dollar amount to be sold.
Include your name and account number.
Sign your request exactly as your name appears on your investment application.
You may be required to have your signature guaranteed.  (See “Signature Guarantees” in this prospectus for more information).
 
Through Touchstone Securities - By wire
 
Complete the appropriate information on the investment application.
If your proceeds are $1,000 or more, you may request that Touchstone Securities wire them to your bank account.
You may be charged a fee of up to $15 by a Fund or a Fund’s Authorized Processing Organization for wiring redemption proceeds.  You may also be charged a fee by your bank. Certain institutional shareholders who trade daily are not charged wire redemption fees.
Your redemption proceeds may be deposited directly into your bank account through an ACH transaction.  There is no fee imposed by the Funds for ACH transactions, however, you may be charged a fee by your bank to receive an ACH transaction.  Contact Touchstone Securities for more information.
If you hold your shares directly with Touchstone Securities and have ACH or wire instructions on file for your non-retirement account you may transact through the Touchstone Funds’ website at TouchstoneInvestments.com.
 
Through Touchstone Securities - Through a systematic withdrawal plan
 
You may elect to receive, or send to a third party, withdrawals of $50 or more if your account value is at least $5,000.
Systematic withdrawals can be made monthly, quarterly, semiannually or annually.
There is no fee for this service.
There is no minimum account balance required for retirement plans.
 
Through your financial intermediary or Authorized Processing Organization
 
You may also sell shares by contacting your financial intermediary or Authorized Processing Organization, which may charge you a fee for this service.  Shares held in street name must be sold through your financial intermediary or, if applicable, the Authorized Processing Organization.
Your intermediary or Authorized Processing Organization is responsible for making sure that sale requests are transmitted to Touchstone Securities in proper form and in a timely manner.
Your financial intermediary may charge you a fee for selling your shares.
Redemption proceeds will only be wired to your account at the financial intermediary.

Investor Alert: Unless otherwise specified, proceeds will be sent to the record owner at the address shown on Touchstone Securities’ records.
 
Pricing of Redemptions
 
Redemption orders received in proper form by Touchstone Securities, an Authorized Processing Organization, or a financial intermediary, by the close of the regular session of trading on the NYSE, generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time, are processed at that day’s NAV. Redemption orders received after the close of the regular session of trading on the NYSE are processed at the NAV determined on the following business day. It is the responsibility of the financial intermediary or Authorized Processing Organization to transmit orders that will be received by Touchstone Securities in proper form and in a timely manner.
 

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Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (“CDSC”)
 
If you purchase $1 million or more in Touchstone equity fund Class A shares at NAV or $500,000 or more in Touchstone fixed income fund Class A shares at NAV and a commission was paid by Touchstone Securities to a participating unaffiliated dealer, a CDSC of up to 1.00% or 0.50%, respectively, may be charged on redemptions made within 1 year of your purchase. Additionally, when an upfront commission is paid to a participating dealer on transactions of $1 million or more in Touchstone equity fund Class A shares or $500,000 or more in Touchstone fixed income Class A shares, the fund will withhold any 12b-1 fee for the first 12 months following the purchase date. If you redeem Class C shares within 12 months of your purchase, a CDSC of 1.00% will be charged.
 
The CDSC will not apply to redemptions of shares you received through reinvested dividends or capital gains distributions and may be waived under certain circumstances described below.  The CDSC will be assessed on the lesser of your shares’ NAV at the time of redemption or the time of purchase.  The CDSC is paid to Touchstone Securities to reimburse expenses incurred in providing distribution-related services to the Funds.
 
All sales charges imposed on redemptions are paid to Touchstone Securities.  In determining whether the CDSC is payable, it is assumed that shares not subject to the CDSC are the first redeemed followed by other shares held for the longest period of time.  The CDSC will not be imposed upon shares representing reinvested dividends or capital gains distributions, or upon amounts representing share appreciation.
 
No CDSC is applied if:
 
Any partial or complete redemption following death or disability (as defined in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”)) of a shareholder (including one who owns the shares with his or her spouse as a joint tenant with rights of survivorship) from an account in which the deceased or disabled is named. Touchstone Securities may require documentation prior to waiver of the charge, including death certificates, physicians’ certificates, etc.
Redemptions from a systematic withdrawal plan. The CDSC will be waived if the systematic withdrawal plan is based on a fixed dollar amount or number of shares and systematic withdrawal redemptions are limited to no more than 10% of your account value or number of shares per year, as of the date the transfer agent receives your request. If the systematic withdrawal plan must be based on a fixed percentage of your account value, each redemption is limited to an amount that would not exceed 10% of your annual account value at the time of withdrawal.
Redemptions from retirement plans qualified under Section 401 of the Code. The CDSC will be waived for benefit payments made by Touchstone Securities directly to plan participants.  Benefit payments will include, but are not limited to, payments resulting from death, disability, retirement, separation from service, required minimum distributions (as described under Section 401(a)(9) of the Code), in-service distributions, hardships, loans and qualified domestic relations orders.  The CDSC waiver will not apply in the event of termination of the plan or transfer of the plan to another financial intermediary.
The redemption is for a mandatory withdrawal from a traditional IRA account after age 70½.

The above mentioned CDSC waivers do not apply to Class A share redemptions made within one year of the date of purchase where a Finder's Fee was paid. The SAI contains further details about the CDSC and the conditions for waiving the CDSC. Please see Appendix A – Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts in the prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial, and Raymond James.
 
Signature Guarantees
 
Some circumstances require that your request to sell shares be made in writing accompanied by an original Medallion Signature Guarantee.  A Medallion Signature Guarantee helps protect you against fraud.  You can obtain one from most banks or securities dealers, but not from a notary public.  Each Fund reserves the right to require a signature guarantee for any request related to your account including, but not limited to:
 
Proceeds to be paid when information on your account has been changed within the last 30 days (including a change in your name or your address, or the name or address of a payee).
Proceeds are being sent to an address other than the address of record.
Proceeds or shares are being sent/transferred from unlike registrations such as a joint account to an individual’s account.
Sending proceeds via wire or ACH when bank instructions have been added or changed within 30 days of your redemption request.
Proceeds or shares are being sent/transferred between accounts with different account registrations.

60



 
Market Timing Policy
 
Market timing or excessive trading in accounts that you own or control may disrupt portfolio investment strategies, may increase brokerage and administrative costs, and may negatively impact investment returns for all shareholders, including long-term shareholders who do not generate these costs. The Funds will take reasonable steps to discourage excessive short-term trading and will not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions of Fund shares by shareholders. The Board of Trustees has adopted the following policies and procedures with respect to market timing of the Funds by shareholders. The Funds will monitor selected trades on a daily basis in an effort to deter excessive short-term trading. If a Fund has reason to believe that a shareholder has engaged in excessive short-term trading, the Fund may ask the shareholder to stop such activities, or restrict or refuse to process purchases or exchanges in the shareholder’s accounts. While a Fund cannot assure the prevention of all excessive trading and market timing, by making these judgments the Fund believes it is acting in a manner that is in the best interests of its shareholders. However, because the Funds cannot prevent all market timing, shareholders may be subject to the risks described above.
 
Generally, a shareholder may be considered a market timer if he or she has (i) requested an exchange or redemption out of any of the Touchstone Funds within 2 weeks of an earlier purchase or exchange request into any Touchstone Fund, or (ii) made more than 2 “round-trip” exchanges within a rolling 90 day period.  A “round-trip” exchange occurs when a shareholder exchanges from one Touchstone Fund to another Touchstone Fund and back to the original Touchstone Fund.  If a shareholder exceeds these limits, the Funds may restrict or suspend that shareholder’s exchange privileges and subsequent exchange requests during the suspension will not be processed.  The Funds may also restrict or refuse to process purchases by the shareholder.  These exchange limits and excessive trading policies generally do not apply to systematic purchases and redemptions.
 
Financial intermediaries (such as investment advisors and broker-dealers) often establish omnibus accounts in the Funds for their customers through which transactions are placed.  If a Fund identifies excessive trading in such an account, the Fund may instruct the intermediary to restrict the investor responsible for the excessive trading from further trading in the Fund.  In accordance with Rule 22c-2 under the 1940 Act, the Funds have entered into information sharing agreements with certain financial intermediaries.  Under these agreements, a financial intermediary is obligated to: (1) enforce during the term of the agreement, the Funds’ market-timing policy; (2) furnish the Funds, upon their request, with information regarding customer trading activities in shares of the Funds; and (3) enforce the Funds’ market-timing policy with respect to customers identified by the Funds as having engaged in market timing.  When information regarding transactions in the Funds’ shares is requested by a Fund and such information is in the possession of a person that is itself a financial intermediary to a financial intermediary (an “indirect intermediary”), any financial intermediary with whom the Funds have an information sharing agreement is obligated to obtain transaction information from the indirect intermediary or, if directed by the Funds, to restrict or prohibit the indirect intermediary from purchasing shares of the Funds on behalf of other persons.
 
The Funds apply these policies and procedures uniformly to all shareholders believed to be engaged in market timing or excessive trading. The Funds have no arrangements to permit any investor to trade frequently in shares of the Funds, nor will they enter into any such arrangements in the future.
 
Householding Policy (only applicable for shares held directly through Touchstone Securities)
 
Each Fund you invest in will send one copy of its prospectus and shareholder reports to households containing multiple shareholders with the same last name. This process, known as “householding”, reduces costs and provides a convenience to shareholders. If you share the same last name and address with another shareholder and you prefer to receive separate prospectuses and shareholder reports, call Touchstone Investments at 1.800.543.0407 and we will begin separate mailings to you within 30 days of your request. If you or others in your household invest in the Funds through a financial intermediary, you may receive separate prospectuses and shareholder reports, regardless of whether or not you have consented to householding on your investment application.
 
In addition, eDelivery is available for statements, confirms, prospectuses and shareholder reports for  shareholders holding accounts directly with Touchstone Securities, please contact Shareholder Services at 1.800.534.0407 for more information. If you hold your account through a Broker Dealer or Financial Intermediary please contact them directly to inquire about eDelivery opportunities.

Receiving Sale Proceeds
 
Touchstone Securities will forward the proceeds of your sale to you (or to your financial intermediary) within 7 days (normally within 3 business days) after receipt of a proper request. Under normal conditions, each Fund typically expects to meet redemption requests through the use of the Fund's holdings of cash or cash equivalents, lines of credit, an interfund loan (as discussed in the

61



SAI) or by selling other Fund assets. A redemption-in-kind may be used under unusual circumstances and is discussed below in more detail.
 
Proceeds Sent to Financial Intermediaries or Authorized Processing Organizations or Financial Institutions. Proceeds that are sent to your Authorized Processing Organization or financial intermediary will not usually be reinvested for you unless you provide specific instructions to do so.  Therefore, the financial advisor, Authorized Processing Organization or financial institution may benefit from the use of your money.

Fund Shares Purchased by Check (only applicable for shares held directly through Touchstone Securities). We may delay the processing and payment of redemption proceeds for shares you recently purchased by check until your check clears, which may take up to 15 days. If you believe you may need your money sooner, you should purchase shares by bank wire.
 
Reinstatement Privilege (Classes A and C shares only). You may, within 90 days of redemption, including redemption proceeds reinvested from an unaffiliated money market fund, reinvest all or part of your sale proceeds by sending a written request and a check to Touchstone Securities. If the redemption proceeds were from the sale of Class A shares and the sales load that you incurred on the initial purchase is less than the sales charge for the Fund in which you are reinvesting, you will incur a sales charge representing the difference. Reinvestment will be at the NAV next calculated after Touchstone Securities receives your request. If the reinvestment proceeds were from the sale of your Class C shares, you can reinvest those proceeds into Class C shares of any Touchstone Fund. If you paid a CDSC on the reinstated amount, that CDSC will be reimbursed to you upon reinvestment. For federal income tax purposes, an exchange of Fund shares is treated as the sale of the shares of one Fund and the purchase of the shares of the other Fund. As a result, the exchange may result in a tax consequence if you have a capital gain or loss in the Fund shares you are selling.
 
Low Account Balances (only applicable for shares held directly through Touchstone Securities). If your balance falls below the minimum amount required for your account, based on actual amounts you have invested (as opposed to a reduction from market changes), Touchstone Securities may sell your shares and send the proceeds to you.  This involuntary sale does not apply to retirement accounts or custodian accounts under the UGTMA.  Touchstone Securities will notify you if your shares are about to be sold and you will have 30 days to increase your account balance to the minimum amount.
 
Delay of Payment. It is possible that the payment of your sale proceeds could be postponed or your right to sell your shares could be suspended during certain circumstances.  These circumstances can occur:
 
When the NYSE is closed on days other than customary weekends and holidays;
When trading on the NYSE is restricted; or
During any other time when the SEC, by order, permits.
 
Redemption in-Kind. Under unusual circumstances (such as a market emergency), when the Board deems it appropriate, a Fund may make payment for shares redeemed in portfolio securities of the Fund taken at current value in order to meet redemption requests. Shareholders may incur transaction and brokerage costs when they sell these portfolio securities. Until such time as the shareholder sells the securities they receive in-kind, the securities are subject to market risk. Redemptions in-kind are taxable for federal income tax purposes in the same manner as redemptions for cash. The Funds may also use redemption in-kind for certain Fund shares held by ReFlow.
 
Pricing of Fund Shares

Each Fund’s share price (also called “NAV”) and public offering price (NAV plus a sales charge, if applicable) is determined as of the close of regular trading (normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) every day the NYSE is open. Each Fund calculates its NAV per share for each class, generally using market prices, by dividing the total value of its net assets by the number of shares outstanding.
 
The Funds’ equity investments are valued based on market value or, if no market value is available, based on fair value as determined by the Board (or under its direction). The Funds may use pricing services to determine market value for investments. Some specific pricing strategies follow:
 
All short-term dollar-denominated investments that mature in 60 days or less may be valued on the basis of amortized cost which the Board has determined as fair value.
Securities mainly traded on a U.S. exchange are valued at the last sale price on that exchange or, if no sales occurred during the day, at the last quoted bid price.
 
Any foreign securities held by a Fund will be priced as follows:

62



 
All assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currency values will be converted into U.S. dollar values.
Securities mainly traded on a non-U.S. exchange are generally valued according to the preceding closing values on that exchange.  However, if an event that may change the value of a security occurs after the time that the closing value on the non-U.S. exchange was determined, but before the close of regular trading on the NYSE, the security may be priced based on fair value.  This may cause the value of the security on the books of the Fund to be significantly different from the closing value on the non-U.S. exchange and may affect the calculation of the NAV.
Because portfolio securities that are primarily listed on a non-U.S. exchange may trade on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares, a Fund’s NAV may change on days when shareholders will not be able to buy or sell shares.

Securities held by a Fund that do not have readily available market quotations are priced at their fair value using procedures approved by the Board.  Any debt securities held by a Fund for which market quotations are not readily available are generally priced at their most recent bid prices as obtained from one or more of the major market makers for such securities.  The Funds may use fair value pricing under the following circumstances, among others:
 
If the validity of market quotations is deemed to be not reliable.
If the value of a security has been materially affected by events occurring before the Fund’s pricing time but after the close of the primary markets on which the security is traded.
If a security is so thinly traded that reliable market quotations are unavailable due to infrequent trading.
If the exchange on which a portfolio security is principally traded closes early or if trading in a particular portfolio security was halted during the day and did not resume prior to the Fund’s NAV calculation.
 
The use of fair value pricing has the effect of valuing a security based upon the price a Fund might reasonably expect to receive if it sold that security but does not guarantee that the security can be sold at the fair value price. The Funds have established fair value policies and procedures that delegate fair value responsibilities to the Advisor. These policies and procedures outline the fair value method for the Advisor. The Advisor’s determination of a security’s fair value price often involves the consideration of a number of subjective factors established by the Board, and is therefore subject to the unavoidable risk that the value that the Fund assigns to a security may be higher or lower than the security’s value would be if a reliable market quotation for the security was readily available. With respect to any portion of a Fund’s assets that is invested in other mutual funds, that portion of the Fund’s NAV is calculated based on the NAV of that mutual fund. The prospectus for the other mutual fund explains the circumstances and effects of fair value pricing for that mutual fund.
 
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
 
Each Fund intends to distribute to its shareholders substantially all of its net investment income and capital gains. Dividends, if any, of net investment income are declared and paid annually by all Funds except the Flexible Income Fund. Dividends, if any, of net investment income are declared and paid monthly by the Flexible Income Fund. Each Fund makes distributions of capital gains, if any, at least annually. If you own shares on a Fund’s distribution record date, you will be entitled to receive the distribution.
 
You will receive income dividends and distributions of capital gains in the form of additional Fund shares unless you elect to receive payment in cash. Cash payments will only be made for amounts equal to or exceeding $25; for amounts less than $25, the dividends and distributions will be automatically reinvested in the paying Fund and class.  To elect cash payments, you must notify the Funds in writing or by phone prior to the date of distribution.  Your election will be effective for dividends and distributions paid after we receive your notice.  To cancel your election, simply send written notice to Touchstone Investments, P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, or by overnight mail to Touchstone Investments, c/o BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc., 4400 Computer Drive, Westborough, Massachusetts 01581, or call Touchstone Securities at 1.800.543.0407.  If you hold your shares through a financial institution, you must contact the institution to elect cash payment.  If you elect to receive dividends and distributions in cash and the payment (1) is returned and marked as “undeliverable” or (2) is not cashed for six months, your cash election will be changed automatically and future dividends will be reinvested in the Fund at the per share NAV determined as of the date of payment.
 
A Fund’s dividends and other distributions are taxable to shareholders (other than retirement plans and other tax-exempt investors) whether received in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the Fund.  A dividend or distribution paid by a Fund has the effect of reducing the NAV per share on the ex-dividend date by the amount of the dividend or distribution.  A dividend or distribution declared shortly after a purchase of shares by an investor would, therefore, represent, in substance, a return of capital to the shareholder with respect to such shares even though it would be subject to federal income taxes.
 

63



For most shareholders, a statement will be sent to you within 45 days after the end of each year detailing the federal income tax status of your distributions.  Please see “Federal Income Tax Information” below for more information on the federal income tax consequences of dividends and other distributions made by a Fund.
 
Federal Income Tax Information
 
The tax information in this prospectus is provided only for general information purposes for U.S. taxpayers and should not be considered as tax advice or relied on by a shareholder or prospective investor.
 
General. The Funds intend to qualify annually to be treated as regulated investment companies (“RICs”) under the Code.  As such, the Funds will not be subject to federal income taxes on the earnings they distribute to shareholders provided they satisfy certain requirements and restrictions of the Code, one of which is to distribute to a Fund’s shareholders substantially all of the Fund’s net investment income and net short-term capital gains each year.  If for any taxable year a Fund fails to qualify as a RIC: (1) it will be subject to tax in the same manner as an ordinary corporation and thus will be subject to federal income tax at the corporate tax rate; and (2) distributions from its earnings and profits (as determined under federal income tax principles) will be taxable as ordinary dividend income eligible for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders and for “qualified dividend income” treatment for non-corporate shareholders.
 
Distributions. The Funds will make distributions to you that may be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains.  The dividends and distributions you receive may be subject to federal, foreign, state and local taxation, depending upon your tax situation.  Distributions are taxable whether you reinvest such distributions in additional shares of the Fund or choose to receive cash.  Taxable Fund distributions are taxable to a shareholder even if the distributions are paid from income or gains earned by a Fund prior to the shareholder’s investment and, thus, were included in the price the shareholder paid for the shares. For example, a shareholder who purchases shares on or just before the record date of a Fund distribution will pay full price for the shares and may receive a portion of the investment back as a taxable distribution. Distributions declared by a Fund during October, November or December to shareholders of record during such month and paid by January 31 of the following year are treated for federal income tax purposes as if received by shareholders and paid by the Fund on December 31 of the year in which the distribution was declared
 
Ordinary Income. Net investment income, except for qualified dividend income and income designated as tax-exempt, and short-term capital gains that are distributed to you are taxable as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes regardless of how long you have held your Fund shares.  Certain dividends distributed to non-corporate shareholders and designated by a Fund as “qualified dividend income” are eligible for the long-term capital gains rate, provided certain holding period and other requirements are satisfied.
 
Net Capital Gains. Net capital gains (i.e., the excess of net long-term capital gains over net short-term capital losses) distributed to you, if any, are taxable as long-term capital gains for federal income tax purposes regardless of how long you have held your Fund shares.
 
Sale or Exchange of Shares . It is a taxable event for you if you sell shares of a Fund or exchange shares of a Fund for shares of another Touchstone Fund.  Depending on the purchase price and the sale price of the shares you sell or exchange, you may have a taxable gain or loss on the transaction.  Any realized gain or loss, generally, will be a capital gain or loss, assuming you held the shares of the Fund as a capital asset.  The capital gain will be long-term or short-term depending on how long you have held your shares in the Fund.  Sales of shares of a Fund that you have held for twelve months or less will be a short-term capital gain or loss and if held for more than twelve months will constitute a long-term capital gain or loss.  Any loss realized by a shareholder on a disposition of shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any distributions of capital gain dividends received by the shareholder and disallowed to the extent of any distributions of exempt-interest dividends, if any, received by the shareholder with respect to such shares unless the Fund declares exempt-interest dividends on a daily basis in an amount equal to at least 90% of its net tax-exempt interest and distributes such dividends on a monthly or more frequent basis.
 
Returns of Capital.  If a Fund makes a distribution in excess of its current and accumulated earnings and profits, the excess will be treated as a return of capital to the extent of a shareholder’s basis in his or her shares, and thereafter as capital gain.  A return of capital is not taxable, but it reduces a shareholder’s basis in his or her shares, thus reducing any loss or increasing any gain on a subsequent taxable disposition by the shareholder of such shares.
 
Backup Withholding. A Fund may be required to withhold U.S. federal income tax on all distributions and sales proceeds payable to shareholders who fail to provide their correct taxpayer identification number or to make required certifications, or who have been notified by the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) that they are subject to backup withholding.
 

64



Medicare Tax.   An additional 3.8% Medicare tax is imposed on certain net investment income (including dividends and distributions received from a Fund and net gains from redemptions or other taxable dispositions of Fund shares) of U.S. individuals, estates and trusts to the extent that such person’s “modified adjusted gross income” (in the case of an individual) or “adjusted gross income” (in the case of an estate or trust) exceeds a threshold amount.
 
Foreign Taxes.   Income received by a Fund from sources within foreign countries may be subject to foreign withholding and other taxes.  If a Fund qualifies (by having more than 50% of the value of its total assets at the close of the taxable year consist of stock or securities in foreign corporations or by being a qualified fund of funds) and elects to pass through foreign taxes paid on its investments during the year, such taxes will be reported to you as income. You may, however, be able to claim an offsetting tax credit or deduction on your federal income tax return, depending on your particular circumstances and provided you meet certain holding period and other requirements. Tax-exempt holders of Fund shares, such as qualified tax-advantaged retirement plans, will not benefit from such a deduction or credit.
 
Non-U.S. Shareholders.   Non-U.S. shareholders may be subject to U.S. tax as a result of an investment in a Fund.  This prospectus does not discuss the U.S. or foreign tax consequences of an investment by a non-U.S. shareholder in a Fund.  Accordingly, non-U.S. shareholders are urged and advised to consult their own tax advisors as to the U.S. and foreign tax consequences of an investment in a Fund.
 
Statements and Notices. You will receive an annual statement outlining the tax status of your distributions.  You may also receive written notices of certain foreign taxes paid by a Fund during the prior taxable year.
 
Important Tax Reporting Considerations. The Funds are required to report cost basis and holding period information to both the IRS and shareholders for gross proceeds from the sales of Fund shares purchased on or after January 1, 2012 ("covered shares").  This information is reported on Form 1099-B.  The average cost method will be used to determine the cost basis of covered shares unless the shareholder instructs a Fund in writing that the shareholder wants to use another available method for cost basis reporting (for example, First In, First Out (FIFO), Last In, First Out (LIFO), Specific Lot Identification (SLID) or High Cost, First Out (HIFO)). If the shareholder designates SLID as the shareholder’s tax cost basis method, the shareholder will also need to designate a secondary cost basis method (Secondary Method). If a Secondary Method is not provided, a Fund will designate FIFO as the Secondary Method and will use the Secondary Method with respect to systematic withdrawals. If you hold shares of a Fund through a financial intermediary, the financial intermediary will be responsible for this reporting and the financial intermediary’s default cost basis method may apply.  Please consult your tax adviser for additional information regarding cost basis reporting and your situation.
 
Redemptions by S corporations of covered shares are required to be reported to the IRS on Form 1099-B. If a shareholder is a corporation and has not instructed the Fund that it is a C corporation in its Account Application or by written instruction, the Fund will treat the shareholder as an S corporation and file a Form 1099-B.
 
This section is only a summary of some important federal income tax considerations that may affect your investment in a Fund.  More information regarding these considerations is included in the Funds’ SAI.  You are urged and advised to consult your own tax advisor regarding the effects of an investment in a Fund on your tax situation, including the application of foreign, state, local and other tax laws to your particular situation.

65



FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
 
The financial highlights tables are intended to help you understand each Fund’s financial performance for the past five years, or if shorter, the period of each Fund’s operation. Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund share. The total returns in the tables represent the rate an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in a Fund, assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions. The financial highlights for each Fund for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015, or for the periods indicated herein were audited by Ernst & Young LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm. The report of Ernst & Young LLP, along with each Fund’s financial statements and related notes, are included in the Funds’ annual report. You can obtain the annual report at no charge by calling 1.800.543.0407 or by downloading a copy from the Touchstone Investments website: TouchstoneInvestments.com/Resources.

 
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund—Class A
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
10.81

 
$
10.71

 
 
 
$
10.58

 
 
 
$
10.67

 
$
10.60

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
0.39

 
0.26

 
 
 
0.30

 
 
 
0.32

 
0.43

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.01
)
 
0.11

 
 
 
0.11

 
 
 
(0.10
)
 
0.11

Total from investment operations
 
0.38

 
0.37

 
 
 
0.41

 
 
 
0.22

 
0.54

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.38
)
 
(0.27
)
 
 
 
(0.28
)
 
 
 
(0.31
)
 
(0.47
)
Realized capital gains
 
(0.06
)
 

 
 
 

 
 
 

 

Total distributions
 
(0.44
)
 
(0.27
)
 
 
 
(0.28
)
 
 
 
(0.31
)
 
(0.47
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
10.75

 
$
10.81

 
 
 
$
10.71

 
 
 
$
10.58

 
$
10.67

Total return (A)
 
3.59
%
 
3.46
%
 
 
 
3.93
%
 
 
 
2.13
%
 
5.22
%
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
110,460

 
$
136,609

 
 
 
$
49,544

 
 
 
$
57,671

 
$
32,695

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net expenses (including dividend and interest expense on securities sold short)
 
1.04
%
 
1.06
%
 
(B)  
 
1.10
%
 
(B)  
 
1.09
%
 
1.09
%
Gross expenses (including dividend and interest expense on securities sold short)
 
1.11
%
 
1.14
%
 
(C)  
 
1.30
%
 
(C)  
 
1.32
%
 
1.35
%
Net investment income
 
3.50
%
 
2.60
%
 
 
 
2.74
%
 
 
 
3.19
%
 
3.95
%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
171
%
 
100
%
 
(D)  
 
127
%
 
 
 
122
%
 
102
%
(A)
Total returns shown exclude the effect of applicable sales loads and fees. If these charges were included, the returns would be lower.
(B)
The ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding dividend and interest expense on securities sold short for Class A was 1.06% and 1.09% for the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
(C)
The ratio of gross expenses to average net assets excluding dividend and interest expense on securities sold short for Class A was 1.14% and 1.29% for the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
(D)
Portfolio turnover excludes the purchases and sales of securities of the Sentinel Multi-Asset Income Fund acquired on October 27, 2017. If these transactions were included, portfolio turnover would have been higher.


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Touchstone Flexible Income Fund—Class C
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
10.67

 
$
10.57

 
 
 
$
10.44

 
 
 
$
10.54

 
$
10.47

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
0.30

 
0.20

 
 
 
0.20

 
 
 
0.26

 
0.34

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.01
)
 
0.09

 
 
 
0.13

 
 
 
(0.12
)
 
0.12

Total from investment operations
 
0.29

 
0.29

 
 
 
0.33

 
 
 
0.14

 
0.46

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.30
)
 
(0.19
)
 
 
 
(0.20
)
 
 
 
(0.24
)
 
(0.39
)
Realized capital gains
 
(0.06
)
 

 
 
 

 
 
 

 

Total distributions
 
(0.36
)
 
(0.19
)
 
 
 
(0.20
)
 
 
 
(0.24
)
 
(0.39
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
10.60

 
$
10.67

 
 
 
$
10.57

 
 
 
$
10.44

 
$
10.54

Total return (A)
 
2.77
%
 
2.73
%
 
 
 
3.22
%
 
 
 
1.32
%
 
4.52
%
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
66,926

 
$
100,800

 
 
 
$
55,043

 
 
 
$
45,079

 
$
25,853

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net expenses (including dividend and interest expense on securities sold short)
 
1.79
%
 
1.81
%
 
(B)  
 
1.85
%
 
(B)  
 
1.84
%
 
1.84
%
Gross expenses (including dividend and interest expense on securities sold short)
 
1.86
%
 
1.89
%
 
(C)  
 
2.00
%
 
(C)  
 
2.05
%
 
2.10
%
Net investment income
 
2.75
%
 
1.85
%
 
 
 
1.99
%
 
 
 
2.44
%
 
3.20
%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
171
%
 
100
%
 
(D)  
 
127
%
 
 
 
122
%
 
102
%
(A)
Total returns shown exclude the effect of applicable sales loads and fees. If these charges were included, the returns would be lower.
(B)
The ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding dividend and interest expense on securities sold short for Class C was 1.81% and 1.84% for the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
(C)
The ratio of gross expenses to average net assets excluding dividend and interest expense on securities sold short for Class C was 1.89% and 1.99% for the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
(D)
Portfolio turnover excludes the purchases and sales of securities of the Sentinel Multi-Asset Income Fund acquired on October 27, 2017. If these transactions were included, portfolio turnover would have been higher.



67



Touchstone Flexible Income Fund—Class Y
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
10.85

 
$
10.75

 
 
 
$
10.61

 
 
 
$
10.70

 
$
10.62

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
0.42

 
0.31

 
 
 
0.32

 
 
 
0.36

 
0.46

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.02
)
 
0.09

 
 
 
0.13

 
 
 
(0.11
)
 
0.12

Total from investment operations
 
0.40

 
0.40

 
 
 
0.45

 
 
 
0.25

 
0.58

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.41
)
 
(0.30
)
 
 
 
(0.31
)
 
 
 
(0.34
)
 
(0.50
)
Realized capital gains
 
(0.06
)
 

 
 
 

 
 
 

 

Total distributions
 
(0.47
)
 
(0.30
)
 
 
 
(0.31
)
 
 
 
(0.34
)
 
(0.50
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
10.78

 
$
10.85

 
 
 
$
10.75

 
 
 
$
10.61

 
$
10.70

Total return
 
3.75
%
 
3.71
%
 
 
 
4.28
%
 
 
 
2.38
%
 
5.58
%
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
459,861

 
$
628,693

 
 
 
$
464,002

 
 
 
$
358,423

 
$
238,081

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net expenses (including dividend and interest expense on securities sold short)
 
0.79
%
 
0.82
%
 
(A)  
 
0.85
%
 
(A)  
 
0.84
%
 
0.84
%
Gross expenses (including dividend and interest expense on securities sold short)
 
0.84
%
 
0.90
%
 
(B)  
 
1.00
%
 
(B)  
 
1.05
%
 
1.01
%
Net investment income
 
3.75
%
 
2.84
%
 
 
 
2.99
%
 
 
 
3.44
%
 
4.21
%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
171
%
 
100
%
 
(C)  
 
127
%
 
 
 
122
%
 
102
%
(A)
The ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding dividend and interest expense on securities sold short for Class Y was 0.82% and 0.84% for the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
(B)
The ratio of gross expenses to average net assets excluding dividend and interest expense on securities sold short for Class Y was 0.90% and 0.99% for the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
(C)
Portfolio turnover excludes the purchases and sales of securities of the Sentinel Multi-Asset Income Fund acquired on October 27, 2017. If these transactions were included, portfolio turnover would have been higher.

68




Touchstone Flexible Income Fund—Institutional Class
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
10.84

 
$
10.74

 
 
 
$
10.60

 
 
 
$
10.69

 
$
10.62

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
0.44

 
0.33

 
 
 
0.33

 
 
 
0.36

 
0.46

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.02
)
 
0.08

 
 
 
0.13

 
 
 
(0.10
)
 
0.12

Total from investment operations
 
0.42

 
0.41

 
 
 
0.46

 
 
 
0.26

 
0.58

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.42
)
 
(0.31
)
 
 
 
(0.32
)
 
 
 
(0.35
)
 
(0.51
)
Realized capital gains
 
(0.06
)
 

 
 
 

 
 
 

 

Total distributions
 
(0.48
)
 
(0.31
)
 
 
 
(0.32
)
 
 
 
(0.35
)
 
(0.51
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
10.78

 
$
10.84

 
 
 
$
10.74

 
 
 
$
10.60

 
$
10.69

Total return
 
3.95
%
 
3.81
%
 
 
 
4.28
%
 
 
 
2.57
%
 
5.58
%
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
59,138

 
$
86,578

 
 
 
$
104,631

 
 
 
$
82,286

 
$
44,732

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net expenses (including dividend and interest expense on securities sold short)
 
0.69
%
 
0.72
%
 
(A)  
 
0.75
%
 
(A)  
 
0.74
%
 
0.74
%
Gross expenses (including dividend and interest expense on securities sold short)
 
0.82
%
 
0.86
%
 
(B)  
 
0.92
%
 
(B)  
 
0.94
%
 
0.95
%
Net investment income
 
3.85
%
 
2.94
%
 
 
 
3.09
%
 
 
 
3.54
%
 
4.30
%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
171
%
 
100
%
 
(C)  
 
127
%
 
 
 
122
%
 
102
%
(A)
The ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding dividend and interest expense on securities sold short for Institutional Class was 0.72% and 0.74% for the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
(B)
The ratio of gross expenses to average net assets excluding dividend and interest expense on securities sold short for Institutional Class was 0.86% and 0.91% for the years ended March 31, 2018 and 2017, respectively.
(C)
Portfolio turnover excludes the purchases and sales of securities of the Sentinel Multi-Asset Income Fund acquired on October 27, 2017. If these transactions were included, portfolio turnover would have been higher.

 


69



Touchstone Focused Fund—Class A
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
42.93

 
$
41.47

 
 
 
$
36.68

 
$
37.19

 
$
34.87

Income from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment income (A)
 
0.14

 
0.17

 
 
 
0.15

 
0.16

 
0.20

Net realized and unrealized gains on investments
 
1.39

 
4.02

 
 
 
5.12

 
0.38

 
2.23

Total from investment operations
 
1.53

 
4.19

 
 
 
5.27

 
0.54

 
2.43

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.01
)
 

 
 
 
(0.14
)
 
(0.20
)
 
(0.11
)
Realized capital gains
 
(1.77
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.34
)
 
(0.85
)
 

Total distributions
 
(1.78
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.48
)
 
(1.05
)
 
(0.11
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
42.68

 
$
42.93

 
 
 
$
41.47

 
$
36.68

 
$
37.19

Total return (B)
 
3.82
%
 
10.13
%
 
 
 
14.45
%
 
1.47
%
 
6.99
%
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
55,399

 
$
167,354

 
 
 
$
425,366

 
$
405,458

 
$
297,072

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
1.20
%
 
1.20
%
 
 
 
1.20
%
 
1.20
%
 
1.20
%
Gross expenses
 
1.32
%
 
1.29
%
 
 
 
1.28
%
 
1.31
%
 
1.37
%
Net investment income
 
0.32
%
 
0.40
%
 
 
 
0.39
%
 
0.43
%
 
0.57
%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
12
%
 
8
%
 
(C)  
 
20
%
 
28
%
 
33
%
(A)
The net investment income (loss) per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Total returns shown exclude the effect of applicable sales loads and fees. If these charges were included, the returns would be lower.
(C)
Portfolio turnover excludes securities delivered from processing a redemption-in-kind.
 

70



Touchstone Focused Fund—Class C
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
40.89

 
$
39.90

 
 
 
$
35.54

 
$
36.34

 
$
34.32

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment loss (A)
 
(0.18
)
 
(0.14
)
 
 
 
(0.13
)
 
(0.11
)
 
(0.06
)
Net realized and unrealized gains on Investments
 
1.32

 
3.86

 
 
 
4.94

 
0.37

 
2.18

Total from investment operations
 
1.14

 
3.72

 
 
 
4.81

 
0.26

 
2.12

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 

 

 
 
 
(0.11
)
 
(0.21
)
 
(0.10
)
Realized capital gains
 
(1.77
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.34
)
 
(0.85
)
 

Total distributions
 
(1.77
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.45
)
 
(1.06
)
 
(0.10
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
40.26

 
$
40.89

 
 
 
$
39.90

 
$
35.54

 
$
36.34

Total return (B)
 
3.03
 %
 
9.34
 %
 
 
 
13.56
 %
 
0.73
 %
 
6.18
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
33,875

 
$
41,635

 
 
 
$
53,776

 
$
44,338

 
$
9,617

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
1.95
 %
 
1.94
 %
 
 
 
1.95
 %
 
1.95
 %
 
1.95
 %
Gross expenses
 
1.95
 %
 
1.94
 %
 
 
 
1.97
 %
 
2.00
 %
 
2.09
 %
Net investment loss
 
(0.43
)%
 
(0.34
)%
 
 
 
(0.36
)%
 
(0.32
)%
 
(0.18
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
12
 %
 
8
 %
 
(C)  
 
20
 %
 
28
 %
 
33
 %
(A)
The net investment income (loss) per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Total returns shown exclude the effect of applicable sales loads and fees. If these charges were included, the returns would be lower.
(C)
Portfolio turnover excludes securities delivered from processing a redemption-in-kind.

71




Touchstone Focused Fund—Class Y
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
43.50

 
$
42.21

 
 
 
$
37.29

 
$
37.76

 
$
35.34

Income from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment income (A)
 
0.27

 
0.31

 
 
 
0.27

 
0.26

 
0.31

Net realized and unrealized gains on investments
 
1.39

 
4.08

 
 
 
5.22

 
0.39

 
2.26

Total from investment operations
 
1.66

 
4.39

 
 
 
5.49

 
0.65

 
2.57

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.27
)
 
(0.37
)
 
 
 
(0.23
)
 
(0.27
)
 
(0.15
)
Realized capital gains
 
(1.77
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.34
)
 
(0.85
)
 

Total distributions
 
(2.04
)
 
(3.10
)
 
 
 
(0.57
)
 
(1.12
)
 
(0.15
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
43.12

 
$
43.50

 
 
 
$
42.21

 
$
37.29

 
$
37.76

Total return
 
4.13
%
 
10.43
%
 
 
 
14.77
%
 
1.75
%
 
7.29
%
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
879,704

 
$
972,273

 
 
 
$
974,660

 
$853,900
 
$
756,579

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
0.91
%
 
0.91
%
 
 
 
0.92
%
 
0.93
%
 
0.92
%
Gross expenses
 
0.91
%
 
0.91
%
 
 
 
0.92
%
 
0.94
%
 
0.97
%
Net investment income
 
0.61
%
 
0.69
%
 
 
 
0.68
%
 
0.70
%
 
0.85
%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
12
%
 
8
%
 
(B)  
 
20
%
 
28
%
 
33
%
(A)
The net investment income per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Portfolio turnover excludes securities delivered from processing a redemption-in-kind.

 


72



Touchstone Focused Fund—Institutional Class
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
43.68

 
$
42.38

 
 
 
$
37.45

 
$
37.91

 
$
35.47

Income from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment income (A)
 
0.30

 
0.34

 
 
 
0.30

 
0.31

 
0.35

Net realized and unrealized gains on investments
 
1.39

 
4.11

 
 
 
5.24

 
0.39

 
2.28

Total from investment operations
 
1.69

 
4.45

 
 
 
5.54

 
0.70

 
2.63

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.30
)
 
(0.42
)
 
 
 
(0.27
)
 
(0.31
)
 
(0.19
)
Realized capital gains
 
(1.77
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.34
)
 
(0.85
)
 

Total distributions
 
(2.07
)
 
(3.15
)
 
 
 
(0.61
)
 
(1.16
)
 
(0.19
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
43.30

 
$
43.68

 
 
 
$
42.38

 
$
37.45

 
$
37.91

Total return
 
4.20
%
 
10.54
%
 
 
 
14.84
%
 
1.89
%
 
7.40
%
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
29,382

 
$
22,556

 
 
 
$
41,389

 
$
48,805

 
$
51,765

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
0.83
%
 
0.83
%
 
 
 
0.83
%
 
0.82
%
 
0.80
%
Gross expenses
 
0.92
%
 
0.92
%
 
 
 
0.88
%
 
0.90
%
 
0.88
%
Net investment income
 
0.69
%
 
0.77
%
 
 
 
0.76
%
 
0.81
%
 
0.97
%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
12
%
 
8
%
 
(B)  
 
20
%
 
28
%
 
33
%
(A)
The net investment income per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Portfolio turnover excludes securities delivered from processing a redemption-in-kind.

 


73



Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund—Class A
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
 
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
22.01

 
$
21.52

 
 
 
$
18.98

 
$
30.96

 
 
 
$
31.81

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income
 
0.15

 
0.03

 
 
 
0.18

 
0.06

 
(A)  
 
0.11

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.29
)
 
3.37

 
 
 
2.47

 
(1.99
)
 
 
 
4.87

Total from investment operations
 
(0.14
)
 
3.40

 
 
 
2.65

 
(1.93
)
 
 
 
4.98

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.17
)
 
(0.17
)
 
 
 
(0.11
)
 
(0.03
)
 
 
 
(0.05
)
Realized capital gains
 
(1.76
)
 
(2.74
)
 
 
 

 
(10.02
)
 
 
 
(5.78
)
Total distributions
 
(1.93
)
 
(2.91
)
 
 
 
(0.11
)
 
(10.05
)
 
 
 
(5.83
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
19.94

 
$
22.01

 
 
 
$
21.52

 
$
18.98

 
 
 
$
30.96

Total return (B)
 
(0.37
)%
 
15.57
%
 
 
 
14.01
%
 
(8.73
)%
 
 
 
17.17
%
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
445,608

 
$
485,413

 
 
 
$
113,062

 
$
137,306

 
 
 
$
257,273

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net expenses
 
1.17
 %
 
1.19
%
 
 
 
1.24
%
 
1.24
 %
 
 
 
1.25
%
Gross expenses
 
1.17
 %
 
1.22
%
 
 
 
1.36
%
 
1.39
 %
 
 
 
1.28
%
Net investment income
 
0.70
 %
 
0.58
%
 
 
 
0.83
%
 
0.31
 %
 
 
 
0.35
%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
40
 %
 
72
%
 
(C)  
 
53
%
 
304
 %
 
 
 
98
%
(A)
The net investment income (loss) per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Total returns shown exclude the effect of applicable sales loads and fees. If these charges were included, the returns would be lower.
(C)
Portfolio turnover excludes the purchases and sales of securities of the Sentinel Sustainable Core Opportunities Fund acquired on October 27, 2017. If these transactions were included, portfolio turnover would have been higher.

74



Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund—Class C
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
 
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
18.68

 
$
18.62

 
 
 
$
16.47

 
$
28.32

 
 
 
$
29.72

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income (loss)
 
(0.06
)
 
(0.05
)
 
 
 
0.01

 
(0.08
)
 
(A)  
 
(0.12
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.21
)
 
2.85

 
 
 
2.15

 
(1.75
)
 
 
 
4.50

Total from investment operations
 
(0.27
)
 
2.80

 
 
 
2.16

 
(1.83
)
 
 
 
4.38

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income
 

 

 
 
 
(0.01
)
 
(10.02
)
 
 
 
(5.78
)
Realized capital gains
 
(1.76
)
 
(2.74
)
 
 
 

 

 
 
 

Total distributions
 
(1.76
)
 
(2.74
)
 
 
 
(0.01
)
 
(10.02
)
 
 
 
(5.78
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
16.65

 
$
18.68

 
 
 
$
18.62

 
$
16.47

 
 
 
$
28.32

Total return (B)
 
(1.18
)%
 
14.75
 %
 
 
 
13.12
%
 
(9.41
)%
 
 
 
16.30
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
14,926

 
$
37,513

 
 
 
$
48,055

 
$
56,435

 
 
 
$
103,861

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net expenses
 
1.99
 %
 
1.99
 %
 
 
 
1.99
%
 
1.99
 %
 
 
 
2.00
 %
Gross expenses
 
2.03
 %
 
2.05
 %
 
 
 
2.12
%
 
2.15
 %
 
 
 
2.03
 %
Net investment income (loss)
 
(0.12
)%
 
(0.23
)%
 
 
 
0.08
%
 
(0.44
)%
 
 
 
(0.40
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
40
 %
 
72
 %
 
(C)  
 
53
%
 
304
 %
 
 
 
98
 %
(A)
The net investment income (loss) per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Total returns shown exclude the effect of applicable sales loads and fees. If these charges were included, the returns would be lower.
(C)
Portfolio turnover excludes the purchases and sales of securities of the Sentinel Sustainable Core Opportunities Fund acquired on October 27, 2017. If these transactions were included, portfolio turnover would have been higher.

75




Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund—Class Y
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
 
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
22.75

 
$
22.11

 
 
 
$
19.49

 
$
31.49

 
 
 
$
32.23

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income
 
0.21

 
0.16

 
 
 
0.20

 
0.13

 
(A)  
 
0.22

Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.31
)
 
3.41

 
 
 
2.58

 
(2.06
)
 
 
 
4.92

Total from investment operations
 
(0.10
)
 
3.57

 
 
 
2.78

 
(1.93
)
 
 
 
5.14

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.23
)
 
(0.19
)
 
 
 
(0.16
)
 
(0.05
)
 
 
 
(0.10
)
Realized capital gains
 
(1.76
)
 
(2.74
)
 
 
 

 
(10.02
)
 
 
 
(5.78
)
Total distributions
 
(1.99
)
 
(2.93
)
 
 
 
(0.16
)
 
(10.07
)
 
 
 
(5.88
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
20.66

 
$
22.75

 
 
 
$
22.11

 
$
19.49

 
 
 
$
31.49

Total return
 
(0.09
)%
 
15.90
%
 
 
 
14.30
%
 
(8.54
)%
 
 
 
17.48
%
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
207,080

 
$
189,837

 
 
 
$
112,790

 
$
67,638

 
 
 
$
416,741

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net expenses
 
0.90
 %
 
0.94
%
 
 
 
0.99
%
 
0.99
 %
 
 
 
0.99
%
Gross expenses
 
0.93
 %
 
0.99
%
 
 
 
1.09
%
 
1.14
 %
 
 
 
1.00
%
Net investment income
 
0.97
 %
 
0.82
%
 
 
 
1.08
%
 
0.56
 %
 
 
 
0.61
%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
40
 %
 
72
%
 
(B)  
 
53
%
 
304
 %
 
 
 
98
%
 
(A)
The net investment income per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Portfolio turnover excludes the purchases and sales of securities of the Sentinel Sustainable Core Opportunities Fund acquired on October 27, 2017. If these transactions were included, portfolio turnover would have been higher.



76



Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund—Institutional Class
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
Period Ended March 31,
 
 
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016 (C)
 
 
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
22.77

 
$
22.13

 
 
 
$
19.50

 
$
31.44

 
 
Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
Net investment income
 
0.22

 
0.20

 
 
 
0.19

 
0.11

 
(A)  
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.32
)
 
3.38

 
 
 
2.61

 
(1.98
)
 
 
Total from investment operations
 
(0.10
)
 
3.58

 
 
 
2.80

 
(1.87
)
 
 
Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
Net investment income
 
(0.23
)
 
(0.20
)
 
 
 
(0.17
)
 
(0.05
)
 
 
Realized capital gains
 
(1.76
)
 
(2.74
)
 
 
 

 
(10.02
)
 
 
Total distributions
 
(1.99
)
 
(2.94
)
 
 
 
(0.17
)
 
(10.07
)
 
 
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
20.68

 
$
22.77

 
 
 
$
22.13

 
$
19.50

 
 
Total return
 
(0.10
)%
 
15.95
%
 
 
 
14.41
%
 
(8.49
)
 
(D)  
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
   
Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
44,382

 
$
42,196

 
 
 
$
29,679

 
$
6,843

 
   
Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
   
Net expenses
 
0.89
 %
 
0.89
%
 
 
 
0.89
%
 
0.89
%
 
(E)  
Gross expenses
 
0.93
 %
 
1.01
%
 
 
 
1.11
%
 
1.48
%
 
(E)  
Net investment income
 
0.98
 %
 
0.87
%
 
 
 
1.18
%
 
0.66
%
 
(E)  
Portfolio turnover rate
 
40
 %
 
72
%
 
(B)  
 
53
%
 
304
%
 
 
(A)
The net investment income per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Portfolio turnover excludes the purchases and sales of securities of the Sentinel Sustainable Core Opportunities Fund acquired on October 27, 2017. If these transactions were included, portfolio turnover would have been higher.
(C)
Represents the period from commencement of operations (May 4, 2015) through March 31, 2016.
(D)
Not annualized.
(E)
Annualized.


77



Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund—Class A
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
32.79

 
 
 
$
30.20

 
$
27.35

 
 
 
$
33.29

 
$
32.61

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment loss
 
(0.05
)
 
 
 
(0.11
)
 
(—)

 
(A)  
 
(0.08
)
 
(0.15
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
3.10

 
 
 
5.89

 
3.86

 
 
 
(2.90
)
 
4.82

Total from investment operations
 
3.05

 
 
 
5.78

 
3.86

 
 
 
(2.98
)
 
4.67

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Realized capital gains
 
(3.13
)
 
 
 
(3.19
)
 
(1.01
)
 
 
 
(2.96
)
 
(3.99
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
32.71

 
 
 
$
32.79

 
$
30.20

 
 
 
$
27.35

 
$
33.29

Total return (B)
 
10.40
 %
 
 
 
19.51
 %
 
14.38
 %
 
 
 
(9.12
)%
 
14.99
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
42,404

 
 
 
$
39,901

 
$
38,752

 
 
 
$
38,297

 
$
49,162

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
1.24
 %
 
 
 
1.24
 %
 
1.24
 %
 
 
 
1.24
 %
 
1.24
 %
Gross expenses
 
1.37
 %
 
 
 
1.38
 %
 
1.39
 %
 
 
 
1.38
 %
 
1.40
 %
Net investment loss
 
(0.17
)%
 
 
 
(0.32
)%
 
(0.01
)%
 
 
 
(0.24
)%
 
(0.47
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
94
 %
 
(C)  
 
86
 %
 
90
 %
 
 
 
137
 %
 
87
 %

Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund — Class C
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
27.08

 
 
 
$
25.60

 
$
23.51

 
 
 
$
29.27

 
$
29.32

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment loss
 
(0.49
)
 
 
 
(0.29
)
 
(0.23
)
 
 
 
(0.24
)
 
(0.33
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
2.72

 
 
 
4.96

 
3.33

 
 
 
(2.56
)
 
4.27

Total from investment operations
 
2.23

 
 
 
4.67

 
3.10

 
 
 
(2.80
)
 
3.94

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Realized capital gains
 
(3.13
)
 
 
 
(3.19
)
 
(1.01
)
 
 
 
(2.96
)
 
(3.99
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
26.18

 
 
 
$
27.08

 
$
25.60

 
 
 
$
23.51

 
$
29.27

Total return (B)
 
9.54
 %
 
 
 
18.65
 %
 
13.49
 %
 
 
 
(9.78
)%
 
14.11
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
3,863

 
 
 
$
8,680

 
$
8,574

 
 
 
$
11,665

 
$
13,813

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
1.99
 %
 
 
 
1.99
 %
 
1.99
 %
 
 
 
1.99
 %
 
1.99
 %
Gross expenses
 
2.32
 %
 
 
 
2.29
 %
 
2.26
 %
 
 
 
2.20
 %
 
2.21
 %
Net investment loss
 
(0.92
)%
 
 
 
(1.07
)%
 
(0.76
)%
 
 
 
(0.99
)%
 
(1.22
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
94
 %
 
(C)  
 
86
 %
 
90
 %
 
 
 
137
 %
 
87
 %
(A)
Less than $0.005 per share.
(B)
Total returns shown exclude the effect of applicable sales loads and fees. If these charges were included, the returns would be lower.
(C)
Portfolio turnover excludes securities delivered from processing redemptions-in-kind.


78



Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund—Class Y
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
 
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
33.69

 
 
 
$
30.87

 
$
27.90

 
$
33.81

 
 
 
$
32.97

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income (loss)
 
0.03

 
 
 
(0.02
)
 
0.10

 

 
(A)  
 
(0.06
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
3.19

 
 
 
6.03

 
3.91

 
(2.95
)
 
 
 
4.90

Total from investment operations
 
3.22

 
 
 
6.01

 
4.01

 
(2.95
)
 
 
 
4.84

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income
 

 
(A)  
 

 
(0.03
)
 

 
 
 
(0.01
)
Realized capital gains
 
(3.13
)
 
 
 
(3.19
)
 
(1.01
)
 
(2.96
)
 
 
 
(3.99
)
Total distributions
 
(3.13
)
 
 
 
(3.19
)
 
(1.04
)
 
(2.96
)
 
 
 
(4.00
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
33.78

 
 
 
$
33.69

 
$
30.87

 
$
27.90

 
 
 
$
33.81

Total return
 
10.67
%
 
 
 
19.80
 %
 
14.64
%
 
(8.88
)%
 
 
 
15.32
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
43,703

 
 
 
$
47,554

 
$
47,222

 
$
83,721

 
 
 
$
107,295

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net expenses
 
0.99
%
 
 
 
0.99
 %
 
0.99
%
 
0.99
 %
 
 
 
0.94
 %
Gross expenses
 
1.08
%
 
 
 
1.07
 %
 
1.07
%
 
1.07
 %
 
 
 
1.01
 %
Net investment income (loss)
 
0.08
%
 
 
 
(0.07
)%
 
0.24
%
 
0.01
 %
 
 
 
(0.17
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
94
%
 
(B)  
 
86
 %
 
90
%
 
137
 %
 
 
 
87
 %

Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund—Institutional Class
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
 
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
34.08

 
 
 
$
31.16

 
$
28.15

 
$
34.05

 
 
 
$
33.18

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income (loss)
 
0.09

 
 
 
0.01

 
0.12

 
0.01

 
 
 
(0.04
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
3.21

 
 
 
6.10

 
3.96

 
(2.95
)
 
 
 
4.92

Total from investment operations
 
3.30

 
 
 
6.11

 
4.08

 
(2.94
)
 
 
 
4.88

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net investment income
 
(0.03
)
 
 
 

 
(0.06
)
 

 
 
 
(0.02
)
Realized capital gains
 
(3.13
)
 
 
 
(3.19
)
 
(1.01
)
 
(2.96
)
 
 
 
(3.99
)
Total distributions
 
(3.16
)
 
 
 
(3.19
)
 
(1.07
)
 
(2.96
)
 
 
 
(4.01
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
34.22

 
 
 
$
34.08

 
$
31.16

 
$
28.15

 
 
 
$
34.05

Total return
 
10.79
%
 
 
 
19.94
%
 
14.77
%
 
(8.79
)%
 
 
 
15.39
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
71,406

 
 
 
$
185,831

 
$
150,038

 
$
176,191

 
 
 
$
134,795

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

Net expenses
 
0.89
%
 
 
 
0.89
%
 
0.89
%
 
0.89
 %
 
 
 
0.87
 %
Gross expenses
 
1.01
%
 
 
 
1.01
%
 
1.00
%
 
0.98
 %
 
 
 
0.97
 %
Net investment income (loss)
 
0.18
%
 
 
 
0.03
%
 
0.34
%
 
0.11
 %
 
 
 
(0.10
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
94
%
 
(B)  
 
86
%
 
90
%
 
137
 %
 
 
 
87
 %
(A)
Less than $0.005 per share.
(B)
Portfolio turnover excludes securities delivered from processing redemptions-in-kind.

79



Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund—Class A
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
28.05

 
$
25.91

 
 
 
$
23.28

 
$
27.06

 
$
26.50

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment loss
 
(0.09
)
 
(0.08
)
 
(A)  
 
(0.06
)
 
(0.10
)
 
(0.14
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
3.36

 
4.95

 
 
 
3.31

 
(1.62
)
 
4.19

Total from investment operations
 
3.27

 
4.87

 
 
 
3.25

 
(1.72
)
 
4.05

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Realized capital gains
 
(2.06
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.62
)
 
(2.06
)
 
(3.49
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
29.26

 
$
28.05

 
 
 
$
25.91

 
$
23.28

 
$
27.06

Total return (B)
 
12.77
 %
 
19.28
 %
 
 
 
14.13
 %
 
(6.34
)%
 
16.34
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
262,492

 
$
218,727

 
 
 
$
225,381

 
$
226,201

 
$
267,421

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
1.27
 %
 
1.29
 %
 
 
 
1.30
 %
 
1.31
 %
 
1.34
 %
Gross expenses
 
1.27
 %
 
1.29
 %
 
 
 
1.30
 %
 
1.31
 %
 
1.34
 %
Net investment loss
 
(0.35
)%
 
(0.29
)%
 
 
 
(0.26
)%
 
(0.42
)%
 
(0.55
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
71
 %
 
76
 %
 
 
 
95
 %
 
92
 %
 
73
 %

Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund—Class C
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
18.27

 
$
17.84

 
 
 
$
16.33

 
$
19.78

 
$
20.39

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment loss
 
(0.49
)
 
(0.20
)
 
(A)  
 
(0.22
)
 
(0.21
)
 
(0.24
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
2.36

 
3.36

 
 
 
2.35

 
(1.18
)
 
3.12

Total from investment operations
 
1.87

 
3.16

 
 
 
2.13

 
(1.39
)
 
2.88

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Realized capital gains
 
(2.06
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.62
)
 
(2.06
)
 
(3.49
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
18.08

 
$
18.27

 
 
 
$
17.84

 
$
16.33

 
$
19.78

Total return (B)
 
11.91
 %
 
18.38
 %
 
 
 
13.28
 %
 
(7.02
)%
 
15.51
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
32,831

 
$
90,502

 
 
 
$
113,153

 
$
127,852

 
$
157,315

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
2.04
 %
 
2.04
 %
 
 
 
2.06
 %
 
2.06
 %
 
2.07
 %
Gross expenses
 
2.04
 %
 
2.04
 %
 
 
 
2.06
 %
 
2.06
 %
 
2.07
 %
Net investment loss
 
(1.12
)%
 
(1.04
)%
 
 
 
(1.02
)%
 
(1.17
)%
 
(1.29
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
71
 %
 
76
 %
 
 
 
95
 %
 
92
 %
 
73
 %
(A)
The net investment loss per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Total returns shown exclude the effect of applicable sales loads and fees. If these charges were included, the returns would be lower.


80



Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund—Class Y
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
 
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
29.07

 
$
26.70

 
 
 
$
23.92

 
 
 
$
27.71

 
$
27.00

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment loss
 
(0.03
)
 
(0.01
)
 
(A)  
 
(—)

 
(B)  
 
(0.04
)
 
(0.08
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
3.52

 
5.11

 
 
 
3.40

 
 
 
(1.65
)
 
4.28

Total from investment operations
 
3.49

 
5.10

 
 
 
3.40

 
 
 
(1.69
)
 
4.20

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 

 

 
 
 

 
 
 
(0.04
)
 

Realized capital gains
 
(2.06
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.62
)
 
 
 
(2.06
)
 
(3.49
)
Total distributions
 
(2.06
)
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.62
)
 
 
 
(2.10
)
 
(3.49
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
30.50

 
$
29.07

 
 
 
$
26.70

 
 
 
$
23.92

 
$
27.71

Total return
 
13.05
 %
 
19.62
 %
 
 
 
14.38
 %
 
 
 
(6.08
)%
 
16.69
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
452,407

 
$
375,617

 
 
 
$
311,865

 
 
 
$
347,706

 
$
299,247

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
1.02
 %
 
1.02
 %
 
 
 
1.06
 %
 
 
 
1.05
 %
 
1.07
 %
Gross expenses
 
1.02
 %
 
1.02
 %
 
 
 
1.06
 %
 
 
 
1.05
 %
 
1.07
 %
Net investment loss
 
(0.10
)%
 
(0.02
)%
 
 
 
(0.02
)%
 
 
 
(0.16
)%
 
(0.29
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
71
 %
 
76
 %
 
 
 
95
 %
 
 
 
92
 %
 
73
 %
(A)
The net investment income (loss) per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Less than $0.005 per share.



81



Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund—Institutional Class
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
 
2019
 
 
 
2018
 
 
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
29.32

 
 
 
$
26.90

 
 
 
$
24.07

 
$
27.85

 
$
27.10

Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment income (loss)
 
(0.01
)
 
 
 

 
(A)(B)  
 
0.10

 
(0.02
)
 
(0.03
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
3.54

 
 
 
5.15

 
 
 
3.35

 
(1.65
)
 
4.27

Total from investment operations
 
3.53

 
 
 
5.15

 
 
 
3.45

 
(1.67
)
 
4.24

Distributions from:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net investment income
 

 
 
 

 
 
 

 
(0.05
)
 

Realized capital gains
 
(2.06
)
 
 
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.62
)
 
(2.06
)
 
(3.49
)
Total distributions
 
(2.06
)
 
 
 
(2.73
)
 
 
 
(0.62
)
 
(2.11
)
 
(3.49
)
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
30.79

 
 
 
$
29.32

 
 
 
$
26.90

 
$
24.07

 
$
27.85

Total return
 
13.10
 %
 
 
 
19.62
%
 
 
 
14.50
%
 
(5.97
)%
 
16.73
 %
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
349,865

 
 
 
$
95,176

 
 
 
$
44,236

 
$
84,152

 
$
102,420

Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

Net expenses
 
0.97
 %
 
(C)  
 
0.99
%
 
 
 
0.99
%
 
0.95
 %
 
0.98
 %
Gross expenses
 
0.97
 %
 
 
 
0.99
%
 
 
 
1.00
%
 
0.95
 %
 
0.98
 %
Net investment income (loss)
 
(0.06
)%
 
 
 
0.01
%
 
 
 
0.05
%
 
(0.05
)%
 
(0.20
)%
Portfolio turnover rate
 
71
 %
 
 
 
76
%
 
 
 
95
%
 
92
 %
 
73
 %
(A)
The net investment income (loss) per share was based on average shares outstanding for the period.
(B)
Less than $0.005 per share.
(C)
Net expenses include amounts recouped by the Advisor.


82



Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund—Class A
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout The Period
 
 
Period Ended
March 31,
2019 (A)
 
 
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
11.21

 
(B)  
Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 
Net investment loss
 
(0.01
)
 
 
Net realized and unrealized gains on investments
 
1.95

 
 
Total from investment operations
 
1.94

 
 
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
13.15

 
 
Total return (C)
 
17.31
 %
 
(D)  
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 
Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
1,349

 
 
Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 
Net expenses
 
1.60
 %
 
(E)  
Gross expenses
 
4.89
 %
 
(E)  
Net investment loss
 
(0.94
)%
 
(E)  
Portfolio turnover rate
 
31
 %
 
 

Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund—Class C
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout The Period
 
 
Period Ended
March 31,
2019 (A)
 
 
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
11.21

 
(B)  
Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
   
Net investment loss
 
(0.04
)
 
 
Net realized and unrealized gains on investments
 
1.94

 
   
Total from investment operations
 
1.90

 
   
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
13.11

 
   
Total return (C)
 
16.95
 %
 
(D)  
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
   
Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
59

 
   
Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
   
Net expenses
 
2.35
 %
 
(E)  
Gross expenses
 
57.88
 %
 
(E)  
Net investment loss
 
(1.69
)%
 
(E)  
Portfolio turnover rate
 
31
 %
 
 
(A)
Represents the period from commencement of operations (November 16, 2018) through March 31, 2019.
(B)
Net asset value at the beginning of period is based on the net asset value of Class Y shares on November 16, 2018.
(C)
Total returns shown exclude the effect of applicable sales loads and fees. If these charges were included, the returns would be lower.
(D)
Not annualized.
(E)
Annualized.

 

83



Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund—Class Y
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
Period Ended March 31,
 
 
 
 
2019
 
 
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015 (A)
 
 
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
13.56

 
 
 
$
10.70

 
$
9.40

 
$
10.37

 
$
10.00

 
 
Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
Net investment loss
 
(0.03
)
 
 
 
(0.06
)
 
(0.03
)
 
(0.04
)
 
(0.03
)
 
 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.37
)
 
 
 
2.92

 
1.33

 
(0.93
)
 
0.40

 
 
Total from investment operations
 
(0.40
)
 
 
 
2.86

 
1.30

 
(0.97
)
 
0.37

 
 
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
13.16

 
 
 
$
13.56

 
$
10.70

 
$
9.40

 
$
10.37

 
 
Total return
 
(3.02
)%
 
 
 
26.82
 %
 
13.83
 %
 
(9.35
)%
 
3.70
 %
 
(B)  
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
   
Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
318,093

 
 
 
$
207,209

 
$
103,467

 
$
58,106

 
$
39,541

 
   
Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
   
Net expenses
 
1.35
 %
 
(C)  
 
1.47
 %
 
1.49
 %
 
1.49
 %
 
1.49
 %
 
(D)  
Gross expenses
 
1.35
 %
 
 
 
1.49
 %
 
1.55
 %
 
1.59
 %
 
1.68
 %
 
(D)  
Net investment loss
 
(0.45
)%
 
 
 
(0.73
)%
 
(0.49
)%
 
(0.52
)%
 
(0.46
)%
 
(D)  
Portfolio turnover rate
 
31
 %
 
 
 
27
 %
 
49
 %
 
32
 %
 
90
 %
 
(B)  

Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund—Institutional Class
Selected Data for a Share Outstanding Throughout Each Period
 
 
Year Ended March 31,
 
Period Ended March 31,
 
 
 
 
2019
 
2018
 
2017
 
2016
 
2015 (A)
 
 
Net asset value at beginning of period
 
$
13.61

 
$
10.73

 
$
9.41

 
$
10.37

 
$
10.00

 
 
Income (loss) from investment operations:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
Net investment loss
 
(0.03
)
 
(0.06
)
 
(0.03
)
 
(0.02
)
 
(0.03
)
 
 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
 
(0.37
)
 
2.94

 
1.35

 
(0.94
)
 
0.40

 
 
Total from investment operations
 
(0.40
)
 
2.88

 
1.32

 
(0.96
)
 
0.37

 
 
Net asset value at end of period
 
$
13.21

 
$
13.61

 
$
10.73

 
$
9.41

 
$
10.37

 
 
Total return
 
(2.94
)%
 
26.84
 %
 
14.03
 %
 
(9.26
)%
 
3.70
 %
 
(B)  
Ratios and supplemental data:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
Net assets at end of period (000's)
 
$
524,670

 
$
374,452

 
$
182,402

 
$
101,401

 
$
32,743

 
 
Ratio to average net assets:
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
Net expenses
 
1.25
 %
 
1.37
 %
 
1.39
 %
 
1.39
 %
 
1.39
 %
 
(D)  
Gross expenses
 
1.27
 %
 
1.41
 %
 
1.46
 %
 
1.51
 %
 
1.59
 %
 
(D)  
Net investment loss
 
(0.35
)%
 
(0.63
)%
 
(0.39
)%
 
(0.42
)%
 
(0.36
)%
 
(D)  
Portfolio turnover rate
 
31
 %
 
27
 %
 
49
 %
 
32
 %
 
90
 %
 
(B)  
(A)
Represents the period from commencement of operations (May 12, 2014) through March 31, 2015.
(B)
Not annualized.
(C)
Net expenses include amounts recouped by the Advisor.
(D)
Annualized.

84



TOUCHSTONE INVESTMENTS*

DISTRIBUTOR
Touchstone Securities, Inc.*
303 Broadway, Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-4203
1.800.638.8194
TouchstoneInvestments.com

INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.*
303 Broadway, Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-4203

TRANSFER AGENT
BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc.
4400 Computer Drive
Westborough, Massachusetts 01581

SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
1.800.543.0407
*A Member of Western & Southern Financial Group
The following are federal trademark registrations and applications owned by IFS Financial Services, Inc. (a holding company), a member of Western & Southern Financial Group: Touchstone, Touchstone Funds, Touchstone Investments, Touchstone Family of Funds and Touchstone Select.


85



TILOGODATAGLINERGBA05.JPG


303 Broadway, Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202-4203

Go paperless, sign up today at:
TouchstoneInvestments.com/Resources

For investors who want more information about the Funds, the following documents are available free upon request:
Appendix A: Appendix A – Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts is a separate document that provides additional information about the availability of certain sales charge waivers and discounts and is incorporated into this prospectus, which means it is legally a part of this prospectus.

Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”): The SAI provides more detailed information about the Funds and is incorporated herein by reference, which means it is legally a part of this prospectus.
Annual/Semiannual Reports (“Financial Reports”): The Funds’ Financial Reports provide additional information about the Funds’ investments. In the annual report, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected a Fund’s performance during its last fiscal year.
You can get free copies of Appendix A, the SAI, the Financial Reports, other information and answers to your questions about the Funds by contacting your financial advisor or by contacting Touchstone Investments at 1.800.543.0407. Appendix A, the SAI and Financial Reports are also available without charge on the Touchstone Investments website at: www.TouchstoneInvestments.com/Resources

Reports and other information about the Funds are available on the EDGAR database of the SEC’s internet site at http://www.sec.gov. For a fee, you may obtain text-only copies of these reports and other information, after paying a duplicating fee, by sending an e-mail request to: publicinfo@sec.gov.
Investment Company Act File No. 811-03651     


















TSF-54-TST-1907




86



Appendix A


Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts

As noted in the Funds' prospectus, the availability of certain sales charge waivers and discounts will depend on whether you purchase your shares directly from a Fund or through a financial intermediary. Intermediaries may have different policies and procedures regarding the availability of front-end sales load waivers or contingent deferred (back-end) sales load (“CDSC”) waivers, which are discussed below. In all instances, it is the purchaser’s responsibility to notify a Fund or the purchaser’s financial intermediary at the time of purchase of any relationship or other facts qualifying the purchaser for sales charge waivers or discounts. The sales charge waivers and discounts described in this Appendix A are available only if you purchase shares through the designated intermediary. The information disclosed in this Appendix A is part of, and incorporated in, the Funds' prospectus.

* * * * * *

Shareholders Purchasing Fund Shares Through Merrill Lynch

The following information is provided by Merrill, Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated ("Merrill Lynch"): Effective April 10, 2017, shareholders purchasing Fund shares through a Merrill Lynch platform or account will be eligible only for the following load waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred, or back-end, sales charge waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Fund’s prospectus or SAI.

Front-end Sales Load Waivers on Class A Shares Available at Merrill Lynch

Employer-sponsored retirement, deferred compensation and employee benefit plans (including health savings accounts) and trusts used to fund those plans, provided that the shares are not held in a commission-based brokerage account and shares are held for the benefit of the plan
Shares purchased by or through a 529 Plan
Shares purchased through a Merrill Lynch affiliated investment advisory program
Shares purchased by third party investment advisors on behalf of their advisory clients through Merrill Lynch’s platform
Shares purchased through the Merrill Edge Self-Directed platform
Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same fund (but not any other fund within the fund family)
Shares exchanged from Class C (i.e. level-load) shares of the same fund in the month of or following the 10-year anniversary of the purchase date
Employees and registered representatives of Merrill Lynch or its affiliates and their family members
Trustees of the Fund, and employees of Touchstone Advisors or any of its affiliates, as described in this Prospectus
Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the Touchstone family of mutual funds, provided (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (known as rights of reinstatement)

CDSC Waivers on Class A Shares and Class C Shares Available at Merrill Lynch

Death or disability of the shareholder
Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in this Prospectus
Return of excess contributions from an IRA Account
Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts due to the shareholder reaching age 70½
Shares sold to pay Merrill Lynch fees but only if the transaction is initialed by Merrill Lynch
Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement
Shares held in retirement brokerage accounts, that are exchanged for a lower cost share class due to transfer to certain fee based accounts or platforms (applicable to Class A shares and Class C shares only)

Front-end Load Discounts Available at Merrill Lynch: Breakpoints, Rights of Accumulation, and Letters of Intent

Breakpoints as described in this Prospectus
Rights of Accumulation (ROA), which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts within the purchaser’s household at Merrill Lynch.

87



Eligible fund family assets not held at Merrill Lynch may be included in the ROA calculation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets
Letters of Intent (LOI) which allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within a fund family, through Merrill Lynch, over a 13-month period of time (if applicable)

Shareholders Purchasing Fund Shares Through Morgan Stanley

The following information is provided by Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC ("Morgan Stanley"): Effective July 1, 2018, shareholders purchasing Fund shares through a Morgan Stanley Wealth Management transactional brokerage account will be eligible only for the following front-end sales charge waivers with respect to Class A shares, which may differ from and may be more limited than those disclosed elsewhere in the Funds' prospectus or SAI.

Front-end Sales Charge Waivers on Class A Shares available at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management

Employer-sponsored retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans). For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs, SAR-SEPs or Keogh plans
Morgan Stanley employee and employee-related accounts according to Morgan Stanley’s account linking rules
Shares purchased through reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions when purchasing shares of the same fund
Shares purchased through a Morgan Stanley self-directed brokerage account
Class C (i.e., level-load) shares that are no longer subject to a contingent deferred sales charge and are converted to Class A shares of the same fund pursuant to Morgan Stanley Wealth Management’s share class conversion program
Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (i) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (ii) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (iii) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales charge.

* * * * * *

Shareholders Purchasing Fund Shares Through Ameriprise Financial

Class A Shares Front-End Sales Charge Waivers Available at Ameriprise Financial:

The following information applies to Class A shares purchases if you have an account with or otherwise purchase Fund shares through Ameriprise Financial:
Effective June 1, 2018, shareholders purchasing Fund shares through an Ameriprise Financial platform or account will be eligible for the following front-end sales charge waivers, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this Fund’s prospectus or SAI:
Employer-sponsored retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans). For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs or SAR-SEPs.
Shares purchased through an Ameriprise Financial investment advisory program (if an Advisory or similar share class for such investment advisory program is not available).
Shares purchased by third party investment advisors on behalf of their advisory clients through Ameriprise Financial’s platform (if an Advisory or similar share class for such investment advisory program is not available).
Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same Fund (but not any other fund within the same fund family).
Shares exchanged from Class C shares of the same fund in the month of or following the 10-year anniversary of the purchase date. To the extent that this prospectus elsewhere provides for a waiver with respect to such shares following a shorter holding period, that waiver will apply to exchanges following such shorter period. To the extent that this prospectus elsewhere provides for a waiver with respect to exchanges of Class C shares for load waived shares, that waiver will also apply to such exchanges.
Employees and registered representatives of Ameriprise Financial or its affiliates and their immediate family members.
Shares purchased by or through qualified accounts (including IRAs, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, 401(k)s, 403(b) TSCAs subject to ERISA and defined benefit plans) that are held by a covered family member, defined as an Ameriprise financial advisor and/or the advisor’s spouse, advisor’s lineal ascendant (mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, great

88



grandmother, great grandfather), advisor’s lineal descendant (son, step-son, daughter, step-daughter, grandson, granddaughter, great grandson, great granddaughter) or any spouse of a covered family member who is a lineal descendant.
Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (i.e. Rights of Reinstatement).

* * * * * *

Raymond James & Associates, Inc., Raymond James Financial Services , Inc. and each entity's affiliates
(“Raymond James”)

Shareholders Purchasing Fund Shares Through Raymond James

Effective March 1, 2019, shareholders purchasing fund shares through a Raymond James platform or account, or through an introducing broker-dealer or independent registered investment adviser for which Raymond James provides trade execution, clearance, and/or custody services, will be eligible only for the following load waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred, or back-end, sales charge waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this fund’s prospectus or SAI.

Front-end Sales Charge Waivers on Class A Shares available at Raymond James

Shares purchased in an investment advisory program.
Shares purchased within the same fund family through a systematic reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same fund (but not any other fund within the fund family).
Employees and registered representatives of Raymond James or its affiliates and their family members as designated by Raymond James.
Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (known as Rights of Reinstatement).
A shareholder in the Fund’s Class C shares will have their shares converted at net asset value to Class A shares (or the appropriate share class) of the Fund if the shares are no longer subject to a CDSC and the conversion is in line with the policies and procedures of Raymond James.

CDSC Waivers on Classes A, B and C shares available at Raymond James

Death or disability of the shareholder.
Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the fund’s prospectus.
Return of excess contributions from an IRA Account.
Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts due to the shareholder reaching age 70½ as described in the fund’s prospectus.
Shares sold to pay Raymond James fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Raymond James.
Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement.

Front-end load discounts available at Raymond James: breakpoints, and/or Rights of Accumulation, and/or Letters of Intent

Breakpoints as described in this prospectus.
Rights of accumulation which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts within the purchaser’s household at Raymond James. Eligible fund family assets not held at Raymond James may be included in the calculation of rights of accumulation calculation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets.
Letters of intent which allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within a fund family, over a 13-month time period. Eligible fund family assets not held at Raymond James may be included in the calculation of letters of intent only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets.


89




 
TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
 
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
 
July 30, 2019
 
 
Class A
 
Class C
 
Class Y
 
Institutional Class
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund
FFSAX
 
FRACX
 
MXIIX
 
TFSLX
Touchstone Focused Fund
TFOAX
 
TFFCX
 
TFFYX
 
TFFIX
Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund
TEQAX
 
TEQCX
 
TIQIX
 
TROCX
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund
TGVFX
 
TGVCX
 
TGVYX
 
TGVVX
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund
TEGAX
 
TOECX
 
TEGYX
 
TEGIX
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
TSMGX
 
TEGCX
 
TSEMX
 
TSEGX
 
This Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”) is not a prospectus and relates only to the above-referenced Funds (each, a “Fund” and, collectively, the “Funds”). It is intended to provide additional information regarding the activities and operations of Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”) and should be read in conjunction with the Funds’ prospectus dated July 30, 2019, as may be amended. The Funds’ audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, including the notes thereto and the report of Ernst & Young LLP thereon, included in the annual report to shareholders (the “Annual Report”), are hereby incorporated into this SAI by reference. A copy of the prospectus and the Annual Report may be obtained without charge by writing to the Trust at P.O. Box 9878, Providence, Rhode Island 02940, by calling 1.800.543.0407, or by downloading a copy at TouchstoneInvestments.com.




TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
Page
 
 

THE TRUST
3

PERMITTED INVESTMENTS AND RISK FACTORS
4

INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
33

TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST
37

THE ADVISOR
44

THE SUB-ADVISORS AND PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
46

THE ADMINISTRATOR
53

TOUCHSTONE SECURITIES
53

DISTRIBUTION PLANS AND SHAREHOLDER SERVICE ARRANGEMENTS
56

BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS
58

PROXY VOTING
59

CODE OF ETHICS
60

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
60

DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
60

DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
62

DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
62

CHOOSING A CLASS OF SHARES
63

OTHER PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION INFORMATION
66

DISTRIBUTIONS
68

FEDERAL INCOME TAXES
68

CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL SECURITY HOLDERS
78

CUSTODIAN
86

LEGAL COUNSEL
87

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
87

TRANSFER AND SUB-ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT
87

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
87

APPENDIX A: DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES RATINGS

APPENDIX B: PROXY VOTING POLICIES





THE TRUST
 
Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”) is an open-end management investment company that was organized as a Massachusetts business trust on November 18, 1982. This SAI relates to the following separate series of the Trust: Touchstone Flexible Income Fund (the “Flexible Income Fund”), Touchstone Focused Fund (the “Focused Fund”), Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund (the “Global ESG Equity Fund”), Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund (the “Growth Opportunities Fund”), Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund (the “Mid Cap Growth Fund”) and Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund (the “Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund”) (each, a “Fund”, and collectively, the “Funds”). Each Fund—except the Focused Fund, Growth Opportunities Fund and Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund—is a diversified open-end management investment company. Each of the Focused Fund, Growth Opportunities Fund, and Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund is a non-diversified open-end management investment company.
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc. (the "Advisor") is the investment advisor and administrator for each Fund. The Advisor has selected one or more sub-advisor(s) to manage, on a daily basis, the assets of each Fund. The Advisor has sub-contracted certain of the Trust complex's administrative and accounting services to The Bank of New York Mellon and the Trust's Transfer Agent services to BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (collectively referred to herein as "BNY Mellon"). Touchstone Securities, Inc. (“Touchstone Securities” or the “Distributor”) is the principal distributor of the Funds’ shares. Touchstone Securities is an affiliate of the Advisor.
 
The Trust offers four separate classes of shares: Classes A, C, Y, and Institutional Class. The shares of a Fund represent an interest in the same assets of that Fund. The shares have the same rights and are identical in all material respects except that (i) each class of shares may bear different (or no) distribution fees; (ii) each class of shares may be subject to different (or no) sales charges; (iii) certain other class specific expenses will be borne solely by the class to which such expenses are attributable, including transfer agent fees attributable to a specific class of shares, printing and postage expenses related to preparing and distributing materials to current shareholders of a specific class, registration fees incurred by a specific class of shares, the expenses of administrative personnel and services required to support the shareholders of a specific class, litigation or other legal expenses relating to a class of shares, Trustees’ fees or expenses incurred as a result of issues relating to a specific class of shares and accounting fees and expenses relating to a specific class of shares; (iv) each class has exclusive voting rights with respect to matters relating to its own distribution arrangements; and (v) certain classes offer different features and services to shareholders and may have different investment minimums. The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) may classify and reclassify the shares of a Fund into additional classes of shares at a future date.
 
Under Massachusetts law, under certain circumstances, shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust could be deemed to have the same type of personal liability for the obligations of the Trust as does a partner of a partnership. However, numerous investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), have been formed as Massachusetts business trusts and the Trust is not aware of an instance where such result has occurred. In addition, the Trust’s Declaration of Trust disclaims shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust and provides for the indemnification out of the Trust property for all losses and expenses of any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust. Moreover, it provides that the Trust will, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the Trust and satisfy any judgment thereon. As a result, and particularly because the Trust assets are readily marketable and ordinarily substantially exceed liabilities, management believes that the risk of shareholder liability is slight and limited to circumstances in which the Trust itself would be unable to meet its obligations. Management believes that, in view of the above, the risk of personal liability is remote.
 
History of the Funds
 
Mid Cap Growth Fund. On February 23, 2011, TCW Investment Management Company was removed as sub-advisor of the Mid Cap Growth Fund, and replaced with Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. (“Westfield”).
 
Growth Opportunities Fund. On July 18, 2006, the Growth Opportunities Fund replaced its previous sub-advisor, Mastrapasqua & Associates, Inc., with Westfield. Four years later, pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization dated July 15, 2010 between the Growth Opportunities Fund and the Touchstone Large Cap Core Equity Fund, the Growth Opportunities Fund acquired all of the assets and liabilities of the Touchstone Large Cap Core Equity Fund, which was terminated as a series of the Trust on October 22, 2010.
 
Focused Fund. Pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization dated December 9, 2011 between Old Mutual Focused Fund (the “Old Mutual Predecessor Fund”), a series of Old Mutual Funds II, and the Focused Fund, a series of the Trust, the Focused Fund acquired all of the assets and liabilities of the Old Mutual Predecessor Fund (the "Old Mutual Reorganization"). As a result of the Old Mutual Reorganization, the performance and accounting history of the Old Mutual Predecessor Fund was assumed by

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the Focused Fund. Shareholders of the Old Mutual Predecessor Fund who owned Class Z shares received Class Y shares of the Focused Fund in the Old Mutual Reorganization. Financial and performance information of the Old Mutual Predecessor Fund prior to December 9, 2011 included in the Focused Fund’s prospectus and this SAI is that of the Old Mutual Predecessor Fund. Prior to April 16, 2012, the Old Mutual Predecessor Fund was managed by an investment advisor and sub-advisor other than Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc., respectively. Pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization dated February 22, 2013, between the Touchstone Focused Fund, and the Focused Equity Fund, a series of Touchstone Funds Group Trust, the Touchstone Focused Fund acquired all of the assets and liabilities of the Touchstone Focused Equity Fund, and that fund was terminated as a series of the Touchstone Funds Group Trust on May 17, 2013.
 
Flexible Income Fund. Before the Flexible Income Fund commenced operations, all of the assets and liabilities of the Fifth Third Strategic Income Fund (the "Fifth Third Predecessor Fund") were transferred to the Flexible Income Fund in a tax-free reorganization as set forth in an agreement and plan of reorganization (the “Fifth Third Reorganization”) between the Trust, on behalf of the Flexible Income Fund, and Fifth Third Funds, on behalf of the Fifth Third Predecessor Fund. The Fifth Third Reorganization occurred on September 10, 2012. As a result of the Fifth Third Reorganization, the Flexible Income Fund assumed the performance and accounting history of the Fifth Third Predecessor Fund. Financial and performance information prior to September 10, 2012 included in the Flexible Income Fund’s prospectus and this SAI is that of the Fifth Third Predecessor Fund.
  
On May 31, 2013, the Touchstone Strategic Income Fund changed its name to the Touchstone Flexible Income Fund.
 
Global ESG Equity Fund. Effective May 4, 2015, the Fund changed its name to the Touchstone Sustainability and Impact Equity Fund.  At that time, the Fund adopted certain changes to its principal investment strategy and changed its sub-advisor to Rockefeller Capital Management (“Rockefeller”). Prior to these changes, the Fund was known as the Touchstone Large Cap Growth Fund.  The Fund had been previously sub-advised by Navellier & Associates, Inc., a sister company of Navellier Management, Inc., which was appointed as sub-advisor on October 6, 2003.

Effective July 29, 2019, the Sustainability and Impact Equity Fund changed its name to the Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund.

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund. The Fund's inception was May 9, 2014.
 
PERMITTED INVESTMENTS AND RISK FACTORS
 
Each Fund’s principal investment strategies and principal risks are described in the Funds’ prospectus. The following supplements the information contained in the prospectus concerning each Fund’s principal investment strategies and principal risks. In addition, although not principal strategies of the Funds, the Funds may invest in other types of securities and engage in other investment practices as described in the prospectus or in this SAI. Unless otherwise indicated, each Fund is permitted to invest in each of the investments listed below, or engage in each of the investment techniques listed below consistent with the Funds’ investment goals, investment limitations, policies and strategies. In addition to the investment limitations set forth under the section of this SAI entitled "Investment Limitations", the investment limitations below are considered to be non-fundamental policies, which may be changed at any time by a vote of the Trust’s Board, unless designated as a “Fundamental” policy. In addition, any stated percentage limitations are measured at the time of the purchase of a security.
 
ADRs, ADSs, EDRs, CDRs, and GDRs. American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) and American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”) are U.S. dollar-denominated receipts typically issued by domestic banks or trust companies that represent the deposit with those entities of securities of a foreign issuer. They are publicly traded on exchanges or over-the-counter in the United States. European Depositary Receipts (“EDRs”), which are sometimes referred to as Continental Depositary Receipts (“CDRs”), and Global Depositary Receipts (“GDRs”) may also be purchased by the Funds. EDRs, CDRs and GDRs are generally issued by foreign banks and evidence ownership of either foreign or domestic securities. Certain institutions issuing ADRs, ADSs, GDRs or EDRs may not be sponsored by the issuer of the underlying foreign securities. A non-sponsored depositary may not provide the same shareholder information that a sponsored depositary is required to provide under its contractual arrangements with the issuer of the underlying foreign securities. Holders of an unsponsored depositary receipt generally bear all the costs of the unsponsored facility. The depositary of an unsponsored facility frequently is under no obligation to distribute shareholder communications received from the issuer of the deposited security or to pass through to the holders of the receipts voting rights with respect to the deposited securities.

Asset-Backed Securities (“ABS”). ABS are secured by assets such as company receivables, truck and auto loans, leases and credit card receivables. Such securities are generally issued as pass-through certificates, which represent undivided fractional ownership interests in the underlying pools of assets. Such securities also may be debt instruments, which are also known as collateralized obligations and are generally issued as the debt of a special purpose entity, such as a trust, organized solely for the purpose of owning such assets and issuing such debt. Covered bonds are a type of asset backed security that is created from public

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sector loans or mortgage loans where the security is backed by a separate group of loans. Covered bonds typically carry a 2 to 10 year maturity rate and enjoy relatively high credit ratings, depending on the quality of the pool of loans backing the bond.

The credit quality of an asset-backed security transaction depends on the performance of the underlying assets. ABS can be structured with various forms of credit enhancement to address the possibility that some borrowers could miss payments or even default on their loans. Some ABS are subject to interest-rate risk and prepayment risk. A change in interest rates can affect the pace of payments on the underlying loans, which in turn, affects total return on the securities. ABS also carry credit or default risk. If many borrowers on the underlying loans default, losses could exceed the credit enhancement level and result in losses to investors in an ABS transaction. Finally, ABS have structure risk due to a unique characteristic known as early amortization, or early payout, risk. Built into the structure of most ABS are triggers for early payout, designed to protect investors from losses. These triggers are unique to each transaction and can include: a big rise in defaults on the underlying loans, a sharp drop in the credit enhancement level, or even the bankruptcy of the originator. Once early amortization begins, all incoming loan payments (after expenses are paid) are used to pay investors as quickly as possible based upon a predetermined priority of payment.

Bear Funds. The Funds may invest in bear funds. Bear funds are designed to allow investors to speculate on anticipated decreases in the S&P 500 ®  Index or another securities market index or to hedge an existing portfolio of securities or mutual fund shares. Due to the nature of bear funds, investors could experience substantial losses during sustained periods of rising equity prices. This is the opposite result expected of investing in a traditional equity mutual fund in a generally rising stock market. Bear funds employ certain investment techniques, including engaging in short sales and in certain transactions in stock index futures contracts, options on stock index futures contracts, and options on securities and stock indexes. Using these techniques, bear funds will generally incur a loss if the price of the underlying security or index increases between the date of the employment of the technique and the date on which the fund terminates the position. Bear funds will generally realize a gain if the underlying security or index declines in price between those dates. The amount of any gain or loss on an investment technique may be affected by any premium or amounts in lieu of dividends or interest that the Funds pay or receive as a result of the transaction.
 
Borrowing and Leveraging. The Funds may borrow money from banks (including their custodian bank) or from lenders to the extent permitted by applicable law. The 1940 Act requires the Fund to maintain asset coverage (total assets, including assets acquired with borrowed funds, less liabilities exclusive of borrowings) of at least 300% for all such borrowings. If at any time the value of the Fund's assets should fail to meet this 300% coverage test, the Fund, within three days (not including Sundays and holidays), will reduce the amount of its borrowings to the extent necessary to meet this test. The Fund will not make any borrowings or enter into a reverse repurchase agreement or dollar roll transaction that would cause its outstanding borrowings to exceed one-third of the value of its total assets.

Leveraging the Fund through borrowing or other means (e.g., certain uses of derivatives) creates an opportunity for increased net income, but at the same time, creates special risk considerations. Leveraging creates interest expenses for the Fund which could exceed the income from the assets retained. To the extent the income derived from securities purchased with borrowed funds exceeds the interest that the Fund will have to pay, the Fund's net income will be greater than if leveraging were not used. Conversely, if the income from the assets retained with borrowed funds is not sufficient to cover the cost of leveraging, the net income of the Fund will be less than if leveraging were not used, and therefore the amount available for distribution to shareholders as dividends will be reduced. Interest rate arbitrage transactions, reverse repurchase agreements and dollar roll transactions create leverage and must be fully collateralized by assets segregated or earmarked by the Fund’s custodian or otherwise “covered.” In an interest rate arbitrage transaction, the Fund borrows money at one interest rate and lends the proceeds at another, higher interest rate. These leverage transactions involve a number of risks; including the risk that the borrower will fail or otherwise become insolvent or that there will be a significant change in prevailing interest rates. The Fund may be required to liquidate portfolio securities at a time when it would be disadvantageous to do so in order to make payments with respect to any borrowing.
 
Business Development Companies (“BDCs”). BDCs are a type of closed-end fund regulated under the 1940 Act. BDCs are publicly-traded mezzanine/private equity funds that typically invest in and lend to small and medium-sized private companies that may not have access to public equity markets for capital raising. BDCs are unique in that at least 70% of their investments must be made to private U.S. businesses and BDCs are required to make available significant managerial assistance to their portfolio companies. BDCs are not taxed on income distributed to shareholders provided they comply with the applicable requirements of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). BDCs have expenses associated with their operations. Accordingly, the Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of any management and other expenses, and of any performance based fees, charged by the BDCs in which it invests.
 
Investments in BDCs are subject to various risks, including management’s ability to meet the BDC’s investment objective, and to manage the BDC’s portfolio when the underlying securities are redeemed or sold, during periods of market turmoil and as investors’ perceptions regarding a BDC or its underlying investments change. BDC shares are not redeemable at the option of the BDC shareholder and, as with shares of other closed-end funds; they may trade in the secondary market at a discount to their NAV.

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Canadian Income Trusts. A Canadian Income Trust is a qualified income trust as designated by the Canada Revenue Agency that operates as a profit-seeking corporation. This type of income trust, which pays out all earnings to unit holders before paying taxes, is usually traded publicly on a securities exchange. Canadian income trusts enjoy special Canadian corporate tax privileges.
 
Commodity Futures Trading Commission Regulation. The Flexible Income Fund and the Advisor currently intend to claim exclusion or exemption from registering with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the “CFTC”). The Fund complies with Rule 4.5 under the Commodity Exchange Act (the “CEA”), which allows a mutual fund to be conditionally excluded from the definition of the term “commodity pool.”  Similarly, so long as the Fund satisfies this conditional exclusion, the Advisor intends to comply with Rule 4.5, which allows the Advisor to be conditionally excluded from the definition of “commodity pool operator” (“CPO”), and Rule 4.14(a)(5), which provides a conditional exemption from registering as a “commodity trading advisor.”  The Advisor, on behalf of the Flexible Income Fund and itself, has filed a claim with the CFTC claiming the CPO exemption.  Therefore, neither the Fund nor the Advisor expect to become subject to registration under the CEA.
 
Common Stocks. Common stocks are securities that represent units of ownership in a company. Common stocks usually carry voting rights and earn dividends. Unlike preferred stocks, which are described below, dividends on common stocks are not fixed but are declared at the discretion of the board of directors of the issuing company.
 
Convertible Securities. Convertible securities are corporate securities that are exchangeable for a set number of another security at a pre-stated price. Convertible securities typically have characteristics of both fixed income and equity securities. Because of the conversion feature, the market value of a convertible security tends to move with the market value of the underlying stock. The value of a convertible security is also affected by prevailing interest rates, the credit quality of the issuer and any call provisions.
 
A synthetic convertible security is a combination investment in which a Fund purchases both (i) high-grade cash equivalents or a high grade debt obligation of an issuer or U.S. government securities and (ii) call options or warrants on the common stock of the same or different issuer with some or all of the anticipated interest income from the associated debt obligation that is earned over the holding period of the option or warrant.

While providing a fixed income stream (generally higher in yield than the income derivable from common stock but lower than that afforded by a similar non-convertible security), a convertible security also affords a shareholder the opportunity, through its conversion feature, to participate in the capital appreciation attendant upon a market price advance in the convertible security’s underlying common stock. A synthetic convertible position has similar investment characteristics, but may differ with respect to credit quality, time to maturity, trading characteristics and other factors. Because a Fund will create synthetic convertible positions only out of high grade fixed income securities, the credit rating associated with a Fund’s synthetic convertible investments is generally expected to be higher than that of the average convertible security, many of which are rated below high grade. However, because the options used to create synthetic convertible positions will generally have expirations between one month and three years of the time of purchase, the maturity of these positions will generally be shorter than average for convertible securities. Since the option component of a convertible security or synthetic convertible position is a wasting asset (in the sense of losing “time value” as maturity approaches), a synthetic convertible position may lose such value more rapidly than a convertible security of longer maturity; however, the gain in option value due to appreciation of the underlying stock may exceed such time value loss. The market price of the option component generally reflects these differences in maturities, and the Advisor and applicable sub-advisor take such differences into account when evaluating such positions. When a synthetic convertible position “matures” because of the expiration of the associated option, a Fund may extend the maturity by investing in a new option with longer maturity on the common stock of the same or different issuer. If a Fund does not so extend the maturity of a position, it may continue to hold the associated fixed income security.
 
Corporate Bonds. Corporations issue bonds and notes to raise money for working capital or for capital expenditures such as plant construction, equipment purchases and expansion. In return for the money loaned to the corporation by investors, the corporation promises to pay investors interest, and repay the principal amount of the bond or note.
 
Custody Receipts. The Funds may invest in custody receipts that represent corporate debt securities. Custody receipts, such as Morgan Stanley TRACERs, are derivative products which, in the aggregate, evidence direct ownership in a pool of securities. Typically, a sponsor will deposit a pool of securities with a custodian in exchange for custody receipts evidencing those securities. Generally the sponsor will then sell those custody receipts in negotiated transactions at varying prices that are determined at the time of sale. Each custody receipt evidences the individual securities in the pool, and the holder of a custody receipt generally will have all the rights and privileges of owners of those securities. Each holder of a custody receipt will be treated as directly purchasing its pro rata share of the securities in the pool, for an amount equal to the amount that such holder paid for its custody receipt. If a custody receipt is sold, a holder will be treated as having directly disposed of its pro rata share of the securities evidenced by the

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custody receipt. Additionally, the holder of a custody receipt may withdraw the securities represented by a custody receipt subject to certain conditions.
 
Custody receipts are generally subject to the same risks as those securities evidenced by the receipts which, in the case of the Funds, are corporate debt securities. Additionally, custody receipts may be less liquid than the underlying securities if the sponsor fails to maintain a trading market.
 
Cyber Security Risk.   The Funds and their service providers may be subject to operational and information security risks resulting from cyber security breaches. Cyber security breaches may result from deliberate cyber attacks, although unintentional events may have effects similar to those caused by cyber attacks. Cyber attacks may include the stealing or corrupting of data maintained online or digitally, denial-of-service attacks on Fund websites, the unauthorized release of confidential information or other operational disruption. Successful cyber attacks against, or security breaches of, a Fund or the Advisor, a sub-advisor, the Funds’ distributor, custodians, the transfer agent, selling agents and/or other third party service providers may adversely impact the Fund or its shareholders.  Similar types of cyber security risks are also present for issuers of securities or other instruments in which the Funds invest, which could result in material adverse consequences for such issuers, and may cause the Funds’ investment therein to lose value.
 
Derivatives.  The Funds may invest in various instruments that are commonly known as derivatives.  Generally, a derivative is a financial arrangement, the value of which is based on, or “derived” from, a traditional security, asset, or market index.  There are many different types of derivatives and many different ways to use them, and there is a range of risks associated with those uses.  Futures and options are commonly used both for traditional hedging purposes to attempt to limit exposure to changing interest rates, securities prices, or currency exchange rates and as a method of gaining exposure to a particular security, securities index or other financial instrument without investing directly in those instruments.  Some uses of derivatives may have the effect of creating leverage, which tends to magnify the portfolio effects of the underlying instrument’s price changes as market conditions change.  Leverage involves the use of a small amount of money to control a large amount of financial assets, and can lead to significant losses.  A sub-advisor will use derivatives only in circumstances where the sub-advisor believes they offer the most economic means of improving the risk/reward profile of the Fund.  Derivatives will not be used to acquire exposure to changes in the value of assets or indexes that by themselves would not be purchased for the Funds.  The use of derivatives for non-hedging purposes may be considered speculative.  A description of the specific derivatives that the Funds may use and some of their associated risks is discussed below under the captions "Equity Related Securities," "Foreign Securities—Forward Foreign Currency Contracts," "Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts," "Leveraging," "Options" and "Swap Agreements."
 
Equity-Linked Notes ("ELNs"). A Fund may purchase ELNs. The principal or coupon payment on an ELN is linked to the performance of an underlying security or index. ELNs may be used, among other things, to provide a Fund with exposure to international markets while providing a mechanism to reduce foreign tax or regulatory restrictions imposed on foreign investors. The risks associated with purchasing ELNs include the creditworthiness of the issuer and the risk of counterparty default. Further, a Fund’s ability to dispose of an ELN will depend on the availability of liquid markets in the instruments. The purchase and sale of an ELN is also subject to the risks regarding adverse market movements, possible intervention by governmental authorities, and the effects of other political and economic events.
 
Equity-Linked Warrants. Equity-linked warrants provide a way for investors to access markets where entry is difficult and time consuming due to regulation. Typically, a broker issues warrants to an investor and then purchases shares in the local market and issues a call warrant hedged on the underlying holding. If the investor exercises his call and closes his position, the shares are sold and the warrant is redeemed with the proceeds.
 
Each warrant represents one share of the underlying stock. Therefore, the price, performance and liquidity of the warrant are all directly linked to the underlying stock. The warrants can be redeemed for 100% of the value of the underlying stock (less transaction costs). Being American style warrants, they can be exercised at any time. The warrants are U.S. dollar denominated and priced daily on several international stock exchanges.
 
Equity-Related Securities. A Fund may invest in equity-related securities, including low-exercise-price options (“LEPOs”), low exercise price warrants (“LEPWs”), and participatory notes (“P-notes”) to gain exposure to issuers in certain emerging or frontier market countries. LEPOs, LEPWs, and P-notes are offshore derivative instruments issued to foreign institutional investors and their sub-accounts against underlying securities traded in emerging or frontier markets. These securities may be listed on an exchange or traded over-the-counter, and are similar to ADRs. As a result, the risks of investing in LEPOs, LEPWs, and P-notes are similar to depositary receipts risk and foreign securities risk in general. Specifically these securities entail both counterparty risk—the risk that the issuer of the LEPO, LEPW, or P-Note may not be able to fulfill its obligations or that the holder and counterparty or issuer may disagree as to the meaning or application of contractual terms—and liquidity risk—the risk that a liquid market may not exist for such securities.

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Eurobonds. A Eurobond is a bond denominated in U.S. dollars or another currency and sold to investors outside of the country whose currency is used. Eurobonds may be issued by government or corporate issuers, and are typically underwritten by banks and brokerage firms from numerous countries. While Eurobonds typically pay principal and interest in Eurodollars (U.S. dollars held in banks outside of the United States), they may pay principal and interest in other currencies.
 
Exchange-Traded Funds (“ETFs”). An ETF is a fund that holds a portfolio of common stocks and is often designed to track the performance of a particular securities index or sector of an index, like the S&P 500 ® Index or NASDAQ, or a portfolio of bonds that may be designed to track a bond index. Because they may be traded like stocks on a securities exchange (e.g., the New York Stock Exchange; the NYSE MKT or the NASDAQ Stock Market), ETFs may be purchased and sold throughout the trading day based on their market price. Each share of an ETF represents an undivided ownership interest in the portfolio held by an ETF. ETFs that track indices or sectors of indices hold either:
 
shares of all of the companies (or, for a fixed-income ETF, bonds) that are represented by a particular index in the same proportion that is represented in the index itself; or
shares of a sampling of the companies (or, for a fixed-income ETF, bonds) that are represented by a particular index in a proportion meant to track the performance of the entire index.
 
ETFs are generally registered as investment companies and issue large blocks of shares (typically 50,000) called “creation units” in exchange for a specified portfolio of the ETF’s underlying securities, plus a cash payment generally equal to accumulated dividends of the securities (net of expenses) up to the time of deposit. Creation units are redeemed in kind for a portfolio of the underlying securities (based on the ETF’s NAV), together with a cash payment generally equal to accumulated dividends as of the date of redemption. As investment companies, ETFs incur fees and expenses such as trustee fees, operating expenses, licensing fees, registration fees, and marketing expenses, each of which will be reflected in the NAV of ETFs. Accordingly, ETF shareholders pay their proportionate share of these expenses.
 
Foreign Securities. A Fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers and in sponsored and unsponsored ADRs and other depositary receipts. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers may subject the Fund to investment risks that differ in some respects from those related to investments in securities of U.S. issuers. Such risks include future adverse political and economic developments, possible imposition of withholding taxes on income, possible seizure, nationalization or expropriation of foreign deposits, possible establishment of exchange controls or taxation at the source or greater fluctuation in value due to changes in exchange rates. Foreign issuers of securities often engage in business practices different from those of domestic issuers of similar securities, and there may be less information publicly available about foreign issuers. In addition, foreign issuers are, generally speaking, subject to less government supervision and regulation than are those in the United States. Investments in securities of foreign issuers are frequently denominated in foreign currencies and the value of a Fund’s assets measured in U.S. dollars may be affected favorably or unfavorably by changes in currency rates and in exchange control regulations, and the Fund may incur costs in connection with conversions between various currencies.
 
Foreign Market Risk. The Funds may be subject to the risk that, because there are generally fewer investors on foreign exchanges and a smaller number of shares traded each day, it may be difficult for a Fund to buy and sell securities on those exchanges. In addition, prices of foreign securities may fluctuate more than prices of securities traded in the United States. Investments in foreign markets may also be adversely affected by governmental actions such as the imposition of punitive taxes. In addition, the governments of certain countries may prohibit or impose substantial restrictions on foreign investing in their capital markets or in certain industries. Any of these actions could severely affect security prices, impair a Fund’s ability to purchase or sell foreign securities or transfer a Fund’s assets or income back into the United States or otherwise adversely affect a Fund’s operations. Other potential foreign market risks include exchange controls, difficulties in pricing securities, defaults on foreign government securities, difficulties in enforcing favorable legal judgments in foreign courts and political and social conditions, such as diplomatic relations, confiscatory taxation, expropriation, limitation on the removal of funds or assets or imposition of (or change in) exchange control regulations. Legal remedies available to investors in certain foreign countries may be less extensive than those available to investors in the United States or other foreign countries. In addition, changes in government administrations or economic or monetary policies in the United States or abroad could result in appreciation or depreciation of portfolio securities and could favorably or adversely affect a Fund’s operations.
 
Public Availability of Information. In general, less information is publicly available with respect to foreign issuers than is available with respect to U.S. companies. Most foreign companies are also not subject to the uniform accounting and financial reporting requirements applicable to issuers in the United States. While the volume of transactions effected on foreign stock exchanges has increased in recent years, it remains appreciably below that of the New York Stock Exchange. Accordingly, a Fund’s foreign investments may be less liquid and their prices may be more volatile than comparable investments in securities in U.S. companies.

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In addition, there is generally less government supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers and issuers in foreign countries than in the United States.
 
Settlement Risk. Settlement and clearance procedures in certain foreign markets differ significantly from those in the United States. Foreign settlement procedures and trade regulations also may involve certain risks (such as delays in payment for or delivery of securities) not typically generated by the settlement of U.S. investments. Communications between the United States and certain non-U.S. countries may be unreliable, increasing the risk of delayed settlements or losses of security certificates in markets that still rely on physical settlement. Settlements in certain foreign countries at times have not kept pace with the number of securities transactions; these problems may make it difficult for a Fund to carry out transactions. If a Fund cannot settle or is delayed in settling a purchase of securities, it may miss attractive investment opportunities and certain of its assets may be uninvested with no return earned thereon for some period. If a Fund cannot settle or is delayed in settling a sale of securities, it may lose money if the value of the security then declines or, if it has contracted to sell the security to another party; a Fund could be liable to that party for any losses incurred. Dividends or interest on, or proceeds from the sale of, foreign securities may be subject to foreign taxes on income from sources in such countries.
 
Governmental Supervision and Regulation/Accounting Standards. Many foreign governments supervise and regulate stock exchanges, brokers and the sale of securities less than does the United States. Some countries may not have laws to protect investors comparable to the U.S. securities laws. For example, some foreign countries may have no laws or rules against insider trading. Insider trading occurs when a person buys or sells a company’s securities based on nonpublic information about that company. In addition, the U.S. government has from time to time in the past imposed restrictions, through penalties and otherwise, on foreign investments by U.S. investors. Accounting standards in other countries are not necessarily the same as in the United States. If the accounting standards in another country do not require as much detail as U.S. accounting standards, it may be harder for a Fund to completely and accurately determine a company’s financial condition. Also, brokerage commissions and other costs of buying or selling securities often are higher in foreign countries than they are in the United States. This reduces the amount a Fund can earn on its investments.
 
Foreign Currency Risk. While a Fund’s net assets are valued in U.S. dollars, the securities of foreign companies are frequently denominated in foreign currencies. Thus, a change in the value of a foreign currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a corresponding change in value of securities denominated in that currency. Some of the factors that may impair the investments denominated in a foreign currency are: (1) it may be expensive to convert foreign currencies into U.S. dollars and vice versa; (2) complex political and economic factors may significantly affect the values of various currencies, including U.S. dollars, and their exchange rates; (3) government intervention may increase risks involved in purchasing or selling foreign currency options, forward contracts and futures contracts, since exchange rates may not be free to fluctuate in response to other market forces; (4) there may be no systematic reporting of last sale information for foreign currencies or regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or other market sources be firm or revised on a timely basis; (5) available quotation information is generally representative of very large round-lot transactions in the inter-bank market and thus may not reflect exchange rates for smaller odd-lot transactions (less than $1 million) where rates may be less favorable; and (6) the inter-bank market in foreign currencies is a global, around-the-clock market. To the extent that a market is closed while the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, certain markets may not always reflect significant price and rate movements.
 
Forward Foreign Currency Contracts. A Fund may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to manage foreign currency exposure and as a hedge against possible variations in foreign exchange rates. A Fund may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to hedge a specific security transaction or to hedge a portfolio position. These contracts may be bought or sold to protect a Fund, to some degree, against possible losses resulting from an adverse change in the relationship between foreign currencies and the U.S. dollar. A Fund also may invest in foreign currency futures and in options on currencies. A forward contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency amount at a future date, agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the contract. A Fund may enter into a contract to sell, for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars or other appropriate currency, the amount of foreign currency approximating the value of some or all of a Fund’s securities denominated in such foreign currency.
 
By entering into forward foreign currency contracts, a Fund will seek to protect the value of its investment securities against a decline in the value of a currency. However, these forward foreign currency contracts will not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the securities. Rather, they simply establish a rate of exchange which one can obtain at some future point in time. Although such contracts tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged currency, they also tend to limit any potential gain which might result should the value of such currency increase. At the maturity of a forward contract, a Fund may either sell a portfolio security and make delivery of the foreign currency, or it may retain the security and terminate its contractual obligation to deliver the foreign currency by purchasing an “offsetting” contract with the same currency trader, obligating it to purchase, on the same maturity date, the same amount of the foreign currency. A Fund may realize a gain or loss from currency transactions.
 

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When entering into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security in a foreign currency, a Fund may enter into a forward foreign currency contract for the amount of the purchase or sale price to protect against variations, between the date the security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received, in the value of the foreign currency relative to the U.S. dollar or other foreign currency.
 
Also, when a Fund’s portfolio manager anticipates that a particular foreign currency may decline substantially relative to the U.S. dollar or other leading currencies, in order to reduce risk, a Fund may enter into a forward contract to sell, for a fixed amount, the amount of foreign currency approximating the value of its securities denominated in such foreign currency. With respect to any such forward foreign currency contract, it will not generally be possible to match precisely the amount covered by that contract and the value of the securities involved due to changes in the values of such securities resulting from market movements between the date the forward contract is entered into and the date it matures. In addition, while forward foreign currency contracts may offer protection from losses resulting from declines in value of a particular foreign currency, they also limit potential gains which might result from increases in the value of such currency. A Fund will also incur costs in connection with forward foreign currency contracts and conversions of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars. A Fund will place assets in a segregated account or otherwise earmark assets as cover to assure that its obligations under forward foreign currency contracts are covered.
 
Emerging Market Securities. Emerging market countries are generally countries that are included in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (“MSCI”) Emerging Markets Index, or otherwise excluded from the MSCI World Index. As of March 31, 2019, the countries in the MSCI World Index included: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The country composition of the MSCI Emerging Markets Index and the MSCI World Index can change over time. Frontier market countries, which are those emerging market countries that have the smallest, least mature economies and least developed capital markets, are generally countries that are included in the MSCI Frontier Markets Index.
 
Investments in the securities of issuers domiciled in countries with emerging capital markets involve certain additional risks that do not generally apply to investments in securities of issuers in more developed capital markets, such as (i) low or non-existent trading volume, resulting in a lack of liquidity and increased volatility in prices for such securities, as compared to securities of comparable issuers in more developed capital markets; (ii) uncertain national policies and social, political and economic instability, increasing the potential for expropriation of assets, confiscatory taxation, high rates of inflation or unfavorable diplomatic developments; (iii) possible fluctuations in exchange rates, differing legal systems and the existence or possible imposition of exchange controls, custodial restrictions or other foreign or U.S. governmental laws or restrictions applicable to such investments; (iv) national policies that may limit a Fund’s investment opportunities such as restrictions on investment in issuers or industries deemed sensitive to national interests; and (v) the lack or relatively early development of legal structures governing private and foreign investments and private property. In addition to withholding taxes on investment income, some countries with emerging markets may impose capital gains taxes on foreign investors.
 
Political and economic structures in emerging market countries may be undergoing significant evolution and rapid development, and these countries may lack the social, political and economic stability characteristic of more developed countries. In such a dynamic environment, there can be no assurance that any or all of these capital markets will continue to present viable investment opportunities for a Fund. Some of these countries may have in the past failed to recognize private property rights and have at times nationalized or expropriated the assets of private companies. There is no assurance that such expropriations will not reoccur. In such an event, it is possible that a Fund could lose the entire value of its investments in the affected market. As a result, the risks described above, including the risks of nationalization or expropriation of assets, may be heightened. In addition, unanticipated political or social developments may affect the value of investments in these countries and the availability to a Fund of additional investments. The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain of these countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in these countries may make investments in the countries illiquid and more volatile than investments in Japan or most Western European countries.

Also, there may be less publicly available information about issuers in emerging markets than would be available about issuers in more developed capital markets, and such issuers may not be subject to accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards and requirements comparable to those to which U.S. companies are subject. In certain countries with emerging capital markets, reporting standards vary widely. As a result, traditional investment measurements used in the United States, such as price/earnings ratios, may not be applicable. Emerging market securities may be substantially less liquid and more volatile than those of mature markets, and company shares may be held by a limited number of persons. This may adversely affect the timing and pricing of a Fund’s acquisition or disposal of securities.
 
Practices in relation to settlement of securities transactions in emerging markets involve higher risks than those in developed markets, in part because a Fund will need to use brokers and counterparties that are less well capitalized, and custody and registration

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of assets in some countries may be unreliable. The possibility of fraud, negligence, undue influence being exerted by the issuer or refusal to recognize ownership exists in some emerging markets, and, along with other factors, could result in ownership registration being completely lost. A Fund would absorb any loss resulting from such registration problems and may have no successful claim for compensation.

Risk of Investing in China A-shares (Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund only) . The Fund may invest in China A-shares of certain Chinese companies listed and traded on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (“SSE”) and the Shenzhen Stock Exchange ("SZSE") through the Shanghai-Hong Kong and the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect Program (“Stock Connect”). Stock Connect is a securities trading and clearing program developed by Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited ("HKEX"), the SSE, the SZSE and the China Securities Depository and Clearing Corporation Limited. Stock Connect facilitates foreign investment in the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”) via brokers in Hong Kong. Investors through Stock Connect are subject to PRC regulations and SSE listing rules, among others. These could include limitations on trading or suspension of trading. There are special considerations and risks associated with investing in A-shares via Stock Connect.

Quota Limitation Risk : Trades through Stock Connect are subject to daily quotas. If the daily quota is reached during continuous trading or the opening call session, new buy orders will be rejected for the remainder of the day. Thus, there is no guarantee that a buy order can be effectively placed through Stock Connect. Such limitations may restrict the Fund from investing in A-shares at the desired time or for the desired quantity, which could have an effect on the Fund’s capacity to successfully follow its investment strategy.

Block or Manual Trade Not Allowed : All trading must be conducted on SSE and/or SZSE, which means that no over-the-counter or manual trades are permitted. Investment opportunities may be limited because block trades, manual trades, reporting or internalization are not permitted for Stock Connect shares.

Clearing, Settlement and Custody Risks : The Hong Kong Securities Clearing Company Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of HKSCC and ChinaClear, the national central counterparty of China’s securities market that serves as a comprehensive network of clearing, settlement and stock holding infrastructure, establishes the clearing links. Both HKSCC and ChinaClear participate in facilitating the clearing and settlement of the cross-border trades of the other. In the event of ChinaClear defaulting, HKSCC will in good faith seek recovery of stocks and monies from ChinaClear through the accessible legal channels. In such an event, the Fund may not fully recover its losses. In addition, the Stock Connect program’s trading, clearance and settlement procedures are relatively untested in China, which could pose risks to the Fund, including uncertainty related to “single-sided settlement” procedures in which local sub-custodians receive settlement instructions from the Fund’s executing broker as opposed to the Fund’s custodian.

Overseas investors, such as the Fund, will not hold physical A-shares, but rather maintain their SSE securities with broker or custodial accounts with the HKSCC. Additionally, all trades of eligible Stock Connect A-shares must be settled in renminbi (RMB). This may require that investors have well-timed access to a reliable source of offshore RMB, which cannot always be guaranteed.

Nominee Arrangements and Legal Rights : Under a nominee structure, HKSCC is the nominee holder of the Stock Connect A-shares acquired by overseas investors, including the Fund. HKSCC will be the named registrar of the purchased shares. A-shares purchased through the Northbound Trading Link (i.e. non-Mainland investor market access channel) entitles foreign investors to proprietary rights and benefits in accordance with applicable laws. Under the Stock Connect guidelines, overseas investors may exercise their shareholder rights as beneficial owners of SSE securities in accordance with the laws and regulations of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Beneficial owners of SSE Securities may exercise their rights with the HKSCC as the nominee holder, including the right to call, participate in shareholders’ meetings, right to exercise voting rights, the right to receive dividends, amongst other rights.

Current PRC law does not expressly provide clear guidance for a beneficial owner under a nominee structure to pursue or prevent legal action. However, the HKSCC, as nominee holder of SSE Securities, may exercise shareholder rights and take legal actions for its foreign investors. The courts in China may find that the registrar, as a nominee or custodian, has full ownership of the Stock Connect shares. PRC laws have not distinguished between legal ownership and beneficial ownership, particularly regarding the Fund and its investors. Furthermore, there have been few cases involving a nominee account structure in the PRC courts. Other considerations regarding the rights and interests of the Fund relate to uncertain enforcement mechanisms under PRC law. Consequently, the Fund is not assured that its ownership of A-shares is in full possession at all times. Furthermore, the Fund may face delays or difficulties in enforcing its ownership rights in A-shares.

Tax & Expense Risks : Additional considerations include different fees, costs and taxes imposed on foreign investors purchasing A-shares through Stock Connect. The Fund’s investment may be subject to a number of tax rules. Application of these rules may be uncertain. Mainland China implemented tax reforms in recent years, and may amend or revise its existing tax laws in the future.

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These amendments may have retroactive effects. Changes in applicable Chinese tax law could reduce after-tax profits of the Fund. This could include reducing the after-tax profits of companies in China in which the Fund invests. Chinese taxes that may apply to the Fund's investments include income tax or withholding tax on dividends, interest or gains earned by the Fund. These various uncertainties in Chinese tax rules could result in unexpected tax liabilities for the Fund. Additionally, taxes and related expenses may be higher than comparable expenses and taxes imposed on foreign owners of other securities providing similar investment exposure.

Additional Considerations and Risks : There is a risk that information technology and networking systems will not properly function and that changes may occur as the market develops. Thus, A-shares trading may be disrupted if systems do not function properly. There may also be information technology capabilities and other risk management requirements specified by the relevant exchanges or clearinghouses. See "Emerging Markets Securities" above for more information on other risks.

Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. Futures contracts provide for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified amount of a specific security at a specified future time and at a specified price. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in exchange for a premium, to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price during the term of the option. A Fund may use futures contracts and related options for bona fide hedging purposes, to offset changes in the value of securities held or expected to be acquired or be disposed of, to minimize fluctuations in foreign currencies, or to gain exposure to a particular market or instrument. Some strategies reduce a Fund’s exposure to price fluctuations, while others tend to increase its exposure. A Fund will minimize the risk that it will be unable to close out a futures contract by only entering into futures contracts which are traded on national futures exchanges. In addition, a Fund will only sell covered futures contracts and options on futures contracts.
 
Stock and bond index futures are futures contracts for various stock and bond indices that are traded on registered securities exchanges. Stock and bond index futures contracts obligate the seller to deliver (and the purchaser to take) an amount of cash equal to a specific dollar amount times the difference between the value of a specific stock or bond index at the close of the last trading day of the contract and the price at which the agreement is made.
 
Stock and bond index futures contracts are bilateral agreements pursuant to which two parties agree to take or make delivery of an amount of cash equal to a specified dollar amount times the difference between the stock or bond index value at the close of trading of the contract and the price at which the futures contract is originally struck. No physical delivery of the stocks or bonds comprising the index is made; generally contracts are closed out prior to the expiration date of the contracts.
 
No price is paid upon entering into futures contracts. Instead, a Fund would be required to deposit an amount of cash or U.S. Treasury securities known as “initial margin.”  Subsequent payments, called “variation margin,” to and from the broker, would be made on a daily basis as the value of the futures position varies (a process known as “marking to market”). The margin is in the nature of a performance bond or good-faith deposit on a futures contract.
 
There are risks associated with these activities, including the following: (1) the success of a hedging strategy may depend on an ability to predict movements in the prices of individual securities, fluctuations in markets and movements in interest rates; (2) there may be an imperfect or no correlation between the changes in market value of the securities held by a Fund and the prices of futures and options on futures; (3) there may not be a liquid secondary market for a futures contract or option; (4) trading restrictions or limitations may be imposed by an exchange; and (5) government regulations may restrict trading in futures contracts and futures options.
 
A Fund may buy and sell futures contracts and related options to manage its exposure to changing interest rates and securities prices. Some strategies reduce a Fund’s exposure to price fluctuations, while others tend to increase its market exposure. Futures and options on futures can be volatile instruments and involve certain risks that could negatively impact a Fund’s return. When a Fund purchases or sells a futures contract, or sells an option thereon, a Fund is required to “cover” its position in order to limit the risk associated with the use of leverage and other related risks. To cover its position, a Fund may maintain with its custodian bank (and marked-to-market on a daily basis), a segregated account consisting of cash or liquid securities that, when added to any amounts deposited with a futures commission merchant as margin, are equal to the market value of the futures contract or otherwise “cover” its position in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act or the rules and SEC interpretations thereunder. If a Fund continues to engage in the described investment techniques and properly covers its investment in the manner described above, the segregated account or other form of coverage will function as a practical limit on the amount of leverage which a Fund may undertake and on the potential increase in the speculative character of a Funds’ outstanding investments. Additionally, such coverage will generally assure the availability of adequate funds to meet the obligations of a Fund arising from such investment activities.

Guaranteed Investment Contracts. The Funds may make investments in obligations issued by highly rated U.S. insurance companies, such as guaranteed investment contracts and similar funding agreements (collectively “GICs”). A GIC is a general

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obligation of the issuing insurance company and not a separate account. Under these contracts, a Fund makes cash contributions to a deposit fund of the insurance company’s general account. The insurance company then credits to the Fund on a monthly basis guaranteed interest that is based on an index. The GICs provide that this guaranteed interest will not be less than a certain minimum rate. GIC investments that do not provide for payment within seven days after notice are subject to the Fund’s policy regarding investments in illiquid securities.
 
Illiquid Securities. Subject to the limitations in the 1940 Act, the Funds may invest up to 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities. Illiquid securities are securities that cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the security.
 
Illiquid securities include demand instruments with demand notice periods exceeding seven days, securities for which there is no active secondary market, and repurchase agreements with maturities of over seven days in length. The Funds may invest in securities that are neither listed on a stock exchange nor traded over-the-counter, including privately placed securities. Investing in such unlisted securities, including investments in new and early stage companies, may involve a high degree of business and financial risk that can result in substantial losses. As a result of the absence of a public trading market for these securities, they may be less liquid than publicly traded securities. Because these types of securities are thinly traded, if at all, and market prices for these types of securities are generally not readily available, a Fund typically determines the price for these types of securities in good faith in accordance with policies and procedures adopted by the Board. Although these securities may be resold in privately negotiated transactions, the prices realized from these sales could be less than those originally paid by a Fund, or less than what may be considered the fair value of such securities. Further, companies whose securities are not publicly traded may not be subject to the disclosure and other investor protection requirements which might be applicable if their securities were publicly traded. If such securities are required to be registered under the securities laws of one or more jurisdictions before being resold, a Fund may be required to bear the expenses of registration.
 
In addition, the Funds believe that carefully selected investments in joint ventures, cooperatives, partnerships, private placements, unlisted securities and other similar situations (collectively, “special situations”) could enhance the Funds’ capital appreciation potential. To the extent these investments are deemed illiquid, the Funds’ investment in them will be consistent with their applicable restriction on investment in illiquid securities. Investments in special situations and certain other instruments may be liquid, as determined by the Funds’ Advisor or sub-advisors based on criteria approved by the Board.
 
Inflation-Protected Debt Securities. A Fund may invest in inflation-protected debt securities or inflation-indexed bonds. Inflation-protected debt securities or inflation-indexed bonds include securities of varying maturities issued by the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities, such as U.S. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (“TIPS”), as well as securities issued by other entities such as corporations, municipalities, foreign governments and foreign issuers. Typically, such securities are structured as fixed income securities whose value is periodically adjusted according to the rate of inflation. The following two structures are common: (i) the U.S. Treasury and some other issuers issue inflation-indexed bonds that accrue inflation into the principal value of the security and (ii) other issuers may pay out the Consumer Price Index (“CPI”) accruals as part of a semi-annual coupon. Other types of inflation-indexed bonds exist which use an inflation index other than the CPI.
 
Inflation-indexed bonds issued by the U.S. Treasury, such as TIPS, have maturities of approximately five, ten or thirty years, although it is possible that securities with other maturities will be issued in the future. Typically, TIPS pay interest on a semi-annual basis equal to a fixed percentage of the inflation-adjusted principal amount. For example, if a Fund purchased an inflation-indexed bond with a par value of $1,000 and a 3% real rate of return coupon (payable 1.5% semi-annually), and the rate of inflation over the first six months was 1%, the mid-year par value of the bond would be $1,010 and the first semi-annual interest payment would be $15.15 ($1,010 times 1.5%). If inflation during the second half of the year resulted in the whole year’s inflation equaling 3%, the end-of-year par value of the bond would be $1,030 and the second semi-annual interest payment would be $15.45 ($1,030 times 1.5%).
 
If the periodic adjustment rate measuring inflation falls, the principal value of inflation-indexed bonds will be adjusted downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a smaller principal amount) will be reduced. Repayment of the original bond principal upon maturity (as adjusted for inflation) is guaranteed in the case of TIPS, even during a period of deflation, although the inflation-adjusted principal received could be less than the inflation-adjusted principal that had accrued to the bond at the time of purchase. However, the current market value of the bonds is not guaranteed and will fluctuate. A Fund may invest in other inflation-related bonds which may or may not provide a similar guarantee. If a guarantee of principal is not provided, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal amount.
 
The value of inflation-indexed bonds is expected to change in response to changes in real interest rates. Real interest rates in turn are tied to the relationship between nominal interest rates and the rate of inflation. Therefore, if the rate of inflation rises at a faster rate than nominal interest rates, real interest rates might decline, leading to an increase in value of inflation-indexed bonds. In

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contrast, if nominal interest rates increase at a faster rate than inflation, real interest rates might rise, leading to a decrease in value of inflation-indexed bonds.
 
While inflation-indexed bonds are expected to be protected from long-term inflationary trends, short-term increases in inflation may lead to a decline in value. If interest rates rise due to reasons other than inflation (for example, due to changes in currency exchange rates), investors in these securities may not be protected to the extent that the increase is not reflected in the bond’s inflation measure.
 
The periodic adjustment of U.S. inflation-indexed bonds is tied to the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (“CPI-U”), which is calculated monthly by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The CPI-U is a measurement of changes in the cost of living, made up of components such as housing, food, transportation and energy.
 
Inflation-indexed bonds issued by a foreign government are generally adjusted to reflect a comparable inflation index calculated by that government. There can be no assurance that the CPI-U or a foreign inflation index will accurately measure the real rate of inflation in the prices of goods and services. Moreover, there can be no assurance that the rate of inflation in a foreign country will be correlated to the rate of inflation in the United States. If interest rates rise due to reasons other than inflation (for example, due to changes in currency exchange rates), investors in these securities may not be protected to the extent that the increase is not reflected in the bond’s inflation measure. Any increase in the principal amount of an inflation-indexed bond will be considered taxable ordinary income for federal income tax purposes, even though the holder does not receive its principal until maturity. See "Federal Income Taxes" for more information.
 
Initial Public Offerings (“IPOs”). Due to the typically small size of the IPO allocation available to the Funds and the nature and market capitalization of the companies involved in IPOs, the sub-advisors will often purchase IPO shares that would qualify as a permissible investment for a Fund but will, instead, decide to allocate those IPO purchases to other funds they advise. Any such allocation will be done in a fair and equitable manner according to a specific and consistent process. Because IPO shares frequently are volatile in price, a Fund may hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of a Fund’s portfolio and may lead to increased expenses to a Fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. By selling shares of an IPO, a Fund may realize taxable capital gains that it will subsequently distribute to shareholders.
 
Most IPOs involve a high degree of risk not normally associated with offerings of more seasoned companies. Companies involved in IPOs generally have limited operating histories, and their prospects for future profitability are uncertain. These companies often are engaged in new and evolving businesses and are particularly vulnerable to competition and to changes in technology, markets and economic conditions. They may be dependent on certain key managers and third-parties, need more personnel and other resources to manage growth and require significant additional capital. They may also be dependent on limited product lines and uncertain property rights and need regulatory approvals. Investors in IPOs can be affected by substantial dilution in the value of their shares, by sales of additional shares and by concentration of control in existing management and principal shareholders. Stock prices of IPOs can also be highly unstable, due to the absence of a prior public market, the small number of shares available for trading and limited investor information.
 
Interests in Publicly Traded Limited Partnerships. Interests in publicly traded limited partnerships (limited partnership interests or units) represent equity interests in the assets and earnings of the partnership’s trade or business. Unlike common stock in a corporation, limited partnership interests have limited or no voting rights. However, many of the risks of investing in common stocks are still applicable to investments in limited partnership interests. In addition, limited partnership interests are subject to risks not present in common stock. For example, income generated from limited partnerships deemed not to be “publicly traded” may not be considered “qualifying income” for purposes of the regulated investment company requirements under the Code, and may trigger adverse tax consequences (please refer to the "Federal Income Taxes" section of this SAI for a discussion of relevant tax risks). Also, since publicly traded limited partnerships are a less common form of organizational structure than corporations, the limited partnership units may be less liquid than publicly traded common stock. Also, because of the difference in organizational structure, the fair value of limited partnership units in a Fund’s portfolio may be based either upon the current market price of such units, or if there is no current market price, upon the pro rata value of the underlying assets of the partnership. Limited partnership units also have the risk that the limited partnership might, under certain circumstances, be treated as a general partnership giving rise to broader liability exposure to the limited partners for activities of the partnership. Further, the general partners of a limited partnership may be able to significantly change the business or asset structure of a limited partnership without the limited partners having any ability to disapprove any such changes. In certain limited partnerships, limited partners may also be required to return distributions previously made in the event that excess distributions have been made by the partnership, or in the event that the general partners, or their affiliates, are entitled to indemnification.
 
Interfund Lending. A SEC exemptive order permits the Funds to participate in an interfund lending program with other funds in the Touchstone family of funds. This program allows the Touchstone Funds to borrow money from, and lend money to, each other

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for temporary or emergency purposes, such as to satisfy redemption requests or to cover unanticipated cash shortfalls. A Fund may not borrow through the interfund lending program for leverage purposes. To the extent permitted by its investment objective, strategies, and policies, a Fund may (1) lend uninvested cash to other Touchstone Funds in an amount up to 15% of the lending Fund's net assets at the time of the loan (including lending up to 5% of its net assets to any single Touchstone Fund) and (2) borrow money from other Touchstone Funds provided that total outstanding borrowings from all sources do not exceed 33 1/3% of its total assets. A Fund may borrow through the interfund lending program on an unsecured basis (i.e., without posting collateral) if its aggregate borrowings from all sources immediately after the interfund borrowing represent 10% or less of the Fund’s total assets. However, if a Fund’s aggregate borrowings from all sources immediately after the interfund borrowing would exceed 10% of the Fund’s total assets, the Fund may borrow through the interfund lending program on a secured basis only. Any Fund that has outstanding interfund borrowings may not cause its outstanding borrowings, from all sources, to exceed 10% of its total assets without first securing each interfund loan. If a Fund has any outstanding secured borrowings from other sources, including another fund, at the time it requests an interfund loan, the Fund's interfund borrowing will be secured on at least an equal priority basis with at least an equivalent percentage of collateral to loan value as any outstanding collateralized loan.

Any loan made through the interfund lending program is required to be more beneficial to a borrowing Fund (i.e., at a lower interest rate) than borrowing from a bank and more beneficial to a lending Fund (i.e., at a higher rate of return) than an alternative short-term investment. The term of an interfund loan is limited to the time required to obtain sufficient cash to repay the loan through either the sale of the Fund's portfolio securities or net sales of Fund shares, but in no event more than seven days. In addition, an interfund loan is callable with one business day’s notice.

The limitations discussed above, other conditions of the SEC exemptive order, and related policies and procedures implemented by Touchstone are designed to minimize the risks associated with interfund lending for both borrowing Funds and lending Funds. However, no borrowing or lending activity is without risk. When a Fund borrows money from another Touchstone Fund, there is a risk that the loan could be called on one business day’s notice or not renewed, in which case the Fund may need to borrow from a bank at higher rates if an interfund loan were not available from another Touchstone Fund. Furthermore, a delay in repayment to a lending Fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional lending costs.

Investment Company Shares. Investment companies include open- and closed-end funds, exchange-traded funds, and any other pooled investment vehicle that meets the definition of an investment company under the 1940 Act, whether such companies are required to register under the 1940 Act or not. As a shareholder of another investment company, a Fund would be subject to the same risks as any other investor in that investment company. A Fund’s purchase of such investment company securities results in the layering of expenses, such that shareholders would indirectly bear a proportionate share of the operating expenses of such investment companies, including advisory fees, in addition to paying Fund expenses. Investments in registered investment company shares are subject to limitations prescribed by the 1940 Act and its rules, and applicable SEC staff interpretations or applicable exemptive relief granted by the SEC. The 1940 Act currently provides, in part, that a Fund generally may not purchase shares of a registered investment company if (a) such a purchase would cause a Fund to own in the aggregate more than 3% of the total outstanding voting stock of the investment company or (b) such a purchase would cause a Fund to have more than 5% of its total assets invested in the investment company or (c) more than 10% of a Fund’s total assets would be invested in the aggregate in all registered investment companies.
 
See also “Investment Limitations” and “Exchange-Traded Funds.”
 
LIBOR Transition Risk.  Certain instruments in which the Funds may invest may rely in some fashion upon the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR). The United Kingdom’s Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, has announced plans to phase out the use of LIBOR by the end of 2021. There remains uncertainty regarding the future utilization of LIBOR and the nature of any replacement rate, and any potential effects of the transition away from LIBOR on the Funds or on certain instruments in which the Funds invest are not known. The transition process may involve, among other things, increased volatility or illiquidity in markets for instruments that currently rely on LIBOR. The transition may also result in a reduction in the value of certain instruments held by the Funds or reduce the effectiveness of related Fund transactions such as hedges. Any such effects of the transition away from LIBOR, as well as other unforeseen effects, could result in losses to the Funds.

Loan Participation Notes. The Funds may invest in loan participation notes. A loan participation note represents participation in a corporate loan of a commercial bank with a remaining maturity of one year or less. Such loans must be to corporations in whose obligations the Funds may invest. Any participation purchased by a Fund must be issued by a bank in the United States with total assets exceeding $1 billion. When purchasing such instruments, the Fund may assume the credit risks associated with the original bank lender as well as the credit risks associated with the borrower. Investments in loan participations present the possibility that the Fund could be held liable as a co-lender under emerging legal theories of lender liability. In addition, if the loan is foreclosed, the Fund could be part owner of any collateral, and could bear the costs and liabilities of owning and disposing of the collateral.

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Loan participations are generally not rated by major rating agencies and may not be protected by securities laws. Also, loan participations are generally considered to be illiquid and are therefore subject to the Fund’s limitation on illiquid securities.
 
Lower-Rated Securities. A Fund may invest in lower-rated bonds commonly referred to as “junk bonds” or high-yield/high-risk securities. Lower-rated securities are defined as securities rated below the fourth highest rating category by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (“NRSRO”) or, if unrated, deemed to be of comparable quality by the Fund’s sub-advisor. Such obligations are speculative and may be in default. There may be no bottom limit on the ratings of high-yield securities that may be purchased or held by a Fund. Lower-rated or comparable unrated (i.e., high-yield) securities are more likely to react to developments affecting issuers than are more highly rated securities, which primarily react to movements in the general level of interest rates. The market values of fixed-income securities tend to vary inversely with the level of interest rates. Yields and market values of high-yield securities will fluctuate over time, reflecting not only changing interest rates but the market’s perception of credit quality and the outlook for economic growth. When economic conditions appear to be deteriorating, medium to lower-rated securities may decline in value due to heightened concern over credit quality, regardless of prevailing interest rates. Investors should carefully consider the relative risks of investing in high-yield securities and understand that such securities are not generally meant for short-term investing.
 
Adverse economic developments can disrupt the market for high-yield securities, and severely affect the ability of issuers, especially highly leveraged issuers, to service their debt obligations or to repay their obligations upon maturity which may lead to a higher incidence of default on such securities. In addition, the secondary market for high-yield securities, which is concentrated in relatively few market makers, may not be as liquid as the secondary market for more highly rated securities. As a result, a Fund could find it more difficult to sell these securities or may be able to sell the securities only at prices lower than if such securities were widely traded. Furthermore, a Fund may experience difficulty in valuing certain securities at certain times. Prices realized upon the sale of such lower-rated or unrated securities, under these circumstances, may be less than the prices used in calculating each Fund’s NAV.
 
Lower-rated or unrated debt obligations also present risks based on payment expectations. If an issuer calls the obligations for redemption, a Fund may have to replace the security with a lower yielding security, resulting in a decreased return for investors. If a Fund experiences unexpected net redemptions, it may be forced to sell its higher rated securities, resulting in a decline in the overall credit quality of a Fund’s investment portfolio and increasing the exposure of a Fund to the risks of high-yield securities.
 
Growth of High-Yield, High-Risk Bond Market: The widespread expansion of government, consumer and corporate debt within the U.S. economy has made the corporate sector more vulnerable to economic downturns or increased interest rates. Further, an economic downturn could severely disrupt the market for lower-rated bonds and adversely affect the value of outstanding bonds and the ability of the issuers to repay principal and interest. The market for lower-rated securities may be less active, causing market price volatility and limited liquidity in the secondary market. This may limit a Fund’s ability to sell such securities at their market value. In addition, the market for these securities may be adversely affected by legislative and regulatory developments. Credit quality in the junk bond market can change suddenly and unexpectedly, and even recently issued credit ratings may not fully reflect the actual risks imposed by a particular security.
 
Sensitivity to Interest Rate and Economic Changes: Lower-rated bonds are very sensitive to adverse economic changes and corporate developments. During an economic downturn or substantial period of rising interest rates, highly leveraged issuers may experience financial stress that would adversely affect their ability to service their principal and interest payment obligations, to meet projected business goals, and to obtain additional financing. If the issuer of a bond defaulted on its obligations to pay interest or principal or entered into bankruptcy proceedings, a Fund may incur losses or expenses in seeking recovery of amounts owed to it. In addition, periods of economic uncertainty and change can be expected to result in increased volatility of market prices of high-yield, high-risk bonds and a Fund’s NAV.
 
Payment Expectations: High-yield, high-risk bonds may contain redemption or call provisions. If an issuer exercised these provisions in a declining interest rate market, a Fund would have to replace the security with a lower yielding security, resulting in a decreased return for investors. Conversely, a high-yield, high-risk bond’s value will decrease in a rising interest rate market, as will the value of a Fund’s assets. If a Fund experiences significant unexpected net redemptions, this may force it to sell high-yield, high-risk bonds without regard to their investment merits, thereby decreasing the asset base upon which expenses can be spread and possibly reducing a Fund’s rate of return.
 
Taxes: A Fund may purchase debt securities (such as zero-coupon or pay-in-kind securities) that contain original issue discount. Original issue discount that accrues in a taxable year is treated as earned by a Fund and therefore is subject to the distribution requirements of the Code even though a Fund has not received any interest payments on such obligations during that period. Because the original issue discount earned by a Fund in a taxable year is not represented by cash, a Fund may have to dispose of other securities and use the proceeds to make distributions to shareholders. In the event a Fund realizes net capital gains from such

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transactions, its shareholders may receive a larger capital gain distribution, if any, than they would have received in the absence of such transactions. See "Federal Income Taxes" for more information.
 
Market Disruption. During periods of extreme market volatility, prices of securities held by the Funds may be negatively impacted due to imbalances between market participants seeking to sell the same or similar securities and market participants willing or able to buy such securities. As a result, the market prices of securities held by the Funds could decline, at times without regard to the financial condition of or specific events impacting the issuer of the security.
 
Federal, state, and other governments, their regulatory agencies, or self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which the Fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Legislation or regulation may also change the way in which the Funds themselves are regulated. Such legislation or regulation could limit or preclude the Funds’ ability to achieve their investment goals.
 
Governments or their agencies may also acquire distressed assets from financial institutions and acquire ownership interests in those institutions. The implications of government ownership and disposition of these assets are unclear, and such a program may have positive or negative effects on the liquidity, valuation and performance of the Funds’ portfolio holdings. Furthermore, volatile financial markets can expose the Funds to greater market and liquidity risk and potential difficulty in valuing portfolio instruments held by the Funds. The Funds have established procedures to assess the liquidity of portfolio holdings and to value instruments for which market prices may not be readily available. The Advisor and sub-advisors will monitor developments and seek to manage the Funds in a manner consistent with achieving the Funds’ investment goals, but there can be no assurance that they will be successful in doing so.
 
Micro-Cap Securities. The Funds may invest in companies whose total market capitalization at the time of investment is generally between $30 million and $500 million, referred to as micro-cap companies. Micro-cap companies may not be well-known to the investing public, may not have significant institutional ownership and may have cyclical, static or only moderate growth prospects. Micro-cap companies may have greater risk and volatility than large companies and may lack the management depth of larger, mature issuers. Micro-cap companies may have relatively small revenues and limited product lines, markets, or financial resources, and their securities may trade less frequently and in more limited volume than those of larger, more mature companies. In addition, micro-cap companies may be developing or marketing new products or services for which markets are not yet established and may never become established. As a result, the prices of their securities may fluctuate more than those of larger issuers.
 
Money Market Instruments. Money market securities are high-quality, dollar-denominated, short-term debt instruments. They include: (i) bankers’ acceptances, certificates of deposits, notes and time deposits of highly-rated U.S. banks and U.S. branches of foreign banks; (ii) U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations issued or guaranteed by the agencies and instrumentalities of the U.S. government; (iii) high-quality commercial paper issued by U.S. and foreign corporations; (iv) debt obligations with a maturity of one year or less issued by corporations with outstanding high-quality commercial paper ratings; and (v) repurchase agreements involving any of the foregoing obligations entered into with highly-rated banks and broker-dealers.
 
Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities.
 
Asset-Backed Securities: Asset-backed securities ("ABS") are secured by non-mortgage assets such as company receivables, truck and auto loans, leases and credit card receivables. Such securities are generally issued as pass-through certificates, which represent undivided fractional ownership interests in the underlying pools of assets. Such securities also may be debt instruments, which are also known as collateralized obligations and are generally issued as the debt of a special purpose entity, such as a trust, organized solely for the purpose of owning such assets and issuing such debt. Covered bonds are a type of asset backed security that is created from public sector loans or mortgage loans where the security is backed by a separate group of loans. Covered bonds typically carry a 2 to 10 year maturity rate and enjoy relatively high credit ratings, depending on the quality of the pool of loans backing the bond.
 
The credit quality of an ABS transaction depends on the performance of the underlying assets. ABS can be structured with various forms of credit enhancement to address the possibility that some borrowers could miss payments or even default on their loans. Some ABS are subject to interest-rate risk and prepayment risk. A change in interest rates can affect the pace of payments on the underlying loans, which in turn, affects total return on the securities. ABS also carry credit or default risk. If many borrowers on the underlying loans default, losses could exceed the credit enhancement level and result in losses to investors in an ABS transaction. Finally, ABS have structure risk due to a unique characteristic known as early amortization, or early payout, risk. Built into the structure of most ABS are triggers for early payout, designed to protect investors from losses. These triggers are unique to each transaction and can include: a big rise in defaults on the underlying loans, a sharp drop in the credit enhancement level, or even the bankruptcy of the originator. Once early amortization begins, all incoming loan payments (after expenses are paid) are used to pay investors as quickly as possible based upon a predetermined priority of payment.

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Mortgage Pass-Through Securities: Interests in pools of mortgage-related securities differ from other forms of debt securities, which normally provide for periodic payment of interest in fixed amounts with principal payments at maturity or specified call dates. Instead, these securities provide a monthly payment which consists of both interest and principal payments. In effect, these payments are a “pass-through” of the monthly payments made by the individual borrowers on their residential or commercial mortgage loans, net of any fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of such securities. Additional payments are caused by repayments of principal resulting from the sale of the underlying property, refinancing or foreclosure, net of fees or costs which may be incurred. Some mortgage-related securities (such as securities issued by Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA) (“Ginnie Mae”)) are described as “modified pass-through.”  These securities entitle the holder to receive all interest and principal payments owed on the mortgage pool, net of certain fees, at the scheduled payment dates regardless of whether or not the mortgagor actually makes the payment.
 
The rate of pre-payments on underlying mortgages will affect the price and volatility of a mortgage-related security, and may have the effect of shortening or extending the effective duration of the security relative to what was anticipated at the time of purchase. To the extent that unanticipated rates of pre-payment on underlying mortgages increase the effective duration of a mortgage-related security, the volatility of such security can be expected to increase. The residential mortgage market in the United States has experienced difficulties in recent years that may adversely affect the performance and market value of certain of a Fund’s mortgage-related investments. Delinquencies and losses on residential mortgage loans (especially subprime and second-lien mortgage loans) generally have increased and may continue to increase, and a decline in or flattening of housing values (as has been experienced and may continue to be experienced in many housing markets) may exacerbate such delinquencies and losses. Borrowers with adjustable rate mortgage loans are more sensitive to changes in interest rates, which affect their monthly mortgage payments, and may be unable to secure replacement mortgages at comparably low interest rates. Also, a number of residential mortgage loan originators have experienced serious financial difficulties or bankruptcy. Consequently, reduced investor demand for mortgage loans and mortgage-related securities and increased investor yield requirements have caused limited liquidity in the secondary market for mortgage-related securities, which can adversely affect the market value of mortgage-related securities. It is possible that such limited liquidity in such secondary markets could continue or worsen.
 
Government Pass-Through Securities: Government pass-through securities are securities that are issued or guaranteed by a U.S. government agency representing an interest in a pool of mortgage loans. The primary issuers or guarantors of these mortgage-backed securities are Ginnie Mae, Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA) (“Fannie Mae”), and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC) (“Freddie Mac”). Ginnie Mae, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guarantee timely distributions of interest to certificate holders. Ginnie Mae and Fannie Mae also guarantee timely distributions of scheduled principal. Freddie Mac generally guarantees only the ultimate collection of principal of the underlying mortgage loan. Certain federal agencies, such as Ginnie Mae, have been established as instrumentalities of the United States government to supervise and finance certain types of activities. Issues of these agencies, while not direct obligations of the United States government, are either backed by the full faith and credit of the United States (e.g., Ginnie Mae securities) or supported by the issuing agencies’ right to borrow from the U.S. Treasury. The issues of other agencies are supported by the credit of the instrumentality (e.g., Fannie Mae securities). Government and private guarantees do not extend to the securities’ value, which is likely to vary inversely with fluctuations in interest rates.
There are a number of important differences among the agencies and instrumentalities of the U.S. government that issue mortgage-backed securities and among the securities that they issue. Mortgage-related securities issued by Ginnie Mae include GNMA Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates (also known as “Ginnie Mae Pass-Throughs”) which are guaranteed as to the timely payment of principal and interest by Ginnie Mae and such guarantee is backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. Ginnie Mae Pass-Throughs are created by an “issuer,” which is a Federal Housing Administration (“FHA”) approved mortgagee that also meets criteria imposed by Ginnie Mae. The issuer assembles a pool of FHA, Farmers’ Home Administration or Veterans’ Administration (“VA”) insured or guaranteed mortgages which are homogeneous as to interest rate, maturity and type of dwelling. Upon application by the issuer, and after approval by Ginnie Mae of the pool, Ginnie Mae provides its commitment to guarantee timely payment of principal and interest on the Ginnie Mae Pass-Throughs backed by the mortgages included in the pool. The Ginnie Mae Pass-Throughs, endorsed by Ginnie Mae, then are sold by the issuer through securities dealers. Ginnie Mae Pass-Throughs bear a stated “coupon rate” which represents the effective FHA-VA mortgage rate at the time of issuance, less fees from Ginnie Mae and the issuer. Ginnie Mae is authorized under the National Housing Act to guarantee timely payment of principal and interest on Ginnie Mae Pass-Throughs. This guarantee is backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government. Ginnie Mae may borrow Treasury funds to the extent needed to make payments under its guarantee. When mortgages in the pool underlying a Ginnie Mae Pass-Through are prepaid by mortgagors or by result of foreclosure, such principal payments are passed through to the certificate holders. Accordingly, the life of the Ginnie Mae Pass-Through is likely to be substantially shorter than the stated maturity of the mortgages in the underlying pool. Because of such variation in prepayment rates, it is not possible to predict the life of a particular Ginnie Mae Pass-Through. Payments to holders of Ginnie Mae Pass-Throughs consist of the monthly distributions of interest and principal less the fees of Ginnie Mae and the issuer. The actual yield to be earned by a holder of a Ginnie Mae Pass-Through is calculated by dividing interest payments by the purchase price paid for the Ginnie Mae Pass-Through (which may be at a premium or a discount from the face value of the certificate). Monthly distributions of interest, as contrasted to semi-annual

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distributions which are common for other fixed interest investments, have the effect of compounding and thereby raising the effective annual yield earned on Ginnie Mae Pass-Throughs.
 
Mortgage-related securities issued by Fannie Mae include Fannie Mae Guaranteed Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates (also known as “Fannie Mae Pass-Throughs”) that are solely the obligations of Fannie Mae and are not backed by or entitled to the full faith and credit of the United States. Fannie Mae Pass-Throughs are guaranteed as to timely payment of the principal and interest by Fannie Mae.
 
Mortgage-related securities issued by Freddie Mac include FHLMC Mortgage Participation Certificates (also known as “Freddie Mac PCs”). Freddie Mac PCs are not guaranteed by the United States or by any Federal Home Loan Banks and do not constitute a debt or obligation of the United States or of any Federal Home Loan Bank. Freddie Mac PCs entitle the holder to timely payment of interest, which is guaranteed by Freddie Mac. Freddie Mac guarantees either ultimate collection or timely payment of all principal payments on the underlying mortgage loans. When Freddie Mac does not guarantee timely payment of principal, Freddie Mac may remit the amount due on account of its guarantee of ultimate payment of principal at any time after default on an underlying mortgage, but in no event later than one year after it becomes payable.
 
Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits (“REMICs”). REMICs are private entities formed for the purpose of holding a fixed pool of mortgages secured by interests in real property. For Freddie Mac REMIC certificates, Freddie Mac guarantees the timely payment of interest, and also guarantees the payment of principal as payments are required to be made on the underlying mortgage participation certificates. Fannie Mae REMIC certificates are issued and guaranteed as to timely distribution of principal and interest by Fannie Mae.
 
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations (“CMOs”). A CMO is a debt obligation of a legal entity that is collateralized by mortgages and divided into classes. Similar to a bond, interest and prepaid principal is paid, in most cases, on a monthly basis. CMOs may be collateralized by whole mortgage loans or private mortgage bonds, but are more typically collateralized by portfolios of mortgage pass-through securities guaranteed by GNMA, Freddie Mac, or Fannie Mae, and their income streams.
 
CMOs are structured into multiple classes, often referred to as “tranches,” with each class bearing a different stated maturity and entitled to a different schedule for payments of principal and interest, including pre-payments. Actual maturity and average life will depend upon the pre-payment experience of the collateral. In the case of certain CMOs (known as “sequential pay” CMOs), payments of principal received from the pool of underlying mortgages, including pre-payments, are applied to the classes of CMOs in the order of their respective final distribution dates. Thus, no payment of principal will be made on any class of sequential pay CMOs until all other classes having an earlier final distribution date have been paid in full.
 
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities (“CMBS”). CMBS include securities that reflect an interest in, and are secured by, mortgage loans on commercial real property. The market for CMBS developed more recently and in terms of total outstanding principal amount of issues is relatively small compared to the market for residential single-family mortgage-backed securities. Many of the risks of investing in CMBS reflect the risks of investing in the real estate securing the underlying mortgage loans. These risks reflect the effects of local and other economic conditions on real estate markets, the ability of tenants to make loan payments, and the ability of a property to attract and retain tenants. CMBS may be less liquid and exhibit greater price volatility than other types of mortgage- or asset-backed securities.

Mortgage Dollar Rolls. Mortgage “dollar rolls” are transactions in which mortgage-backed securities are sold for delivery in the current month and the seller simultaneously contracts to repurchase substantially similar securities on a specified future date. The difference between the sale price and the purchase price (plus any interest earned on the cash proceeds of the sale) is netted against the interest income foregone on the securities sold to arrive at an implied borrowing rate. Alternatively, the sale and purchase transactions can be executed at the same price, with a Fund being paid a fee as consideration for entering into the commitment to purchase. Mortgage dollar rolls may be renewed prior to cash settlement and initially may involve only a firm commitment agreement by a Fund to buy a security. If the broker-dealer to whom a Fund sells the security becomes insolvent, the Fund’s right to repurchase the security may be restricted. Other risks involved in entering into mortgage dollar rolls include the risk that the value of the security may change adversely over the term of the mortgage dollar roll and that the security a Fund is required to repurchase may be worth less than the security that the Fund originally held. A Fund will place U.S. government or other liquid securities in a segregated account in an amount sufficient to cover its repurchase obligation or otherwise “cover” its position in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act or the rules and SEC interpretations thereunder.
 
Stripped Mortgage-Backed Securities (“SMBS”). SMBS are derivative multi-class mortgage securities. SMBS may be issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government, or by private originators of, or investors in, mortgage loans, including savings and loan associations, mortgage banks, commercial banks, investment banks and special purpose entities of the foregoing. SMBS are usually structured with two classes that receive different proportions of the interest and principal distributions on a pool

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of mortgage assets. A common type of SMBS will have one class receiving some of the interest and most of the principal from the mortgage assets, while the other class will receive most of the interest and the remainder of the principal.
 
In the most extreme case, one class will receive all of the interest (the interest-only or “IO” class), while the other class will receive the entire principal (the principal-only or “PO” class). The yield to maturity on an IO class is extremely sensitive to the rate of principal payments (including pre-payments) on the related underlying mortgage assets, and a rapid rate of principal payments may have a material adverse effect on a Fund’s yield to maturity from these securities. If the assets underlying the interest-only securities experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, a Fund may fail to recoup fully its initial investment in these securities. Conversely, principal-only securities tend to increase in value if prepayments are greater than anticipated and decline if prepayments are slower than anticipated. The secondary market for SMBS may be more volatile and less liquid than that for other mortgage-backed securities, potentially limiting a Fund’s ability to buy or sell these securities at any particular time.
 
Collateralized Loan Obligations (“CLOs”). A CLO is a type of asset-backed security that is an obligation of a trust typically collateralized by pools of loans, which may include domestic and foreign senior secured and unsecured loans and subordinate corporate loans, including loans that may be rated below investment grade, or equivalent unrated loans. The cash flows from the trust are split into two or more portions, called tranches, which vary in risk and yield. The riskier portion is the residual, or “equity,” tranche, which bears some or all of the risk of default by the loans in the trust, and therefore protects the other more senior tranches from default in all but the most severe circumstances. Since it is partially protected from defaults, a senior tranche of a CLO trust typically has higher ratings and lower yields than its underlying securities, and can be rated investment grade. Despite the protection provided by the equity tranche, senior CLO tranches can experience substantial losses due to actual defaults, increased sensitivity to defaults due to collateral default, the total loss of the equity tranche due to losses in the collateral, market anticipation of defaults, fraud by the trust, and the illiquidity of CLO securities.
 
The risks of an investment in a CLO largely depend on the type of underlying collateral securities and the tranche in which a Fund invests. Typically, CLOs are privately offered and sold, and thus are not registered under the securities laws. As a result, a Fund may characterize its investments in CLOs as illiquid, unless an active dealer market for a particular CLO allows the CLO to be purchased and sold in Rule 144A transactions. CLOs are subject to the typical risks associated with debt instruments (i.e., interest rate risk and credit risk). Additional risks of CLOs include (i) the possibility that distributions from collateral securities will be insufficient to make interest or other payments, (ii) a decline in the quality of the collateral, and (iii) the possibility that a Fund may invest in a subordinate tranche of a CLO. In addition, due to the complex nature of a CLO, an investment in a CLO may not perform as expected. An investment in a CLO also is subject to the risk that the issuer and the investors may interpret the terms of the instrument differently, giving rise to disputes.
 
Municipal Securities. Municipal securities consist of (i) debt obligations issued by or on behalf of public authorities to obtain funds to be used for various public facilities, for refunding outstanding obligations, for general operating expenses, and for lending such funds to other public institutions and facilities; and (ii) certain private activity and industrial development bonds issued by or on behalf of public authorities to obtain funds to provide for the construction, equipment, repair, or improvement of privately operated facilities. Municipal notes include general obligation notes, tax anticipation notes, revenue anticipation notes, bond anticipation notes, certificates of indebtedness, demand notes and construction loan notes and participation interests in municipal notes. Municipal bonds include general obligation bonds, revenue or special obligation bonds, private activity and industrial development bonds, and participation interests in municipal bonds. General obligation bonds are backed by the taxing power of the issuing municipality. Revenue bonds are backed by the revenues of a project or facility. The payment of principal and interest on private activity and industrial development bonds generally is dependent solely on the ability of the facility’s user to meet its financial obligations and the pledge, if any, of real and personal property so financed as security for such payment. Yields on municipal securities are the product of a variety of factors, including the general conditions of the money market and of the municipal bond and municipal note markets, the size of a particular offering, the maturity of the obligation and the rating of the issue. Although the interest on municipal securities may be exempt from federal income tax, dividends paid by a Fund to its shareholders may not be tax-exempt.
 
General Obligation Securities. General Obligation Securities are backed by the taxing power of the issuing municipality and are considered the safest type of municipal bond. The proceeds from general obligation securities are used to fund a wide range of public projects, including the construction or improvement of schools, highways and roads, and water and sewer systems.
 
Revenue or Special Obligation Securities. Revenue or Special Obligation Securities are backed by the revenues of a specific project or facility (e.g . , tolls from a toll bridge). The proceeds from revenue or special obligation securities are used to fund a wide variety of capital projects, including electric, gas, water and sewer systems; highways, bridges and tunnels; port and airport facilities; colleges and universities; and hospitals. Many municipal issuers also establish a debt service reserve fund from which principal and interest payments are made. Further security may be available in the form of the state’s ability, without obligation, to make up deficits in the reserve fund.

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Municipal Lease Obligations. Municipal Lease Obligations may take the form of a lease, an installment purchase or a conditional sale contract issued by state and local governments and authorities to acquire land, equipment and facilities. Usually, a Fund will purchase a participation interest in a municipal lease obligation from a bank or other financial intermediary. The participation interest gives the holder a pro-rata, undivided interest in the total amount of the obligation.
 
Municipal leases frequently have risks distinct from those associated with general obligation or revenue bonds. The interest income from the lease obligation may become taxable if the lease is assigned. Also, to free the municipal issuer from constitutional or statutory debt issuance limitations, many leases and contracts include non-appropriation clauses providing that the municipality has no obligation to make future payments under the lease or contract unless money is appropriated for that purpose by the municipality on a yearly or other periodic basis. Finally, the lease may be illiquid.
 
Bond Anticipation Notes. Bond Anticipation Notes are normally issued to provide interim financing until long-term financing can be arranged. The long-term bonds then provide money for the repayment of the notes.
 
Tax Anticipation Notes. Tax Anticipation Notes finance working capital needs of municipalities and are issued in anticipation of various seasonal tax revenues, to be payable for these specific future taxes.
 
Revenue Anticipation Notes. Revenue Anticipation Notes are issued in expectation of receipt of other kinds of revenue, such as federal revenues available under the Federal Revenue Sharing Program.
 
Industrial Development Bonds (“IDBs”) and Private Activity Bonds (“PABs”). IDBs and PABs are specific types of revenue bonds issued on or behalf of public authorities to finance various privately operated facilities such as educational, hospital or housing facilities, local facilities for water supply, gas, electricity, sewage or solid waste disposal, and industrial or commercial facilities. PABs generally are such bonds issued after April 15, 1986. These obligations are included within the term “municipal bonds” if the interest paid on them is exempt from federal income tax in the opinion of the bond issuer’s counsel. IDBs and PABs are in most case revenue bonds and thus are not payable from the unrestricted revenues of the issuer. The credit quality of the IDBs and PABs is usually directly related to the credit standing of the user of the facilities being financed, or some form of credit enhancement such as a letter of credit.
 
Resource Recovery Bonds. Resource Recovery Bonds are affected by a number of factors, which may affect the value and credit quality of these revenue or special obligations. These factors include the viability of the project being financed, environmental protection regulations and project operator tax incentives.
 
Tax-Exempt Commercial Paper and Short-Term Municipal Notes. Tax-Exempt Commercial Paper and Short-Term Municipal Notes provide for short-term capital needs and usually have maturities of one year or less. They include tax anticipation notes, revenue anticipation notes and construction loan notes.
 
Construction Loan Notes. Construction Loan Notes are sold to provide construction financing. After successful completion and acceptance, many projects receive permanent financing through the U.S. Federal Housing Administration by way of Fannie Mae or Ginnie Mae.
 
Put Bonds. Put Bonds are municipal bonds which give the holder the right to sell the bond back to the issuer or a third-party at a specified price and exercise date, which is typically well in advance of the bond’s maturity date.

Build America Bonds (“BABs”). BABs are taxable municipal bonds that carry special tax credits and federal subsidies for either the bond issuer or the bondholder. There are two types of BABs — Tax Credit BABs and Direct Payment BABs. Direct Payment BABs provide a federal subsidy of 35% of the interest paid on the bonds to the issuer. Tax Credit BABs provides a federal subsidy as a refundable tax credit directly to the bondholders. While the bondholder is the recipient of the tax credit through Tax Credit BABs, and the bond issuer is the recipient of the tax subsidy through Direct Payment BABs, both options reduce the cost of borrowing for the bond issuer in comparison to traditional taxable corporate bonds, and in many cases, it is more cost effective than issuing traditional tax-exempt bonds.
 
After purchase by a Fund, an issue of municipal securities may cease to be rated by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody’s”) or Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services (“S&P”), or another NRSRO, or the rating of such a security may be reduced below the minimum credit quality rating required for purchase by a Fund. Neither event would require a Fund to dispose of the security. To the extent that the ratings applied by Moody’s, S&P or another NRSRO to municipal securities may change as a result of changes in these rating systems, a Fund will attempt to use comparable credit quality ratings as standards for its investments in municipal securities.

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A Fund may invest in municipal securities that are insured by financial insurance companies. If a Fund invests in municipal securities backed by insurance companies and other financial institutions, changes in the financial condition of these institutions could cause losses to a Fund and affect its share price.
 
A Fund may also invest in taxable municipal securities. Taxable municipal securities are debt securities issued by or on behalf of states and their political subdivisions, the District of Columbia, and possessions of the United States, the interest on which is not exempt from federal income tax.
 
The yields on municipal securities are dependent on a variety of factors, including general economic and monetary conditions, money market factors, conditions of the municipal securities market, size of a particular offering, and maturity and rating of the obligation. Because many municipal securities are issued to finance similar projects, especially those related to education, healthcare, transportation and various utilities, conditions in those sectors and the financial condition of an individual municipal issuer can affect the overall municipal market. The market values of the municipal securities held by a Fund will be affected by changes in the yields available on similar securities. If yields increase following the purchase of a municipal security, the market value of such municipal security will generally decrease. Conversely, if yields decrease, the market value of a municipal security will generally increase.
 
Obligations of Supranational Entities. Obligations of supranational entities are obligations of entities established through the joint participation of several governments, such as the Asian Development Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, International Bank of Reconstruction and Development (World Bank), African Development Bank, European Economic Community, European Investment Bank and the Nordic Investment Bank.
 
Options. A put option gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell, and the writer of the option the obligation to buy, the underlying security at any time during the option period. A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the writer of the option the obligation to sell, the underlying security at any time during the option period. The premium paid to the writer is the consideration for undertaking the obligations under the option contract. The initial purchase (sale) of an option contract is an “opening transaction.”  In order to close out an option position, a Fund may enter into a “closing transaction,” which is simply the sale (purchase) of an option contract on the same security with the same exercise price and expiration date as the option contract originally opened. If a Fund is unable to effect a closing purchase transaction with respect to an option it has written, it will not be able to sell the underlying security until the option expires or a Fund delivers the security upon exercise.
 
A Fund may purchase put and call options to protect against a decline in the market value of the securities in its portfolio or to anticipate an increase in the market value of securities that a Fund may seek to purchase in the future. A Fund will pay a premium when purchasing put and call options. If price movements in the underlying securities are such that exercise of the options would not be profitable for a Fund, loss of the premium paid may be offset by an increase in the value of a Fund’s securities or by a decrease in the cost of acquisition of securities by a Fund.
 
A Fund may write both covered call and put options. A Fund may write covered call options as a means of increasing the yield on its portfolio and as a means of providing limited protection against decreases in its market value. When a Fund sells an option, if the underlying securities do not increase or decrease to a price level that would make the exercise of the option profitable to the holder thereof, the option generally will expire without being exercised and a Fund will realize as profit the premium received for such option. When a call option written by a Fund is exercised, a Fund will be required to sell the underlying securities to the option holder at the strike price, and will not participate in any increase in the price of such securities above the strike price. When a put option written by a Fund is exercised, a Fund will be required to purchase the underlying securities at the strike price, which may be in excess of the market value of such securities.
 
A Fund may purchase and write options on an exchange or over-the-counter. Over-the-counter options (“OTC options”) differ from exchange-traded options in several respects. They are transacted directly with dealers and not with a clearing corporation, and therefore entail the risk of non-performance by the dealer. OTC options are available for a greater variety of securities and for a wider range of expiration dates and exercise prices than are available for exchange-traded options. Because OTC options are not traded on an exchange, pricing is done normally by reference to information from a market maker. It is the position of the staff of the SEC that OTC options are generally illiquid.
 
A Fund may purchase and write put and call options on foreign currencies (traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges or over-the-counter markets) to manage its exposure to exchange rates. Call options on foreign currencies written by a Fund will be “covered,” which means that a Fund will own an equal amount of the underlying foreign currency. With respect to put options on foreign currency written by a Fund, a Fund will establish a segregated account with its custodian consisting of cash or liquid, high grade

22



debt securities in an amount equal to the amount a Fund would be required to pay upon exercise of the put, earmark assets as cover or otherwise “cover” its position in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act or the rules and SEC interpretations.
 
Buyers and sellers of foreign currency options are subject to the same risks that apply to options generally. There are certain additional risks associated with foreign currency options. The markets in foreign currency options are relatively new, and a Fund’s ability to establish and close out positions on such options is subject to the maintenance of a liquid secondary market. There can be no assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for a particular option at any specific time. In addition, options on foreign currencies are affected by all of those factors that influence foreign exchange rates and investments generally.
 
The value of a foreign currency option depends upon the value of the underlying currency relative to the U.S. dollar. As a result, the price of the option position may vary with changes in the value of either or both currencies and may have no relationship to the investment merits of a foreign security. Because foreign currency transactions occurring in the interbank market involve substantially larger amounts than those that may be involved in the use of foreign currency options, investors may be disadvantaged by having to deal in an odd lot market (generally consisting of transactions of less than $1 million) for the underlying foreign currencies at prices that are less favorable than for round lots.
 
There is no systematic reporting of last sale information for foreign currencies or any regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or other market sources be firm or revised on a timely basis. Available quotation information is generally representative of very large transactions in the interbank market and thus may not reflect relatively smaller transactions (i.e., less than $1 million) where rates may be less favorable. The interbank market in foreign currencies is a global, around-the-clock market. To the extent that the U.S. option markets are closed while the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, significant price and rate movements may take place in the underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the options markets until they reopen.
 
A Fund may purchase and write put and call options on indices and enter into related closing transactions. Put and call options on indices are similar to options on securities except that options on an index give the holder the right to receive, upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the underlying index is greater than (or less than, in the case of puts) the exercise price of the option. This amount of cash is equal to the difference between the closing price of the index and the exercise price of the option, expressed in dollars multiplied by a specified number. Thus, unlike options on individual securities, all settlements are in cash, and gain or loss depends on price movements in the particular market represented by the index generally, rather than the price movements in individual securities. A Fund may choose to terminate an option position by entering into a closing transaction. The ability of a Fund to enter into closing transactions depends upon the existence of a liquid secondary market for such transactions.
 
All options written on indices must be covered. When a Fund writes an option on an index, it will establish a segregated account containing cash or liquid securities with its custodian in an amount at least equal to the market value of the option and will maintain the account while the option is open or will otherwise cover the transaction.
 
A Fund will not engage in transactions involving interest rate futures contracts for speculation but only as a hedge against changes in the market values of debt securities held or intended to be purchased by a Fund and where the transactions are appropriate to reduce a Fund’s interest rate risks. There can be no assurance that hedging transactions will be successful. A Fund also could be exposed to risks if it cannot close out its futures or options positions because of any illiquid secondary market.
 
Futures and options have effective durations that, in general, are closely related to the effective duration of the securities that underlie them. Holding purchased futures or call option positions (backed by segregated cash or other liquid securities) will lengthen the duration of a Fund’s portfolio.
 
Risks associated with options transactions include: (1) the success of a hedging strategy may depend on an ability to predict movements in the prices of individual securities, fluctuations in markets and movements in interest rates; (2) there may be an imperfect correlation between the movement in prices of options and the securities underlying them; (3) there may not be a liquid secondary market for options; and (4) while a Fund will receive a premium when it writes covered call options, it may not participate fully in a rise in the market value of the underlying security.

Caps, Collars and Floors. Caps and floors have an effect similar to buying or writing options. In a typical cap or floor agreement, one party agrees to make payments only under specified circumstances, usually in return for payment of a fee by the other party. For example, the buyer of an interest rate cap obtains the right to receive payments to the extent that a specified interest rate exceeds an agreed-upon level. The seller of an interest rate floor is obligated to make payments to the extent that a specified interest rate falls below an agreed-upon level. An interest rate collar combines elements of buying a cap and selling a floor.
 

23



Inverse Floaters. A Fund may invest in inverse floaters. Inverse floaters are derivative securities whose interest rates vary inversely to changes in short-term interest rates and whose values fluctuate inversely to changes in long-term interest rates. The value of certain inverse floaters will fluctuate substantially more in response to a given change in long-term rates than would a traditional debt security. These securities have investment characteristics similar to leverage, in that interest rate changes have a magnified effect on the value of inverse floaters.
 
Ordinary Shares. Ordinary shares are shares of foreign issuers that are traded abroad and on a United States exchange. Ordinary shares may be purchased with and sold for U.S. dollars. Investing in foreign companies may involve risks not typically associated with investing in United States companies. See "Foreign Securities."
 
Other Investment Companies. Investment companies include open- and closed- end funds, exchange-traded funds, and any other pooled investment vehicle that meets the definition of an investment company under the 1940 Act, whether such companies are required to register under the 1940 Act or not. As a shareholder of another investment company, a Fund is subject to the same risks as any other investor in that investment company. The Fund's purchase of such investment company securities results in the layering of expenses, such that shareholders would indirectly bear a proportionate share of the operating expenses of such investment companies, including advisory fees, in addition to paying Fund expenses. Investments in registered investment company shares are subject to limitations prescribed by the 1940 Act and its rules, and applicable SEC staff interpretations or applicable exemptive relief granted by the SEC. The 1940 Act currently provides, in part, that the Fund generally may not purchase shares of a registered investment if (a) such a purchase would cause the Fund to own in the aggregate more than 3% of the total outstanding voting stock of the investment company or (b) such a purchase would cause the Fund to have more than 5% of its total assets invested in the investment company or (c) more than 10% of the Fund's total assets would be invested in the aggregate in all registered investment companies.

Overseas Private Investment Corporation Certificates. The Funds may invest in Certificates of Participation issued by the Overseas Private Investment Corporation (“OPIC”). OPIC is a U.S. government agency that sells political risk insurance and loans to help U.S. businesses invest and compete in over 150 emerging markets and developing nations worldwide. OPIC provides medium to long-term loans and guaranties to projects involving significant equity or management participation. OPIC can lend on either a project finance or a corporate finance basis in countries where conventional institutions are often unable or unwilling to lend on such a basis. OPIC issues Certificates of Participation to finance projects undertaken by U.S. companies. These certificates are guaranteed by OPIC and backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.
 
Over-The-Counter Stocks. A Fund may invest in over-the-counter stocks. In contrast to securities exchanges, the over-the-counter market is not a centralized facility that limits trading activity to securities of companies which initially satisfy certain defined standards. Generally, the volume of trading in an unlisted or over-the-counter common stock is less than the volume of trading in a listed stock. This means that the depth of market liquidity of some stocks in which each Fund invests may not be as great as that of other securities and, if a Funds were to dispose of such a stock, they might have to offer the shares at a discount from recent prices, or sell the shares in small lots over an extended period of time.

Participation Interests. A Fund may invest in participation interests in fixed income securities. A participation interest provides the certificate holder with a specified interest in an issue of fixed income securities.
 
Some participation interests give the holders differing interests in the underlying securities, depending upon the type or class of certificate purchased. For example, coupon strip certificates give the holder the right to receive a specific portion of interest payments on the underlying securities; principal strip certificates give the holder the right to receive principal payments and the portion of interest not payable to coupon strip certificate holders. Holders of certificates of participation in interest payments may be entitled to receive a fixed rate of interest, a variable rate that is periodically reset to reflect the current market rate or an auction rate that is periodically reset at auction. Asset-backed residuals represent interests in any excess cash flow remaining after required payments of principal and interest have been made.
 
More complex participation interests involve special risk considerations. Since these instruments have only recently been developed, there can be no assurance that any market will develop or be maintained for the instruments. Generally, the fixed income securities that are deposited in trust for the holders of these interests are the sole source of payments on the interests; holders cannot look to the sponsor or trustee of the trust or to the issuers of the securities held in trust or to any of their affiliates for payment.
 
Participation interests purchased at a discount may experience price volatility. Certain types of interests are sensitive to fluctuations in market interest rates and to prepayments on the underlying securities. A rapid rate of prepayment can result in the failure to recover the holder’s initial investment.
 

24



The extent to which the yield to maturity of a participation interest is sensitive to prepayments depends, in part, upon whether the interest was purchased at a discount or premium, and if so, the size of that discount or premium. Generally, if a participation interest is purchased at a premium and principal distributions occur at a rate faster than that anticipated at the time of purchase, the holder’s actual yield to maturity will be lower than that assumed at the time of purchase. Conversely, if a participation interest is purchased at a discount and principal distributions occur at a rate faster than that assumed at the time of purchase, the investor’s actual yield to maturity will be higher than that assumed at the time of purchase.
 
Participation interests in pools of fixed income securities backed by certain types of debt obligations involve special risk considerations. The issuers of securities backed by automobile and truck receivables typically file financing statements evidencing security interests in the receivables, and the servicers of those obligations take and retain custody of the obligations. If the servicers, in contravention of their duty to the holders of the securities backed by the receivables, were to sell the obligations, the third-party purchasers could acquire an interest superior to the interest of the security holders. Also, most states require that a security interest in a vehicle must be noted on the certificate of title and the certificate of title may not be amended to reflect the assignment of the lender’s security interest. Therefore, the recovery of the collateral in some cases may not be available to support payments on the securities. Securities backed by credit card receivables are generally unsecured, and both federal and state consumer protection laws may allow set-offs against certain amounts owed.

Pay in-Kind (“PIK”) Bonds. Pay in-kind bonds are securities which, at the issuer’s option, pay interest in either cash or additional securities for a specified period. Pay in-kind bonds, like zero coupon bonds, are designed to give an issuer flexibility in managing cash flow. Pay in-kind bonds are expected to reflect the market value of the underlying debt plus an amount representing accrued interest since the last payment. Pay in-kind bonds are usually less volatile than zero coupon bonds, but more volatile than cash pay securities.
 
Preferred Stock. Preferred stock has a preference over common stock in liquidation (and generally for dividend receipt as well) but is subordinated to the liabilities of the issuer in all respects. As a general rule, the market value of preferred stock with a fixed dividend rate and no conversion element varies inversely with interest rates and perceived credit risk, while the market price of convertible preferred stock generally also reflects some element of conversion value. Because preferred stock is junior to debt securities and other obligations of the issuer, deterioration in the credit quality of the issuer will cause greater changes in the value of a preferred stock than in a more senior debt security with similar stated yield characteristics. Unlike interest payments on debt securities, preferred stock dividends generally are payable only if declared by the issuer’s board of directors. Preferred stock also may be subject to optional or mandatory redemption provisions.
 
Privatization. Privatizations are foreign government programs for selling all or part of the interests in government owned or controlled enterprises. The ability of a U.S. entity to participate in privatizations in certain foreign countries may be limited by local law, or the terms on which a Fund may be permitted to participate may be less advantageous than those applicable for local investors. There can be no assurance that foreign governments will continue to sell their interests in companies currently owned or controlled by them or that privatization programs will be successful.
 
Receipts. Receipts are sold as zero coupon securities, which mean that they are sold at a substantial discount and redeemed at face value at their maturity date without interim cash payments of interest or principal. This discount is accreted over the life of the security, and such accretion will constitute the income earned on a security for both accounting and federal income tax purposes. Because of these features, such securities may be subject to greater interest rate volatility than interest paying investments.
 
Real Estate Investment Trusts (“REITs”). The Funds may invest in REITs, which pool investors’ money for investment in income producing commercial real estate or real estate related loans or interests.
 
A REIT is not subject to federal income tax on income distributed to its shareholders or unitholders if it complies with regulatory requirements relating to its organization, ownership, assets and income, and with a regulatory requirement that it distribute to its shareholders or unitholders at least 90% of its taxable income for each taxable year. Generally, REITs can be classified as Equity REITs, Mortgage REITs and Hybrid REITs. Equity REITs invest the majority of their assets directly in real property and derive their income primarily from rents and capital gains from appreciation realized through property sales. Mortgage REITs invest the majority of their assets in real estate mortgages and derive their income primarily from interest payments. Hybrid REITs combine the characteristics of both Equity and Mortgage REITs. A shareholder in a Fund should realize that by investing in REITs indirectly through a Fund, he or she will bear not only his or her proportionate share of the expenses of a Fund, but also indirectly, similar expenses of underlying REITs.
 
A Fund may be subject to certain risks associated with the direct investments of the REITs. REITs may be affected by changes in their underlying properties and by defaults by borrowers or tenants. Mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of the credit extended. Furthermore, REITs are dependent on specialized management skills. Some REITs may have limited diversification and

25



may be subject to risks inherent in financing a limited number of properties. REITs depend generally on their ability to generate cash flow to make distributions to shareholders or unitholders, and may be subject to defaults by borrowers and to self-liquidations. In addition, the performance of a REIT may be affected by its failure to qualify for tax-free pass-through of income under the Code or its failure to maintain exemption from registration under the 1940 Act.
 
ReFlow Liquidity Program. The Funds may participate in the ReFlow liquidity program, which is designed to provide an alternative liquidity source for mutual funds experiencing redemptions of their shares. In order to pay cash to shareholders who redeem their shares on a given day, a mutual fund typically must hold cash in its portfolio, liquidate portfolio securities, or borrow money, all of which impose certain costs on the fund. ReFlow Fund, LLC ("ReFlow") provides participating mutual funds with another source of cash by standing ready to purchase shares from a fund up to the amount of the fund’s net redemptions on a given day. ReFlow then generally redeems those shares when the fund experiences net sales. In return for this service, a Fund will pay a fee to ReFlow at a rate determined by a daily auction with other participating mutual funds. The costs to a Fund for participating in ReFlow are expected to be influenced by and comparable to the cost of other sources of liquidity, such as a Fund’s short-term lending arrangements or the costs of selling portfolio securities to meet redemptions. In accordance with federal securities laws, ReFlow is prohibited from acquiring more than 3% of the outstanding voting securities of a Fund. There is no assurance that ReFlow will have sufficient funds available to meet a Fund's liquidity needs on a particular day. Investments in the Funds by ReFlow in connection with the ReFlow liquidity program are not subject to the market timing limitations described in the Funds' prospectus.

Repurchase Agreements. Repurchase agreements are transactions by which a Fund purchases a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller at an agreed upon time and price, thereby determining the yield during the term of the agreement. In the event of a bankruptcy or other default of the seller of a repurchase agreement, a Fund could experience both delays in liquidating the underlying security and losses. To minimize these possibilities, each Fund intends to enter into repurchase agreements only with its custodian, with banks having assets in excess of $10 billion and with broker-dealers who are recognized as primary dealers in U.S. government obligations by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Collateral for repurchase agreements is held in safekeeping in the customer-only account of a Fund’s custodian at the Federal Reserve Bank. A Fund will not enter into a repurchase agreement not terminable within seven days if, as a result thereof, more than 15% of the value of its net assets would be invested in such securities and other illiquid securities.
 
Although the securities subject to a repurchase agreement might bear maturities exceeding one year, settlement for the repurchase would never be more than one year after a Fund’s acquisition of the securities and normally would be within a shorter period of time. The resale price will be in excess of the purchase price, reflecting an agreed upon market rate effective for the period of time a Fund’s money will be invested in the securities, and will not be related to the coupon rate of the purchased security. At the time a Fund enters into a repurchase agreement, the value of the underlying security, including accrued interest, will equal or exceed the value of the repurchase agreement, and in the case of a repurchase agreement exceeding one day, the seller will agree that the value of the underlying security, including accrued interest, will at all times equal or exceed the value of the repurchase agreement. The collateral securing the seller’s obligation must consist of cash or securities that are issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies. The collateral will be held by the custodian or in the Federal Reserve Book Entry System.
 
For purposes of the 1940 Act, a repurchase agreement is deemed to be a loan from a Fund to the seller subject to the repurchase agreement and is therefore subject to that Fund’s investment restriction applicable to loans. It is not clear whether a court would consider the securities purchased by a Fund subject to a repurchase agreement as being owned by that Fund or as being collateral for a loan by a Fund to the seller. In the event of the commencement of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings with respect to the seller of the securities before repurchase of the security under a repurchase agreement, a Fund may encounter delays and incur costs before being able to sell the security. Delays may involve loss of interest or decline in price of the security. If a court characterized the transaction as a loan and a Fund has not perfected a security interest in the security, that Fund may be required to return the security to the seller’s estate and be treated as an unsecured creditor of the seller. As an unsecured creditor, a Fund would be at risk of losing some or all of the principal and income involved in the transaction. As with any unsecured debt obligation purchased for a Fund, the sub-advisor seeks to minimize the risk of loss through repurchase agreements by analyzing the creditworthiness of the obligor, in this case, the seller. Apart from the risk of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings, there is also the risk that the seller may fail to repurchase the security, in which case a Fund may incur a loss if the proceeds to that Fund of the sale of the security to a third party are less than the repurchase price. However, if the market value of the securities subject to the repurchase agreement becomes less than the repurchase price (including interest), a Fund involved will direct the seller of the security to deliver additional securities so that the market value of all securities subject to the repurchase agreement will equal or exceed the repurchase price. It is possible that a Fund will be unsuccessful in seeking to enforce the seller’s contractual obligation to deliver additional securities.
 
Reverse Repurchase Agreement, Dollar Roll, and Reverse Dollar Roll Transactions. A reverse repurchase agreement involves a sale by a Fund of securities that it holds to a bank, broker-dealer or other financial institution concurrently with an agreement

26



by a Fund to repurchase the same securities at an agreed-upon price and date. Reverse repurchase agreements are considered borrowing by a Fund and are subject to a Fund’s limitations on borrowing. A dollar roll transaction involves a sale by a Fund of an eligible security to a financial institution concurrently with an agreement by a Fund to repurchase a similar eligible security from the institution at a later date at an agreed-upon price. A reverse dollar roll transaction involves a purchase by a Fund of an eligible security from a financial institution concurrently with an agreement by a Fund to resell a similar security to the institution at a later date at an agreed-upon price. Each Fund will fully collateralize its reverse repurchase agreements, dollar roll and reverse dollar roll transactions in an amount at least equal to a Fund’s obligations under the reverse repurchase agreement, dollar roll or reverse dollar roll transaction by segregating cash or other liquid securities, earmarking cash or other liquid securities or otherwise “covering” its position in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act or the rules and SEC interpretations.
 
Royalty Trusts. Royalty trusts are structured similarly to REITs. A royalty trust generally acquires an interest in natural resource companies or chemical companies and distributes the income it receives to the investors of the royalty trust. A sustained decline in demand for crude oil, natural gas and refined petroleum products could adversely affect income and royalty trust revenues and cash flows. Factors that could lead to a decrease in market demand include a recession or other adverse economic conditions, an increase in the market price of the underlying commodity, higher taxes or other regulatory actions that increase costs, or a shift in consumer demand for such products. A rising interest rate environment could adversely impact the performance of royalty trusts. Rising interest rates could limit the capital appreciation of royalty trusts because of the increased availability of alternative investments at more competitive yields.
 
Rule 144A Securities. Rule 144A securities are securities exempt from registration on resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (“1933 Act”). Rule 144A securities are traded in the institutional market pursuant to this registration exemption, and, as a result, may not be as liquid as exchange-traded securities since they may only be resold to certain qualified institutional investors. Due to the relatively limited size of this institutional market, these securities may affect the liquidity of Rule 144A securities to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become, for a time, uninterested in purchasing such securities. Nevertheless, Rule 144A securities may be treated as liquid securities pursuant to procedures adopted by the Trust’s Board.
 
Securities Lending. In order to generate additional income, a Fund may lend its securities pursuant to agreements requiring that the loan be continuously secured by collateral consisting of: (1) cash in U.S. dollars; (2) securities issued or fully guaranteed by the United States government or issued and unconditionally guaranteed by any agencies thereof; or (3) irrevocable performance letters of credit issued by banks approved by each Fund. All collateral must equal at least 100% of the market value of the loaned securities. A Fund continues to receive interest on the loaned securities while simultaneously earning interest on the investment of cash collateral. Collateral is marked to market daily. There may be risks of delay in recovery of the securities or even loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially or become insolvent. In addition, cash collateral invested by the lending Fund is subject to investment risk and a Fund may experience losses with respect to its collateral investments. The SEC currently requires that the following conditions must be met whenever a Fund’s portfolio securities are loaned: (1) a Fund must receive at least 100% cash collateral from the borrower; (2) the borrower must increase such collateral whenever the market value of the securities rises above the level of such collateral; (3) a Fund must be able to terminate the loan at any time; (4) a Fund must receive reasonable interest on the loan, as well as any dividends, interest or other distributions on the loaned securities, and any increase in market value; (5) a Fund may pay only reasonable custodian fees approved by the Board in connection with the loan; (6) while voting rights on the loaned securities may pass to the borrower, the Fund must have the ability to terminate the loan and regain the right to vote the securities if a material event adversely affecting the investment occurs, and (7) a Fund may not loan its portfolio securities so that the value of the loaned securities is more than one-third of its total asset value, including collateral received from such loans.

Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. serves as the securities lending agent to the Funds responsible for the implementation and administration of the Funds' securities lending program including facilitating the lending of the Funds' available securities to approved borrowers and negotiating the terms and conditions of each loan with a borrower.

The dollar amounts of income and fees and compensation paid to all service providers related to the Funds that participated in securities lending activities during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019 were as follows:

27



Fund Name
Investment Income/ Cash Collateral Reinvestment
Premium Income
Compensation
Agency Fee
Admin Fee
Rebate Paid to Borrower
Indemnification Fee
Other Fee
Fees paid for Cash Collateral Management
Aggregate Fees
Net Income
Average on Loan Value
Flexible Income Fund
$
33,777

$
16,950

$
50,727

$
5,629

$
0

$
13,201

$
0

$
0

$
2,463

$
21,293

$
29,434

$
1,641,770

Focused Fund
$
2,292

$
110

$
2,402

$
142

$
0

$
1,454

$
0

$
0

$
206

$
1,802

$
600

$
137,290

Global ESG Equity Fund
$
65,723

$
70,308

$
136,031

$
14,166

$
0

$
41,590

$
0

$
0

$
5,348

$
61,104

$
74,927

$
3,565,402

Growth Opportunities Fund
$
8,570

$
314

$
8,884

$
305

$
0

$
6,805

$
0

$
0

$
640

$
7,750

$
1,134

$
426,375

Mid Cap Growth Fund
$
42,710

$
1,906

$
44,616

$
2,029

$
0

$
31,086

$
0

$
0

$
3,573

$
36,688

$
7,928

$
2,381,974

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
$
58,830

$
1,913

$
60,743

$
2,023

$
0

$
47,256

$
0

$
0

$
4,098

$
53,377

$
7,366

$
2,731,885


Senior Securities. Senior securities may include any obligation or instrument issued by a fund evidencing indebtedness. The 1940 Act generally prohibits funds from issuing senior securities, although it does not treat certain transactions as senior securities, such as certain borrowings, short sales, reverse repurchase agreements, firm commitment agreements and standby commitments, with appropriate earmarking or segregation of assets to cover such obligation.

Short Sales. In a short sale, a Fund sells a security, which it does not own, in anticipation of a decline in the market value of the security. To complete the sale, the Fund must borrow the security (generally from the broker through which the short sale is made) in order to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund must replace the security borrowed by purchasing it at the market price at the time of replacement. The Fund is said to have a “short position” in the securities sold until it delivers them to the broker. The period during which the Fund has a short position can range from one day to more than a year. Until the Fund replaces the security, the proceeds of the short sale are retained by the broker, and the Fund must pay to the broker a negotiated portion of any dividends or interest, which accrue during the period of the loan. A short sale is “against the box” if at all times during which the short position is open, a Fund owns at least an equal amount of the securities or securities convertible into, or exchangeable without further consideration for, securities of the same issue as the securities that are sold short. A short sale against the box is a taxable transaction to the Fund with respect to the securities that are sold short. The lending of securities is considered a form of leverage that is included in a lending Fund’s investment limitation related to borrowings. See “Investment Limitations” below.
 
In the view of the SEC, a short sale involves the creation of a “senior security” as such term is defined in the 1940 Act, unless the sale is “against the box” and the securities sold short are placed in a segregated account (not with the broker), or unless the Fund’s obligation to deliver the securities sold short is otherwise “covered,” whether by placing assets in a segregated account or otherwise earmarking assets as cover in an amount equal to the difference between the market value of the securities sold short at the time of the short sale and any such collateral required to be deposited with a broker in connection with the sale (not including the proceeds from the short sale), which difference is adjusted daily for changes in the value of the securities sold short, or otherwise. To the extent a Fund  engages in short sales, it will comply with these requirements.
 
Sovereign Debt. Investment in sovereign debt can involve a high degree of risk. The governmental entity that controls the repayment of sovereign debt may not be able or willing to repay the principal or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt. A governmental entity’s willingness or ability to repay principal and interest due in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow situation, the extent of its foreign reserves, the availability of sufficient foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt service burden to the economy as a whole, the governmental entity’s policy towards the International Monetary Fund and the political constraints to which a governmental entity may be subject. Governmental entities may also be dependent on expected disbursements from foreign governments, multilateral agencies and others abroad to reduce principal and interest arrearages on their debt. The commitment on the part of these governments, agencies and others to make such disbursements may be conditioned on the implementation of economic reforms or economic performance and the timely service of such debtor’s obligations. Failure to implement such reforms, achieve such levels of economic performance or repay principal or interest when due may result in the cancellation of such third parties’ commitments to lend funds to the governmental entity, which may further impair such debtor’s ability or willingness to timely service its debts. Consequently, governmental entities may default on their sovereign debt.
 

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Holders of sovereign debt may be requested to participate in the rescheduling of such debt and to extend further loans to governmental entities. In the event of a default by a governmental entity, there may be few or no effective legal remedies for collecting on such debt.
 
Stand-By Commitments. When a Fund purchases municipal obligations, it may also acquire stand-by commitments from banks and broker-dealers with respect to such municipal obligations. A stand-by commitment is the equivalent of a put option acquired by a Fund with respect to a particular municipal obligation held in its portfolio. A stand-by commitment is a security independent of the municipal obligation to which it relates. The amount payable by a bank or dealer during the time a stand-by commitment is exercisable, absent unusual circumstances relating to a change in market value, would be substantially the same as the value of the underlying municipal obligation. A stand-by commitment might not be transferable by a Fund, although it could sell the underlying municipal obligation to a third-party at any time.
 
Each Fund expects that stand-by commitments generally will be available without the payment of direct or indirect consideration. However, if necessary and advisable, a Fund may pay for stand-by commitments either separately in cash or by paying a higher price for portfolio securities which are acquired subject to such a commitment (thus reducing the yield to maturity otherwise available for the same securities). The total amount paid in either manner for outstanding stand-by commitments held by a Fund will not exceed 10% of the value of a Fund’s total assets calculated immediately after each stand-by commitment is acquired. A Fund will enter into stand-by commitments only with banks and broker-dealers that, in the judgment of the Advisor or sub-advisor, as the case may be, present minimal credit risks.
 
Step Coupon Bonds (“STEPS”). A Fund may invest in STEPS, which pay interest at a series of different rates (including 0%) in accordance with a stated schedule for a series of periods. In addition to the risks associated with the credit rating of the issuers, these securities may be subject to more volatility risk than fixed rate debt securities.
 
Structured Investments. Structured investments are derivatives in the form of a unit or units representing an undivided interest(s) in assets held in a trust that is not an investment company as defined in the 1940 Act. A trust unit pays a return based on the total return of securities and other investments held by the trust and the trust may enter into one or more swaps to achieve its goal. For example, a trust may purchase a basket of securities and agree to exchange the return generated by those securities for the return generated by another basket or index of securities. The Funds will purchase structured investments in trusts that engage in such swaps only where the counterparties are approved by the Advisor or sub-advisor, as the case may be.
 
Structured Notes. A Fund may invest in structured notes, including “total rate of return swaps,” with rates of return determined by reference to the total rate of return on one or more loans referenced in such notes. The rate of return on the structured note may be determined by applying a multiplier to the rate of total return on the referenced loan or loans. Application of a multiplier is comparable to the use of leverage, which magnifies the risk of loss, because a relatively small decline in the value of a referenced note could result in a relatively large loss in value.
 
Swap Agreements. A swap is a financial instrument that typically involves the exchange of cash flows between two parties on specified dates (settlement dates), where the cash flows are based on agreed-upon prices, rates, indices, etc. The nominal amount on which the cash flows are calculated is called the notional amount. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors, such as interest rates, foreign currency rates, mortgage securities, corporate borrowing rates, security prices, indexes or inflation rates.
 
Swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of the investments of a Fund and its share price. The performance of swap agreements may be affected by a change in the specific interest rate, currency, or other factors that determine the amounts of payments due to and from a Fund. If a swap agreement calls for payments by a Fund, a Fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. In addition, if the counter-party’s creditworthiness declines, the value of a swap agreement would be likely to decline, potentially resulting in losses.
 
Generally, swap agreements have a fixed maturity date that will be agreed upon by the parties. The agreement can be terminated before the maturity date only under limited circumstances, such as default by one of the parties or insolvency, among others, and can be transferred by a party only with the prior written consent of the other party. A Fund may be able to eliminate its exposure under a swap agreement either by assignment or by other disposition, or by entering into an offsetting swap agreement with the same party or a similarly creditworthy party. If the counter-party is unable to meet its obligations under the contract, declares bankruptcy, defaults or becomes insolvent, a Fund may not be able to recover the money it expected to receive under the contract.
 
A swap agreement can be a form of leverage, which can magnify a Fund’s gains or losses. If a Fund enters into a swap agreement on a net basis, it will segregate assets with a daily value at least equal to the excess, if any, of a Fund’s accrued obligations under the swap agreement over the accrued amount a Fund is entitled to receive under the agreement. If a Fund enters into a swap

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agreement on other than a net basis, it will segregate assets with a value equal to the full amount of a Fund’s accrued obligations under the agreement.
 
Equity Swaps. In a typical equity swap, one party agrees to pay another party the return on a stock, stock index or basket of stocks in return for a specified interest rate. By entering into an equity index swap, for example, the index receiver can gain exposure to stocks making up the index of securities without actually purchasing those stocks. Equity index swaps involve not only the risk associated with investment in the securities represented in the index, but also the risk that the performance of such securities, including dividends, will not exceed the return on the interest rate that a Fund will be committed to pay.
 
Interest Rate Swaps. Interest rate swaps are financial instruments that involve the exchange of one type of interest rate for another type of interest rate cash flow on specified dates in the future. Some of the different types of interest rate swaps are “fixed-for floating-rate swaps,” “termed basis swaps” and “index amortizing swaps.” Fixed-for floating-rate swaps involve the exchange of fixed interest rate cash flows for floating-rate cash flows. Termed basis swaps entail cash flows to both parties based on floating interest rates, where the interest rate indices are different. Index amortizing swaps are typically fixed-for floating swaps where the notional amount changes if certain conditions are met.

Like a traditional investment in a debt security, a Fund could lose money by investing in an interest rate swap if interest rates change adversely. For example, if a Fund enters into a swap where it agrees to exchange a floating-rate of interest for a fixed rate of interest, a Fund may have to pay more money than it receives. Similarly, if a Fund enters into a swap where it agrees to exchange a fixed rate of interest for a floating-rate of interest, a Fund may receive less money than it has agreed to pay.
 
Currency Swaps. A currency swap is an agreement between two parties in which one party agrees to make interest rate payments in one currency and the other promises to make interest rate payments in another currency. A Fund may enter into a currency swap when it has one currency and desires a different currency. Typically the interest rates that determine the currency swap payments are fixed, although occasionally one or both parties may pay a floating-rate of interest. Unlike an interest rate swap, however, the principal amounts are exchanged at the beginning of the contract and returned at the end of the contract. Changes in foreign exchange rates and changes in interest rates, as described above, may negatively affect currency swaps.
 
Credit Default Swaps (“CDSs”). A CDS is an agreement between a Fund and a counterparty that enables the Fund to buy or sell protection against a credit event related to a referenced debt obligation. One party, acting as a “protection buyer,” makes periodic payments to the other party, a “protection seller,” in exchange for a promise by the protection seller to make a payment to the protection buyer if a negative credit event (such as a delinquent payment or default) occurs with respect to a referenced bond or group of bonds. Acting as a protection seller allows a Fund to create an investment exposure similar to owning a bond. Acting as a protection buyer allows a Fund potentially to reduce its credit exposure to a bond it owns or to take a “short” position in a bond it does not own.
 
As the protection buyer in a CDS, a Fund may pay a premium (by means of periodic payments) in return for the right to deliver specified bonds or loans to the protection seller and receive the par (or other agreed-upon) value upon default or similar events by the issuer of the underlying reference obligation. If no default occurs, the protection seller would keep the stream of payments and would have no further obligations to the Fund. As the protection buyer, the Fund bears the risk that the investment might expire worthless or that the protection seller may fail to satisfy its payment obligations to the Fund in the event of a default or similar event. In addition, when the Fund is a protection buyer, the Fund’s investment would only generate income in the event of an actual default or similar event by the issuer of the underlying reference obligation.
 
A Fund may also use credit default swaps for investment purposes by selling a CDS, in which case, the Fund, as the protection seller, would be required to pay the par (or other agreed-upon) value of a referenced debt obligation to the protection buyer in the event of a default or similar event by the third-party issuer of the underlying reference obligation. In return for its obligation, the Fund would receive from the protection buyer a periodic stream of payments over the term of the contract. If no credit event occurs, the Fund would keep the stream of payments and would have no payment obligations. As the protection seller in a CDS, the Fund effectively adds economic leverage to its portfolio because, in addition to its total net assets, the Fund is subject to investment exposure on the notional amount of the swap. Consistent with SEC staff guidance, if the Fund sells a CDS it will segregate assets equal to the full notional amount of the swap in order to cover its obligations under the instrument.
 
In addition to the risks applicable to derivatives generally, CDSs involve special risks because they may be difficult to value, are highly susceptible to liquidity and credit risk, and generally pay a return to the party that has paid the premium only in the event of an actual default by the issuer of the underlying obligation (as opposed to a credit downgrade or other indication of financial difficulty).
 

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Options on Swap Agreements (“swaptions”) . The Funds also may enter into swaptions. A swaption is a contract that gives a counterparty the right (but not the obligation) to enter into a new swap agreement or to shorten, extend, cancel or otherwise modify an existing swap agreement, at some designated future time on specified terms. The Funds may write (sell) and purchase put and call swaptions. Depending on the terms of the particular swaption, a Fund will generally incur a greater degree of risk when it writes a swaption than it will incur when it purchases a swaption. When a Fund purchases a swaption, it risks losing only the amount of the premium it has paid should it decide to let the option expire unexercised. However, when a Fund writes a swaption, upon exercise of the option by the buyer of the option, the Fund will become obligated according to the terms of the underlying swap agreement.
 
Whether a Fund’s use of swap agreements or swaptions will be successful in furthering its investment goals will depend on the sub-advisors’ ability to predict correctly whether certain types of investments are likely to produce greater returns than other investments. Moreover, a Fund bears the risk of loss of the amount expected to be received under a swap agreement in the event of the default or bankruptcy of a swap agreement counterparty.
 
Total Return Swaps. Total return swaps are contracts in which one party agrees to make periodic payments to the other party based on the change in market value of the assets underlying the contract in exchange for periodic payments based on a fixed or variable interest rate or the total return from other underlying assets. The return of the assets underlying the contract includes both the income generated by the asset and the change in market value of the asset. The asset underlying the contract may include a specified security, basket of securities or securities indices.

Total return swaps may be used to obtain exposure to a security or market without owning or taking physical custody of such security or investing directly in such market. Upon entering into a total return swap, the Fund is required to deposit initial margin but the parties do not exchange the notional amount. As a result, total return swaps may effectively add leverage to the Fund’s portfolio because the Fund would be subject to investment exposure on the notional amount of the swap. The net amount of the excess, if any, of the Fund’s obligations over its entitlements with respect to each total return swap will be accrued on a daily basis, and an amount of liquid assets having an aggregate NAV at least equal to the accrued excess will be segregated by the Fund.

Total return swaps are subject to the same risks noted above under "Swap Agreements."

Other Types of Financial Instruments. If other types of financial instruments, including other types of options, futures contracts, or futures options are traded in the future, the Funds may also use those instruments, provided that such instruments are consistent with the Funds’ investment goals.
 
Technology Securities. The value of technology securities may fluctuate dramatically and technology securities may be subject to greater than average financial and market risk. Investments in the high technology sector include the risk that certain products may be subject to competitive pressures and aggressive pricing and may become obsolete and the risk that new products will not meet expectations or even reach the market.

Tender Option Bonds. A tender option bond is a municipal security (generally held pursuant to a custodial arrangement) having a relatively long maturity and bearing interest at a fixed rate substantially higher than prevailing short-term tax-exempt rates, that has been coupled with the agreement of a third-party, such as a bank, broker-dealer or other financial institution, pursuant to which such institution grants the security holders the option, at periodic intervals, to tender their securities to the institution and receive the face value thereof. As consideration for providing the option, the financial institution receives periodic fees equal to the difference between the municipal security’s fixed coupon rate and the rate, as determined by a remarketing or similar agent at or near the commencement of such period, that would cause the securities, coupled with the tender option, to trade at par on the date of such determination. Thus, after payment of this fee, the security holder effectively holds a demand obligation that bears interest at the prevailing short-term tax exempt rate. The Advisor or sub-advisor as the case may be, will consider on an ongoing basis the creditworthiness of the issuer of the underlying municipal securities, of any custodian, and of the third-party provider of the tender option. In certain instances and for certain tender option bonds, the option may be terminable in the event of a default in payment of principal of interest on the underlying municipal securities and for other reasons.
 
Temporary Defensive Investments. Each Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, invest up to 100% of its total assets in money market instruments (including U.S. government securities, bank obligations, commercial paper rated in the highest rating category by an NRSRO and repurchase agreements involving the foregoing securities), shares of money market investment companies (to the extent permitted by applicable law and subject to certain restrictions) and cash. When a Fund invests in defensive investments, it may not achieve its investment goal.
  

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Time Deposits. Time deposits are non-negotiable receipts issued by a bank in exchange for the deposit of funds. Like a certificate of deposit, it earns a specified rate of interest over a definite period of time; however, it cannot be traded in the secondary market. Time deposits with a withdrawal penalty are considered to be illiquid securities.

Trust Preferred Securities. Trust preferred securities are issued by a special purpose trust subsidiary backed by subordinated debt of the corporate parent. Trust preferred securities currently permit the issuing entity to treat the interest payments as a tax-deductible cost. These securities, which have no voting rights, have a final stated maturity date and a fixed schedule for periodic payments. In addition, these securities have provisions which afford preference over common and preferred stock upon liquidation, although the securities are subordinated to other, more senior debt securities of the same issuer. The issuers of these securities have the right to defer interest payments for a period of up to five years, although interest continues to accrue cumulatively. The deferral of payments may not exceed the stated maturity date of the securities themselves. The non-payment of deferred interest at the end of the permissible period will be treated as an event of default. At the present time, the Internal Revenue Service treats trust preferred securities as debt.
 
U.S. Government Securities. U.S. government securities are obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies, authorities or instrumentalities. Some U.S. government securities, such as U.S. Treasury bills, U.S. Treasury notes and U.S. Treasury bonds, which differ only in their interest rates, maturities and times of issuance, are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States. Others are supported by: (i) the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, such as securities of the Federal Home Loan Banks; (ii) the discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase the agency’s obligations, such as securities of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac; or (iii) only the credit of the issuer, such as securities of the Student Loan Marketing Association. No assurance can be given that the U.S. government will provide financial support in the future to U.S. government agencies, authorities or instrumentalities that are not supported by the full faith and credit of the United States.
 
Securities guaranteed as to principal and interest by the U.S. government, its agencies, authorities or instrumentalities include: (i) securities for which the payment of principal and interest is backed by an irrevocable letter of credit issued by the U.S. government or any of its agencies, authorities or instrumentalities; and (ii) participation interests in loans made to foreign governments or other entities that are so guaranteed. The secondary market for certain of these participation interests is limited and, therefore, may be regarded as illiquid.
 
U.S. Treasury Obligations. U.S. Treasury Obligations are bills, notes and bonds issued by the U.S. Treasury, and separately traded interest and principal component parts of such obligations that are transferable through the federal book-entry system known as separately traded registered interest and principal securities (“STRIPS”) and coupons under book entry safekeeping (“CUBES”). They also include U.S. Treasury inflation-protection securities (“TIPS”).
 
Variable- and Floating-Rate Instruments. Certain obligations may carry variable or floating rates of interest, and may involve a conditional or unconditional demand feature. Such instruments bear interest at rates which are not fixed, but which vary with changes in specified market rates or indices. The interest rates on these securities may be reset daily, weekly, quarterly or some other reset period, and may have a floor or ceiling on interest rate changes. There is a risk that the current interest rate on such obligations may not accurately reflect existing market interest rates. A demand instrument with a demand notice exceeding seven days may be considered illiquid if there is no secondary market for such security.
 
Warrants and Rights. Warrants are instruments giving holders the right, but not the obligation, to buy equity or fixed income securities of a company at a given price during a specified period. Rights are similar to warrants but normally have a short life span to expiration. The purchase of warrants or rights involves the risk that a Fund could lose the purchase value of a warrant or right if the right to subscribe to additional shares is not exercised prior to the warrants’ and rights’ expiration. Also, the purchase of warrants and/or rights involves the risk that the effective price paid for the warrants and/or rights added to the subscription price of the related security may exceed the value of the subscribed security’s market price such as when there is no movement in the level of the underlying security. Buying a warrant does not make a Fund a shareholder of the underlying stock. The warrant holder has no voting or dividend rights with respect to the underlying stock. A warrant does not carry any right to assets of the issuer, and for this reason investment in warrants may be more speculative than other equity-based investments.
 
When-Issued, Delayed Delivery Securities, and Forward Commitment Transactions. A Fund may purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis, in which case delivery of the securities occurs beyond the normal settlement period; payment for or delivery of the securities would be made prior to the reciprocal delivery or payment by the other party to the transaction. When-issued or delayed delivery securities are subject to market fluctuations due to changes in market interest rates and it is possible that the market value at the time of settlement could be higher or lower than the purchase price if the general level of interest rates has changed. Although a Fund generally purchases securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis with the intention of actually acquiring the securities for its investment portfolio, a Fund may dispose of a when-issued security or forward commitment prior to settlement if it deems appropriate.

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Yankee Obligations. Yankee obligations (“Yankees”) are U.S. dollar-denominated instruments of foreign issuers who either register with the SEC or issue securities under Rule 144A of the 1933 Act. These consist of debt securities (including preferred or preference stock of non-governmental issuers), certificates of deposit, fixed time deposits and bankers’ acceptances issued by foreign banks, and debt obligations of foreign governments or their subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities, international agencies and supranational entities. Some securities issued by foreign governments or their subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities may not be backed by the full faith and credit of the foreign government. Yankee obligations, as obligations of foreign issuers, are subject to the same types of risks discussed above in "Foreign Securities." The Yankee obligations selected for the Funds will adhere to the same credit quality standards as those utilized for the selection of domestic debt obligations.
 
Zero Coupon Securities. The Funds may invest in zero coupon bonds of governmental or private issuers that generally pay no interest to their holders prior to maturity. Since zero coupon bonds do not make regular interest payments, they allow an issuer to avoid the need to generate cash to meet current interest payments and may involve greater credit risks than bonds paying interest currently. The Code requires that a Fund accrue interest income on zero coupon bonds for each taxable year, even though no cash has been paid on the bonds, and generally requires a Fund to distribute such income (net of deductible expenses, if any) to avoid being subject to federal income tax and to continue to maintain its status as a regulated investment company under the Code. Because no cash is generally received at the time of accrual, a Fund may be required to sell investments (even if such sales are not advantageous) to obtain sufficient cash to satisfy the distribution requirements applicable to a Fund under the Code. See “Taxes,” for more information.
 
INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS
 
Fundamental Investment Limitations
 
The following investment limitations are fundamental policies of each Fund which cannot be changed without the consent of the holders of a majority of that Fund’s outstanding shares.
 
The term “majority of the outstanding shares” means the vote of (i) 67% or more of a Fund’s shares present at a meeting, if more than 50% of the outstanding shares of a Fund are present or represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of a Fund’s outstanding shares, whichever is less. Except for the limitations on illiquid securities and bank borrowings, if a percentage restriction on investment or use of assets set forth below is adhered to at the time a transaction is effected, later changes in percentages resulting from changing market values or other circumstances will not be considered a deviation from these policies.
 
Several of these fundamental investment limitations include the defined term “1940 Act Laws, Interpretations and Exemptions.” This term means the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, as such statutes, rules and regulations are amended from time to time or are interpreted from time to time by the staff of the SEC and any exemptive order or similar relief applicable to a Fund.
 
All Funds except Focused Fund. Except as otherwise noted, the fundamental investment limitations for all Funds except the Focused Fund are:
 
1.               Diversification. For each diversified Fund only, the Funds may not purchase securities of an issuer that would cause the Funds to fail to satisfy the diversification requirement for a diversified management company under the 1940 Act, the rules or regulations thereunder or any exemption therefrom, as such statute, rules or regulations may be amended or interpreted from time to time.
 
For clarification, this diversification policy does not apply to the following non-diversified funds: Growth Opportunities Fund and Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund.

2.               Borrowing Money. The Funds may not engage in borrowing except as permitted by the Investment Company Act of 1940, any rule, regulation, or order under the Act or any SEC staff interpretation of the Act.
 
3.               Underwriting. The Funds may not underwrite securities issued by other persons, except to the extent that, in connection with the sale or disposition of portfolio securities, a Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter under certain federal securities laws or in connection with investments in other investment companies.
 
4.               Loans. The Funds may not make loans to other persons except that a Fund may (1) engage in repurchase agreements, (2) lend portfolio securities, (3) purchase debt securities, (4) purchase commercial paper, and (5) enter into any other lending

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arrangement permitted by the Investment Company Act of 1940, any rule, regulation or order under the Act or any SEC staff interpretation of the Act.
 
5.               Real Estate. The Funds may not purchase or sell real estate except that a Fund may (1) hold and sell real estate acquired as a result of the Fund’s ownership of securities or other instruments (2) purchase or sell securities or other instruments backed by real estate or interests in real estate and (3) purchase or sell securities of entities or investment vehicles, including real estate investment trusts that invest, deal or otherwise engage in transactions in real estate or interests in real estate.
 
6.               Commodities. The Funds may not purchase or sell physical commodities except that a Fund may (1) hold and sell physical commodities acquired as a result of the Fund’s ownership of securities or other instruments, (2) purchase or sell securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities, (3) purchase or sell options, and (4) purchase or sell futures contracts.
 
7.               Concentration of Investments. The Funds may not purchase the securities of an issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the United States Government, its agencies or its instrumentalities) if, as a result, more than 25% of the Fund’s total assets would be invested in the securities of companies whose principal business activities are in the same industry.
 
8.               Senior Securities. The Funds may not issue senior securities except as permitted by the Investment Company Act of 1940, any rule, regulation or order under the Act or any SEC staff interpretation of the Act.
 
Focused Fund. The fundamental investment limitations for the Focused Fund are :
 
1.               Borrowing Money. The Fund may not borrow money or issue senior securities, except as permitted by the 1940 Act Laws, Interpretations and Exemptions.
 
Please refer to number 1 of the “Non-Fundamental Investment Limitations” section in regard to the Focused Fund for further information.
 
2.               Underwriting. The Fund may not underwrite the securities of other issuers. This restriction does not prevent the Fund from engaging in transactions involving the acquisition, disposition or resale of its portfolio securities, regardless of whether the Fund may be considered to be an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
 
3.               Concentration of Investments. The Fund will not make investments that will result in the concentration (as that term may be defined or interpreted by the 1940 Act, Laws, Interpretations and Exemptions) of its investments in the securities of issuers primarily engaged in the same industry. This restriction does not limit the Fund’s investments in (i) obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities, (ii) tax-exempt obligations issued by governments or political subdivisions of governments or (iii) repurchase agreements collateralized by such obligations.
 
4.               Real Estate. The Fund may not purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments. This restriction does not prevent the Fund from investing in issuers that invest, deal or otherwise engage in transactions in real estate or interests therein, or investing in securities that are secured by real estate or interests therein.
 
5.               Commodities. The Fund may not purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments. This restriction does not prevent the Fund from engaging in transactions involving futures contracts and options thereon or investing in securities that are secured by physical commodities.
 
6.               Loans. The Fund may not make personal loans or loans of its assets to persons who control or are under common control with the Fund, except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act Laws, Interpretations and Exemptions. This restriction does not prevent the Fund from, among other things, purchasing debt obligations, entering repurchase agreements, lending portfolio securities or investing in loans, including assignments and participation interests.
 
Non-fundamental investment limitations
 
Each Fund also has adopted certain non-fundamental investment limitations. A non-fundamental investment limitation may be amended by the Board without a vote of shareholders upon 60 day's notice to shareholders. The non-fundamental investment limitations listed below are in addition to other non-fundamental investment limitations disclosed elsewhere in this SAI and in the prospectus.

All Funds except Focused Fund. The following non-fundamental investment limitations apply to each Fund except the Focused Fund:

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1.               Diversification. Under the 1940 Act, a diversified investment management company, as to 75% of its total assets, may not purchase securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agents or instrumentalities or securities of other investment companies) if, as a result, more than 5% of its total assets would be invested in the securities of such issuer, or more than 10% of the issuer’s outstanding voting securities would be held by the fund.

For clarification, this diversification policy does not apply to the following non-diversified funds: Growth Opportunities Fund and Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund.
 
2.               Borrowing. The 1940 Act allows a fund to borrow from any bank (including pledging, mortgaging or hypothecating assets) in an amount up to 33 1 / 3 % of its total assets (not including temporary borrowings not in excess of 5% of its total assets).
 
3.               Underwriting. Under the 1940 Act, underwriting securities involves a fund purchasing securities directly from an issuer for the purpose of selling (distributing) them or participating in any such activity either directly or indirectly. Under the 1940 Act, a diversified fund may not make any commitment as underwriter, if immediately thereafter the amount of its outstanding underwriting commitments, plus the value of its investments in securities of issuers (other than investment companies) of which it owns more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities, exceeds 25% of the value of its total assets.
 
4.               Lending. Under the 1940 Act, a fund may only make loans if expressly permitted by its investment policies. The Fund’s current investment policy on lending is as follows: the Fund may not make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1 / 3 % of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may: (i) purchase or hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) engage in securities lending as described in its Statement of Additional Information.
 
5.               Senior Securities. Senior securities may include any obligation or instrument issued by a fund evidencing indebtedness. The 1940 Act generally prohibits funds from issuing senior securities, although it does not treat certain transactions as senior securities, such as certain borrowings, short sales, reverse repurchase agreements, firm commitment agreements and standby commitments, with appropriate earmarking or segregation of assets to cover such obligation or other coverage of such obligation in a manner consistent with the 1940 Act Rules and SEC interpretations thereunder.
 
Mid Cap Growth Fund. The following additional non-fundamental investment limitation applies to the Mid Cap Growth Fund:
 
1.               Borrowing Money. The Fund intends to borrow money only as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes. In addition, the Fund may engage in reverse repurchase agreements, forward roll transactions involving mortgage-backed securities or other investment techniques entered into for the purpose of leverage.
 
Growth Opportunities Fund. The following additional non-fundamental investment limitations apply to the Growth Opportunities Fund:
 
1.               Illiquid Investments. The Fund will not purchase securities for which there are legal or contractual restrictions on resale or for which no readily available market exists (or engage in a repurchase agreement maturing in more than seven days) if, as a result thereof, more than 15% of the value of its net assets would be invested in such securities.
 
2.               Margin Purchases. The Fund will not purchase securities or evidences of interest thereon on “margin.”  This limitation is not applicable to short-term credit obtained by the Fund for the clearance of purchases and sales or redemption of securities or to the extent necessary to engage in transactions described in the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information involving margin purchases.

3.               Short Sales. The Fund will not make short sales of securities.

Focused Fund . The following non-fundamental investment limitations apply to the Focused Fund:
 
1.      Borrowing and senior securities. In complying with the fundamental investment restriction regarding borrowing and issuing senior securities, the Fund may borrow money in an amount not exceeding 33 1 / 3 % of its total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings).
 
2.      Loans. In complying with the fundamental investment restriction with regard to making loans, the Fund may not make loans if, as a result, more than 33 1 / 3 % of its total assets would be lent to other parties, except that the Fund may: (i) purchase or

35



hold debt instruments in accordance with its investment objective and policies; (ii) enter into repurchase agreements; and (iii) engage in securities lending as described in the Statement of Additional Information.

36



TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST
 
The following is a list of the Trustees and executive officers of the Trust, the length of time served, principal occupations for the past 5 years, and, for the Trustees, number of funds overseen in the Touchstone Fund Complex and other directorships held. All funds managed by the Advisor, the "Touchstone Funds", are part of the “Touchstone Fund Complex.”  The Touchstone Fund Complex consists of the Trust, Touchstone Funds Group Trust, Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust, and Touchstone Variable Series Trust. The Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust, as defined in the 1940 Act, are referred to as “Independent Trustees.”
 
Interested Trustee (1) :
 
Name
Address
Year of Birth
 
Position
Held
with
Trust
 
Term of Office
And Length of
Time Served
 
Principal
Occupation(s) During
Past 5 Years
 
Number of
Funds
Overseen
in the
Touchstone
Fund
Complex (2)
 
Other Directorships
Held During the Past 5
Years (3)
Jill T. McGruder
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1955
 
Trustee and President
 
Until retirement at age 75 or until she resigns or is removed
 
Trustee since 1999
 
President and CEO of IFS Financial Services, Inc. (a holding company).
 
41
 
IFS Financial Services, Inc. (a holding company) from 1999 to the present; Integrity and National Integrity Life Insurance Co. from 2005 to the present; Touchstone Securities (the Trust’s distributor) from 1999 to the present; Touchstone Advisors, Inc. (the Trust’s investment advisor and administrator) from 1999 to the present; W&S Brokerage Services (a brokerage company) from 1999 to the present; W&S Financial Group Distributors (a distribution company) from 1999 to the present; Cincinnati Analysts, Inc. from 2012 to the present; Columbus Life Insurance Co. from 2016 to the present; The Lafayette Life Insurance Co. from
2016 to the present; Taft Museum of Art from 2007 to the present; YWCA of Greater Cincinnati from 2012 to the present; and LL Global, Inc. from 2016 to the present.


37



Independent Trustees
 
Name
Address
Year of Birth
 
Position
Held
with
Trust
 
Term of Office
And Length of
Time Served
 
Principal
Occupation(s) During
Past 5 Years
 
Number of
Funds
Overseen in
the
Touchstone
Fund
Complex (2)
 
Other Directorships
Held During the Past 5
Years (3)
Karen Carnahan

c/o Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

Year of Birth: 1954

 
Trustee
 
Until retirement at age 75 or until she resigns or is removed

Trustee since 2019

 
Retired; former Chief Operating Officer of Shred-it (a business services company) from 2014 to 2015.

 
41
 
Director of Boys & Girls Club of West Chester/Liberty from 2016 to present.

Phillip R. Cox
 
c/o Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1947
 
Trustee
 
Until retirement at age 75 or until he resigns or is removed
 
Trustee since 1999
 
President and Chief Executive Officer of Cox Financial Corp. (a financial services company) from 1971 to the present.
 
41
 
Director of Cincinnati Bell (a communications company) from 1994 to the present; Bethesda Inc. (a hospital) from 2005 to the present; Timken Co. (a manufacturing company) from 2004 to 2014; TimkenSteel from 2014 to the present; Diebold, Inc. (a technology solutions company) from 2004 to the present; and Ohio Business Alliance for Higher Education and the Economy from 2005 to the present.
William C. Gale
 
c/o Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1952
 
Trustee
 
Until retirement at age 75 or until he resigns or is removed
 
Trustee since 2013
 
Retired; formerly Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (from 2003 to January 2015) of Cintas Corporation (a business services company).
 
41
 
None.
Susan J. Hickenlooper
 
c/o Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1946
 
Trustee
 
Until retirement at age 75 or until she resigns or is removed
 
Trustee since 2009
 
Retired; formerly Financial Analyst for Impact 100 (charitable organization) from November 2012 to 2013.
 
41
 
Trustee of Diocese of Southern Ohio from 2014 to the present; and Trustee of Cincinnati Parks Foundation from 2000 to 2016.

38



Kevin A. Robie
 
c/o Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1956
 
Trustee
 
Until retirement at age 75 or until he resigns or is removed
 
Trustee since 2013
 
Vice President of Portfolio Management at Soin International LLC (a private multinational holding company) from 2004 to the present.
 
41
 
Director of SaverSystems, Inc. from 2015 to the present; Director of Buckeye EcoCare, Inc. (a lawn care company) from 2013 to the present; Trustee of Dayton Region New Market Fund, LLC (a private fund) from 2010 to the present; and Trustee of the Entrepreneurs Center, Inc. (a small business incubator) from 2006 to the present.

Edward J. VonderBrink
 
c/o Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1944
 
Trustee
 
Until retirement at age 75 or until he resigns or is removed
 
Trustee since 2013
 
Consultant, VonderBrink Consulting LLC from 2000 to the present.
 
41
 
Director of Streamline Health Solutions, Inc. (healthcare IT) from 2006 to 2015; Mercy Health from 2013 to the present; Mercy Health Foundation (healthcare nonprofit) from 2008 to the present; Al Neyer Inc. (a construction company) from 2013 to the present; and BASCO Shower Door from 2010 to the present.

(1) Ms. McGruder, as a director of the Advisor and the Distributor, and an officer of affiliates of the Advisor and the Distributor, is an “interested person” of the Trust within the meaning of Section 2(a) (19) of the 1940 Act.
(2) As of July 30, 2019, the Touchstone Fund Complex consisted of 20 series of the Trust, 13 series of the Touchstone Funds Group Trust, 1 series of Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust and 7 variable annuity series of Touchstone Variable Series Trust.
(3) Each Trustee is also a Trustee of Touchstone Funds Group Trust, Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust and Touchstone Variable Series Trust.

 

39



Principal Officers:
Name
Address
Year of Birth
 
Position
Held with Trust (1)
 
Term of Office and Length of
Time Served
 
Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5
Years
Jill T. McGruder
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1955
 
President and Trustee
 
Until resignation, removal or disqualification
 
President since 2006
 
See biography above.
Steven M. Graziano
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1954
 
Vice President
 
Until resignation, removal or disqualification
 
Vice President since 2009
 
President of Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
Timothy D. Paulin
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1963
 
Vice President
 
Until resignation, removal or disqualification
 
Vice President since 2010
 
Senior Vice President of Investment Research and Product Management of Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
Timothy S. Stearns
 
Touchstone Advisors Inc.
303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1963
 
Chief Compliance Officer
 
Until resignation, removal or disqualification
 
Chief Compliance Officer since 2013
 
Chief Compliance Officer of Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
Terrie A. Wiedenheft
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc. 303 Broadway
Suite 1100
Cincinnati, Ohio 45202
 
Year of Birth: 1962
 
Controller and Treasurer
 
Until resignation, removal or disqualification Controller and
Treasurer since 2006
 
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operations Officer, of IFS Financial Services, Inc. (a holding company).
Meredyth A. Whitford

Western & Southern Financial Group
400 Broadway Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

Year of Birth: 1981

 
Secretary
 
Until resignation, removal or disqualification
 
Secretary since 2018
 
Counsel - Securities/Mutual Funds of Western & Southern Financial Group (2015 to present); Associate at Morgan Lewis & Bockius LLP (law firm) (2014 to 2015); Associate at Bingham McCutchen LLP (law firm) (2008 to 2014).
(1)  Each officer also holds the same office with Touchstone Funds Group Trust, Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust, and Touchstone Variable Series Trust.
 

40



Additional Information about the Trustees
 
The Board believes that each Trustee’s experience, qualifications, attributes, or skills on an individual basis and in combination with those of the other Trustees lead to the conclusion that the Trustees possess the requisite experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills to serve on the Board. The Board believes that the Trustees’ ability to review critically, evaluate, question and discuss information provided to them; to interact effectively with the Advisor, sub-advisors, other service providers, counsel and independent auditors; and to exercise effective business judgment in the performance of their duties, support this conclusion. The Board has also considered the contributions that each Trustee can make to the Board and the Funds.
 
In addition, the following specific experience, qualifications, attributes and skills apply as to each Trustee: Ms. McGruder has experience as a chief executive officer of a financial services company and director of various other businesses, as well as executive and leadership roles within the Advisor; Ms. Carnahan has experience as a president and chief operating officer of a division of a global company and as treasurer of a global company; Mr. Cox has experience as a chief executive officer of a financial services company and as a director of companies from varied industries; Mr. Gale has experience as a chief financial officer, an internal auditor of various global companies, and has accounting experience as a manager at a major accounting firm; Ms. Hickenlooper has executive and board experience at various businesses, foundations and charitable organizations; Mr. Robie has portfolio management experience at a private multinational holding company; and Mr. VonderBrink has experience as a consultant and director of other corporations.

In its periodic self-assessment of its effectiveness, the Board considers the complementary individual skills and experience of the individual Trustees primarily in the broader context of the Board’s overall composition so that the Board, as a body, possesses the appropriate (and appropriately diverse) skills and experience to oversee the business of the Funds. References to the qualifications, attributes and skills of Trustees are pursuant to requirements of the SEC, do not constitute holding out the Board or any Trustee as having any special expertise or experience, and shall not impose any greater responsibility on any Trustee or on the Board by reason thereof.
 
Board Structure
 
The Board is composed of six Independent Trustees and one Interested Trustee, Jill T. McGruder, who is Chairperson of the Board. The Independent Trustees have appointed Phillip R. Cox to serve as the Lead Independent Trustee. Ms. McGruder oversees the day-to-day business affairs of the Trust and communicates with Mr. Cox regularly on various Trust issues, as appropriate. Mr. Cox, among other things, chairs meetings of the Independent Trustees, serves as a spokesperson for the Independent Trustees, and serves as a liaison between the Independent Trustees and the Trust’s management between Board meetings. Except for any duties specified, the designation of Lead Independent Trustee does not impose on such Independent Trustee any duties, obligations, or liability that is greater than the duties, obligations, or liability imposed on such person as a member of the Board, generally. The Independent Trustees are advised at these meetings, as well as at other times, by separate, independent legal counsel.
 
The Board holds four regular meetings each year to consider and address matters involving the Trust and its Funds. The Board also may hold special meetings to address matters arising between regular meetings. The Independent Trustees also regularly meet outside the presence of management and are advised by independent legal counsel. These meetings may take place in-person or by telephone.
 
The Board has established a committee structure that includes an Audit Committee and a Governance Committee (discussed in more detail below). The Board conducts much of its work through these Committees. Each Committee is comprised entirely of Independent Trustees, which ensures that the Funds have effective and independent governance and oversight.
 
The Board reviews its structure regularly and believes that its leadership structure, including having a super-majority of Independent Trustees, coupled with an Interested Chairperson and a Lead Independent Trustee, is appropriate and in the best interests of the Trust because it allows the Board to exercise informed and independent judgment over matters under its purview, and it allocates areas of responsibility among committees and the full Board in a manner that enhances effective oversight. The Board believes that having an Interested Chairperson is appropriate and in the best interests of the Trust given: (1) the extensive oversight provided by the Trust’s Advisor over the affiliated and unaffiliated sub-advisors that conduct the day-to-day management of the Funds of the Trust; (2) the extent to which the work of the Board is conducted through the standing Committees; (3) the extent to which the Independent Trustees meet regularly, together with independent legal counsel, in the absence of the Interested Chairperson; and (4) the Interested Chairperson’s additional roles as a director of the Advisor and the Distributor and senior executive of IFS Financial Services, Inc., the Advisor’s parent company, and of other affiliates of the Advisor, which enhance the Board’s understanding of the operations of the Advisor and the role of the Trust and the Advisor within Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc. The Board also believes that the role of the Lead Independent Trustee within the leadership structure is integral to promoting independent oversight of the Funds’ operations and meaningful representation of the shareholders’ interests. In addition,

41



the Board believes its leadership structure facilitates the orderly and efficient flow of information to the Independent Trustees from the Trust’s management.
 
Board Oversight of Risk
 
Consistent with its responsibilities for oversight of the Trust and its Funds, the Board, among other things, oversees risk management of each Fund’s investment program and business affairs directly and through the committee structure that it has established. Risks to the Funds include, among others, investment risk, credit risk, liquidity risk, valuation risk and operational risk, as well as the overall business risk relating to the Funds. The Board has adopted, and periodically reviews, policies and procedures designed to address these risks. Under the overall oversight of the Board, the Advisor, sub-advisors, and other key service providers to the Funds, including the administrator, the distributor, the transfer agent, the custodian, and the independent auditors, have also implemented a variety of processes, procedures and controls to address these risks. Different processes, procedures and controls are employed with respect to different types of risks. These processes include those that are embedded in the conduct of regular business by the Board and in the responsibilities of officers of the Trust and other service providers.
 
The Board requires senior officers of the Trust, including the Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”), to report to the Board on a variety of matters at regular and special meetings of the Board, including matters relating to risk management. The Board and the Audit Committee receive regular reports from the Trust’s independent auditors on internal control and financial reporting matters. On at least a quarterly basis, the Board meets with the Trust’s CCO, including meetings in executive sessions, to discuss issues related to portfolio compliance and, on at least an annual basis, receives a report from the CCO regarding the effectiveness of the Trust’s compliance program. In addition, the Board also receives reports from the Advisor on the investments and securities trading of the Funds, including their investment performance and asset weightings compared to appropriate benchmarks, as well as reports regarding the valuation of those investments. The Board also receives reports from the Trust’s primary service providers on a periodic or regular basis, including the sub-advisors to the Funds.
 
Standing Committees of the Board
 
The Board is responsible for overseeing the operations of the Trust in accordance with the provisions of the 1940 Act and other applicable laws and the Trust’s Declaration of Trust. The Board has established the following Committees to assist in its oversight functions. Each Committee is composed entirely of Independent Trustees.
 
Audit Committee.  All of the Independent Trustees are members of the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing the Trust’s accounting and financial reporting policies, practices and internal controls. Mr. Gale is the Chair of the Audit Committee. During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, the Audit Committee held five meetings.
 
Governance Committee. All of the Independent Trustees are members of the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee is responsible for overseeing the Trust’s compliance program and compliance issues, procedures for valuing securities and responding to any pricing issues. Ms. Hickenlooper is the Chair of the Governance Committee. The Governance Committee held four meetings during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019.
 
In addition, the Governance Committee is responsible for recommending candidates to serve on the Board. The Governance Committee will consider shareholder recommendations for nomination to the Board only in the event that there is a vacancy on the Board. Shareholders who wish to submit recommendations for nominations to the Board to fill the vacancy must submit their recommendations in writing to Ms. Susan J. Hickenlooper, Chair of the Governance Committee, c/o Touchstone Funds, 303 Broadway, Suite 1100, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. Shareholders should include appropriate information on the background and qualifications of any person recommended to the Governance Committee (e.g., a resume), as well as the candidate’s contact information and a written consent from the candidate to serve if nominated and elected. Shareholder recommendations for nominations to the Board will be accepted on an ongoing basis and such recommendations will be kept on file for consideration in the event of a future vacancy on the Board.
 
Trustee Ownership in the Touchstone Fund Complex
 
The following table reflects the Trustees’ beneficial ownership in the Funds (i.e., dollar range of securities held in each Fund) and the Touchstone Fund Complex as of December 31, 2018.

42



 
 
Trustees
 
 
Interested 
Trustee
 
Independent Trustees
Funds
 
Jill T. McGruder
 
Karen Carnahan (2)
 
Phillip R.
Cox
 
William C.
Gale
 
Susan J.
Hickenlooper
 
Kevin A.
Robie
 
Edward J.
VonderBrink
Flexible Income Fund
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
$50,001-$100,000

 
None
 
None
Focused Fund
 
$50,001-$100,000
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
$50,001-$100,000
 
None
 
None
Global ESG Equity Fund
 
Over $100,000
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
Growth Opportunities Fund
 
$10,001-$50,000
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
$10,001-$50,000
 
None
 
None
Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
$50,001-$100,000
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
None
Aggregate Dollar Range of Securities in the Touchstone Fund Complex (1)
 
Over $100,000
 
None
 
None
 
None
 
Over
 $100,000
 
None
 
Over 
$100,000
(1) As of July 30, 2019, the Touchstone Fund Complex consisted of 20 series of the Trust, 13 series of Touchstone Funds Group Trust, 1 series of Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust, and 7 variable annuity series of Touchstone Variable Series Trust.
(2)  Ms. Carnahan became a Trustee of the Trust on May 15, 2019.

Trustee Compensation
 
The following table shows the compensation paid to the Trustees by the Trust and the aggregate compensation paid by the Touchstone Fund Complex during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019.
 
Name
 
Compensation from the Trust
 
Aggregate Compensation from the Touchstone Fund Complex (1)
Interested Trustee
 
 

 
 

Jill T. McGruder
 
$
0

 
$
0

Independent Trustees (2)
 
 

 
 

Karen Carnahan (3)
 
N/A

 
N/A

Phillip R. Cox
 
$
75,670

 
$
153,500

William C. Gale
 
$
69,799

 
$
141,500

Susan J. Hickenlooper
 
$
69,799

 
$
141,500

Kevin A. Robie
 
$
63,928

 
$
129,500

Edward J. VonderBrink
 
$
63,928

 
$
129,500

(1) As of July 30, 2019, the Touchstone Fund Complex consisted of 20 series of the Trust, 13 series of Touchstone Funds Group Trust, 1 series of Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust,  and 7 variable annuity series of Touchstone Variable Series Trust.
(2) The Independent Trustees are eligible to participate in the Touchstone Trustee Deferred Compensation Plan, which allows them to defer payment of a specific amount of their Trustee compensation, subject to a minimum quarterly reduction of $1,000. The total amount of deferred compensation accrued by the Independent Trustees from the Touchstone Fund Complex during the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019 was $129,500.
(3)  Ms. Carnahan became a Trustee of the Trust on May 15, 2019.
 

43



The following table shows the Trustee quarterly compensation schedule:
 
 
 

Retainer
 
Governance
Committee Meeting Attendance Fees

 
Audit
Committee Meeting Attendance Fees

 
Board
Meeting Attendance
 Fees
Compensation

 
$
18,000

 
$
4,500

 
$
4,500

 
$
5,000

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Lead Independent Trustee Fees
 
$
6,000

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Committee Chair Fees
 
$
1,000

 
$
2,000

 
$
2,000

 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Telephonic Meeting Attendance Fee = $1,500

Independent Trustee compensation and Trustee and officer expenses are typically divided equally among the series comprising the Touchstone Fund Complex.

THE ADVISOR
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc. (previously defined as the “Advisor” or “Touchstone Advisors”), is the Funds’ investment advisor under the terms of an advisory agreement (the “Advisory Agreement”) dated May 1, 2000. Under the Advisory Agreement, the Advisor reviews, supervises, and administers the Funds’ investment program, subject to the oversight of, and policies established by, the Board of the Trust (the “Trustees”). The Advisor determines the appropriate allocation of assets to each Fund’s sub-advisor(s).
 
The Advisory Agreement provides that the Advisor shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss arising out of any investment or for any act or omission in carrying out its duties, but shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard of its obligations or duties.
 
The continuance of the Advisory Agreement as to the Funds after the first two years must be specifically approved at least annually (i) by the vote of the Board or by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund, and, in either case, (ii) by the vote of a majority of the Board who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party thereto, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval. The Advisory Agreement will terminate automatically in the event of its assignment, and is terminable at any time without penalty by the Board or, with respect to a Fund, by a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund, on not less than 30-day nor more than 60-day written notice to the Advisor, or by the Advisor on 90-day written notice to the Trust.
 
The Advisor is a wholly-owned subsidiary of IFS Financial Services, Inc., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Western-Southern Life Assurance Company. Western-Southern Life Assurance Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Western and Southern Life Insurance Company, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc. Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Western & Southern Mutual Holding Company (“Western & Southern”). Western & Southern is located at 400 Broadway, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. Ms. Jill T. McGruder may be deemed to be an affiliate of the Advisor because she is a Director of the Advisor and an officer of affiliates of the Advisor. Ms. McGruder, by reason of these affiliations, may directly or indirectly receive benefits from the advisory fees paid to the Advisor.
 
Manager-of-Managers Structure
 
The SEC has granted an exemptive order that permits the Trust or the Advisor, under certain circumstances, to select or change unaffiliated sub-advisors, enter into new sub-advisory agreements or amend existing sub-advisory agreements without first obtaining shareholder approval (a “manager-of-managers structure”). The Trust, on behalf of each Fund, seeks to achieve its investment goal by using a “manager-of-managers” structure. Under a manager-of-managers structure, the Advisor acts as investment advisor, subject to direction from and oversight by the Board, to allocate and reallocate the Fund’s assets among sub-advisors, and to recommend that the Trustees hire, terminate or replace unaffiliated sub-advisors without shareholder approval. By reducing the number of shareholder meetings that may have to be held to approve new or additional sub-advisors for the Fund, the Trust anticipates that there will be substantial potential cost savings, as well as the opportunity to achieve certain management

44



efficiencies, with respect to any Fund in which the manager-of-managers approach is chosen. Shareholders of a Fund will be notified of a change in its sub-advisor.
 
Fees Paid to the Advisor
 
For its services, the Advisor is entitled to receive an investment advisory fee from each Fund at an annualized rate, based on the average daily net assets of the Fund, as set forth below. Each Fund’s advisory fee is accrued daily and paid monthly.

Fund
 
Investment Advisory Fee
Flexible Income Fund
 
0.60% on first $500 million of assets; and
0.50% on assets over $500 million
Focused Fund
 
0.70% on first $100 million of assets;
0.65% on next $400 million of assets; and
0.60% on assets over $500 million
Global ESG Equity Fund
 
0.65% on first $1 billion of assets; and
0.60% on assets over $1 billion
Growth Opportunities Fund
 
0.75% on first $500 million of assets;
0.70% on next $500 million of assets; and
0.65% on assets over $1 billion
Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
0.75% on first $500 million of assets;
0.70% on next $500 million of assets; and
0.65% on assets over $1 billion
Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
1.00% on all assets
 
Each Fund shall pay the expenses of its operation, including but not limited to the following (i) charges and expenses of outside pricing services, (ii) the charges and expenses of auditors; (iii) the charges and expenses of its custodian, transfer agent and administrative agent appointed by the Trust with respect to a Fund; (iv) brokers’ commissions, and issue and transfer taxes chargeable to a Fund in connection with securities transactions to which a Fund is a party; (v) insurance premiums, interest charges, dues and fees for membership in trade associations and all taxes and fees payable to federal, state or other governmental agencies; (vi) fees and expenses involved in registering and maintaining registrations of the Funds with the SEC, state or blue sky securities agencies and foreign countries; (vii) all expenses of meetings of Trustees and of shareholders of the Trust and of preparing, printing and distributing prospectuses, notices, proxy statements and all reports to shareholders and to governmental agencies; (viii) charges and expenses of legal counsel to the Trust and the Independent Trustees; (ix) compensation of the Independent Trustees of the Trust; (x) compliance fees and expenses; and (xi) interest on borrowed money, if any. The compensation and expenses of any officer, Trustee or employee of the Trust who is an affiliated person of the Advisor are paid by the Advisor. Each class of shares of a Fund pays its respective pro rata portion of the advisory fee payable by the Fund.  

Expense Limitation Agreement. Touchstone Advisors has contractually agreed to waive fees and reimburse expenses to the extent necessary to ensure each Fund’s total annual operating expenses do not exceed the contractual limits set forth in the Fund’s Fees and Expenses table in the Summary section of the Prospectus. Expenses that are not waived or reimbursed by the Advisor include dividend and interest expenses relating to short sales; interest; taxes; brokerage commissions and other transaction costs; portfolio transaction and investment related expenses, including expenses associated with the Fund's liquidity provider; other expenditures which are capitalized in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles; the cost of “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses,” if any, and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of business ("Excluded Expenses"). The Fund bears the costs of these Excluded Expenses. The contractual limits set forth in each Fund's Fees and Expenses table in the summary section of the Prospectus have been adjusted to include the effect of Rule 12b-1 fees, shareholder servicing fees and other anticipated class specific expenses, if applicable. Fee waivers or expense reimbursements are calculated and applied monthly, based on the Fund’s average net assets during the month. The terms of Touchstone Advisors’ contractual expense limitation agreement provide that Touchstone Advisors is entitled to recoup, subject to approval by the Fund’s Board, such amounts waived or reimbursed for a period of up to three years from the date on which Touchstone Advisors reduced its compensation or assumed expenses for the Fund. The Fund will make repayments to the Advisor only if such repayment does not cause the annual Fund operating expenses (after the repayment is taken into account) to exceed both (1) the expense cap in place when such amounts were waived or reimbursed and (2) the Fund’s current expense limitation.
 
Advisory Fees and Fee Waivers or Reimbursements. For the three most recent fiscal years ended March 31, each of the Funds listed below paid the following advisory fees and received waivers as shown below: 

 

45



 
 
Advisory Fees Paid
 
Fee Waivers or Reimbursements
Fund
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
Flexible Income Fund
 
$
4,492,171

 
$
5,067,199

 
$
4,691,398

 
$
1,060,020

 
$
743,674

 
$
513,008

Focused Fund
 
$
8,961,057

 
$
7,759,762

 
$
7,131,768

 
$
375,144

 
$
184,614

 
$
184,509

Global ESG Equity Fund
 
$
2,078,096

 
$
3,529,801

 
$
4,855,568

 
$
364,653

 
$
231,312

 
$
92,449

Growth Opportunities Fund
 
$
2,059,535

 
$
2,036,845

 
$
1,974,093

 
$
324,751

 
$
326,641

 
$
326,885

Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
$
5,341,308

 
$
5,418,922

 
$
6,938,272

 
$
17,832

 
$
569

 
$
0

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
$
2,561,257

 
$
4,867,305

 
$
6,686,008

 
$
148,454

 
$
147,227

 
$
98,932


 
THE SUB-ADVISORS AND PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
 
The Advisor has selected sub-advisors (each a "Sub-Advisor" or collectively the “Sub-Advisors”) to manage all or a portion of a Fund’s assets, as allocated by the Advisor. The Sub-Advisors make the investment decisions for the Fund assets allocated to them, and continuously review, supervise and administer a separate investment program, subject to the oversight of, and policies established by, the Board.
 
Each sub-advisory agreement provides that a Sub-Advisor shall not be protected against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on its part in the performance of its duties, or from reckless disregard of its obligations or duties thereunder.
 
For their respective services, the Sub-Advisors receive a fee from the Advisor with respect to each Fund that it sub-advises. As described in the prospectus, each Sub-Advisor receives sub-advisory fees with respect to each Fund that it sub-advises. Each Sub-Advisor’s fee with respect to each Fund is accrued daily and paid monthly, based on the Fund’s average net assets allocated to the Sub-Advisor during the current month.

The Advisor pays sub-advisory fees to the Sub-Advisor from its advisory fee. The compensation of any officer, director, or employee of the Sub-Advisor who is rendering services to a Fund is paid by the Sub-Advisor. For the fiscal years (or periods) ended March 31, 2017, 2018 and 2019 the Advisor paid the following sub–advisory fees with respect to each Fund:
 
Fund
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
Flexible Income Fund
 
$
2,241,487

 
$
2,533,600

 
$
2,384,247

Focused Fund
 
$
4,621,103

 
$
4,029,881

 
$
3,715,884

Global ESG Equity Fund
 
$
1,090,955

 
$
1,797,515

 
$
2,427,784

Growth Opportunities Fund
 
$
1,233,062

 
$
1,222,107

 
$
1,184,456

Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
$
3,152,690

 
$
3,203,670

 
$
4,067,865

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
$
1,778,328

 
$
3,388,927

 
$
4,680,208

 
The following charts list for each of the Funds’ portfolio managers (i) the number of their other managed accounts per investment category: (ii) the number of and total assets of such other investment accounts managed where the advisory fee is based on the performance of the account: and (iii) their beneficial ownership in their managed Fund(s) at the end of the March 31, 2019 fiscal year. Listed below the charts applicable to each Sub-Advisor's group of portfolio managers is (i) a description of each portfolio manager’s compensation structure as of March 31, 2019, and (ii) a description of any material conflicts that may arise in connection with each portfolio manager’s management of the Fund’s investments and the investments of the other accounts included in the chart and any material conflicts in allocation of investment opportunities between the Fund and other accounts managed by each portfolio manager as of March 31, 2019.
 
Sub-Advisor Control. This section presents the Sub-Advisor’s control persons.
 
Bramshill Investments, LLC (“Bramshill”) is an asset management firm and registered investment adviser with approximately $2.3 billion in assets under management as of March 31, 2019. The Hackensack, New Jersey-based company was founded by Art DeGaetano and William Nieporte in 2012 and is employee-owned.
Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. (“Fort Washington”) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Western & Southern and is therefore an affiliate of Touchstone Advisors and Touchstone Securities. Ms. McGruder may be deemed to be an affiliate of Fort Washington.

46



Rockefeller & Co. LLC (“Rockefeller”) is a subsidiary of Rockefeller Capital Management L.P., a new holding company controlled by Viking Global Investors L.P., a global investment firm founded in 1999.
Sands Capital Management, LLC (“Sands Capital”) is controlled by Frank M. Sands, Sr. and Frank M. Sands.
Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. (“Westfield”) is majority employee owned.

Flexible Income Fund
 
Sub-Advisor: Bramshill Investments, LLC
 
Portfolio Manager/ Types of
Accounts
 
Total
Number of
Other
Accounts
Managed
 
Total
Other Assets
(million)
 
Number of Other
Accounts Managed
subject to a Performance
Based Advisory Fee
 
Total Other Assets
Managed subject to a
Performance Based
Advisory Fee
(million)
Art DeGaetano
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
6
 
$1,209,000
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
3
 
$440
 
3
 
$440
Other Accounts
 
269
 
$695
 
0
 
$0
Derek Pines
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
6
 
$1,209,000
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
0
 
$0
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
269
 
$695
 
0
 
$0
Michael Hirschfield, CFA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
0
 
$0
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
2
 
$430
 
2
 
$430
Other Accounts
 
0
 
$0
 
0
 
$0
Paul van Lingen
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
1
 
$134
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
1
 
$10
 
1
 
$10
Other Accounts
 
0
 
$0
 
0
 
$0
 
Compensation. Compensation at Bramshill is determined on a salary and discretionary bonus structure. Portfolio managers are not compensated based on the performance of the Fund. The discretionary bonuses of the portfolio managers are determined by the management committee of Bramshill based on the performance of the employee, the performance of Bramshill and the market environment.

Material Conflicts of Interest. Bramshill and its affiliates may manage the accounts of clients other than the Fund. Accordingly, the investment methods and strategies that Bramshill utilizes in managing the Fund may be utilized by Bramshill and its affiliates in managing investments for other customer accounts. Bramshill and its affiliates may also establish, sponsor, or be affiliated with other investment pools that may engage in the same or similar businesses as the Fund using the same or similar investment strategies. Bramshill manages other accounts using similar strategies to the Fund under a performance fee structure.

Although Bramshill and its affiliates may manage investments on behalf of a number of other customer accounts, investment decisions and allocations are not necessarily made in parallel among the Fund’s accounts and the other customer accounts. Other accounts that may be managed by Bramshill and its affiliates may make investments and utilize investment strategies that may not be made or utilized by the Fund. Accordingly, the other accounts that may be managed by Bramshill and its affiliates may produce results that are materially different from those experienced by the Fund.

To address and manage these potential conflicts of interest, Bramshill has adopted compliance policies and procedures to allocate investment opportunities and to ensure that each of its clients is treated on a fair and equitable basis. Such policies and procedures include, but are not limited to, investment and trade aggregation and allocation policies and oversight by Bramshill's compliance team. In addition, Bramshill will mitigate the associated conflicts by allocating buys and sells on a pro rata basis to the extent feasible or using another equitable method under the circumstances.

Ownership of Shares of the Fund. The following table indicates for the Fund, the dollar range of shares beneficially owned by the portfolio managers as of March 31, 2019:

47



Portfolio Manager
 
Dollar Range of Beneficial Ownership
Art DeGaetano
 
None
Derek Pines
 
None
Michael Hirschfield
 
None
Paul van Lingen
 
None
 
Focused Fund
 
Sub-Advisor: Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc.
 
Portfolio Manager/ Types of
Accounts
 
Total Number
of Other
Accounts
Managed
 
Total
Other
Assets
(million)
 
Number of Other
Accounts Managed subject
to a Performance Based
Advisory Fee
 
Total Other Assets
Managed subject to a
Performance Based
Advisory Fee (million)
James Wilhelm
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
6
 
$2,582
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
1
 
$460
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
35
 
$2,312
 
0
 
$0
 
Compensation. All of Fort Washington’s portfolio managers receive a fixed base salary and annual performance bonuses. Bonuses are based primarily on the overall performance of Fort Washington as well as the pre-tax performance (relative to the appropriate benchmark) of their respective asset category over a one, three and five-year time horizon. Secondarily, portfolio managers are also assessed on their ability to retain clients and attract new clients. Additionally, a long-term retention plan was instituted in 2000, whereby certain investment professionals are periodically granted participation units with a 7-year cliff vesting schedule. The structure includes long-term vesting provisions. The percentage of compensation allocated to performance bonuses, asset-increase incentives and long-term incentive compensation is determined annually by the firm’s President and approved by the Board of Directors.
 
Fort Washington’s parent company also provides all personnel a defined benefit retirement plan, which provides a lifetime annuity upon retirement that is based on a percentage of final average pay and years of service under the plan.
 
Associates are also eligible to participate in a 401(k) plan. The 401(k) company match is 50% of the first 4% of earnings saved. In years when Western & Southern Financial Group exceeds its business goals, the company may increase its match to as much as 50% of the first 6% of earnings saved.
 
Conflicts of Interest. Actual or potential conflicts of interest may arise when a portfolio manager has management responsibilities to more than one account (including the Fund). Actual or potential conflicts of interest would include devotion of unequal time and attention to the management of the accounts, inability to allocate limited investment opportunities across a broad array of accounts and incentive to allocate opportunities to an account where the portfolio manager has a greater financial incentive, such as allocation opportunities. Fort Washington has adopted policies and procedures reasonably designed to address such conflicts.
 
Ownership of Shares of the Fund. The following table indicates for the Fund, the dollar range of shares beneficially owned by the portfolio managers as of March 31, 2019:
Portfolio Manager
 
Dollar Range of Beneficial Ownership
James Wilhelm
 
$500,001 - $1,000,000
 

48



Global ESG Equity Fund
 
Sub-Advisor: Rockefeller & Co. LLC
 
Portfolio Manager/ Types of
Accounts
 
Total Number
of Other
Accounts
Managed
 
Total
Other
Assets
(million)
 
Number of Other Accounts
Managed subject to a
Performance Based
Advisory Fee
 
Total Other Assets
Managed subject to a
Performance Based
Advisory Fee (million)
David P. Harris
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
2
 
$218
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
19
 
$2,108
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
235
 
$3,867
 
1
 
$393
Jimmy C. Chang
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
5
 
$436
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
14
 
$1,639
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
455
 
$4,789
 
1
 
$393

Compensation.   The portfolio managers’ compensation consists of a combination of competitive base salary, a discretionary annual bonus, and, in the case of Managing Directors and certain other senior professionals, participation in a deferred compensation plan, the Executive Valuation Multiplier Plan.  This plan defers, for three-year periods, a portion of their bonus compensation to foster an environment focused on long-term alignment with our clients and stakeholders.

The determination of bonus compensation is based on individual, team and overall company performance, as well as the performance of our clients’ portfolios.  The bonus is discretionary although metrics, such as individual alpha creation, are a factor in the decision-making process. Additionally, executive members of Rockefeller Asset Management (“RAM”) are eligible for a separate equity-like profits interest plan. 
Conflicts of Interest.   Potential conflicts of interest may arise in connection with the portfolio managers’ management of the Fund’s investments and the management of the investments of “other accounts”. The other accounts may have the same or similar investment objectives and strategies as the Fund but may be subject to different management fee structures than the Fund. Therefore, a potential conflict of interest may arise as a result of the similarities in investment objectives and strategies, whereby the portfolio managers could favor one account over another. Another potential conflict could include the portfolio managers’ knowledge about the size, timing and possible market impact of Fund trades, whereby the portfolio managers could use this information to the advantage of other accounts and to the disadvantage of the Fund. Rockefeller has established policies and procedures which seek to ensure that the purchase and sale of securities among all accounts it manages are fairly and equitably allocated.
 
Ownership of Shares of the Fund. The following table indicates for the Fund, the dollar range of shares beneficially owned by the portfolio managers as of March 31, 2019:
Portfolio Managers
 
Dollar Range of Beneficial Ownership
David P. Harris
 
None
Jimmy C. Chang
 
None

49



Growth Opportunities Fund

Sub-Advisor: Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P.

Portfolio Manager/ Types of
Accounts
 
Total Number
of Other
Accounts
Managed
 
Total
Other
Assets
(million)
 
Number of Other
Accounts Managed subject
to a Performance Based
Advisory Fee
 
Total Other Assets
Managed subject to a Performance Based
Advisory Fee (million)
William A. Muggia
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
9
 
$3,122
 
0
 
$0
   Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
8
 
$960
 
1
 
$23
Other Accounts
 
310
 
$9,228
 
25
 
$2,141
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Richard D. Lee, CFA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
8
 
$3,003
 
0
 
$0
   Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
4
 
$912
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
269
 
$8,948
 
24
 
$1,931
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ethan J. Meyers, CFA

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
8
 
$3,003
 
0
 
$0
   Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
4
 
$912
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
269
 
$8,948
 
24
 
$1,931
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
John M. Montgomery
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
8
 
$3,003
 
0
 
$0
   Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
4
 
$912
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
269
 
$8,948
 
24
 
$1,931

Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
Portfolio Manager/ Types of
Accounts
 
Total Number
of Other
Accounts
Managed
 
Total
Other
Assets
(million)
 
Number of Other
Accounts Managed subject
to a Performance Based
Advisory Fee
 
Total Other Assets
Managed subject to a
Performance Based
Advisory Fee (million)
William A. Muggia
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
9
 
$2,186
 
0
 
$0
   Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
8
 
$960
 
1
 
$23
Other Accounts
 
310
 
$9,228
 
25
 
$2,141
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Richard D. Lee, CFA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
8
 
$2,067
 
0
 
$0
   Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
4
 
$912
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
269
 
$8,948
 
24
 
$1,931
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ethan J. Meyers, CFA

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
8
 
$2,067
 
0
 
$0
   Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
4
 
$912
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
269
 
$8,948
 
24
 
$1,931
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
John M. Montgomery
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
8
 
$2,067
 
0
 
$0
   Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
4
 
$912
 
0
 
$0
Other Accounts
 
269
 
$8,948
 
24
 
$1,931

50



Compensation. Members of Westfield’s Investment Committee (the “Investment Committee”) may be eligible to receive various components of compensation:
 
Investment Committee members receive a base salary commensurate with industry standards. This salary is reviewed annually during the employee’s performance assessment.
Investment Committee members also receive a performance based bonus award. This bonus award is determined and paid in December. The amount awarded is based on the employee’s individual performance attribution and overall contribution to the investment performance of Westfield. While the current calendar year is a primary focus, a rolling three year attribution summary is also considered when determining the bonus award.
Investment Committee members may be eligible to receive equity interests in the future profits of Westfield. Individual awards are typically determined by a member’s overall performance within the firm, including but not limited to contribution to company strategy, participation in marketing and client service initiatives, as well as longevity at the firm. The key members of Westfield’s management team who received equity interests in the firm enter into agreements restricting post-employment competition and solicitation of clients and employees of Westfield. This compensation is in addition to the base salary and performance based bonus. Equity interest grants typically vest over five years.
Investment Committee members may receive a portion of the performance-based fee earned from an account that is managed solely by Mr. Muggia. He has full discretion to grant such awards to any member of the Investment Committee.
 
Conflicts of Interest. The simultaneous management of multiple accounts by Westfield’s investment professionals creates a possible conflict of interest as they must allocate their time and investment ideas across multiple accounts. This may result in the Investment Committee or portfolio manager allocating unequal attention and time to the management of each client account as each has different objectives, benchmarks, investment restrictions and fees. For most client accounts, investment decisions are made at the Investment Committee level. Once an idea has been approved, it is implemented across all eligible and participating accounts within the strategy.
 
Although the Investment Committee collectively acts as portfolio manager on most client accounts, there are some client accounts that are managed by a portfolio manager who also serves as a member of the Investment Committee. This can create a conflict of interest because investment decisions for these individually managed accounts do not require approval by the Investment Committee; thus, there is an opportunity for individually managed client accounts to trade in a security ahead of Investment Committee-managed client accounts. Trade orders for individually managed accounts must be communicated to the Investment Committee. Additionally, the Compliance team performs periodic reviews of such accounts to ensure procedures have been followed.

Westfield has clients with performance-based fee arrangements. A conflict of interest can arise between those portfolios that incorporate a performance fee and those that do not. When the same securities are recommended for both types of accounts, it is Westfield’s policy to allocate investments, on a pro-rata basis, to all participating and eligible accounts, regardless of the account’s fee structure. Westfield’s Operations team performs ongoing reviews of each product’s model portfolio versus each client account. Discrepancies are researched, and exceptions are documented.
 
In placing each transaction for a client’s account, Westfield seeks best execution of that transaction except in cases where Westfield does not have the authority to select the broker or dealer, as stipulated by the client. Westfield attempts to bundle directed brokerage accounts with non-directed accounts, and then utilize step-out trades to satisfy the directed arrangements. Clients who do not allow step-out trades generally will be executed after non-directed accounts.
 
Because of Westfield’s interest in receiving third party research services, there may be an incentive for Westfield to select a broker or dealer based on such interest rather than the clients’ interest in receiving most favorable execution. To mitigate the conflict that Westfield may have an incentive beyond best execution to utilize a particular broker, broker and research votes are conducted and reviewed on a quarterly basis. These votes provide the opportunity to recognize the unique research efforts of a wide variety of firms, as well as the opportunity to compare aggregate commission dollars with a particular broker to ensure appropriate correlation.
 
Some Westfield clients have elected to retain certain brokerage firms as consultants or to invest their assets through a broker-sponsored wrap program for which Westfield acts as a manager. Several of these firms are on Westfield’s approved broker list. Since Westfield may gain new clients through such relationships, and will interact closely with such firms to service the client, there may be an incentive for Westfield to select a broker or dealer based on such interest rather than the clients’ interest. To help ensure independence in the brokerage selection process, brokerage selection is handled by Westfield’s Traders, while client relationships are managed by Westfield’s Marketing/Client Service team.
 
Personal accounts may give rise to conflicts of interest. Westfield and its employees will, from time to time, for their own investment accounts, purchase, sell, hold or own securities or other assets which may be recommended for purchase, sale or ownership for

51



one or more clients. Westfield has a Code of Ethics which regulates trading in such accounts that includes requirements on reporting and preclearance. Compliance reviews personal trading activity regularly.
 
Westfield serves as manager to the General Partners of private funds, for which we also provide investment advisory services. Westfield and its employees have also invested their own funds in such vehicles and other investment strategies that are advised by the firm. Allowing such investments and having a financial interest in the private funds can create an incentive for the firm to favor these accounts because our financial interests are more directly tied to the performance of such accounts. To help ensure all clients are treated equitably and fairly, Westfield allocates investment opportunities on a pro-rata basis. Compliance conducts periodic reviews of client accounts to ensure procedures have been followed.

Ownership of Shares of the Fund. The following table indicates for each Fund, the dollar range of shares beneficially owned by the portfolio managers as of March 31, 2019:
 
 
Dollar Range of Beneficial Ownership
Portfolio Manager
           
Growth Opportunities Fund
 
Mid Cap Growth Fund
William A. Muggia
 
$100,001 - $500,000
 
None
Richard D. Lee, CFA
 
$500,001 - $1,000,000
 
$100,001 - $500,000
Ethan J. Meyers, CFA
 
$100,001 - $500,000
 
None
John M. Montgomery
 
$100,001 - $500,000

 
None
  
Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
Sub-Advisor: Sands Capital Management, LLC
 
Portfolio Manager/ Types of
Accounts
 
Total
Number of
Other
Accounts
Managed
 
Total Other
Assets
(million)
 
Number of
Other Accounts
Managed subject
to a Performance
Based Advisory Fee
 
Total Other Assets
Managed subject
to a Performance
Based Advisory
Fee (million)
Brian A. Christiansen, CFA
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
0
 
$0
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
6
 
$1,738
 
3
 
$356
Other Accounts
 
7
 
$1,190
 
0
 
$0
Ashraf A. Haque
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
0
 
$0
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
6
 
$1,738
 
3
 
$356
Other Accounts
 
7
 
$1,190
 
0
 
$0
Neil Kansari
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Registered Investment Companies
 
0
 
$0
 
0
 
$0
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles
 
6
 
$1,738
 
3
 
$356
Other Accounts
 
7
 
$1,190
 
0
 
$0
 
Compensation. Investment professionals benefit from a salary competitive in the industry, an annual qualitative bonus based on subjective review of the employees’ overall contribution, and a standard profit sharing plan and 401(k) plan. Additional incentives include equity participation. The investment professionals also participate in an investment results bonus. The investment results bonus is calculated from the pre-tax performance variance of the Sands Capital composite returns and their respective benchmarks over 1, 3, and 5 year periods, weighted towards the 3 and 5 year results.
 
Conflicts of interest. As an investment adviser to a variety of clients, Sands Capital recognizes there may be actual or potential conflicts of interest inherent in its business. For example, conflicts of interest could result from a portfolio manager’s management of multiple accounts for multiple clients, the execution and allocation of investment opportunities, the use of brokerage commission to obtain research, and personal trading by firm employees. Sands Capital has addressed these conflicts by developing policies and procedures it believes are reasonably designed to treat all clients in a fair and equitable manner over time. Sands Capital’s policies and procedures address such issues as execution of portfolio transactions, aggregation and allocation of trades, directed brokerage, and the use of brokerage commissions. Additionally, Sands Capital maintains a Code of Ethics and Insider Trading Policies and Procedures that address rules on personal trading and insider information.
 

52



Ownership of Shares of the Fund. The following table indicates for the Fund, the dollar range of shares beneficially owned by the portfolio managers as of March 31, 2019:
Portfolio Manager
 
Dollar Range of Beneficial Ownership
Brian A. Christiansen
 
$100,001 - $500,000
Ashraf A. Haque
 
$100,001 - $500,000
Neil Kansari
 
$100,001 - $500,000
  
THE ADMINISTRATOR
 
The Advisor entered into an Administration Agreement with the Trust, whereby the Advisor is responsible for: supplying executive and regulatory compliance services; supervising the preparation of tax returns; coordinating the preparation of reports to shareholders and reports to, and filings with, the Securities and Exchange Commission and state securities authorities, as well as materials for meetings of the Board of Trustees; calculating the daily NAV per share; and maintaining the financial books and records of the Fund.
 
For its services the Advisor’s annual administrative fee is:
 
0.145% on the first $20 billion of the aggregate average daily net assets;
0.11% on the next $10 billion of aggregate average daily net assets;
0.09% on the next $10 billion of aggregate average daily net assets; and
0.07% on the aggregate average daily net assets over $40 billion.
 
The fee is computed and allocated among the Touchstone Fund Complex (excluding Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust) on the basis of relative daily net assets.
 
The Advisor has engaged BNY Mellon as the sub-administrative and transfer agent to the Trust. BNY Mellon provides administrative, accounting , and transfer agent services to the Trust and is compensated directly by the Advisor, not the Trust. (See “Transfer and Sub-Administrative Agent” in this SAI).
 
The following shows administration fees incurred by the Funds listed below for the three most recent fiscal years (or periods) ended March 31.
 
 
 
Administrative Fees Paid
Fund
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
Flexible Income Fund
 
$
964,775

 
$
1,203,829

 
$
1,215,505

Focused Fund
 
$
2,093,089

 
$
1,802,776

 
$
1,651,011

Global ESG Equity Fund
 
$
409,749

 
$
753,165

 
$
1,083,165

Growth Opportunities Fund
 
$
398,177

 
$
393,790

 
$
381,658

Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
$
1,054,628

 
$
1,070,705

 
$
1,387,793

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
$
322,941

 
$
626,648

 
$
969,471


 
TOUCHSTONE SECURITIES
 
Touchstone Securities, Inc. (“Touchstone Securities” or the “Distributor”), and the Trust are parties to a distribution agreement (“Distribution Agreement”) with respect to the Funds. The Distributor’s principal place of business is 303 Broadway, Suite 1100, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. The Distributor is a registered broker-dealer, and an affiliate of the Advisor by reason of common ownership. The Distributor is obligated to sell shares on a best efforts basis only against purchase orders for the shares. Shares of each Fund are offered to the public on a continuous basis. The Distributor currently allows concessions to dealers who sell shares of the Funds. The Distributor retains that portion of the sales charge that is not re-allowed to dealers who sell shares of a Fund. The Distributor retains the entire sales charge on all direct initial investments in a Fund and on all investments in accounts with no designated dealer of record.
 
The table below sets forth the aggregate underwriting commissions on sales of the Funds and the amounts of underwriting commissions retained by the Distributor for the three most recent fiscal years (or periods) ended March 31.

53



 
Fund
 
Aggregate
Underwriting
Commissions on
Sales
 
Amount Retained in
Underwriting
Commissions
Flexible Income Fund
 
 
 
 
2019
 
$
48,361

 
$
7,836

2018
 
$
104,177

 
$
16,479

2017
 
$
274,071

 
$
42,189

Focused Fund
 
 

 
 

2019
 
$
55,830

 
$
6,582

2018
 
$
127,748

 
$
20,084

2017
 
$
878,567

 
$
139,946

Global ESG Equity Fund
 
 

 
 

2019
 
$
89,728

 
$
10,654

2018
 
$
198,079

 
$
36,665

2017
 
$
136,028

 
$
22,019

Growth Opportunities Fund
 
 

 
 

2019
 
$
10,995

 
$
1,396

2018
 
$
11,103

 
$
1,583

2017
 
$
82,854

 
$
14,574

Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
 

 
 

2019
 
$
141,486

 
$
16,125

2018
 
$
170,603

 
$
25,031

2017
 
$
369,157

 
$
56,270

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund*
 
 
 
 
2019
 
N/A

 
N/A

2018
 
N/A

 
N/A

2017
 
N/A

 
N/A


*     The Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund did not impose distribution and/or shareholder service (12b-1) fees prior to November 16, 2018.
 
The Distributor retains the contingent deferred sales charge ("CDSC") on redemptions of shares of the Funds that are subject to such CDSC. The following table shows the amounts retained from CDSCs for the three most recent fiscal years (or periods) ended March 31.
 


54



 
 
Amount Retained on CDSC
Fund
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
Flexible Income Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
26

 
$
9

 
$
0

Class C
 
$
4,683

 
$
2,634

 
$
1,989

Focused Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class C
 
$
4,541

 
$
2,425

 
$
486

Global ESG Equity Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
2

 
$
5

 
$
0

Class C
 
$
4,145

 
$
114

 
$
134

Growth Opportunities Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
0

 
$
0

 
$
0

Class C
 
$
53

 
$
9

 
$
11

Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
0

 
$
0

 
$
1

Class C
 
$
3,989

 
$
1,200

 
$
104

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund*
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
N/A

 
N/A

 
N/A

Class C
 
N/A

 
N/A

 
N/A

* The Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund did not impose CDSCs prior to November 16, 2018.

Ms. McGruder may be deemed to be an affiliate of the Distributor because she is a Director of the Distributor and an officer of affiliates of the Distributor. Ms. McGruder, by reason of such affiliation, may directly or indirectly be deemed to receive benefits from the underwriting fees paid to the Distributor.
 
The Distribution Agreement shall remain in effect for a period of two years after the effective date of the agreement and is renewable annually thereafter. The Distribution Agreement may be terminated as to any Fund at any time by (i) the Trust, (a) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Trust who are not “interested persons” of the Trust or the Distributor, (b) by vote of the Board of the Trust, or (c) by the “vote of majority of the outstanding voting securities” of the Fund, or (ii) by the Distributor, in any case without payment of any penalty on not more than 60 days’ nor less than 30 days’ written notice to the other party. The Distribution Agreement shall also automatically terminate in the event of its assignment.
 
Touchstone Securities may pay from its own resources cash bonuses or other incentives to selected dealers in connection with the sale of shares of the Funds. On some occasions, such bonuses or incentives may be conditioned upon the sale of a specified minimum dollar amount of the shares of the Funds or other funds in the Touchstone Fund Complex during a specific period of time. Such bonuses or incentives may include financial assistance to dealers in connection with conferences, sales or training programs for their employees, seminars for the public, advertising, sales campaigns, and other dealer-sponsored programs or events. The Advisor, at its expense, may also provide additional compensation to certain affiliated and unaffiliated dealers, financial intermediaries or service providers for distribution, administrative or shareholder servicing activities. The Advisor may also reimburse the Distributor for making these payments.
 
Touchstone Securities, at its expense, may provide additional compensation to financial intermediaries which sell or arrange for the sale of shares of the Touchstone Funds. Other compensation may be offered to the extent not prohibited by federal or state laws or any self-regulatory agency, such as the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”).
 
Touchstone Securities makes payments for entertainment events it deems appropriate, subject to its guidelines and applicable law. These payments may vary depending upon the nature of the event or the relationship. As of March 31, 2019, the Distributor anticipates that the following broker-dealers or their affiliates will receive additional payments as described in the Funds' prospectus and SAI:
 


55



Name of Broker-Dealer
American Enterprise Investment Services, Inc.
Equity Services Inc.
First Command Financial Planning, Inc.
First Clearing, LLC/Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC
Great West Life & Annuity Insurance Company
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC
LPL Financial Corporation
Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith, Inc.
Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
Pershing LLC
PNC Investments, LLC
Raymond James & Associates, Inc.
RBC Capital Markets Corporation
UBS Financial Services, Inc.
Waddell & Reed, Inc.

Touchstone Securities is motivated to make payments to the broker-dealers described above because they promote the sale of Fund shares and the retention of those investments by clients of financial advisors. To the extent financial advisors sell more shares of the Funds or retain shares of the Funds in their clients’ accounts, the Advisor benefits from the incremental management and other fees paid to the Advisor by the Funds with respect to those assets.
 
Your financial intermediary may charge you additional fees or commissions other than those disclosed in this SAI. You can ask your financial intermediary about any payments it receives from Touchstone Securities or the Funds, as well as about fees or commissions it charges. You should consult disclosures made by your financial advisor at the time of purchase.
 
The Funds may compensate dealers, including the Distributor and its affiliates, based on the average balance of all accounts in the Funds for which the dealer is designated as the party responsible for the account.
 
DISTRIBUTION PLANS AND SHAREHOLDER SERVICE ARRANGEMENTS
 
Certain Funds have adopted a distribution or shareholder servicing plan for certain classes of shares which permits a Fund to pay for expenses incurred in the distribution and promotion of its shares pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act and account maintenance and other shareholder services in connection with maintaining such account. Touchstone Securities may provide those services itself or enter into arrangements under which third-parties provide such services and are compensated by the Distributor.
 
Class A Shares. With respect to its Class A shares, each Fund has adopted a plan of distribution and shareholder service (the “Class A Plan”) under which the Distributor is paid up to, but not exceeding, twenty-five basis points (0.25%) for distribution payments. Of the total compensation authorized, the Fund may pay for shareholder services in an amount up to 0.25%.
 
Class C Shares. With respect to its Class C shares, each Fund has adopted a plan of distribution and shareholder service (the “Class C Plan” and, together with the Class A Plan, the "Plans") under which the Distributor is paid up to, but not exceeding, one hundred basis points (1.00%) in the aggregate, with up to twenty-five basis points (0.25%) for shareholder service fees and up to seventy-five basis points (0.75%) for distribution payments.
 
General Information. In connection with the distribution of shares, the Distributor may use the payments for: (i) compensation for its services in distribution assistance; or (ii) payments to financial institutions and intermediaries such as banks, savings and loan associations, insurance companies, investment counselors, broker-dealers, mutual fund supermarkets, and the Distributor’s affiliates and subsidiaries as compensation for services or reimbursement of expenses incurred in connection with distribution assistance.
 
In addition, the Distributor may use payments to provide or enter into written agreements with service providers who will provide shareholder services, including: (i) maintaining accounts relating to shareholders that invest in shares; (ii) arranging for bank wires; (iii) responding to client inquiries relating to the services performed by the Distributor or service providers; (iv) responding to inquiries from shareholders concerning their investment in shares; (v) assisting shareholders in changing dividend options,

56



account designations and addresses; (vi) providing information periodically to shareholders showing their position in shares; (vii) forwarding shareholder communications from the Funds such as proxies, shareholder reports, annual reports, dividend distribution and tax notices to shareholders; (viii) processing purchase, exchange and redemption requests from shareholders and placing orders with the Funds or the service providers; (ix) processing dividend payments from the Funds on behalf of shareholders; and (x) providing such other similar services as the Fund may reasonably request.
 
Agreements implementing the Plans (the “Implementation Agreements”), including agreements with dealers wherein such dealers agree for a fee to act as agents for the sale of the Funds’ shares, are in writing and have been approved by the Board. All payments made pursuant to the Plans are made in accordance with written Implementation Agreements. Some financial intermediaries charge fees in excess of the amounts available under the Plans, in which case the Advisor pays the additional fees.
 
The continuance of the Plans and the Implementation Agreements must be specifically approved at least annually by a vote of the Trust’s Board, and by a vote of the Independent Trustees who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the Plans or any Implementation Agreement at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such continuance. A Plan may be terminated at any time by a vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by a vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of a Fund or the applicable class of a Fund. In the event a Plan is terminated in accordance with its terms, the affected Fund (or class) will not be required to make any payments for expenses incurred by the Distributor after the termination date. Each Implementation Agreement terminates automatically in the event of its assignment and may be terminated at any time by a vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by a vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of a Fund (or the applicable class) on not more than 60 days’ written notice to any other party to the Implementation Agreement. The Plans may not be amended to increase materially the amount to be spent for distribution without shareholder approval. All material amendments to the Plans must be approved by a vote of the Trust’s Board and by a vote of the Independent Trustees.
 
In approving the Plans, the Trustees determined, in the exercise of their business judgment and in light of their fiduciary duties as Trustees, that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plans will benefit the Funds and their shareholders. The Board believes that expenditure of the Funds’ assets for distribution expenses under the Plans should assist in the growth of the Funds, which will benefit each Fund and its shareholders through increased economies of scale, greater investment flexibility, greater portfolio diversification, and less chance of disruption of planned investment strategies. The Plans will be renewed only if the Trustees make a similar determination for each subsequent year of the Plans. There can be no assurance that the benefits anticipated from the expenditure of the Funds’ assets for distribution will be realized. While the Plans are in effect, all amounts spent by the Funds pursuant to the Plans and the purposes for which such expenditures were made must be reported quarterly to the Board for its review. Distribution expenses attributable to the sale of more than one class of shares of a Fund will be allocated at least annually to each class of shares based upon the ratio in which the sales of each class of shares bears to the sales of all the shares of the Fund. In addition, the selection and nomination of those Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust are committed to the discretion of the Independent Trustees during such period.
 
Jill T. McGruder, as an interested person of the Trust, may be deemed to have a financial interest in the operation of the Plans and the Implementation Agreements.


57



The Funds paid the following in distribution and shareholder servicing fees for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019:
 
 
12b-1 Plan Expenses
Fund
 
Printing and
Mailing
 
Distribution
Services
 
Compensation to
Broker Dealers
 
Compensation to
Sales Personnel
 
Service
Providers
 
Total
Flexible Income Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
439

 
$
100,701

 
$
148,623

 
$
39,457

 
$
0

 
$
289,220

Class C
 
$
485

 
$
162,580

 
$
642,541

 
$
45,104

 
$
0

 
$
850,710

Focused Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
630

 
$
103,997

 
$
222,997

 
$
8,311

 
$
0

 
$
335,935

Class C
 
$
224

 
$
76,055

 
$
300,548

 
$
2,566

 
$
0

 
$
379,393

Global ESG Equity Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
3,068

 
$
480,316

 
$
486,772

 
$
188,278

 
$
0

 
$
1,158,434

Class C
 
$
180

 
$
78,683

 
$
223,521

 
$
11,977

 
$
0

 
$
314,361

Growth Opportunities Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
204

 
$
33,686

 
$
64,722

 
$
1,812

 
$
0

 
$
100,424

Class C
 
$
46

 
$
14,697

 
$
63,108

 
$
447

 
$
0

 
$
78,298

Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
866

 
$
165,470

 
$
297,606

 
$
76,425

 
$
0

 
$
540,367

Class C
 
$
446

 
$
148,144

 
$
593,951

 
$
45,142

 
$
0

 
$
787,683

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Class A
 
$
0

 
$
375

 
$
29

 
$
0

 
$
0

 
$
404

Class C
 
$
0

 
$
95

 
$
1

 
$
0

 
$
0

 
$
96


BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS
 
Decisions to buy and sell securities for the Funds and the placing of the Funds’ securities transactions and negotiation of commission rates where applicable are made by the Sub-Advisors and are subject to oversight by the Advisor and the Board. In the purchase and sale of portfolio securities, the sub-advisor’s primary objective will be to obtain the most favorable price and execution for a Fund, taking into account such factors as the overall direct net economic result to a Fund (including commissions, which may not be the lowest available but ordinarily should not be higher than the generally prevailing competitive range), the financial strength and stability of the broker, the efficiency with which the transaction will be effected, the ability to effect the transaction at all where a large block is involved and the availability of the broker or dealer to stand ready to execute possibly difficult transactions in the future.
 
Each sub-advisor is specifically authorized, subject to certain limitations, to pay a trading commission to a broker who provides research services that is higher than the amount of trading commission another broker would have charged for the same transaction. This excess commission recognizes the additional research services rendered by the broker, but only if the sub-advisor determines in good faith that the excess commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the research services provided and that a Fund derives or will derive a reasonably significant benefit from such research services.
 
Research services include securities and economic analyses, reports on issuers’ financial conditions and future business prospects, newsletters and opinions relating to interest trends, general advice on the relative merits of possible investment securities for the Funds and statistical services and information with respect to the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities. Although this information is useful to the Funds and the sub-advisors, it is not possible to place a dollar value on it. Research services furnished by brokers through whom a Fund effects securities transactions may be used by the sub-advisor in servicing all of its accounts and not all such services may be used by the Sub-Advisor in connection with a Fund.
 
The Funds have no obligation to deal with any broker or dealer in the execution of securities transactions. However, the Funds may execute securities transactions on a national securities exchange or in the over-the-counter market conducted on an agency basis. A Fund will not execute any brokerage transactions in its portfolio securities with an affiliated broker if such transactions would be unfair or unreasonable to its shareholders. Over-the-counter transactions will be placed either directly with principal market makers or with broker-dealers. Although the Funds do not anticipate any ongoing arrangements with other brokerage firms, brokerage business may be transacted with other firms. Affiliated broker-dealers of the Trust will not receive reciprocal brokerage business as a result of the brokerage business transacted by the Funds with other brokers. The Funds may direct transactions to

58



certain brokers in order to reduce brokerage commissions through a commission recapture program offered by Frank Russell Securities, Inc and Cowen and Company LLC.
 
In certain instances, there may be securities that are suitable for a Fund as well as for one or more of the respective sub-advisor’s other clients. The sub-advisor makes investment decisions for a Fund and for its other clients to achieve their respective investment objectives. The sub-advisor may buy or sell a particular security for one client even though it is buying, selling, or holding the same security for another client. Some simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several clients receive investment advice from the same investment advisor, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objectives of more than one client. When two or more clients are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, the sub-advisor will allocate the securities among clients in a fair and equitable manner. This system may detrimentally affect the price of a security purchased, sold, or held by the Fund, but this detrimental effect may be offset by a Fund’s ability to participate in volume transactions, which could lead to better executions for the Fund.

The Funds paid the following in aggregate brokerage commissions on portfolio transactions for the past three fiscal years ended March 31.
 
 
Aggregate Brokerage Commissions
Fund
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
Flexible Income Fund*
 
$
231,212

 
$
262,735

 
$
480,212

Focused Fund*
 
$
243,538

 
$
139,561

 
$
185,064

Global ESG Equity Fund*
 
$
187,737

 
$
356,235

 
$
370,349

Growth Opportunities Fund
 
$
362,016

 
$
200,556

 
$
213,267

Mid Cap Growth Fund*
 
$
799,102

 
$
611,564

 
$
672,599

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund*
 
$
455,308

 
$
518,435

 
$
668,546

During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, the amount of brokerage transactions and related commissions for the Funds directed to brokers due to research services provided were as follows:
 
Fund
 
Amount of Transactions to Brokers  Providing Research
 
Related Commission
 
Flexible Income Fund
 
$
1,751,610,674

 
$
321,435

 
Focused Fund
 
$
138,046,297

*  
$
51,954

**  
Global ESG Equity Fund
 
$
446,025,895

 
$
280,139

 
Growth Opportunities Fund
 
$
273,069,550

 
$
192,431

 
Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
$
800,796,263

 
$
591,741

 
Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
$
677,999,696

***  
$
472,417

****  
* Total principal amount of transactions during fiscal year.
** Credit amount of total commissions attributed to research services.
*** Dollar amount reflects the amount of directed Fund brokerage transactions to a broker due to research service provided through an agreement or understanding with a broker, or otherwise through an internal allocation procedure.
**** During the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, Sands Capital, through its own resources bore the expense for all research services, either directly or through reimbursements to the Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund.

The total amount of securities of regular broker-dealers held by each Fund for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019 was as follows:
 
Fund
Broker Dealer
Aggregate Value
Flexible Income Fund
Goldman Sachs & Co.
$
32,852,970

JPMorgan Chase & Co.
$
13,557,861

Morgan Stanley & Co.
$
33,606,461

Focused Fund
Goldman Sachs & Co.
$
22,283,895

Global ESG Equity Fund
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
$
15,790,868

 
PROXY VOTING
 
The Funds have adopted the Sub-Advisors’ policies and procedures for voting proxies relating to portfolio securities held by the Funds, including procedures used when a vote presents a conflict between the interests of a Fund’s shareholders and those of the

59



Sub-Advisor or its affiliates. A copy or summary of each Sub-Advisor’s proxy voting policies is included in Appendix B. Information about how the Funds voted proxies relating to their portfolio securities during the most recent year ending June 30 is available by August 31 st   of that year without charge, upon request, by calling toll-free 1.800.543.0407 and on the SEC’s website at sec.gov and on the Touchstone website at TouchstoneInvestments.com.

CODE OF ETHICS
 
The Trust has adopted a Code of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. In addition, the Advisor, each Sub-Advisor and Distributor have adopted Codes of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1. These Codes of Ethics apply to the personal investing activities of Trustees, officers, and certain employees (“access persons”). Rule 17j-1 and the Codes of Ethics are designed to prevent unlawful practices in connection with the purchase or sale of securities by access persons. Under each Code of Ethics, access persons are permitted to invest in securities (including securities that may be purchased or held by a Fund), but are required to report their personal securities transactions for monitoring purposes. In addition, certain access persons are required to obtain approval before investing in initial public offerings or private placements. Copies of these Codes of Ethics are on file with the SEC, and are available to the public.
 
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
 
A Fund’s portfolio turnover rate is calculated by dividing the lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio securities for the fiscal year by the monthly average of the value of the portfolio securities owned by the Fund during the fiscal year. High portfolio turnover involves correspondingly greater brokerage commissions and other transaction costs, which will be borne directly by the Fund. High turnover may result in a Fund recognizing greater amounts of income and capital gains, which would increase the amount of taxes payable by shareholders and increase the amount of commissions paid by the Fund. A 100% turnover rate would occur if all of a Fund’s portfolio securities were replaced once within a one-year period. The rate of portfolio turnover will depend upon market and other conditions, and will not be a limiting factor when the Sub-Advisor believes that portfolio changes are appropriate. A Fund may engage in active trading to achieve its investment goals and, as a result, may have substantial portfolio turnover.
 
During the two most recent fiscal years ended March 31, the portfolio turnover rate for each Fund was as follows: 
 
 
Portfolio Turnover Rate
Fund
 
2018
 
2019
Flexible Income Fund *
 
100
%
 
171
%
Focused Fund
 
8
%
 
12
%
Global ESG Equity Fund
 
72
%
 
40
%
Growth Opportunities Fund
 
86
%
 
94
%
Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
76
%
 
71
%
Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
27
%
 
31
%
  * On November 30, 2018, the Fund changed its principal investment strategies and sub-advisor. Consequently, the portfolio turnover in the table prior to November 30, 2018 is attributable to the previous sub-advisor and investment strategy. Portfolio turnover is expected to be higher in the current period as a result of the change in sub-advisor.

DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
 
The Touchstone Funds have adopted policies and procedures for disclosing the Funds’ portfolio holdings to any person requesting this information. These policies and procedures are monitored by the Board through periodic reporting by the Funds’ CCO. No compensation will be received by a Fund, the Advisor, any Sub-Advisor, or any other party in connection with the disclosure of information about portfolio securities.
 
The procedures prohibit the disclosure of portfolio holdings except under the following conditions:
 
1)              A request made by a Sub-Advisor for a Fund (or that portion of a Fund) that it manages.
 
2)              A request by executive officers of the Advisor for routine oversight and management purposes.
 
3)              For use in preparing and distributing routine shareholder reports, including disclosure to the Funds’ independent registered public accounting firm, typesetter, and printer. Routine shareholder reports are filed as of the end of each fiscal quarter with the SEC within 60 days after the quarter end and routine shareholder reports are distributed to shareholders within

60



60 days after the applicable six-month semi-annual period. The Funds provide their full holdings to their independent registered public accounting firm annually, as of the end of their fiscal year, within one to ten business days after fiscal year end. The Funds provide their full holdings to their typesetter at least 50 days after the end of the calendar quarter. The Funds provide their full holdings to their printer at least 50 days after the applicable six-month semi-annual period.
 
4)              A request by service providers to fulfill their contractual duties relating to the Fund, subject to approval by the CCO.
 
5)              A request by a newly hired sub-advisor or sub-advisor candidate prior to the commencement of its duties to facilitate its transition as a new sub-advisor, subject to the conditions set forth in Item 8.
 
6)              A request by a potential merger candidate for the purpose of conducting due diligence, subject to the conditions set forth in Item 8.
 
7)              A request by a rating or ranking agency, subject to the conditions set forth in Item 8.
 
Other portfolio holdings disclosure policies of the Funds include:

The Funds provide their full holdings on its publicly available website and to market data agencies quarterly, as of the end of a calendar quarter, at least thirty days after quarter end.

The Funds provide their top five holdings on its publicly available website and to market data agencies monthly, as of the end of a calendar month, at least seven business days after month end.
 
The Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund provides its full holdings on its publicly available website and to market data agencies quarterly, as of the end of a quarter, at least thirty days after quarter end.
 
The Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund provides its top five holdings on its publicly available website and to market data agencies monthly, as of the end of a calendar month, at least seven business days after month end.
 
The Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund provides its full holdings to its typesetter and printer quarterly, as of the end of a calendar quarter, at least fifteen days after quarter end.
 
You may access the public website: TouchstoneInvestments.com.
 
8)              The CCO may authorize disclosing non-public portfolio holdings to third-parties more frequently or at different periods than as described above prior to when such information is made public, provided that certain conditions are met. The third-party must (i) specifically request in writing the more current non-public portfolio holdings, providing a reasonable basis for the request; (ii) execute an agreement to keep such information confidential, to only use the information for the authorized purpose, and not to use the information for their personal benefit; (iii) agree not to trade on such information, either directly or indirectly; and (iv) unless specifically approved by the CCO in writing, the non-public portfolio holdings are subject to a ten-day time delay before dissemination. Any non-public portfolio holdings that are disclosed will not include any material information about a Fund’s trading strategies or pending portfolio transactions.
 
As of March 31, 2019, one or more Touchstone Funds discloses portfolio holdings information to the following parties based on ongoing arrangements:
 
Bloomberg LP
Morningstar, Inc.
 
Employees of the Advisor and the Funds’ Sub-Advisors that are access persons under the Funds’ Code of Ethics have access to Fund holdings on a regular basis, but are subject to confidentiality requirements and trading prohibitions in the Code of Ethics. In addition, custodians of the Funds’ assets and the Funds’ accounting services agent, each of whose agreements contains a confidentiality provision (which includes a duty not to trade on non-public information), have access to the current Fund holdings on a daily basis.
 
The CCO is authorized to determine whether disclosure of a Fund’s portfolio securities is for a legitimate business purpose and is in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders. Any conflict between the interests of shareholders and the interests of the

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Advisor, Touchstone Securities, or any affiliates, will be reported to the Board, which will make a determination that is in the best interests of shareholders.

DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
 
The securities of each Fund are valued under the direction of the Advisor and under the general oversight of the Trustees. The Advisor or its delegates may use independent pricing services to obtain valuations of securities. The pricing services rely primarily on prices of actual market transactions as well as on trade quotations obtained from third parties. Prices are generally determined using readily available market prices. If market prices are unavailable or believed to be unreliable, the Sub-Administrative Agent will initiate a process by which the Trust’s Fair Value Committee will make a good faith determination as to the “fair value” of the security using procedures approved by the Trustees. The pricing services may use a matrix system to determine valuations of fixed income securities when market prices are not readily available. This system considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities, call features, ratings and developments relating to specific securities in arriving at valuations. The procedures used by any such pricing service and its valuation results are reviewed by the officers of the Trust under the general oversight of the Trustees. Some Funds may hold portfolio securities that are listed on foreign exchanges. Under certain circumstances, these investments may be valued under the Fund’s fair value policies and procedures, such as when U.S. exchanges are open but a foreign exchange is closed.
 
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
 
The Trust’s Declaration of Trust authorizes the issuance of an unlimited number of Funds and shares of each Fund. Each share of a Fund represents an equal proportionate interest in that Fund with each other share. Upon liquidation, shares are entitled to a pro rata share in the net assets of the Fund, after taking into account additional distribution and shareholder servicing expenses attributable to the Class. Shareholders have no preemptive rights. The Declaration of Trust provides that the Trustees of the Trust may create additional series of shares or separate classes of funds. All consideration received by the Trust for shares of any portfolio or separate class and all assets in which such consideration is invested would belong to that portfolio or separate class and would be subject to the liabilities related thereto. Share certificates representing shares will not be issued.
 
The Trust is an entity of the type commonly known as a Massachusetts business trust. The Trust’s Declaration of Trust states that neither the Trust nor the Trustees, nor any officer, employee or agent of the Trust shall have any power to bind personally any shareholder, nor, except as specifically provided therein, to call upon any shareholder for the payment of any sum of money or assessment whatsoever other than such as the shareholder may at any time personally agree to pay.
 
The Declaration of Trust provides that a Trustee shall be liable only for his or her own willful defaults and, if reasonable care has been exercised in the selection of officers, agents, employees or investment advisors, shall not be liable for any neglect or wrongdoing of any such person. The Declaration of Trust also provides that the Trust will indemnify its Trustees and officers against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection with actual or threatened litigation in which they may be involved because of their offices with the Trust unless it is determined in the manner provided in the Declaration of Trust that they have not acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that their actions were in the best interests of the Trust. However, nothing in the Declaration of Trust shall protect or indemnify a Trustee against any liability for his or her willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or her duties.
 
Each whole share shall be entitled to one vote as to any matter on which it is entitled to vote and each fractional share shall be entitled to a proportionate fractional vote. Shares issued by each Fund have no preemptive, conversion, or subscription rights. Voting rights are not cumulative. Each Fund, as a separate series of the Trust, votes separately on matters affecting only that Fund. Shareholders of each Class of each Fund will vote separately on matters pertaining solely to that Fund or that Class. The Trust is not required to hold annual meetings of shareholders, but approval will be sought for certain changes in the operation of the Trust and for the election of Trustees under certain circumstances.
 
In addition, a Trustee may be removed by the remaining Trustees or by shareholders at a special meeting called upon written request of shareholders owning at least 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. In the event that such a meeting is requested, the Trust will provide appropriate assistance and information to the shareholders requesting the meeting.

Derivative Claims of Shareholders

The Trust’s Amended and Restated By-Laws (the “By-Laws”) contain provisions regarding derivative claims of shareholders. Under these provisions, a shareholder must make a pre-suit demand upon the Trustees to bring the subject action unless an effort to cause the Trustees to bring such an action is not likely to succeed. For purposes of the foregoing sentence, a demand on the Trustees shall only be deemed not likely to succeed and therefore excused if a majority of the Board, or a majority of any committee

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of the Board established to consider the merits of such action, has a personal financial interest in the transaction at issue, and a Trustee shall not be deemed interested in a transaction or otherwise disqualified from ruling on the merits of a shareholder demand by virtue of the fact that such Trustee receives remuneration for his service on the Board or on the boards of one or more Trusts that are under common management with or otherwise affiliated with the Trust.

Unless a demand is not required under the foregoing paragraph, the Trustees must be afforded a reasonable amount of time to consider such shareholder request and to investigate the basis of such claim. The Trustees shall be entitled to retain counsel or other advisors in considering the merits of the request and shall require an undertaking by the shareholders making such request to reimburse the Trust for the expense of any such advisors in the event that the Trustees determine not to bring such action.

Forum for Adjudication of Disputes

The By-Laws provide that, unless the Trust consents in writing to the selection of an alternative forum, the sole and exclusive forum for (i) any derivative action or proceeding brought on behalf of the Trust, (ii) any action asserting a claim of breach of a fiduciary duty owed by any Trustee, officer, or other employee of the Trust to the Trust or the Trust’s shareholders, (iii) any action asserting a claim arising pursuant to the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the Declaration of Trust or the By-Laws, (iv) any action to interpret, apply, enforce or determine the validity of the Declaration of Trust or the By-Laws, or (v) any action asserting a claim governed by the internal affairs doctrine shall be the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts or the Superior Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (each, a “Covered Action”). The By-Laws further provide that if any Covered Action is filed in a court other than the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts or the Superior Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts (a “Foreign Action”) in the name of any shareholder, such shareholder shall be deemed to have consented to (i) the personal jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts or the Superior Court of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in connection with any action brought in any such courts to enforce the preceding sentence (an “Enforcement Action”) and (ii) having service of process made upon such shareholder in any such Enforcement Action by service upon such shareholder’s counsel in the Foreign Action as agent for such shareholder.

The By-Laws provide that any person purchasing or otherwise acquiring or holding any interest in shares of beneficial interest of the Trust shall be (i) deemed to have notice of and consented to the provisions of the foregoing paragraph and (ii) deemed to have waived any argument relating to the inconvenience of the forums referenced above in connection with any action or proceeding described in the foregoing paragraph.

This forum selection provision may limit a shareholder’s ability to bring a claim in a judicial forum that it finds favorable for disputes with Trustees, officers or other agents of the Trust and its service providers, which may discourage such lawsuits with respect to such claims. If a court were to find the forum selection provision contained in the By-Laws to be inapplicable or unenforceable in an action, the Trust may incur additional costs associated with resolving such action in other jurisdictions.

CHOOSING A CLASS OF SHARES
 
Each Fund offers Class A, Class C, Class Y and Institutional Class shares.

The Funds participate in fund “supermarket” arrangements. In such an arrangement, a program is made available by a broker or other institution (a sponsor) that allows investors to purchase and redeem shares of the Funds through the sponsor of the fund supermarket. In connection with these supermarket arrangements, each Fund has authorized one or more brokers to accept on its behalf purchase and redemption orders. In turn, the brokers are authorized to designate other intermediaries to accept purchase and redemption orders on the Funds’ behalf. As such, a Fund will be deemed to have received a purchase or redemption order when an authorized broker or, if applicable, a broker’s authorized designee, accepts the order. The customer order will be priced at the Fund’s NAV next computed after acceptance by an authorized broker or the broker’s authorized designee. In addition, a broker may charge transaction fees on the purchase or sale of Fund shares. Also in connection with fund supermarket arrangements, the performance of a participating Fund may be compared in publications to the performance of various indices and investments for which reliable performance data is available and compared in publications to averages, performance rankings, or other information prepared by recognized mutual fund statistical services. The Funds' annual report contains additional performance information and will be made available to investors upon request and without charge.
 
The Touchstone Funds are intended for sale to residents of the United States, and, with very limited exceptions, are not registered or otherwise offered for sale in other jurisdictions. The above restrictions are generally not applicable to sales in United States territories of Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands or to diplomatic staff members or members of the U.S. military with an APO or FPO address outside of the U.S. Investors are responsible for compliance with tax, securities, currency exchange or other regulations applicable to redemption and purchase transactions in any state or jurisdiction to which they may be subject. Investors

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should consult with their financial intermediary and appropriate tax and legal advisors to obtain information on the rules applicable to these transactions.
 
The shares of the Funds may not be directly or indirectly offered or distributed in any country outside of the United States. If an investor becomes a resident of another jurisdiction after purchasing shares of the Touchstone Funds, the investor will not be able to purchase any additional shares of the Funds (other than reinvestment of dividends and capital gains) or exchange shares of the Touchstone Funds for other U.S. registered Touchstone Funds.
 
Class A Shares.

For purchases of Class A shares of $1 million or more of Touchstone equity funds or $500,000 or more of Touchstone fixed income funds and subsequent purchases further increasing the size of a purchaser's aggregate account value, participating dealers may receive compensation of up to 1.00% for equity funds or 0.5% for fixed income funds (a "Finder's Fee"). For these purposes, Focused Fund, Growth Opportunities Fund, Mid Cap Growth Fund, and Global ESG Equity Fund are considered "Touchstone equity funds" and Flexible Income Fund is considered a "Touchstone fixed income fund". The below schedules outline the Finder's Fee payable for eligible purchases of Class A shares.
Amount of Investment
Equity Fund Finder's Fee
$1 million but less than $3 million
1.00
%
$3 million but less than $5 million
0.75
%
$5 million but less than $25 million
0.50
%
$25 million or more
0.25
%

Amount of Investment
Fixed Income Fund Finder's Fee
$500,000 but less than $3 million
0.50%
$3 million but less than $25 million
0.25%
$25 million or more
0.15%

The Distributor does not have an annual reset for Finder’s Fees.  In determining a dealer’s eligibility for a Finder’s Fee, all purchases in the Touchstone Fund Complex may be aggregated for that individual shareholder in accordance with a Fund's Rights of Accumulation Program. Please see the "Choosing a Class of Shares - Reduced Class A Sales Charge" and "Choosing a Class of Shares - Rights of Accumulation Program" sections in the Funds' prospectus to determine whether accounts may be aggregated for purposes of determining eligibility for a Finder's Fee. If a Finder’s Fee was paid to a participating dealer, that dealer is not eligible to receive 12b-1 fees on the shares that were used to generate the Finder’s Fee until they have aged for a period of one year.  Additionally, if a Finder’s Fee was paid related to a purchase of equity fund Class A shares and those shares are redeemed within a year of their purchase, a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) of up to 1.00% will be charged on the redemption. Dealers should contact the Distributor for more information on the calculation of the dealer’s commission in the case of combined purchases.

A dealer is eligible for a Finder's Fee only if the dealer has not previously received a Finder's Fee on the assets used to meet the required investment amount. Similarly, an exchange from any other Touchstone Fund will not qualify for a Finder's Fee unless the dealer did not receive any compensation on those assets at the time of the initial investment. In all cases, Touchstone Securities reserves the right to deny payment of a Finder's Fee if it reasonably believes such a fee has already been paid on those assets.  

Share Class Conversions. Class A and Class C shareholders who are eligible to invest in Class Y shares or Institutional Class shares are eligible to exchange their Class A shares and/or Class C shares for Class Y shares or Institutional Class shares of the same fund, if offered in their state and such an exchange can be accommodated by their financial institution. Class Y shares may be available through financial institutions that have appropriate selling agreements with Touchstone Securities, or through “processing organizations” (e.g., mutual fund supermarkets) that purchase shares for their customers. Additionally, Class C shareholders may exchange their Class C shares for Class A shares of the same Fund, if offered in their state and such an exchange can be accommodated by their financial institution. No front-end sales charges will apply to any such exchange, however, if the shares have been held less than 12 months a CDSC of 1% may be assessed on the exchange transaction, which may be processed as a liquidation and a purchase. Class Y shareholders that meet the required minimum for Institutional Class shares may exchange their Class Y shares for Institutional Class shares within the same Fund if offered in their state and if such an exchange can be accommodated by their financial institution. For federal income tax purposes, exchanges of one share class for a different share class of the same fund (even if processed as a liquidation and a purchase) should not result in the realization by the investor of a capital gain or loss. There can

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be no assurance of any particular tax treatment, however, and you are urged and advised to consult with your own tax advisor before entering into a share class exchange.

Effective January 1, 2019 (the "Effective Date"), Class C shares of each Fund will automatically convert into Class A shares of the same Fund after they have been held for 10 years. The conversion will not be considered a taxable event for federal income tax purposes. These automatic conversions will be executed without any sales charge (including CDSCs), redemption or transaction fee, or other charge. After such conversion takes place, the shares will be subject to all features, rights, and expenses of Class A shares. If you hold Class C shares through certain financial intermediaries, such as an omnibus account or group retirement recordkeeping platform, your intermediary may not be able to track the amount of time you held your Class C shares purchased before January 1, 2019. In these instances, Class C shares held prior to the Effective Date will automatically convert to Class A shares 10 years after the Effective Date.
 
Financial intermediaries may convert shares in a customer or client’s account to a more expensive share class if prior to the conversion the intermediary determines that the higher priced share class is more suitable to the customer’s interests and the intermediary discloses any additional compensation to the customer, including revenue sharing arrangements with the Advisor or Distributor.
 
If a financial institution, processing organization or intermediary (a “converting entity”) is initiating a share class conversion(s) for Touchstone Funds on a platform, then the converting entity should contact Touchstone Securities at least 60 days in advance and obtain Touchstone Securities’ approval of the share class conversion.
 
Additional Information on the CDSC. The CDSC is waived under the following circumstances:
 
Any partial or complete redemption following death or disability (as defined in the Code) of a shareholder (including one who owns the shares with his or her spouse as a joint tenant with rights of survivorship) from an account in which the deceased or disabled is named. Touchstone Securities may require documentation prior to waiver of the charge, including death certificates, physicians’ certificates, etc.
 
Redemptions from a systematic withdrawal plan. If the systematic withdrawal plan is based on a fixed dollar amount or number of shares, systematic withdrawal redemptions are limited to no more than 10% of your account value or number of shares per year, as of the date the transfer agent receives your request. If the systematic withdrawal plan is based on a fixed percentage of your account value, each redemption is limited to an amount that would not exceed 10% of your annual account value at the time of withdrawal.
 
Redemptions from retirement plans qualified under Section 401 of the Code. The CDSC will be waived for benefit payments made by Touchstone directly to plan participants. Benefit payments will include, but are not limited to, payments resulting from death, disability, retirement, separation from service, required minimum distributions (as described under Section 401(a)(9) of the Code), in-service distributions, hardships, loans and qualified domestic relations orders. The CDSC waiver will not apply in the event of termination of the plan or transfer of the plan to another financial institution.
 
Redemptions that are mandatory withdrawals from a traditional IRA account after age 70½.
 
Please see  Appendix A - Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts  in the prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial and Raymond James.

General. The above mentioned CDSC waivers do not apply to Class A share redemptions made within one year of the date of purchase where a Finder's Fee was paid by Touchstone Securities due to an investment in the Touchstone Fund Complex totaling $1 million or more. All sales charges imposed on redemptions are paid to the Distributor. In determining whether the CDSC is payable, it is assumed that shares not subject to the CDSC are the first redeemed followed by other shares held for the longest period of time. The CDSC will not be imposed upon shares representing reinvested dividends or capital gains distributions, or upon amounts representing share appreciation.

CDSC for Certain Redemptions of Class A Shares. A CDSC is imposed upon certain redemptions of Class A shares of the Funds (or shares into which such Class A shares were exchanged) purchased at NAV due to an individual shareholder investment amount in the Touchstone Fund Complex of $1 million or more where a Finder's Fee was paid by the Distributor and the shares were redeemed within one year from the date of purchase. The CDSC will be paid to the Distributor and will be equal to the commission percentage paid at the time of purchase as applied to the lesser of (1) the NAV at the time of purchase of the Class A shares being redeemed, or (2) the NAV of such Class A shares at the time of redemption. If a purchase of Class A shares is subject to the CDSC,

65



you will be notified on the confirmation you receive for your purchase. Redemptions of such Class A shares of the Funds held for at least one year will not be subject to the CDSC.
 
Examples. The following example will illustrate the operation of the CDSC. Assume that you open an account and purchase 1,000 shares at $10 per share and that six months later the NAV per share is $12 and, during such time, you have acquired 50 additional shares through reinvestment of distributions. If, at such time you should redeem 450 shares (totaling proceeds of $5,400), then 50 shares will not be subject to the charge because of dividend reinvestment. With respect to the remaining 400 shares, the charge is applied only to the original cost of $10 per share and not to the increase in NAV to $12 per share. Therefore, $4,000 of the $5,400 redemption proceeds will pay the charge. At the rate of 1.00%, the CDSC would be $40 for redemptions of Class C shares. In determining whether an amount is available for redemption without incurring a deferred sales charge, the purchase payments made for all shares in your account are aggregated.
 
 
OTHER PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION INFORMATION
 
Waiver of Minimum Investment Requirements. The minimum and subsequent investment requirements for purchases in the Funds may not apply to:
 
1.                                       Any director, officer or other employee* (and their immediate family members**) of Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc. or any of its affiliates or any portfolio advisor or service provider to the Trust.
 
2.                                       Any employee benefit plan that is provided administrative services by a third-party administrator that has entered into a special service arrangement with Touchstone Securities.
 
The minimum investment waivers are not available for Institutional Class shares of the Funds.
 
Waiver of Class A Sales Charges***. In addition to the categories of purchasers described in the prospectus for whom the sales charge on purchases of Class A shares of the Funds may be waived, Class A shares issued or purchased in the following transactions are not subject to sales charges (and no concessions are paid by the Distributor on such purchases):
 
1. Purchases into a Fund by any director, officer, employee* (and their immediate family members**, as defined below), or current separate account client of or referral by a Sub-Advisor to that particular Fund;
 
2. Purchases by any director, officer or other employee* (and their immediate family members**) of Western & Southern Financial Group or any of its affiliates; and
 
3. Purchases by any employees of BNY Mellon who provide services for the Touchstone Funds, Touchstone Advisors, or Touchstone Securities.
 
Exemptions must be qualified in advance by the Distributor. At the option of the Trust, the front-end sales charge may be included on purchases by such persons in the future.
 
* The term “employee” is deemed to include current and retired employees.
** Immediate family members are defined as the parents, mother-in-law or father-in-law, spouse, brother or sister, brother-in-law or sister-in-law, son-in-law or daughter-in-law, nephew or niece and children of a registered representative or employee, and any other individual to whom the registered representative or employee provides material support.
*** Please see Appendix A - Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts in the prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial and Raymond James.

Waiver of Class A Sales Charge for Clients of Financial Intermediaries.   Touchstone Securities has agreed to waive the Class A sales charge for clients of financial intermediaries that have entered into an agreement with Touchstone Securities to offer shares to self-directed investment brokerage accounts that may or may not charge a transaction fee to their customers. As of the date of this SAI, this arrangement applies to shareholders purchasing fund shares through platforms at the following intermediaries:

Merrill Lynch
RBC
JP Morgan Securities
Morgan Stanley

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Ameriprise Financial
Raymond James

Please see Appendix A - Intermediary-Specific Sales Charge Waivers and Discounts in the Funds’ prospectus for a description of variations in sales charges and waivers for Fund shares purchased through Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, Ameriprise Financial and Raymond James.

Waiver of Global ESG Equity Fund (formerly Sustainability and Impact Equity Fund) Fund Class A Sales Charge for Former Navellier Shareholders. Effective October 6, 2003, sales charges do not apply to Class A shares of the Global ESG Equity Fund (formerly the Sustainability and Impact Equity Fund) purchased by former shareholders of the Navellier Performance Large Cap Growth Portfolio who are purchasing additional shares for their account or opening new accounts in the Global ESG Equity Fund.
 
Waiver of Class A Sales Charge for former Constellation Shareholders. Shareholders who owned shares of the Trust as of November 17, 2006 who are purchasing additional shares for their accounts or opening new accounts in any Touchstone Fund are not subject to the front-end sales charge for purchases of Class A shares. If you are purchasing shares through a financial intermediary, you must notify the intermediary at the time of purchase that a purchase qualifies for a sales load waiver and you may be required to provide copies of account statements verifying your qualification.

Waiver of Class A Sales Charge for former Bramwell Shareholders.  Former shareholders of the Bramwell Growth Fund or the Bramwell Focus Fund, each a series of the Bramwell Funds, Inc., who in those funds' 2006 reorganization received Class A shares of the Sentinel Capital Growth or Sentinel Growth Leaders Funds who are purchasing additional shares for their accounts or opening new accounts in any Touchstone Fund are not subject to the front-end sales charge for purchases of Class A shares.  If you are purchasing shares through a financial intermediary, you must notify the intermediary at the time of purchase that a purchase qualifies for a sales load waiver and you may be required to provide copies of account statements verifying your qualification.

Waiver of Class A Sales Charge for former Citizens Shareholders.  Former shareholders of the Citizens Funds, who in those funds' 2008 reorganization received shares of a Sentinel Fund who are purchasing additional shares for their accounts or opening new accounts in any Touchstone Fund are not subject to the front-end sales charge for purchases of Class A shares.  If you are purchasing shares through a financial intermediary, you must notify the intermediary at the time of purchase that a purchase qualifies for a sales load waiver and you may be required to provide copies of account statements verifying your qualification.

Waiver of Class A Sales Charge for Former Shareholders of Sentinel Group Funds, Inc. Shareholders who received Class A shares of Touchstone Funds pursuant to the October 27, 2017 reorganization of their respective Sentinel Funds and whose Sentinel Fund account was established with a net asset value purchase privilege may purchase additional Class A shares of Touchstone Funds at net asset value, provided that such shareholders provide notice of such eligibility prior to or at the time of purchase.
 
Shareholders who are eligible for the sales charge waivers listed above may open an account with the Fund directly to receive the sales charge waiver.
 
Class Y Shares “Grandfather” Clause. New purchases of the Class Y shares are no longer available directly through Touchstone Securities. Those shareholders who owned Class Y shares purchased directly through Touchstone Securities prior to February 2, 2009, or those former Old Mutual shareholders who owned Class Z shares which became Class Y shares on April 16, 2012, or those former Fifth Third Mutual Fund Shareholders who owned Institutional Class shares which became Class Y shares on September 10, 2012 may continue to hold Class Y shares of the corresponding Fund(s). In addition, those shareholders may continue to make subsequent purchases into existing accounts of Class Y shares of the Fund(s) they owned prior to February 2, 2009, April 16, 2012, and September 10, 2012, respectively.
 
Purchases in-Kind. In limited circumstances and subject to the prior consent of the Fund, the Fund may accept payment for shares in securities. Shares may be purchased by tendering payment in-kind in the form of marketable securities, including but not limited to shares of common stock, provided the acquisition of such securities is consistent with the applicable Fund’s investment goal and is otherwise acceptable to the Advisor. Transactions of this type are generally a taxable transaction. Before purchasing shares by tendering payment in-kind, investors are urged and advised to consult with their own tax advisor regarding the tax consequences of such a transaction.
 
Redemptions in-Kind. Under unusual circumstances, when the Board deems it in the best interests of a Fund’s shareholders, the Fund may make payment for shares repurchased or redeemed in whole or in part in securities of the Fund taken at current value. Should payment be made in securities, the redeeming shareholder will bear the market risk until the securities are sold and the redeeming shareholder will generally incur brokerage costs and other costs in converting such securities to cash. Portfolio securities

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that are issued in an in-kind redemption will be readily marketable. The Trust has filed an irrevocable election with the SEC under Rule 18f-1 of the 1940 Act wherein the Funds are committed to pay redemptions in cash, rather than in-kind, to any shareholder of record of a Fund who redeems during any ninety-day period, the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of a Fund’s NAV at the beginning of such period. Redemptions in-kind are taxable for federal income tax purposes in the same manner as redemptions for cash. The Funds may also use redemption in-kind for certain Fund shares held by ReFlow.
 
Undeliverable Checks. Dividend and distribution checks issued from non-retirement accounts for less than $25 will be automatically reinvested in the Fund that pays them. If your redemption proceeds, dividend, or distribution check is returned as “undeliverable”, your account will be considered a lost shareholder account, correspondence will be sent to you requesting that you contact the Fund, and the outstanding payment will be deposited into an account for potential escheatment to your state of residence. If you contact the Fund and provide proper documentation to update the address on the account, the Fund will no longer consider your account to be a lost shareholder account, and your outstanding payment will be reissued to your corrected address. Also, if your dividend or distribution check is returned as “undeliverable”, your cash election will be changed automatically and future dividends will be reinvested in the Fund at the per share NAV determined as of the payable date.
 
Uncashed Checks. All uncashed checks on your account will appear with your monthly or quarterly statement for your convenience. If your redemption proceeds, dividend, or distribution check from a non-retirement account is not cashed within six months (an “outstanding payment”) and the account remains open, the outstanding payment on your account will be cancelled and the proceeds will be reinvested in the Fund at the per share NAV determined as of the date of cancellation, which may be higher or lower than the NAV at which your shares were initially redeemed. In addition, if the payment was for dividends or distributions, your cash election will be automatically changed and future dividends and distributions will be reinvested in the Fund at the per share NAV determined as of the payable date. For outstanding payments in retirement accounts, no action will be taken.

For redemption checks returned as “undeliverable”, the check will be voided and deposited into a lost shareholder account for the Fund. If the account holder contacts the Fund and provides proper documentation to update the address on the account, a check for the previously voided amount will be re-issued to the shareholder and sent to the new address of record.
 
Fund Shares Purchased by Check. We may delay the processing and payment of a redemption request for shares you recently purchased by check until your check clears, which may take up to 15 days. If you need your money sooner, you should purchase shares by bank wire.
 
Low Account Balances (Only applicable for shares held through Touchstone Securities directly). If your balance falls below the minimum amount required for your account, based on actual amounts you have invested (as opposed to a reduction from market changes), Touchstone Securities may sell your shares and send the proceeds to you. Touchstone Securities will notify you if your shares are about to be sold and you will have 30 days to increase your account balance to the minimum amount.
 
Facilitated Transfers.   In the event an existing Touchstone shareholder wishes to move money between their Touchstone mutual fund account and a money market fund, Touchstone Advisors has partnered with The Dreyfus Corporation to help facilitate this type of transaction pursuant to certain limitations. Please contact Touchstone Shareholder Services at 1.800.543.0407 for more information if you are interested in pursuing this type of transaction.
 
DISTRIBUTIONS
 
A Fund’s dividends and other distributions are taxable to shareholders (other than retirement plans and other tax-exempt investors) whether received in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the Fund. A dividend or distribution paid by a Fund has the effect of reducing the NAV per share on the ex-dividend date by the amount of the dividend or distribution. A dividend or distribution declared shortly after a purchase of shares by an investor would, therefore, represent, in substance, a return of capital to the shareholder with respect to such shares even though it would be subject to federal income taxes.
 
For most shareholders, a statement will be sent to you within 45 days after the end of each year detailing the federal income tax status of your distributions. Please see “Federal Income Taxes” below for more information on the federal income tax consequences of dividends and other distributions made by the Funds.
 
FEDERAL INCOME TAXES
 
The following discussion summarizes certain U.S. federal income tax considerations affecting the Funds and their shareholders. This discussion is for general information only and does not purport to consider all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that might be relevant to beneficial owners of shares of the Funds. Therefore, the summary discussion that follows may not be considered to be individual tax advice and may not be relied upon by any shareholder. The summary is based upon current provisions of the

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Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), applicable U.S. Treasury Regulations (the “Regulations”), and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof, all of which are subject to change, which change could be retroactive, and may affect the conclusions expressed herein. The summary applies only to beneficial owners of a Fund’s shares in whose hands such shares are capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code, and may not apply to certain types of beneficial owners of a Fund’s shares, including, but not limited to insurance companies, tax-exempt organizations, shareholders holding a Fund’s shares through tax-advantaged accounts (such as an individual retirement account (an “IRA”), a 401(k) plan account, or other qualified retirement account), financial institutions, pass-through entities, broker-dealers, entities that are not organized under the laws of the United States or a political subdivision thereof, persons who are neither a citizen nor resident of the United States, shareholders holding a Fund’s shares as part of a hedge, straddle or conversion transaction, and shareholders who are subject to the alternative minimum tax. Persons who may be subject to tax in more than one country should consult the provisions of any applicable tax treaty to determine the potential tax consequences to them.
 
No Fund has requested nor will any Fund request an advance ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) as to the federal income tax matters described below. The IRS could adopt positions contrary to those discussed below and such positions could be sustained. In addition, the following discussion applicable to shareholders of a Fund addresses only some of the federal income tax considerations generally affecting investments in such Fund.
 
Shareholders are urged and advised to consult their own tax advisor with respect to the tax consequences of the ownership, purchase and disposition of an investment in a Fund including, but not limited to, the applicability of state, local, foreign, and other tax laws affecting the particular shareholder and to possible effects of changes in federal or other tax laws.
 
General. For federal income tax purposes, each Fund is treated as a separate corporation. Each Fund has elected, and intends to continue to qualify for, taxation as a regulated investment company (a “RIC”) under the Code. By qualifying as a RIC, a Fund (but not the shareholders) will not be subject to federal income tax on that portion of its investment company taxable income and realized net capital gains that it distributes to its shareholders.

Shareholders should be aware that investments made by a Fund, some of which are described below, may involve complex tax rules some of which may result in income or gain recognition by the Fund without the concurrent receipt of cash. Although each Fund seeks to avoid significant noncash income, such noncash income could be recognized by a Fund, in which case it may distribute cash derived from other sources in order to meet the minimum distribution requirements described below. Cash to make the required minimum distributions may be obtained from sales proceeds of securities held by a Fund (even if such sales are not advantageous) or, if permitted by its governing documents and other regulatory restrictions, through borrowing the amounts required to be distributed.
 
Qualification As A Regulated Investment Company. Qualification as a RIC under the Code requires, among other things, that each Fund: (a) derive at least 90% of its gross income for each taxable year from (i) dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans and gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including but not limited to gains from options, futures and forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies, and (ii) net income from interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships (together with (i), the “Qualifying Income Requirement”); (b) diversify its holdings so that, at the close of each quarter of the taxable year: (i) at least 50% of the value of its total assets is comprised of cash, cash items (including receivables), U.S. government securities, securities of other RICs and other securities, with those other securities limited, in respect of any one issuer, to an amount that does not exceed 5% of the value of its total assets and that does not represent more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer; and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of its assets is invested in the securities (other than U.S. government securities or securities of other RICs) of any one issuer or the securities (other than the securities of other RICs) of two or more issuers controlled by it and engaged in the same, similar or related trades or businesses, or the securities of one or more “qualified publicly traded partnerships” (together with (i) the “Diversification Requirement”); and (c) distribute for each taxable year at least the sum of (i) 90% of its investment company taxable income (which includes dividends, taxable interest, taxable original issue discount income, market discount income, income from securities lending, net short-term capital gain in excess of net long-term capital loss, certain net realized foreign currency exchange gains, and any other taxable income other than “net capital gain” as defined below and is reduced by deductible expenses) determined without regard to any deduction for dividends paid; and (ii) 90% of its tax-exempt interest, if any, net of certain expenses allocable thereto (“net tax-exempt interest”).
 
The U.S. Treasury Department is authorized to promulgate regulations under which gains from foreign currencies (and options, futures, and forward contracts on foreign currency) would constitute qualifying income for purposes of the Qualifying Income Requirement only if such gains are directly related to the principal business of a Fund of investing in stock or securities or options and futures with respect to stock or securities. To date, the U.S. Treasury Department has not issued such regulations.
 

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As a RIC, a Fund generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the portion of its income and capital gains that it distributes to its shareholders in any taxable year for which it distributes, in compliance with the Code’s timing and other requirements at least 90% of its investment company taxable income (determined without regard to the deduction for dividends paid) and at least 90% of its net tax-exempt interest. Each Fund may retain for investment all or a portion of its net capital gain (i.e., the excess of its net long-term capital gain over its net short-term capital loss). If a Fund retains any investment company taxable income or net capital gain, it will be subject to tax at regular corporate rates on the amount retained. If a Fund retains any net capital gain, it may designate the retained amount as undistributed net capital gain in a notice to its shareholders, who will be (i) required to include in income for federal income tax purposes, as long-term capital gain, their shares of such undistributed amount; and (ii) entitled to credit their proportionate shares of tax paid by such Fund against their federal income tax liabilities, if any, and to claim refunds to the extent the credit exceeds such liabilities. For federal income tax purposes, the tax basis of the shares owned by a shareholder of a Fund will be increased by the amount of undistributed net capital gain included in the shareholder’s gross income and decreased by the federal income tax paid by such Fund on that amount of capital gain.
 
The Qualifying Income Requirement and Diversification Requirement that must be met under the Code in order for a Fund to qualify as a RIC, as described above, may limit the extent to which it will be able to engage in derivative transactions. Rules governing the federal income tax aspects of derivatives, including swap agreements, are not entirely clear in certain respects, particularly in light of two IRS revenue rulings issued in 2006. Revenue Ruling 2006-1 held that income from a derivative contract with respect to a commodity index is not qualifying income for a RIC. Subsequently, the IRS issued Revenue Ruling 2006-31 in which it stated that the holding in Revenue Ruling 2006-1 “was not intended to preclude a conclusion that the income from certain instruments (such as certain structured notes) that create a commodity exposure for the holder is qualifying income.”  Accordingly, the Qualifying Income Requirement may limit each Fund’s ability to invest in commodity related derivative transactions and other derivative transactions. Each Fund will account for any investments in commodity derivative transactions in a manner it deems to be appropriate; the IRS, however, might not accept such treatment. If the IRS did not accept such treatment, the status of such Fund as a RIC might be jeopardized.
 
In general, for purposes of the Qualifying Income Requirement described above, income derived from a partnership is treated as qualifying income only to the extent such income is attributable to items of income of the partnership which would be qualifying income if realized directly by the RIC. However, all of the net income of a RIC derived from an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership (defined as a partnership (x) the interests in which are traded on an established securities market or are readily tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof, and (y) that derives less than 90% of its income from the qualifying income described in clause (i) of the Qualifying Income Requirement described above) will be treated as qualifying income. In general, such entities will be treated as partnerships for federal income tax purposes if they meet the passive income requirement under Section 7704(c)(2) of the Code. In addition, although in general the passive loss rules of the Code do not apply to RICs, such rules do apply to a RIC with respect to items attributable to an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership.
 
For purposes of the Diversification Requirement described above, the term “outstanding voting securities of such issuer” will include the equity securities of a qualified publicly traded partnership.
 
If a Fund fails to satisfy the Qualifying Income Requirement or the Diversification Requirement in any taxable year, such Fund may be eligible for relief provisions if the failures are due to reasonable cause and not willful neglect and if a penalty tax is paid with respect to each failure to satisfy the applicable requirements. Additionally, relief is provided for certain de minimis failures to satisfy the Diversification Requirements where the Fund corrects the failure within a specified period of time. If the applicable relief provisions are not available or cannot be met, such Fund will fail to qualify as a RIC and will be subject to federal income tax in the same manner as an ordinary corporation at a tax rate of 21% and all distributions from earnings and profits (as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles) to its shareholders will be taxable as ordinary dividend income eligible for the dividends-received deduction for corporate shareholders and for qualified dividend income treatment for non-corporate shareholders.
 
Excise Tax. If a Fund fails to distribute by December 31 of each calendar year an amount equal to the sum of (1) at least 98% of its taxable ordinary income (excluding capital gains and losses) for such year, (2) at least 98.2% of the excess of its capital gains over its capital losses (as adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for the twelve month period ending on October 31 of such year, and (3) all taxable ordinary income and the excess of capital gains over capital losses for the prior year that were not distributed during such year and on which it did not pay federal income tax, such Fund will be subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax (the “Excise Tax”) on the undistributed amounts. A distribution will be treated as paid on December 31 of the calendar year if it is declared by a Fund in October, November, or December of that year to shareholders of record on a date in such month and paid by it during January of the following year. Such distributions will be taxable to shareholders (other than those not subject to federal income tax) in the calendar year in which the distributions are declared, rather than the calendar year in which the distributions are received. Each Fund generally intends to actually distribute or be deemed to have distributed substantially all of its net income and gain, if any, by the end of each calendar year in compliance with these requirements so that it will generally not be required to pay the Excise Tax. A Fund may in certain circumstances be required to liquidate its investments in order to make sufficient distributions

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to avoid the Excise Tax liability at a time when its Advisor might not otherwise have chosen to do so. Liquidation of investments in such circumstances may affect the ability of a Fund to satisfy the requirements for qualification as a RIC. However, no assurances can be given that a Fund will not be subject to the Excise Tax and, in fact, in certain instances if warranted, a Fund may choose to pay the Excise Tax as opposed to making an additional distribution.
 
Capital Loss Carryforwards.  The excess of the Fund’s net short–term capital losses over its net long–term capital gain is treated as short–term capital losses arising on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year and the excess of the Fund’s net long–term capital losses over its net short–term capital gain is treated as long–term capital losses arising on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year. If carried forward capital losses offset future capital gains, such future capital gains are not subject to Fund–level federal income taxation, regardless of whether they are distributed to shareholders. The Fund cannot carry back or carry forward any net operating losses.
 
Original Issue Discount And Market Discount.   A Fund may acquire debt securities that are treated as having original issue discount (“OID”) (generally a debt obligation with a purchase price less than its principal amount, such as a zero coupon bond).  Generally, a Fund will be required to include the OID in income over the term of the debt security, even though it will not receive cash payments for such OID until a later time, usually when the debt security matures.  A Fund may make one or more of the elections applicable to debt securities having OID which could affect the character and timing of recognition of income.  Inflation-protected bonds generally can be expected to produce OID income as their principal amounts are adjusted upward for inflation.  The IRS may treat a portion of the OID includible in income with respect to certain high-yield corporate debt securities as a dividend for federal income tax purposes.
 
A debt security acquired in the secondary market by a Fund may be treated as having market discount if acquired at a price below redemption value or adjusted issue price if issued with original issue discount.  The Fund’s market discount accrues ratably, on a daily basis, over the period from the date of acquisition to the date of maturity even though the Fund will not receive cash. Absent an election by a Fund to include the market discount in income as it accrues, gain on its disposition of such an obligation will be treated as ordinary income rather than capital gain to the extent of the accrued market discount. In addition, pay-in-kind securities will give rise to income which is required to be distributed and is taxable even though a Fund holding such securities receives no interest payments in cash on such securities during the year.
 
Each Fund generally will be required to make distributions to shareholders representing the income accruing on the securities, described above, that is currently includable in income, even though cash representing such income may not have been received by such Fund.  Cash to pay these distributions may be obtained from sales proceeds of securities held by a Fund (even if such sales are not advantageous) or, if permitted by such Fund’s governing documents, through borrowing the amounts required to be distributed.  In the event a Fund realizes net capital gains from such transactions, its shareholders may receive a larger capital gain distribution, if any, than they would have in the absence of such transactions.
 
Options, Futures, And Forward Contracts.   The writing (selling) and purchasing of options and futures contracts and entering into forward currency contracts, involves complex rules that will determine for federal income tax purposes the amount, character and timing of recognition of the gains and losses a Fund realizes in connection with such transactions.
 
Gains and losses on the sale, lapse, or other termination of options and futures contracts, options thereon and certain forward contracts (except certain foreign currency options, forward contracts and futures contracts) will generally be treated as capital gains and losses.  Some regulated futures contracts, certain foreign currency contracts, and certain non-equity options (such as certain listed options or options on broad based securities indexes) held by a Fund (“Section 1256 contracts”), other than contracts on which it has made a “mixed-straddle election”, will be required to be “marked-to-market” for federal income tax purposes, that is, treated as having been sold at their market value on the last day of such Fund’s taxable year.  These provisions may require a Fund to recognize income or gains without a concurrent receipt of cash.  Any gain or loss recognized on actual or deemed sales of Section 1256 contracts will be treated as 60% long-term capital gain or loss and 40% short-term capital gain or loss, although certain foreign currency gains and losses from such contracts may be treated as ordinary income or loss as described below.  Transactions that qualify as designated hedges are exempt from the mark-to-market rule, but may require a Fund to defer the recognition of losses on futures contracts, foreign currency contracts and certain options to the extent of any unrecognized gains on related positions held by it.
 
The tax provisions described above applicable to options, futures and forward contracts may affect the amount, timing, and character of a Fund’s distributions to its shareholders.  For example, the Section 1256 rules described above may operate to increase the amount a Fund must distribute to satisfy the minimum distribution requirement for the portion treated as short-term capital gain which will be taxable to its shareholders as ordinary income, and to increase the net capital gain it recognizes, without, in either case, increasing the cash available to it.  A Fund may elect to exclude certain transactions from the operation of Section 1256, although doing so may have the effect of increasing the relative proportion of net short-term capital gain (taxable as ordinary

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income) and thus increasing the amount of dividends it must distribute.  Section 1256 contracts also may be marked-to-market for purposes of the Excise Tax.
 
When a covered call or put option written (sold) by a Fund expires such Fund will realize a short-term capital gain equal to the amount of the premium it received for writing the option.  When a Fund terminates its obligations under such an option by entering into a closing transaction, it will realize a short-term capital gain (or loss), depending on whether the cost of the closing transaction is less than (or exceeds) the premium received when it wrote the option.  When a covered call option written by a Fund is exercised, such Fund will be treated as having sold the underlying security, producing long-term or short-term capital gain or loss, depending upon the holding period of the underlying security and whether the sum of the option price received upon the exercise plus the premium received when it wrote the option is more or less than the basis of the underlying security.
 
Straddles.   Section 1092 deals with the taxation of straddles which also may affect the taxation of options in which a Fund may invest.  Offsetting positions held by a Fund involving certain derivative instruments, such as options, futures and forward currency contracts, may be considered, for federal income tax purposes, to constitute “straddles.”  Straddles are defined to include offsetting positions in actively traded personal property.  In certain circumstances, the rules governing straddles override or modify the provisions of Section 1256, described above.  If a Fund is treated as entering into a straddle and at least one (but not all) of its positions in derivative contracts comprising a part of such straddle is governed by Section 1256, then such straddle could be characterized as a “mixed straddle.”  A Fund may make one or more elections with respect to mixed straddles.  Depending on which election is made, if any, the results with respect to a Fund may differ.  Generally, to the extent the straddle rules apply to positions established by a Fund, losses realized by it may be deferred to the extent of unrealized gain in any offsetting positions.  Moreover, as a result of the straddle rules, short-term capital loss on straddle positions may be characterized as long-term capital loss, and long-term capital gain may be characterized as short-term capital gain.  In addition, the existence of a straddle may affect the holding period of the offsetting positions and cause such sales to be subject to the “wash sale” and “short sale” rules.  As a result, the straddle rules could cause distributions that would otherwise constitute “qualified dividend income” to fail to satisfy the applicable holding period requirements, described below, and therefore to be taxed as ordinary income.  Further, a Fund may be required to capitalize, rather than deduct currently, any interest expense and carrying charges applicable to a position that is part of a straddle.  Because the application of the straddle rules may affect the character and timing of gains and losses from affected straddle positions, the amount which must be distributed to shareholders, and which will be taxed to shareholders as ordinary income or long-term capital gain, may be increased or decreased substantially as compared to the situation where a Fund had not engaged in such transactions.

In circumstances where a Fund has invested in certain pass-through entities, the amount of long-term capital gain that it may recognize from certain derivative transactions with respect to interests in such pass-through entities is limited under the Code’s constructive ownership rules.  The amount of long-term capital gain is limited to the amount of such gain a Fund would have had if it directly invested in the pass-through entity during the term of the derivative contract.  Any gain in excess of this amount is treated as ordinary income.  An interest charge is imposed on the amount of gain that is treated as ordinary income.
 
Swaps And Derivatives.   As a result of entering into swap or derivative agreements, a Fund may make or receive periodic net payments.  A Fund may also make or receive a payment when a swap or derivative is terminated prior to maturity through an assignment of the swap or derivative or other closing transaction.  Periodic net payments will generally constitute ordinary income or deductions, while termination of a swap or derivative will generally result in capital gain or loss (which will be a long-term capital gain or loss if the Fund has been a party to a swap or derivative for more than one year).  With respect to certain types of swaps or derivatives, a Fund may be required to currently recognize income or loss with respect to future payments on such swaps or derivatives or may elect under certain circumstances to mark such swaps or derivatives to market annually for tax purposes as ordinary income or loss.
 
Rules governing the tax aspects of swap or derivative agreements are not entirely clear in certain respects, in particular whether income generated is Qualifying Income.  Accordingly, while each Fund intends to account for such transactions in a manner it deems appropriate, the IRS might not accept such treatment.  If the IRS did not accept such treatment, the status of the Fund as a RIC might be adversely affected.  The Funds intend to monitor developments in this area.  Certain requirements that must be met under the Code in order for each Fund to qualify as a RIC may limit the extent to which a Fund will be able to engage in swap agreements and certain derivatives.
 
Constructive Sales.   Certain rules may affect the timing and character of gain if a Fund engages in transactions that reduce or eliminate its risk of loss with respect to appreciated financial positions.  If a Fund enters into certain transactions (including a short sale, an offsetting notional principal contract, a futures or forward contract, or other transactions identified in U.S. Treasury regulations) in property while holding an appreciated financial position in substantially identical property, it will be treated as if it had sold and immediately repurchased the appreciated financial position and will be taxed on any gain (but not loss) from the constructive sale.  The character of gain from a constructive sale will depend upon a Fund’s holding period in the appreciated

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financial position.  Loss from a constructive sale would be recognized when the position was subsequently disposed of, and its character would depend on a Fund’s holding period and the application of various loss deferral provisions of the Code.
 
In addition, if the appreciated financial position is itself a short sale, acquisition of the underlying property or substantially identical property by a Fund will be deemed a constructive sale.  The foregoing will not apply, however, to a Fund’s transaction during any taxable year that otherwise would be treated as a constructive sale if the transaction is closed within 30 days after the end of that year and such Fund holds the appreciated financial position unhedged for 60 days after that closing (i.e., at no time during that 60-day period is such Fund’s risk of loss regarding the position reduced by reason of certain specified transactions with respect to substantially identical or related property, such as having an option to sell, being contractually obligated to sell, making a short sale or granting an option to buy substantially identical stock or securities).
 
Wash Sales.   A Fund may in certain circumstances be impacted by special rules relating to “wash sales.”  In general, the wash sale rules prevent the recognition of a loss by a Fund from the disposition of stock or securities at a loss in a case in which identical or substantially identical stock or securities (or an option to acquire such property) is or has been acquired by it within 30 days before or 30 days after the sale.
 
Short Sales.   A Fund may make short sales of securities.  Short sales may increase the amount of short-term capital gain realized by a Fund, which is taxed as ordinary income when distributed to its shareholders.  Short sales also may be subject to the “Constructive Sales” rules, discussed above.
 
Tax Credit Bonds.   If a Fund holds (directly or indirectly) one or more “tax credit bonds” (defined below) on one or more specified dates during a Fund’s taxable year, and it satisfies the minimum distribution requirement, it may elect for U.S. federal income tax purposes to pass through to shareholders tax credits otherwise allowable to it for that year with respect to such tax credit bonds.  A tax credit bond is defined in the Code as a “qualified tax credit bond” (which includes a qualified forestry conservation bond, a new clean renewable energy bond, a qualified energy conservation bond, or a qualified zone academy bond, each of which must meet certain requirements specified in the Code), a “build America bond” (which includes certain qualified bonds issued before January 1, 2011) or certain other bonds specified in the Code. New tax credit bonds may not be issued after December 31, 2017. If a Fund were to make an election, a shareholder of such Fund would be required to include in gross income an amount equal to such shareholder’s proportionate share of the interest income attributable to such credits and would be entitled to claim as a tax credit an amount equal to a proportionate share of such credits.  Certain limitations may apply on the extent to which the credit may be claimed.
 
Other Regulated Investment Companies.  Generally, the character of the income or capital gains that a Fund receives from another investment company will pass through to the Fund’s shareholders as long as the Fund and the other investment company each qualify as RICs under the Code.  However, to the extent that another investment company that qualifies as a RIC realizes net losses on its investments for a given taxable year, a Fund will not be able to recognize its share of those losses until it disposes of shares of such investment company.  Moreover, even when a Fund does make such a disposition, a portion of its loss may be recognized as a long-term capital loss.

As a result of the foregoing rules, and certain other special rules, it is possible that the amounts of net investment income and net capital gains that a Fund will be required to distribute to shareholders will be greater than such amounts would have been had the Fund invested directly in the securities held by the investment companies in which it invests, rather than investing in shares of the investment companies.  For similar reasons, the character of distributions from a Fund (e.g., long-term capital gain, qualified dividend income, etc.) will not necessarily be the same as it would have been had the Fund invested directly in the securities held by the investment companies in which it invests.
 
Passive Foreign Investment Companies.   A Fund may invest in a non-U.S. corporation, which could be treated as a passive foreign investment company (a “PFIC”) or become a PFIC under the Code.  A PFIC is generally defined as a foreign corporation that meets either of the following tests: (1) at least 75% of its gross income for its taxable year is income from passive sources (such as interest, dividends, certain rents and royalties, or capital gains); or (2) an average of at least 50% of its assets produce, or are held for the production of, such passive income.  If a Fund acquires any equity interest in a PFIC, such Fund could be subject to federal income tax and interest charges on “excess distributions” received with respect to such PFIC stock or on any gain from the sale of such PFIC stock (collectively “PFIC income”), even if such Fund distributes the PFIC income as a taxable dividend to its shareholders.  The balance of the PFIC income will be included in such Fund’s investment company taxable income and, accordingly, will not be taxable to it to the extent it distributes that income to its shareholders.  A Fund’s distributions of PFIC income will be taxable as ordinary income even though, absent the application of the PFIC rules, some portion of the distributions may have been classified as capital gain.
 

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A Fund will not be permitted to pass through to its shareholders any credit or deduction for taxes and interest charges incurred with respect to a PFIC.  Payment of this tax would therefore reduce a Fund’s economic return from its investment in PFIC shares.  To the extent a Fund invests in a PFIC, it may elect to treat the PFIC as a “qualified electing fund” (“QEF”), then instead of the tax and interest obligation described above on excess distributions, such Fund would be required to include in income each taxable year its pro rata share of the QEF’s annual ordinary earnings and net capital gain.  As a result of a QEF election, a Fund would likely have to distribute to its shareholders an amount equal to the QEF’s annual ordinary earnings and net capital gain to satisfy the Code’s minimum distribution requirement described herein and avoid imposition of the Excise Tax, even if the QEF did not distribute those earnings and gain to such Fund.  In most instances it will be very difficult, if not impossible, to make this election because of certain requirements in making the election.
 
A Fund may elect to “mark-to-market” its stock in any PFIC.  “Marking-to-market,” in this context, means including in ordinary income each taxable year the excess, if any, of the fair market value of the PFIC stock over such Fund’s adjusted basis therein as of the end of that year.  Pursuant to the election, a Fund also may deduct (as an ordinary, not capital, loss) the excess, if any, of its adjusted basis in the PFIC stock over the fair market value thereof as of the taxable year-end, but only to the extent of any net mark-to-market gains with respect to that stock it included in income for prior taxable years under the election.  A Fund’s adjusted basis in its PFIC stock subject to the election would be adjusted to reflect the amounts of income included and deductions taken thereunder.  In either case, a Fund may be required to recognize taxable income or gain without the concurrent receipt of cash.
 
Foreign Currency Transactions.   Foreign currency gains and losses realized by a Fund in connection with certain transactions involving foreign currency-denominated debt instruments, certain options, futures contracts, forward contracts, and similar instruments relating to foreign currency, foreign currencies, and foreign currency-denominated payables and receivables are subject to Section 988 of the Code, which causes such gains and losses to be treated as ordinary income or loss and may affect the amount and timing of recognition of such Fund’s income.  In some cases elections may be available that would alter this treatment, but such elections could be detrimental to a Fund by creating current recognition of income without the concurrent recognition of cash.  If a foreign currency loss treated as an ordinary loss under Section 988 were to exceed a Fund’s investment company taxable income (computed without regard to such loss) for a taxable year the resulting loss would not be deductible by it or its shareholders in future years.  The foreign currency income or loss will also increase or decrease a Fund’s investment company income distributable to its shareholders.
 
Foreign Taxation.   Income received by a Fund from sources within foreign countries may be subject to foreign withholding and other taxes.  Tax conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes.  If more than 50% of a Fund’s total assets at the close of any taxable year consist of stock or securities of foreign corporations, or if a Fund is a qualified fund-of-funds (i.e., a RIC that invests at least 50% of its total assets in other RICs at the close of each quarter of its taxable year) , and the Fund meets the distribution requirements described above, such Fund may file an election (the “pass-through election”) with the IRS pursuant to which shareholders of the Fund would be required to (i) include in gross income (in addition to taxable dividends actually received) their pro rata shares of foreign income taxes paid by the Fund, or in the case of a qualified fund-of-funds, such taxes paid by an underlying fund that has made the pass-through election, even though not actually received by such shareholders; and (ii) treat such respective pro rata portions as foreign income taxes paid by them.  Each Fund will furnish its shareholders with a written statement providing the amount of foreign taxes paid by the Fund that will “pass-through” for the year, if any.
 
Generally, a credit for foreign taxes is subject to the limitation that it may not exceed the shareholder’s U.S. tax attributable to his or her total foreign source taxable income.  For this purpose, if the pass-through election is made, the source of a Fund’s income will flow through to shareholders.  The limitation on the foreign tax credit is applied separately to foreign source passive income, and to certain other types of income.  Shareholders may be unable to claim a credit for the full amount of their proportionate share of the foreign taxes paid by a Fund.  Various limitations, including a minimum holding period requirement, apply to limit the credit and deduction for foreign taxes for purposes of regular federal income tax and alternative minimum tax.
 
REITs.   A Fund may invest in REITs.  Investments in REIT equity securities may require a Fund to accrue and distribute taxable income without the concurrent receipt of cash.  To generate sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions, a Fund may be required to sell securities in its portfolio (including when it is not advantageous to do so) that it otherwise would have continued to hold.  A Fund’s investments in REIT equity securities may at other times result in its receipt of cash in excess of the REIT’s earnings; if such Fund distributes these amounts, these distributions could constitute a return of capital to its shareholders for federal income tax purposes.  Dividends received by a Fund from a REIT generally will not constitute qualified dividend income.
 
A Fund may invest in REITs that hold residual interests in REMICs or taxable mortgage pools (TMPs), or such REITs may themselves constitute TMPs.  Under an IRS notice, and U.S. Treasury regulations that have yet to be issued but may apply retroactively, a portion of a Fund’s income from a REIT that is attributable to the REIT’s residual interest in a REMIC or a TMP (referred to in the Code as an “excess inclusion”) will be subject to federal income tax in all events.  This notice also provides,

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and the regulations are expected to provide, that excess inclusion income of a RIC, such as the Funds, will be allocated to shareholders of the RIC in proportion to the dividends received by such shareholders, with the same consequences as if the shareholders held the related REMIC residual interest or invested in the TMP directly.  As a result, the Fund may not be a suitable investment for certain tax exempt-shareholders, including a qualified pension plan, an individual retirement account, a 401(k) plan, a Keogh plan and other tax-exempt entities.  See “Tax-Exempt Shareholders.”
 
MLPs. A Fund may invest to a limited degree in MLPs that are treated as qualified publicly traded partnerships for federal income tax purposes. Net income derived from an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership is included in the sources of income that satisfy the Qualifying Income Requirement. However, under the Diversification Requirement, no more than 25% of the value of a RIC’s total assets at the end of each fiscal quarter may be invested in securities of qualified publicly traded partnerships. If an MLP in which a Fund invests is taxed as a partnership for federal income tax purposes, the Fund will be taxable on its allocable share of the MLP’s income regardless of whether the Fund receives any distribution from the MLP. Thus, the Fund may be required to sell other securities in order to satisfy the distribution requirements to qualify as a RIC and to avoid federal income tax and the Excise Tax. Distributions to a Fund from an MLP that is taxed as a partnership for federal income tax purposes will constitute a return of capital to the extent of the Fund’s basis in its interest in the MLP. If a Fund’s basis is reduced to zero, distributions will generally constitute capital gain for federal income tax purposes.

For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 and before January 1, 2026, certain income from investments in MLPs is included in the "combined qualified business income amount" that is eligible for a 20% federal income tax deduction in the case of individuals, trusts and estates. The Code currently does not contain a provision permitting a RIC to pass the special character of this income through to its shareholders. As a result, direct investors in MLPs may be entitled to this deduction while investors that invest in a Fund that invests in MLPs will not.

Distributions.   Distributions paid out of a Fund’s current and accumulated earnings and profits (as determined at the end of the year), whether reinvested in additional shares or paid in cash, are generally taxable and must be reported by each shareholder who is required to file a federal income tax return.  Distributions in excess of a Fund’s current and accumulated earnings and profits, as computed for federal income tax purposes, will first be treated as a return of capital up to the amount of a shareholder’s tax basis in his or her Fund shares and then as capital gain.
 
For federal income tax purposes, distributions of net investment income are generally taxable as ordinary income, and distributions of gains from the sale of investments that a Fund owned (or is treated as owning) for one year or less will be taxable as ordinary income.  Distributions designated by a Fund as “capital gain dividends” (distributions from the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital losses) will be taxable to shareholders as long-term capital gain regardless of the length of time they have held their shares of such Fund.  Such dividends do not qualify as dividends for purposes of the dividends received deduction or for qualified dividend income purposes as described below.
 
Distributions of “qualified dividend income” received by non-corporate shareholders of a Fund may be eligible for the long-term capital gain rate.  A Fund’s distribution will be treated as qualified dividend income and therefore eligible for the long-term capital gain rate to the extent the Fund receives dividend income from taxable domestic corporations and certain qualified foreign corporations, provided that certain holding period and other requirements are met.  A corporate shareholder of a Fund may be eligible for the dividends received deduction on such Fund’s distributions attributable to dividends received by such Fund from domestic corporations, which, if received directly by the corporate shareholder, would qualify for such a deduction.  For eligible corporate shareholders, the dividends received deduction may be subject to certain reductions, and a distribution by a Fund attributable to dividends of a domestic corporation will be eligible for the deduction only if certain holding period and other requirements are met.
 
Shareholders may also be subject to a 3.8% Medicare contribution tax on net investment income including interest (excluding tax-exempt interest), dividends, and capital gains of U.S. individuals with income exceeding $200,000 ($250,000 if married and filing jointly) and of estates and trusts.

For taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 and before January 1, 2026, qualified REIT dividends (i.e., REIT dividends other than capital gain dividends and portions of REIT dividends designated as qualified dividend income) are eligible for a 20% federal income tax deduction in the case of individuals, trusts and estates. A Fund that receives qualified REIT dividends may elect to pass the special character of this income through to its shareholders. To be eligible to treat distributions from a Fund as qualified REIT dividends, a shareholder must hold shares of the Fund for more than 45 days during the 91-day period beginning on the date that is 45 days before the date on which the shares become ex dividend with respect to such dividend and the shareholder must not be under an obligation (whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or related property. If a Fund does not elect to pass the special character of this income through to shareholders or if a shareholder does not satisfy the above holding period requirements, the shareholder will not be entitled to the 20% deduction

75



for the shareholder’s share of the Fund’s qualified REIT dividend income while direct investors in REITs may be entitled to the deduction.
 
Each Fund will furnish a statement to shareholders providing the federal income tax status of its dividends and distributions including the portion of such dividends, if any, that qualifies as long-term capital gain.
 
Different tax treatment, including penalties on certain excess contributions and deferrals, certain pre-retirement and post-retirement distributions, and certain prohibited transactions, is accorded to accounts maintained as qualified retirement plans.

Shareholders are urged and advised to consult their own tax advisors for more information.
 
Purchases of Fund Shares.   Prior to purchasing shares in a Fund, the impact of dividends or distributions which are expected to be or have been declared, but not paid, should be carefully considered.  Any dividend or distribution declared shortly after a purchase of shares of a Fund prior to the record date will have the effect of reducing the per share NAV by the per share amount of the dividend or distribution, and to the extent the distribution consists of the Fund’s taxable income, the purchasing shareholder will be taxed on the taxable portion of the dividend or distribution received even though some or all of the amount distributed is effectively a return of capital.
 
Sales, Exchanges or Redemptions.   Upon the disposition of shares of a Fund (whether by redemption, sale or exchange), a shareholder may realize a capital gain or loss. Such capital gain or loss will be long-term or short-term depending upon the shareholder’s holding period for the shares.  The capital gain will be long-term if the shares were held for more than 12 months and short-term if held for 12 months or less.  If a shareholder sells or exchanges Fund shares within 90 days of having acquired such shares and if, before January 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year of the sale or exchange, as a result of having initially acquired those shares, the shareholder subsequently pays a reduced sales charge on a new purchase of shares of the Fund or another Fund, the sales charge previously incurred in acquiring the Fund’s shares generally shall not be taken into account (to the extent the previous sales charges do not exceed the reduction in sales charges on the new purchase) for the purpose of determining the amount of gain or loss on the disposition, but generally will be treated as having been incurred in the new purchase.  Any loss realized on a disposition will be disallowed under the “wash sale” rules to the extent that the shares disposed of by the shareholder are replaced by the shareholder (including through dividend reinvestment) within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the date of disposition.  In such a case, the basis of the shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.  Any loss realized by a shareholder on a disposition of shares held by the shareholder for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any distributions of capital gain dividends received by the shareholder and disallowed to the extent of any distributions of exempt-interest dividends received by the shareholder with respect to such shares.  Capital losses are generally deductible only against capital gains except that individuals may deduct up to $3,000 of capital losses against ordinary income.
 
The 3.8% Medicare contribution tax (described above) will apply to gains from the sale or exchange of a Fund’s shares.
 
Backup Withholding.   Each Fund generally is required to withhold, and remit to the U.S. Treasury, subject to certain exemptions, an amount equal to 24% of all distributions and redemption proceeds paid or credited to a shareholder of such Fund if (i) the shareholder fails to furnish such Fund with the correct taxpayer identification number (“TIN”) certified under penalties of perjury, (ii) the shareholder fails to provide a certified statement that the shareholder is not subject to backup withholding, or (iii) the IRS or a broker has notified such Fund that the number furnished by the shareholder is incorrect or that the shareholder is subject to backup withholding as a result of failure to report interest or dividend income.  If the backup withholding provisions are applicable, any such distributions or proceeds, whether taken in cash or reinvested in shares, will be reduced by the amounts required to be withheld.  Backup withholding is not an additional tax.  Any amounts withheld may be credited against a shareholder’s U.S. federal income tax liability.
 
State And Local Taxes.   State and local laws often differ from federal income tax laws with respect to the treatment of specific items of income, gain, loss, deduction and credit.
 
Non-U.S. Shareholders.   Distributions made to non-U.S. shareholders attributable to net investment income generally are subject to U.S. federal income tax withholding at a 30% rate (or such lower rate provided under an applicable income tax treaty).  However, the Fund will generally not be required to withhold tax on any amounts paid to a non-U.S. investor with respect to dividends attributable to “qualified short-term gain” (i.e., the excess of net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss) designated as such by the Fund and dividends attributable to certain U.S. source interest income that would not be subject to federal withholding tax if earned directly by a non-U.S. person, provided such amounts are properly designated by the Fund. A Fund may choose not to designate such amounts.
 

76



Notwithstanding the foregoing, if a distribution described above is effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business carried on by a non-U.S. shareholder within the United States (or, if an income tax treaty applies, is attributable to a permanent establishment in the United States), federal income tax withholding and exemptions attributable to foreign persons will not apply and such distribution will be subject to the federal income tax, reporting and withholding requirements generally applicable to U.S. persons described above.
 
Under U.S. federal tax law, a non-U.S. shareholder is not, in general, subject to federal income tax or withholding tax on capital gains (and is not allowed a deduction for losses) realized on the sale of shares of a Fund or on capital gain dividends, provided that the Fund obtains a properly completed and signed certificate of foreign status, unless (i) such gains or distributions are effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business carried on by the non-U.S. shareholder within the United States (or, if an income tax treaty applies, are attributable to a permanent establishment in the United States of the non-U.S. shareholder); (ii) in the case of an individual non-U.S. shareholder, the shareholder is present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the year of the sale and certain other conditions are met; or (iii) the shares of the Fund constitute U.S. real property interests (USRPIs), as described below.
 
Special rules apply to foreign persons who receive distributions from a Fund that are attributable to gains from USRPIs.  The Code defines USRPIs to include direct holdings of U.S. real property and any interest (other than an interest solely as a creditor) in a “United States real property holding corporation” or former United States real property holding corporation.  The Code defines a United States real property holding corporation as any corporation whose USRPIs make up 50% or more of the fair market value of its USRPIs, its interests in real property located outside the United States, plus any other assets it uses in a trade or business.  In general, if a Fund is a United States real property holding corporation (determined without regard to certain exceptions), distributions by the Fund that are attributable to (a) gains realized on the disposition of USRPIs by the Fund and (b) distributions received by the Fund from a lower-tier RIC or REIT that the Fund is required to treat as USRPI gain in its hands will retain their character as gains realized from USRPIs in the hands of the foreign persons and will be subject to U.S. federal withholding tax. In addition, such distributions could result in foreign shareholder being required to file a U.S. tax return and pay tax on the distribution at regular U.S. federal income tax rates. The consequences to a non-U.S. shareholder, including the rate of such withholding and character of such distribution (e.g., ordinary income or USRPI gain) will vary depending on the extent of the non-U.S. shareholder's current and past ownership of a Fund.

In addition, if a Fund is a United States real property holding corporation or former United States real property holding corporation, the Fund may be required to withhold U.S. tax upon a redemption of shares by a greater-than-5% shareholder that is a foreign person, and that shareholder would be required to file a U.S. income tax return for the year of the disposition of the USRPI and pay any additional tax due on the gain. However, no such withholding is generally required with respect to amounts paid in redemption of shares of a fund if the fund was a domestically controlled qualified investment entity, or, in certain other limited cases, if a fund (whether or not domestically controlled) holds substantial investments in RICs that are domestically controlled qualified investment entities.   

Subject to the additional rules described herein, federal income tax withholding will apply to distributions attributable to dividends and other investment income distributed by the Funds.  The federal income tax withholding rate may be reduced (and, in some cases, eliminated) under an applicable tax treaty between the United States and the non-U.S. shareholder’s country of residence or incorporation.  In order to qualify for treaty benefits, a non-U.S. shareholder must comply with applicable certification requirements relating to its foreign status (generally by providing a Fund with a properly completed Form W-8BEN).
 
Sections 1471-1474 of the Code and the U.S. Treasury and IRS guidance issued thereunder (collectively, the "Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act" or "FATCA") generally requires a Fund to obtain information sufficient to identify the status of each of its shareholders.  If a shareholder fails to provide this information or otherwise fails to comply with FATCA, a Fund may be required to withhold under FATCA at a rate of 30% with respect to that shareholder on Fund dividends and distributions and on the proceeds of the sale, redemption, or exchange of Fund shares.  A Fund may disclose the information that it receives from (or concerning) its shareholders to the IRS, non-U.S. taxing authorities or other parties as necessary to comply with FATCA, related intergovernmental agreements or other applicable law or regulation. Each investor is urged to consult its tax advisor regarding the applicability of FATCA and any other reporting requirements with respect to the investor’s own situation, including investments through an intermediary.
 
Foreign Bank And Financial Accounts And Foreign Financial Assets Reporting Requirements.   A shareholder that owns directly or indirectly more than 50% by vote or value of a Fund, is urged and advised to consult its own tax advisor regarding its filing obligations with respect to FinCen Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts.
 

77



Tax-Exempt Shareholders.   A tax-exempt shareholder could realize unrelated business taxable income (“UBTI”) by virtue of its investment in a Fund if shares in the Fund constitute debt financed property in the hands of the tax-exempt shareholder within the meaning of Code Section 514(b).
 
It is possible that a tax-exempt shareholder of a Fund will also recognize UBTI if such Fund recognizes “excess inclusion income” (as described above) derived from direct or indirect investments in REMIC residual interests or TMPs.  Furthermore, any investment in a residual interest of a CMO that has elected to be treated as a REMIC can create complex tax consequences, especially if a Fund has state or local governments or other tax-exempt organizations as shareholders. In addition, special tax consequences apply to charitable remainder trusts (“CRTs”) that invest in RICs that invest directly or indirectly in residual interests in REMICs or in TMPs.
 
Tax Shelter Reporting Regulations.   Under U.S. Treasury regulations, if a shareholder recognizes a loss of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate shareholder, the shareholder must file with the IRS a disclosure statement on Form 8886.  The fact that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of whether the taxpayer’s treatment of the loss is proper.  Shareholders are urged and advised to consult their own tax advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual circumstances.
 
Shareholders are urged and advised to consult their own tax advisor with respect to the tax consequences of an investment in a Fund including, but not limited to, the applicability of state, local, foreign and other tax laws affecting the particular shareholder and to possible effects of changes in federal or other tax laws.
 
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL SECURITY HOLDERS
 
Persons or organizations beneficially owning more than 25% of the outstanding shares of a Fund are presumed to “control” the Fund. As a result, those persons or organizations could have the ability to influence an action taken by a Fund if such action requires a shareholder vote. As of July 3, 2019, the name, address and percentage ownership of each entity that owned of record or beneficially 5% or more of the outstanding shares of any class of a Fund are as follows:

Fund Name and Share Class
Name & Address
Percentage of
Class
 
FLEXIBLE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
8.11
%
 
 
PERSHING LLC
1 PERSHING PLAZA
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07399
7.91
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
6.49
%
 
 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC 499 WASHINGTON BLVD JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310
5.47
%
 
FLEXIBLE INCOME FUND - CLASS C
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
21.50
%
 
 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
14.84
%
 
 
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
13.82
%
 

78



 
UBS WM USA FBO
SPEC CDY A/C EXL BEN CUSTOMERS
OF UBSFSI
1000 HARBOR BLVD
WEEHAWKEN, NJ 07086
8.20
%
 
 
RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM ATTN COURTNEY WALLER 880 CARILLON PARKWAY ST PETERSBURG, FL 33716
6.76
%
 
 
LPL FINANCIAL
4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE
SAN DIEGO, CA 92121-3091
5.57
%
 
FLEXIBLE INCOME FUND - CLASS Y
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC SPECIAL CUSTODY A/C FBO CUSTOMERS ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104-4151
32.06
%
 
 
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
21.80
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
9.23
%
 
 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
7.14
%
 
 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
7.11
%
 
 
UBS WM USA FBO
SPEC CDY A/C EXL BEN CUSTOMERS
OF UBSFSI
1000 HARBOR BLVD
WEEHAWKEN, NJ 07086
5.63
%
 
FLEXIBLE INCOME FUND - INSTITUTIONAL CLASS
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
53.33
%
 
 
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104
17.15
%
 
 
TOUCHSTONE DYNAMIC DIVERSIFIED
INCOME FUND
303 BROADWAY ST STE 1100
CINCINNATI, OH 45202-4220
11.79
%
*,**
 
DANKY & CO.
513 LEGION DRIVE
HARRODSBURD, KY 40330
8.41
%
*
FOCUSED FUND - CLASS A
TD AMERITRADE TRUST COMPANY
P.O. BOX 17748
DENVER, CO 802170748
9.44
%
 

79



 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
7.89
%
 
 
PERSHING LLC
1 PERSHING PLAZA
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07399
7.66
%
 
 
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
6.83
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
6.07
%
 
FOCUSED FUND - CLASS C
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
27.86
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
17.61
%
 
 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
8.50
%
 
 
RAYMOND JAMES
OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS
HOUSE ACCT FIRM
ATTN COURTNEY WALLER
880 CARILLON PARKWAY
ST PETERSBURG, FL 33716
6.98
%
 
 
PERSHING LLC
1 PERSHING PLAZA
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07399
6.75
%
 
 
UBS WM USA FBO
SPEC CDY A/C EXL BEN CUSTOMERS
OF UBSFSI
1000 HARBOR BLVD
WEEHAWKEN, NJ 07086
5.90
%
 
 
LPL FINANCIAL
4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE
SAN DIEGO, CA 92121-3091
5.30
%
 
FOCUSED FUND - CLASS Y
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
REINVEST ACCOUNT
ATTN MUTUAL FUND DEPARTMENT
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104-4151
13.58
%
 
 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
11.26
%
 
FOCUSED FUND - INSTITUTIONAL CLASS
PERSHING LLC
1 PERSHING PLAZA
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07399
29.40
%
 

80



 
WELLS FARGO BANK NA TRUSTEE
FBO CITY OF JACKSONVILLE
C/O FASCORE LLC
8515 E ORCHARD RD 2T2
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, CO 80111
20.86
%
 
 
TD AMERITRADE TRUST COMPANY
P.O. BOX 17748
DENVER, CO 802170748
20.19
%
 
 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
11.51
%
 
 
TD AMERITRADE INC FOR THE
EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF OUR CLIENTS
PO BOX 2226
OMAHA, NE 68103-2226
10.78
%
 
 
J P MORGAN SECURITIES LLC OMNIBUS ACCOUNT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 4 CHASE METROTECH CENTER 3RD FLOOR MUTUAL FUND DEPARTMENT BROOKLYN, NY 11245
5.40
%
 
GLOBAL ESG EQUITY FUND - CLASS C
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
25.20
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
14.65
%
 
 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
9.78
%
 
 
PERSHING LLC
1 PERSHING PLAZA
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07399
9.42
%
 
 
RAYMOND JAMES
OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS
HOUSE ACCT FIRM
ATTN COURTNEY WALLER
880 CARILLON PARKWAY
ST PETERSBURG, FL 33716
6.96
%
 
GLOBAL ESG EQUITY FUND - CLASS Y
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
47.87
%
 
 
RBC CAPITAL MARKETS LLC
MUTUAL FUND OMNIBUS PROCESSING
OMNIBUS
ATTN MUTUAL FUND OPS MANAGER
60 SOUTH SIXTH STREET-P08
MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55402-4400
6.27
%
 
 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
6.19
%
 

81



GLOBAL ESG EQUITY FUND - INSTITUTIONAL CLASS
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
62.25
%
 
 
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104
15.59
%
 
 
THE CAROLINE & SIGMUND SCHOTT FUND
675 MASSACHUSETTS AVE
8TH FLOOR STE A
CAMBRIDGE, MA 02139-3309
9.67
%
*
 
SEI PRIVATE TRUST COMPANY
ATTN: MUTUAL FUND ADMINISTRATOR
ONE FREEDOM VALLEY DRIVE
OAKS, PA 19456
5.41
%
*
GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND - CLASS A
RAYMOND JAMES
OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS
HOUSE ACCT FIRM ATTN COURTNEY WALLER
880 CARILLON PARKWAY
ST PETERSBURG, FL 33716
6.67
%
 
GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND - CLASS C
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
15.89
%
 
 
UBS WM USA FBO
SPEC CDY A/C EXL BEN CUSTOMERS
OF UBSFSI
1000 HARBOR BLVD
WEEHAWKEN, NJ 07086
11.24
%
 
 
RAYMOND JAMES
OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS
HOUSE ACCT FIRM
ATTN COURTNEY WALLER
880 CARILLON PARKWAY
ST PETERSBURG, FL 33716
10.02
%
 
 
LPL FINANCIAL
4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE
SAN DIEGO, CA 92121-3091
7.06
%
 
 
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
5.94
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
5.45
%
 
 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310
5.01
%
 
GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND - CLASS Y
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104
33.44
%
 
 
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
15.57
%
 

82



 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
13.30
%
 
 
LPL FINANCIAL
4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE
SAN DIEGO, CA 92121-3091
8.69
%
 
 
TD AMERITRADE INC FOR THE
EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF OUR CLIENTS
PO BOX 2226
OMAHA, NE 68103-2226
5.24
%
 
GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES FUND - INSTITUTIONAL CLASS
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
24.92
%
 
 
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104
20.58
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO BANK NA FBO
GLASTONBURY RET-INC
PO BOX 1533
MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55480
18.50
%
 
 
SEI PRIVATE TRUST COMPANY ATTN: MUTUAL FUND ADMINISTRATOR ONE FREEDOM VALLEY DRIVE OAKS, PA 19456
15.44
%
*
 
SEI PRIVATE TRUST COMPANY
ONE FREEDOM VALLEY DRIVE
OAKS, PA 19456
10.82
%
 
 
TOUCHSTONE DYNAMIC GLOBAL
ALLOCATION FUND
303 BROADWAY ST STE 1100
CINCINNATI, OH 45202-4220
7.02
%
*
MID CAP GROWTH FUND - CLASS A
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
9.73
%
 
 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
8.63
%
 
 
RELIANCE TRUST COMPANY FBO
RETIREMENT PLANS SERVICED BY METLIFE
8515 E ORCHARD RD 2T2
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, CO 80111
8.38
%
 
 
PERSHING LLC
1 PERSHING PLAZA
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07399
7.84
%
 
 
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FBO CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS
211 MAIN STREET
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105
5.60
%
 
 
LPL FINANCIAL
4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO, CA 92121-3091
5.17
%
 

83



 
UBS WM USA FBO
SPEC CDY A/C EXL BEN CUSTOMERS
OF UBSFSI
1000 HARBOR BLVD
WEEHAWKEN, NJ 07086
5.16
%
 
MID CAP GROWTH FUND - CLASS C
LPL FINANCIAL
4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE
SAN DIEGO, CA 92121-3091
17.20
%
 
 
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
15.72
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
13.43
%
 
 
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FBO CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS
211 MAIN STREET
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94105
10.81
%
 
 
PERSHING LLC
1 PERSHING PLAZA
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07399
7.91
%
 
 
UBS WM USA FBO
SPEC CDY A/C EXL BEN CUSTOMERS
OF UBSFSI
1000 HARBOR BLVD
WEEHAWKEN, NJ 07086
7.52
%
 
 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
6.35
%
 
MID CAP GROWTH FUND - CLASS Y
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
29.84
%
 
 
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
11.45
%
 
 
LPL FINANCIAL
4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO, CA 92121-3091
8.80
%
 
 
FIFTH THIRD BANK TTEE
FBO WESTERN & SOUTHERN LIFE INS CO
401K SAVINGS PLAN
8515 E ORCHARD RD 2T2
CENTENNIAl, CO 80111
7.99
%
 
 
RAYMOND JAMES
OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS
HOUSE ACCT FIRM
ATTN COURTNEY WALLER
880 CARILLON PARKWAY
ST PETERSBURG, FL 33716
7.15
%
 
 
UBS WM USA FBO
SPEC CDY A/C EXL BEN CUSTOMERS
OF UBSFSI
1000 HARBOR BLVD
WEEHAWKEN, NJ 07086
6.14
%
 

84



 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
5.86
%
 
MID CAP GROWTH FUND - INSTITUTIONAL CLASS 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
60.10
%
 
 
TD AMERITRADE INC FOR THE
EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF OUR CLIENTS
PO BOX 2226
OMAHA, NE 68103-2226
9.28
%
 
 
SAXON & CO.
P.O. BOX 7780-1888
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19182
8.99
%
*
 
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104
6.18
%
 
SANDS CAPITAL EMERGING MARKETS GROWTH FUND - CLASS A
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104
34.65
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
17.58
%
 
 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
13.36
%
 
 
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
10.28
%
 
 
RBC CAPITAL MARKETS LLC
MUTUAL FUND OMNIBUS PROCESSING
OMNIBUS
ATTN MUTUAL FUND OPS MANAGER
60 SOUTH SIXTH STREET-P08
MINNEAPOLIS, MN 55402-4400
8.16
%
 
SANDS CAPITAL EMERGING MARKETS GROWTH FUND - CLASS C
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
38.47
%
 
 
WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES
2801 MARKET STREET
SAINT LOUIS, MO 63103
20.60
%
 
 
JON MRKONICH SAR SEP IRA
MARIETTA, GA 30068-1622
15.10
%
*
 
UBS WM USA FBO
SPEC CDY A/C EXL BEN CUSTOMERS
OF UBSFSI
1000 HARBOR BLVD
WEEHAWKEN, NJ 07086
13.51
%
 
 
LPL FINANCIAL
4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE
SAN DIEGO, CA 92121-3091
5.90
%
 

85



SANDS CAPITAL EMERGING MARKETS GROWTH FUND - CLASS Y
MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF ITS
CUSTOMERS
1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL 12
NEW YORK, NY 10004-1901
19.43
%
 
 
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94104
16.91
%
 
 
MLPF & S THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS
ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION
4800 DEER LAKE DR EAST-2ND FLR
JACKSONVILLE, FL 32246
10.26
%
 
 
SAXON & CO
PO BOX 7780-1888
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19182
8.20
%
*
 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
7.71
%
 
 
RAYMOND JAMES
OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS
HOUSE ACCT FIRM
ATTN COURTNEY WALLER
880 CARILLON PARKWAY
ST PETERSBURG, FL 33716
5.95
%
 
 
LPL FINANCIAL
4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE
SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091
5.67
%
 
SANDS CAPITAL EMERGING MARKETS GROWTH FUND - INSTITUTIONAL CLASS 
NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES CORP
(FBO) OUR CUSTOMERS
ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 4TH FLOOR
499 WASHINGTON BLVD
JERSEY CITY, NJ 07310-2010
28.84
%
 
 
SAXON & CO.
P.O. BOX 7780-1888
PHILADELPHIA, PA 19182
20.32
%
*
 
CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC
101 MONTGOMERY ST
SAN FRANCISCO CA 94104
18.89
%
 
 
STATE STREET BANK & TRUST CUST
FBO BAE SYSTEMS SAVINGS PLAN
801 PENNSYLVANIA AVE
KANSAS CITY, MO 64105-1307
7.33
%
 
* Indicates that shares are held beneficially.
**The Touchstone Controlled Growth with Income Fund, the Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund and the Touchstone Dynamic Global Allocation Fund (the “Asset Allocation Funds”) are each structured as a fund-of-funds. Pursuant to the proxy voting policies of Touchstone Advisors, the Asset Allocation Funds vote their shares in the same proportion as the votes of all other shareholders in that underlying Touchstone Fund.

As of July 3, 2019, the Trustees and officers of the Trust as a group owned of record or beneficially less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Trust and of each Fund.
 
CUSTODIAN
 
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. (“BBH”), 50 Post Office Square, Boston, Massachusetts 02110, is the Trust’s custodian. BBH acts as the Trust’s depository, safe keeps its portfolio securities, collects all income and other payments with respect thereto, disburses money as instructed and maintains records in connection with its duties.
 


86



LEGAL COUNSEL
 
Vedder Price P.C., 222 North LaSalle Street, Chicago, Illinois 60601, serves as counsel to the Trust.
 
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
 
The firm of Ernst & Young LLP ("E&Y"), 312 Walnut Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45202, has been selected as the independent registered public accounting firm for the Trust for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2020. E&Y will perform an annual audit of the Trust’s financial statements and advise the Trust as to certain accounting matters.
 
TRANSFER AND SUB-ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT
 
Transfer Agent. The Trust’s transfer agent is BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. ("BNY Mellon IS"), 4400 Computer Drive, Westborough, Massachusetts 01581. BNY Mellon IS maintains the records of each shareholder’s account, answers shareholders’ inquiries concerning their accounts, processes purchases and redemptions of the Funds’ shares, acts as dividend and distribution disbursing agent and performs other shareholder servicing functions. For providing transfer agent and shareholder services to the Trust, BNY Mellon IS receives a monthly per account fee from each Fund, plus out of-pocket expenses. The Funds may also pay a fee to certain servicing organizations (such as broker-dealers and financial institutions) that provide sub-transfer agency services. These services include maintaining shareholder records, processing shareholder transactions and distributing communications to shareholders.
 
Sub-Administrative Agent. The Advisor provides administrative services to the Trust under an Administration Agreement and has sub-contracted certain accounting and administrative services to The Bank of New York Mellon ("BNY Mellon"). The sub-administrative services sub-contracted to BNY Mellon include accounting and pricing services, SEC and state security filings, providing executive and administrative services and providing reports for meetings of the Board. The Advisor pays BNY Mellon a sub-administrative fee out of its administration fee.
 
Set forth below are the sub-administrative fees paid by the Advisor to BNY Mellon with respect to each Fund during the fiscal years (or periods) ended March 31:
 
 
 
Sub-Administration Fees Paid
Fund
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
Flexible Income Fund
 
$
149,068

 
$
185,973

 
$
191,446

Focused Fund
 
$
304,698

 
$
270,212

 
$
254,065

Global ESG Equity Fund
 
$
72,513

 
$
122,398

 
$
172,417

Growth Opportunities Fund
 
$
70,917

 
$
71,788

 
$
71,552

Mid Cap Growth Fund
 
$
161,462

 
$
167,117

 
$
216,219

Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
 
$
60,540

 
$
104,581

 
$
156,070


 
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
The Funds’ audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, including the notes thereto and the report of Ernst & Young LLP, included in the Trust’s Annual Report are incorporated into this SAI by reference. No other parts of the Trust’s Annual Report are hereby incorporated by reference. The Annual Report may be obtained free of charge by calling the Trust at 1.800.543.0407 or by downloading a copy at TouchstoneInvestments.com. You may also obtain the annual report or unaudited semi-annual report, as well as other information about Touchstone Strategic Trust, from the EDGAR Database on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

87



APPENDIX A
 
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES RATINGS (1)  
 
Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody’s”) and Standard &Poor’s ® (“S&P”) are private services that provide ratings of the credit quality of debt obligations. A description of the ratings assigned by Moody’s and S&P ®  are provided below. These ratings represent the opinions of these rating services as to the quality of the securities that they undertake to rate. It should be emphasized, however, that ratings are general and are not absolute standards of quality. An advisor attempts to discern variations in credit rankings of the rating services and to anticipate changes in credit ranking. However, subsequent to purchase by a fund, an issue of securities may cease to be rated or its rating may be reduced below the minimum rating required for purchase by the fund. In that event, an advisor will consider whether it is in the best interest of a fund to continue to hold the securities.  
 
Moody’s credit ratings are current opinions of the relative future credit risk of entities, credit commitments, or debt or debt-like securities. Moody’s defines credit risk as the risk that an entity may not meet its contractual, financial obligations as they come due and any estimated financial loss in the event of default. Credit ratings do not address any other risk, including but not limited to: liquidity risk, market value risk, or price volatility. Credit ratings are not statements of current or historical fact. Credit ratings do not constitute investment or financial advice, and credit ratings are not recommendations to purchase, sell, or hold particular securities. Credit ratings do not comment on the suitability of an investment for any particular investor. Moody’s issues its credit ratings with the expectation and understanding that each investor will make its own study and evaluation of each security that is under consideration for purchase, holding, or sale.
 
An S&P issue credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation, a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program (including ratings on medium-term note programs and commercial paper programs). It takes into consideration the creditworthiness of guarantors, insurers, or other forms of credit enhancement on the obligation and takes into account the currency in which the obligation is denominated. The opinion reflects S&P’s view of the obligor’s capacity and willingness to meet its financial commitments as they come due, and may assess terms, such as collateral security and subordination, which could affect ultimate payment in the event of default.

(1)  This Appendix A may contain information obtained from third parties, including ratings from credit ratings agencies such as S&P. Reproduction and distribution of third party content in any form is prohibited except with the prior written permission of the related third party. Third party content providers do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, timeliness or availability of any information, including ratings, and are not responsible for any errors or omissions (negligent or otherwise), regardless of the cause, or for the results obtained from the use of such content. THIRD PARTY CONTENT PROVIDERS GIVE NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE. THIRD PARTY CONTENT PROVIDERS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, EXEMPLARY, COMPENSATORY, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, COSTS, EXPENSES, LEGAL FEES, OR LOSSES (INCLUDING LOST INCOME OR PROFITS AND OPPORTUNITY COSTS OR LOSSES CAUSED BY NEGLIGENCE) IN CONNECTION WITH ANY USE OF THEIR CONTENT, INCLUDING RATINGS. Credit ratings are statements of opinions and are not statements of fact or recommendations to purchase, hold or sell securities. They do not address the suitability of securities or the suitability of securities for investment purposes, and should not be relied on as investment advice. they issue, as well as structured finance securities backed by receivables or other financial assets.

 
Short-Term Credit Ratings  
 
Moody’s
 
Moody’s short-term ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to honor short-term financial obligations. Ratings may be assigned to issuers, short-term programs or to individual short-term debt instruments. Such obligations generally have an original maturity not exceeding thirteen months, unless explicitly noted.
 
Moody’s employs the following designations to indicate the relative repayment ability of rated issuers:
 
“P-1” - Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-1 have a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
 
“P-2” - Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-2 have a strong ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
 
“P-3” - Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3 have an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations.

A-1



 

 
Note: Canadian issuers rated P-1 or P-2 have their short-term ratings enhanced by the senior-most long-term rating of the issuer, its guarantor or support-provider.
  S&P
 
S&P’s short-term ratings are generally assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the relevant market. In the U.S., for example, that means obligations with an original maturity of no more than 365 days-including commercial paper. Short-term ratings are also used to indicate the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to put features on long-term obligations. The result is a dual rating, in which the short-term rating addresses the put feature, in addition to the usual long-term rating.
 
The following summarizes the rating categories used by S&P for short-term issues:
 
“A-1” - Obligations are rated in the highest category and indicate that the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on these obligations is extremely strong.
 
“A-2” - Obligations are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is satisfactory.
 
“A-3” - Obligations exhibit adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
 
“B” - Obligations are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties which could lead to the obligor’s inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.
 
“C” - Obligations are currently vulnerable to nonpayment and are dependent upon favorable business, financial and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
 
“D” - Obligations are in payment default. The “D” rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P believes that such payments will be made within any stated grace period. However, any stated grace period longer than five business days will be treated as five business days. The “D” rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.
 
Local Currency and Foreign Currency Risks - Country risk considerations are a standard part of S&P’s analysis for credit ratings on any issuer or issue. Currency of repayment is a key factor in this analysis. An obligor’s capacity to repay foreign currency obligations may be lower than its capacity to repay obligations in its local currency due to the sovereign government’s own relatively lower capacity to repay external versus domestic debt. These sovereign risk considerations are incorporated in the debt ratings assigned to specific issues. Foreign currency issuer ratings are also distinguished from local currency issuer ratings to identify those instances where sovereign risks make them different for the same issuer.  

Long-Term Credit Ratings
 
Moody’s
 
Moody’s long-term ratings are opinions of the relative credit risk of financial obligations with an original maturity of one year or more. They address the possibility that a financial obligation will not be honored as promised. Such ratings use Moody’s Global Scale and reflect both the likelihood of default and any financial loss suffered in the event of default.
 
The following summarizes the ratings used by Moody’s for long-term debt:
 
“Aaa” - Obligations rated “Aaa” are judged to be of the highest quality, subject to the lowest level of credit risk.
 
“Aa” - Obligations rated “Aa” are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.
 
“A” - Obligations rated “A” are judged to be upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.

A-2



 
“Baa” - Obligations rated “Baa” are judged to be medium-grade and subject to moderate credit risk and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.
 
“Ba” - Obligations rated “Ba” are judged to be speculative and are subject to substantial credit risk.
 
“B” - Obligations rated “B” are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk.
 
“Caa” - Obligations rated “Caa” are judged to be of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk.
 
“Ca” - Obligations rated “Ca” are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest.
 
“C” - Obligations rated “C” are the lowest-rated and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.
 
Note: Moody’s appends numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 to each generic rating classification from “Aa” through “Caa.”  The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category.
 
S&P
 
Issue credit ratings are based, in varying degrees, on S&P’s analysis of the following considerations:
 
Likelihood of payment — capacity and willingness of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on an obligation in accordance with the terms of the obligation;
 
Nature of and provisions of the obligation;
 
Protection afforded by, and relative position of, the obligation in the event of bankruptcy, reorganization, or other arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors’ rights.
 
Issue ratings are an assessment of default risk, but may incorporate an assessment of relative seniority or ultimate recovery in the event of default. Junior obligations are typically rated lower than senior obligations, to reflect the lower priority in bankruptcy, as noted above. (Such differentiation may apply when an entity has both senior and subordinated obligations, secured and unsecured obligations, or operating company and holding company obligations.)
 
The following summarizes the ratings used by S&P for long-term issues:
 
“AAA” - An obligation rated “AAA” has the highest rating assigned by S&P. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong.
 
“AA” - An obligation rated “AA” differs from the highest-rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.
 
“A” - An obligation rated “A” is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic
conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is still strong.
 
“BBB” - An obligation rated “BBB” exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
 
Obligations rated “BB,” “B,” “CCC,” “CC,” and “C” are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. “BB” indicates the least degree of speculation and “C” the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
 
“BB” - An obligation rated “BB” is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial or economic conditions which could lead to the obligor’s inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
 

A-3



“B” - An obligation rated “B” is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated “BB,” but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. Adverse business, financial or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor’s capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
 
“CCC” - An obligation rated "CCC" is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.

"CC" - An obligation rated "CC" is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. The "CC" rating is used when a default has not yet occurred but S&P expects default to be a virtual certainty, regardless of the anticipated time to default.

“C” - An obligation rated "C" is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment, and the obligation is expected to have lower relative seniority or lower ultimate recovery compared with obligations that are rated higher.

“D” - An obligation rated "D" is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the "D" rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P believes that such payments will be made within five business days in the absence of a stated grace period or within the earlier of the stated grace period or 30 calendar days. The "D" rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. A rating on an obligation is lowered to "D" if it is subject to a distressed exchange offer.
 
Plus (+) or minus (-) - The ratings from “AA” to “CCC” may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
 
“NR” - This indicates that no rating has been requested, that there is insufficient information on which to base a rating, or that S&P does not rate a particular obligation as a matter of policy.
 
Local Currency and Foreign Currency Risks - Country risk considerations are a standard part of S&P’s analysis for credit ratings on any issuer or issue. Currency of repayment is a key factor in this analysis. An obligor’s capacity to repay foreign currency obligations may be lower than its capacity to repay obligations in its local currency due to the sovereign government’s own relatively lower capacity to repay external versus domestic debt. These sovereign risk considerations are incorporated in the debt ratings assigned to specific issues. Foreign currency issuer ratings are also distinguished from local currency issuer ratings to identify those instances where sovereign risks make them different for the same issuer.  

Municipal Note Ratings
 
Moody’s
 
Moody’s uses three rating categories for short-term municipal obligations that are considered investment grade. These ratings are designated as Municipal Investment Grade (“MIG”) and are divided into three levels - “MIG 1” through “MIG 3”. In addition, those short-term obligations that are of speculative quality are designated “SG”, or speculative grade. MIG ratings expire at the maturity of the obligation.
 
The following summarizes the ratings used by Moody’s for these short-term obligations:
 
“MIG 1” - This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.
 
“MIG 2” - This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.
 
“MIG 3” - This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.
 
“SG” - This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.
 
In the case of variable rate demand obligations (“VRDOs”), a two-component rating is assigned; a long- or short-term debt rating and a demand obligation rating. The first element represents Moody’s evaluation of risk associated with scheduled principal and

A-4



interest payments. The second element represents Moody’s evaluation of risk associated with the ability to receive purchase price upon demand (“demand feature”). The second element uses a rating from a variation of the MIG scale called the Variable Municipal Investment Grade or “VMIG” rating scale.
 
When either the long- or short-term aspect of a VRDO is not rated, that piece is designated “NR”, e.g., “Aaa/NR” or “NR/VMIG 1”.
 
VMIG rating expirations are a function of each issue’s specific structural or credit features.
 
“VMIG 1” - This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by the superior short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
 
“VMIG 2” - This designation denotes strong credit quality. Good protection is afforded by the strong short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
 
“VMIG 3” - This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Adequate protection is afforded by the satisfactory short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
 
“SG” - This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Demand features rated in this category may be supported by a liquidity provider that does not have an investment grade short-term rating or may lack the structural and/or legal protections necessary to ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
 
S&P
 
An S&P U.S. municipal note rating reflects S&P’s opinion about the liquidity factors and market access risks unique to notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes with an original maturity of more than three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. In determining which type of rating, if any, to assign, S&P’s analysis will review the following considerations:
 
Amortization schedule-the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note; and
 
Source of payment-the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.
 
Note rating symbols are as follows:
“SP-1” - The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit a strong capacity to pay principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service are given a plus (+) designation.
 
“SP-2” - The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit a satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the notes.
 
“SP-3” - The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.  

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APPENDIX B
 
PROXY VOTING POLICIES
BRAMSHILL INVESTMENTS, LLC
Proxy Voting

In the event that the Firm is presented with an opportunity to vote a proxy, the Firm’s general policy is to vote in accordance with the best interest of the Clients. The Firm believes company management generally is best suited to make the decisions that are essential to the ongoing operation of the company. Therefore, the Firm will generally vote proxies in line with company management. However, under circumstances when the Firm believes that company management’s proposal will not maximize value for the Clients, the Firm will vote against company management. In such cases, the reason for the decision, along with a record of the vote, will be retained by the CCO.

Occasions may arise in which the Firm is required to vote a proxy while having a conflict of interest with a Client. To protect the Clients against a breach of the Firm’s duties to them, on any occasion when a proxy vote presents a conflict of interest, the CCO will present any purported conflict of interest to the CIO for consultation on the matter and conduct a conflict analysis accordingly. The CCO shall document the matter and preserve such documentation in accordance with the Firm’s Record Retention Policy.

All Supervised Persons are responsible for bringing all proxies to the attention of the CCO. The CCO is responsible for aggregating proxy voting data and, as relevant for the RIC Clients, facilitating the filing of Form N-PX.

 































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FORT WASHINGTON INVESTMENT ADVISORS, INC.
 
PROXY VOTING POLICIES
 
Fort Washington’s policy is to vote proxies in the best interests of the Fund at all times. Fort Washington has adopted procedures that it believes are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interests of the Fund in accordance with its fiduciary duties and SEC rules governing investment advisers. Reflecting a basic investment philosophy that good management is shareholder focused, proxy votes will generally be cast in support of management on routine corporate matters and in support of any management proposal that is plainly in the interest of all shareholders. Specifically, proxy votes generally will be cast in favor of proposals that:
 
maintain or strengthen the shared interests of stockholders and management;
increase shareholder value; and
maintain or increase shareholder rights generally.
 
Proxy votes will generally be cast against proposals having the opposite effect of the above. Where Fort Washington perceives that a management proposal, if approved, would tend to limit or reduce the market value of the company’s securities, it will generally vote against it. Fort Washington generally supports shareholder rights and recapitalization measures undertaken unilaterally by boards of directors properly exercising their responsibilities and authority, unless we believe such measures could have the effect of reducing shareholder rights or potential shareholder value. In cases where shareholder proposals challenge such actions, Fort Washington’s voting position will generally favor not interfering with the directors’ proper function in the interest of all shareholders.
 
Fort Washington may delegate its responsibilities under its proxy voting procedures to a third party, provided that Fort Washington retains final authority and fiduciary responsibility for proxy voting. Fort Washington has retained Risk Metrics to assist it in the proxy voting process and will use Risk Metrics’ proxy voting guidelines as a resource in its proxy voting.
 
Fort Washington will review proxies to assess the extent, if any, to which there may be a material conflict between it and the interests of the Fund. If Fort Washington determines that a potential conflict may exist, it will be reported to the Proxy Voting Committee. The Proxy Voting Committee is authorized to resolve any conflict in a manner that is in the collective best interests of the Fund (excluding a potential conflict). The Proxy Voting Committee may resolve a potential conflict in any of the following manners:
 
If the proposal is specifically addressed in the proxy voting procedures, Fort Washington may vote the proxy in accordance with these policies, provided that such pre-determined policy involves little discretion on Fort Washington’s part;
Fort Washington may engage an independent third party to determine how the proxy should be voted;
Fort Washington may establish an ethical wall or other informational barriers between the person involved in the potential conflict and the persons making the voting decision in order to insulate the potential conflict from the decision maker.

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ROCKEFELLER & CO. LLC
 
SUMMARY OF PROXY VOTING POLICY AND PROCEDURES
 
Overview
 
Rockefeller & Co. LLC (“Rockefeller”) has adopted and implemented Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures in an effort to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interest of clients in fulfilment of R&Co.’s fiduciary duties and in accordance with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended.
 
Rockefeller has established a Proxy Committee that, among other things, establishes guidelines and generally oversees the proxy voting process.
 
Rockefeller has engaged Glass, Lewis & Co. LLC (“GL”), an organization unaffiliated with Rockefeller, to assist with proxy voting. In addition to the execution of proxy votes in accordance with Rockefeller’s guidelines and record-keeping services, GL also provides Rockefeller with corporate governance information, due diligence related to making appropriate proxy voting decisions and vote recommendations. MSCI Inc. provides Rockefeller with research on social issues impacting certain issuers of public securities. Rockefeller, however, retains final authority and responsibility for proxy voting.
 
Rockefeller does not automatically vote for or against any class of resolutions, but rather follows a list of preferences. On governance issues, the guidelines have a preference for resolutions that increase disclosure and reporting and that enhance the transparency of decision-making without placing an undue burden on the company or requiring the disclosure of proprietary or competitive information. In addition, the guidelines favor proposals that: preserve and enhance the rights of minority shareholders; increase the Board’s skill base; and increase the accountability of both the Board and management.
 
Proxy Voting Limitations
 
Rockefeller will not vote proxies in countries that engage in “share blocking” — the practice of prohibiting investors who have exercised voting rights from disposing of their shares for a defined period of time. Rockefeller will also not vote in cases where a proxy is received after the requisite voting date or with respect to specific proposals that are incoherent or that would entail extensive and uneconomic investigation or research.
 
Conflicts of Interest
 
Due to the nature of Rockefeller’s business and structure, it is unlikely that a material conflict of interest will arise in voting the proxies of public companies, because Rockefeller does not engage in investment banking, or otherwise advise public companies. However, Rockefeller has a few affiliated persons who sit on the boards of public companies and Rockefeller may from time to time act as an investment manager to certain registered mutual fund portfolios and/or manage assets for other types of public entities. In the event a material conflict of interest does arise, it will be resolved in the best interest of clients. In such a case, the Proxy Voting Committee will generally vote the proxy based upon the recommendation of GL. If the Committee determines to resolve the conflict in a different manner, that approach will be documented.


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Sands Capital Management, LLC
Proxy Voting Policy and Procedures
Most Recent Amendment: June 2017
Implementation Date: November 2006

Issue
Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act requires registered investment advisers to adopt and implement written policies and procedures reasonably designed to ensure advisers vote proxies in the best interest of their clients. The procedures must address material conflicts that may arise in connection with proxy voting. Rule 206(4)-6 further requires advisers to describe to clients their proxy voting policies and procedures and to provide copies of such policies and procedures to clients upon their request. Lastly, the Rule requires advisers to disclose how clients may obtain information on how the adviser voted their proxies.
To comply with Rule 206(4)-6, Sands Capital Management, LLC (“ SCM ”) has adopted and implemented this Policy and the procedures described herein.
Policy
SCM’s policy is to vote client proxies in the best interest of its clients. Proxies are an asset of a client, which must be treated by SCM with the same care, diligence and loyalty as any asset belonging to a client. In voting proxies SCM should consider the short- and long-term implications of each proposal. In voting proxies, SCM typically is neither an activist in corporate governance nor an automatic supporter of management. However, because SCM believes that the management teams of most companies it invests in generally seek to serve shareholder interests, SCM believes that voting proxy proposals in the client’s best economic interests usually means voting with the recommendations of these management teams. Any specific voting instructions provided by an advisory client or its designated agent in writing will supersede this Policy. Clients with their own general or specific proxy voting and governance policies may wish to have their proxies voted by an independent third party or other named fiduciary or agent, at the client’s expense.
Proxy Committee
SCM has established a Proxy Committee, which consists of four permanent members: the Chief Administrative Officer (“ CAO ”), the Chief Compliance Officer (“ CCO ”), a Director of Client Relations, and a member of the Directing Research Team (the “ DRT ”). The Proxy Committee meets at least annually, and as necessary to fulfill its responsibilities. A majority of the members of the Proxy Committee constitutes a quorum for the transaction of business. The CAO acts as secretary of the Proxy Committee and maintains a record of Proxy Committee meetings and actions.
The Proxy Committee is responsible for: (i) the oversight and administration of proxy voting on behalf of SCM’s clients, including developing, authorizing, implementing and updating this Policy and the procedures described herein; (ii) overseeing the proxy voting process, including reviewing reports on proxy voting activity at least annually, and as necessary, to fulfill its responsibilities; and (iii) engaging and overseeing third-party service provider(s), as necessary or appropriate, to ensure SCM receives the applicable proxy statements or to provide SCM information, research or other services to facilitate SCM’s proxy voting decisions.
The Proxy Committee has developed a set of criteria to be used when evaluating proxy issues. These criteria and general proxy voting guidelines are set forth in the Proxy Voting Guidelines, which are attached hereto as Attachment A (the “ Guidelines ”). The Proxy Committee may amend or supplement the Guidelines from time to time. All Guidelines are to be applied generally and not absolutely, such that the evaluation of each proposal incorporates considerations specific to the company whose proxy is being voted.
Procedures for Identification and Voting of Proxies
The following procedures are designed to resolve material conflicts of interest before voting client proxies.
1.
SCM maintains a list of all clients for which it votes proxies. The list may be maintained either in hard copy or electronically, and is updated by the Investment Operations Team, which obtains proxy voting information from client agreements or internal account onboarding documentation.
2.
As part of the account opening procedure, the Investment Operations Team will note whether or not SCM is responsible for voting proxies for the client.

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3.
Where SCM has the authority to vote proxies, the Investment Operations and Client Relations Teams will work with the client to ensure that SCM is designated to receive proxy voting materials from companies or intermediaries.
4.
SCM has retained one or more third parties to assist in the coordination, voting and recordkeeping of proxies.
5.
The CAO, through a proxy voting designee working as a proxy administrator, receives all proxy voting materials and has overall responsibility for ensuring that proxies are voted and submitted in a timely manner.
6.
SCM’s Investment Research Team (the “ Research Team ”) is responsible for reviewing proxy proposals for portfolio securities. Prior to a proxy voting deadline, the appropriate Research Team member will make a determination as how to vote each proxy proposal based on his or her analysis of the proposal and the Guidelines. In evaluating a proxy proposal, a Research Team member may consider information from a number of sources, including management of the company, shareholder groups and independent proxy research services.
7.
SCM Staff Members involved in the process are responsible for assessing whether there is any material conflict between the interests of SCM or its affiliates or associates and the interests of its clients with respect to proxy voting by considering the situations identified in the Conflicts of Interest section of this Policy.
8.
If no material conflicts of interest has been identified, SCM will vote proxies according to this Policy (including by not voting if SCM deems that to be in its clients’ best interest).
9.
Upon detection of a conflict of interest, the conflict will be brought to the attention of the Proxy Committee for resolution. See Conflicts of Interest section for additional information.
10.
SCM is not required to vote every client proxy provided that electing not to vote is consistent with SCM’s fiduciary obligations. SCM shall at no time ignore or neglect its proxy voting responsibilities. However, there may be times when refraining from voting is in the client’s best interest, such as when an analysis of a particular client proxy reveals that the cost of voting the proxy may exceed the expected benefit to the client. See Proxies of Certain Global Issuers below.
11.
SCM may process certain proxies without voting them or may systematically vote with management. Examples include, without limitation, proxies issued by companies SCM has decided to sell, proxies issued for securities that SCM did not select for a client portfolio, such as, securities that were selected by a previous adviser, unsupervised or non-managed securities held in a client’s account (such as ETFs), money market securities, or other securities selected by clients or their representatives other than SCM.
12.
In the event that SCM votes the same proxy in two directions, it shall maintain documentation to support its voting (this may occur if a client requires SCM to vote a certain way on an issue, while SCM deems it beneficial to vote in the opposite direction for its other clients) in SCM’s files.
13.
The CAO and the applicable Research Team member must report any attempts by SCM’s personnel to influence the voting of client proxies in a manner that is inconsistent with this Policy, as well as any attempts by persons or entities outside SCM seeking to influence the voting of client proxies. Reporting shall be made to the CCO, or if the CCO is the person attempting to influence the voting, then to SCM’s General Counsel.
14.
All proxy votes will be recorded and the following information must be maintained:
The name of the issuer of the portfolio security;
The security identifier of the portfolio holding.
The Council on Uniform Securities Identification Procedures (“ CUSIP ”) or similar number, in each case, if any, for the security;
The shareholder meeting date;
The number of shares SCM is voting firm-wide;
A brief identification of the matter voted on;
Whether the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a security holder;
Whether or not SCM cast its vote on the matter;
How SCM voted (e.g., for or against proposal, or abstain; for or withhold regarding election of directors);
Whether SCM cast its vote with or against management; and
Whether any client requested an alternative vote of its proxy.

Loaned Securities

If a client participates in a securities lending program, SCM will not be able to vote the proxy of the shares out on loan. SCM will generally not seek to recall for voting the client shares on loan. However, under rare circumstances, for voting issues that may have a particularly significant impact on the investment (a “ Significant Event ”), SCM may request a client to recall securities that are on loan if SCM determines that the benefit of voting outweighs the costs and lost revenue to the client and the administrative burden of retrieving the securities. The Research Team member who is responsible for voting the proxy will notify the Proxy Committee in the event they believe a recall of loaned securities is necessary.

In determining whether a recall of a security is warranted, SCM will take into consideration whether the benefit of the vote would be in the client’s best interest despite the costs and the lost revenue to the client and the administrative burden of retrieving the securities. SCM may use third-party service providers to assist it in identifying and evaluating whether an event constitutes a

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Significant Event. From time to time, the Proxy Committee will deem certain matters to be Significant Events and will adjust the foregoing standard accordingly.

Proxies of Issuers in Certain Countries

It is SCM’s policy to seek to vote all proxies for client securities over which it has proxy voting authority where SCM can reasonably determine that voting such proxies will be in the best interest of its clients.
  
Voting proxies of issuers in certain countries may give rise to a number of administrative or operational issues that may cause SCM to determine that voting such proxies are not in the best interest of its clients or that it is not reasonably possible to determine whether voting such proxies will be in the best interests of its clients. While not exhaustive, the following list of considerations highlights some potential instances in which a proxy vote might not be entered.

SCM may receive meeting notices without enough time to fully consider the proxy or after the cut-off date for voting.
 
A market may require SCM to provide local agents with a power of attorney or consularization prior to implementing SCM’s voting instructions.
 
Proxy materials may not be available in English.

SCM may be unable to enter an informed vote in certain circumstances due to the lack of information provided in the proxy statement or by the issuer or other resolution sponsor.

Proxy voting in certain countries may require “share blocking.” In such cases, shareholders wishing to vote their proxies must deposit their shares shortly before the date of the meeting with a designated depositary. During this blocking period, shares that will be voted at the meeting cannot be sold until the meeting has taken place and the shares are returned to the clients’ custodian banks. Absent compelling reasons to the contrary, SCM believes that the benefit to the client of exercising the vote is outweighed by the cost of voting (i.e., not being able to sell the shares during this period). Accordingly, if share blocking is required SCM generally elects not to vote those shares. The applicable Research Team member in conjunction with the Proxy Committee retains the final authority to determine whether to block the shares in the client’s portfolio or to pass on voting the meeting.

The rationale for not voting a client proxy must be documented and the documentation must be maintained in SCM’s files.

Conflicts of Interest

The following potential conflicts of interest have been identified:

SCM provides services to an institutional client, or is in the process of being engaged to provide services to an institutional client that is affiliated with an issuer that is held in the SCM’s client portfolios. For example, SCM may be retained to manage Company A’s pension fund, where Company A is a public company and SCM’s client accounts hold shares of Company A. Another example is SCM’s clients may hold an investment in an issuer affiliated with an adviser of a fund vehicle sub-advised by SCM.
 
SCM provides services to an individual, or is in the process of being engaged to provide services to an individual, who is an officer or director of an issuer that is held in SCM’s client portfolios;
A Staff Members maintain a personal or business relationship (not an advisory relationship) with issuers or individuals that serve as officers or directors of issuers. For example, the spouse of a Staff Member may be a high-level executive of an issuer that is held in SCM’s client portfolios. The spouse could attempt to influence SCM to vote in favor of management; and

SCM or a Staff Member personally owns a significant number of an issuer’s securities that are also held in SCM’s client portfolios. The Staff Member may seek to vote proxies in a different direction for his or her personal holdings than would otherwise be warranted by this Policy. The Staff Member could oppose voting the proxies according to the policy and successfully influence SCM to vote proxies in contradiction to this Policy.

Due to the difficulty of predicting and identifying all material conflicts, Staff Members are responsible for notifying the CAO or the CCO of any material conflict that may impair SCM’s ability to vote proxies in an objective manner. Upon such notification, the CAO or the CCO will notify the Proxy Committee of the conflict.

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In the event that the Proxy Committee determines that SCM has a conflict of interest with respect to a proxy proposal, the Proxy Committee will also determine whether the conflict is “material” to that proposal. The Proxy Committee may determine on a case‑by-case basis that a particular proposal does not involve a material conflict of interest. To make this determination, the Proxy Committee must conclude that the proposal is not directly related to SCM’s conflict with the issuer. If the Proxy Committee determines that a conflict is not material, then SCM may vote the proxy in accordance with the recommendation of the relevant Research Team member.

In the event that the Proxy Committee determines that SCM has a material conflict of interest with respect to a proxy proposal, SCM will vote on the proposal in accordance with the determination of the Proxy Committee. Prior to voting on the proposal, SCM may: (i) contact an independent third party (such as another plan fiduciary) to recommend how to vote on the proposal and vote in accordance with the recommendation of such third party (or have the third party vote such proxy); or (ii) with respect to clients that are not subject to ERISA, fully disclose the nature of the conflict to the client and obtain the client’s consent as to how SCM will vote on the proposal (or otherwise obtain instructions from the client as to how to vote the proxy).

Recordkeeping

SCM must maintain the documentation described in the following section for a period of not less than five years in an easily accessible place, the first two years at its principal place of business. The CAO will be responsible for the following procedures and for ensuring that the required documentation is retained.

Outside third party request to review proxy votes :
Staff Members must be thoughtful and cautious in sharing how SCM plans to vote its clients’ proxies.  Until the vote has been cast and the relevant shareholder meeting has transpired, SCM generally treats information about SCM’s voting as confidential.  Staff Members may not disclose SCM’s vote prior to the meeting or commit to any third party to vote a certain way without the prior consent of the CCO or General Counsel.  Notwithstanding the previous sentence, Staff Members are permitted to prudently express SCM’s thoughts or opinions on topics in discussions with the relevant companies, advisors (3rd party research providers), and other shareholders prior to voting as a part of SCM’s ongoing education and engagement. 
Once the vote has been cast and the relevant shareholder meeting has transpired, analysts can choose to share how SCM voted with the relevant company or other shareholders, if necessary, as part of SCM’s ongoing engagement with management and the company’s shareholder base. 
All disclosures of votes in response to requests for vote information not originating from the company must be approved by the CAO prior to the disclosure of the vote. All written requests must be retained in the permanent file. The CAO or designee will record the identity of the outside third party, the date of the request, and the disposition (e.g., provided a written or oral response to client’s request, referred to third party, not a proxy voting client, other dispositions, etc.) in a suitable place.
As is consistent with SCM’s Advertising and Marketing Policy, all Staff Members must refer inquiries from the press to the Director, Portfolio Analysis and Communications. 

Proxy statements received regarding client securities:
Upon receipt of a proxy, the relevant Staff Member must copy or print a sample of the proxy statement or card and maintain the copy in a central file along with a sample of the proxy solicitation instructions.

Note: SCM is permitted to rely on proxy statements filed on the SEC’s EDGAR system instead of keeping its own copies.
Proxy voting records:
Documents prepared or created by SCM that were material to making a decision on how to vote, or that memorialized the basis for the decision, must be maintained in accordance with this Policy.
Documentation or notes or any communications received from third parties, other industry analysts, third-party service providers, company’s management discussions, etc. that were material in the basis for the decision, must be maintained in accordance with this Policy.
Clients are permitted to request their proxy voting record for the 5-year period prior to their request.

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Disclosure
SCM will ensure that Part 2A of Form ADV is updated as necessary to reflect: (i) all material changes to this Policy and the procedures described herein; and (ii) information about how clients may obtain information on how SCM voted their securities.
Procedures for SCM’s Receipt of Class Actions
SCM will not file “Class Actions” on behalf of any client. If “Class Action” documents are received by SCM from a client’s custodian, SCM will make a commercially reasonable best effort to forward the documents to the client. Likewise if “Class Action” documents are received by SCM from a client, SCM will make a commercially reasonable effort to gather, at the client’s request, any requisite information it has regarding the matter and forward it to the client, to enable the client to file the “Class Action.”
Responsibility
The CAO is responsible for overseeing and implementing this Policy.

















Attachment A
PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES
The majority of votes presented to shareholders are proposals made by management, which have been approved and recommended by its board of directors. One of the primary factors SCM considers when determining the desirability of investing in a particular company is the quality and depth of its management. Accordingly, SCM believes that the recommendation of management on any issue should be given substantial weight in determining how proxy issues are resolved. For routine matters (e.g., those matters

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that are not expected to measurably change the structure, management, control or operation of the company and are consistent with customary industry standards and practices, and the laws of the state of incorporation of the applicable company), SCM will vote in accordance with the recommendation of management, unless, in SCM’s opinion, such recommendation is not conducive to long term value creation or otherwise in the best interest of its clients. Non-routine matters (e.g., those matters relating to directors’ liability and indemnity proposals; executive compensation plans; mergers, acquisitions, and other restructurings submitted to a shareholder vote; anti-takeover and related provisions; and shareholder proposals) require company-specific and a case-by-case review and analysis. With respect to matters that do not fit in the categories stated below, SCM will exercise its best judgment as a fiduciary to vote in accordance with the best interest of its clients.
I. The Board of Directors
A. Voting on Director Nominees in Uncontested Elections
These votes are made on a case-by-case basis, and SCM may consider the following:
Long-term performance record relative to a market index;
Composition of board and key board committees;
Attendance at board and committee meetings;
Corporate governance provisions and takeover activity;
Board decisions regarding executive pay; and
Director compensation.
B. Director and Officer Indemnification and Liability Protection
These votes are evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
C. Voting for Director Nominees in Contest Elections
These are evaluated on a case-by-case basis, and SCM may consider the following:
Long-term performance relative to its industry;
Management’s track record;
Background to the proxy contest;
Qualifications of director nominees (both slates);
Evaluation of what each side is offering shareholders and the likelihood that the proposed objectives and goals can be met; and
Stock ownership positions.
D. Size of the Board
Proposals to limit the size of the Board will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
II. Auditors
Ratifying Auditors
SCM generally votes for proposals to ratify auditors, unless:
an auditor is not independent (i.e., it has a financial interest in or association with the company);
there is reason to believe the auditor’s opinion is not accurate or indicative of the company’s financial position;
poor accounting practices are identified that rise to a level of serious concern, such as: fraud; misapplication of GAAP; or material weaknesses in internal controls;
Evidence that the committee approved an inappropriate indemnification agreement with the auditor; or
Non-audit fees are excessive in relation to audit-related fees without adequate explanation.


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III. Proxy Contest Defenses
A.
Cumulative Voting
Proposals on cumulative voting are voted on a case-by-case basis. SCM may consider the following, among other, factors: (i) the ability of significant stockholders to elect a director of their choosing; (ii) the ability of minority shareholders to concentrate their support in favor of a director or directors of their choosing; and (iii) the potential to limit the ability of directors to work for all shareholders.
B.
Proxy Contests
Votes on proxy contests are made on a case-by-case basis considering the long term financial performance of the company relative to its industry, management’s track record, the qualifications of the shareholder’s nominees, and other factors.
C.
Proxy Solicitation Expenses
Decisions to provide full reimbursement for dissidents waging a proxy contest are made on a case-by-case basis.
D.
Proxy Access
Shareholder proposals to provide shareholders proxy access are voted on a case-by-case basis taking into account, among other factors:
Company-specific factors; and
Proposal-specific factors including:
the ownership thresholds proposed in the resolutions;
the maximum proportion of directors that shareholders may nominate each year; and
the method of determining which nominations should appear on the ballot if multiple shareholders submit nominations.

IV. Anti-Takeover Issues
SCM conducts an independent review of each anti-takeover proposal. SCM may vote with management when it concludes that the proposal is not onerous and would not harm clients’ interests as shareholders. Anti-takeover issues include the following:
A.
Poison Pills
The “poison pill” entitles shareholders to purchase certain securities at discount prices in the event of a change in corporate control. Such a measure would make a potential takeover prohibitively expensive to the acquirer.
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis management proposals to ratify a poison pill.
A.
Fair Price Provisions
Fair price provisions attempt to ensure approximately equal treatment for all shareholders in the event of a takeover. SCM may consider, among other factors: (i) the vote required to approve the proposed acquisition; (ii) the vote required to repeal the fair price provision; (iii) the mechanism for determining fair price; and (iv) whether these provisions are bundled with other anti-takeover measures (e.g., supermajority voting requirements) that may entrench management and discourage attractive tender offers.
Fair price proposals are voted on a case-by-case basis.
B.
Greenmail
Greenmail payments are targeted share repurchases by management of company stock from individuals or groups seeking control of the company. Since only the hostile party receives payment, usually at a substantial premium over the market value of its shares, the practice discriminates against all other shareholders.
Proposals to adopt anti-greenmail charter or bylaw amendments or otherwise restrict a company’s ability to make greenmail payments are voted on a case-by-case basis.
C.
Superstock
Another takeover defense is superstock, i.e., shares that give holders disproportionate voting rights. For example, a company could propose authorizing a class of preferred stock which “could be issued in a private placement with one or more institutional investors” and “could be designated as having voting rights which might dilute or limit the present voting rights of the holders of

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common stock….” The purpose of this additional class of stock would be to give insiders an edge in fending off an unsolicited or hostile takeover attempt.
SCM votes on case-by-case basis proposals that would authorize the creation of new classes of “superstock.”
D.
Supermajority Rules
Supermajority provisions require approval by holders of minimum amounts of the common shares (usually 75% to 80%). While applied mainly to merger bids, supermajority rules also may be extended to cover substantive transfers of corporate assets, liquidations, reverse splits and removal of directors for reasons other than cause. A supermajority provision would make it nearly impossible in some cases for shareholders to benefit from a takeover attempt.
Supermajority shareholder vote requirements to approve mergers, amend the charter or bylaws are voted on a case-by-case basis.
E.
Board Classification
A “classified” or “staggered” board is a structure in which only a portion of a company’s board of directors (typically one-third) is elected each year. A company may employ such a structure to promote continuity of leadership and thwart takeover attempts. In evaluating a classified board proposal, SCM may consider the following factors, among others: (i) the company’s long-term strategic plan; (ii) the extent to which continuity of leadership is necessary to advance that plan; and (iii) the need to guard against takeover attempts.
SCM votes on board classification on a case-by-case basis.
V. Miscellaneous Governance Provision
A.
Approval of Financial Statements
In some markets, companies are required to submit their financial statements for shareholder approval. Approval of financial statements is voted on a case-by-case basis. However, SCM may abstain if the information is not available in advance of the meeting.
B.
Adopting or Amending the Charter, Bylaws, or Articles of Association
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals on adopting or amending the charter, bylaws, or articles of association, and may consider whether:
Shareholder rights are protected;
There is negligible or positive impact on shareholder value;
Management provides sufficiently valid reasons for the amendments;
The company is required to do so by law (if applicable); and
They are of a housekeeping nature (updates or corrections).

C.
Bundled Proposals
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis bundled or “conditioned” proxy proposals. In this case where items are conditioned upon each other, SCM examines the benefits and costs of the packages items. In instances when the joint effect of the conditioned items is not in shareholder’s best interests, SCM votes against the proposals. If the combined effect is positive, SCM votes for such proposals.
VI. Capital Structure
A.
Common Stock Authorization
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals to increase the number of shares of common stock authorized for issue.
B.
Stock Distributions; Splits and Dividends
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals to increase the common share authorization for a stock split or share dividend.
C.
Debt Restructuring
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals to increase common and/or preferred shares and to issue shares as part of a debt restructuring plan.
VII. Executive and Director Compensation

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SCM believes that because a company has exclusive knowledge of material information not available to shareholders regarding its business, financial condition, and prospects, the company itself usually is in the best position to make decisions about compensation and benefits. Accordingly, SCM generally votes with management on such matters. However, SCM may oppose management on a case-by-case basis if it deems a company’s compensation to be excessive or inconsistent with its peer companies’ compensation, SCM believes a company’s compensation measures do not foster a long-term focus among its executive officers and other employees, or SCM believes a company has not met performance expectations, among other reasons. Discussed below are some specific types of compensation-related proposals that SCM may encounter.
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis items related to executive pay and practices.
A.
Management Say on Pay
“Say on pay” proposals give shareholders a nonbinding vote on executive compensation. These proposals are designed to serve as a means of conveying to company management shareholder concerns, if any, about executive compensation.
SCM votes case-by-case on management proposals seeking approval of advisory vote on executive compensation.
B.
Equity-Based Compensation Plans
A company's equity-based compensation plan should be in alignment with the shareholders' long-term interests. SCM believes that executive compensation should be directly linked to the performance of the company.
SCM vote case-by-case on proposals for equity-based compensation plans.
C.
Incentive Bonus Plans and Tax Deductibility Proposals (Section 163(m))
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis on proposals for incentive bonus plans and tax deductibility proposals.
D.
Golden Parachutes
Golden Parachutes assure key officers of a company lucrative compensation packages if the company is acquired and/or if the new owners terminate such officers. SCM recognizes that offering generous compensation packages that are triggered by a change in control may help attract qualified officers. However, such compensation packages cannot be so excessive that they are unfair to shareholders or make the company unattractive to potential bidders, thereby serving as a constructive anti-takeover mechanism.
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals to submit severance plans.
E.
Golden Coffins / Executive Death Benefits
Survivor benefit compensation plans, or “golden coffins,” can require a company to make substantial payments or awards to a senior executive’s beneficiaries following the death of the senior executive. The compensation can take the form of unearned salary or bonuses, accelerated vesting or the continuation in force of unvested equity grants, perquisites and other payments or awards. This compensation would not include compensation that the senior executive chooses to defer during his or her lifetime.
SCM recognizes that offering generous compensation packages that are triggered by the passing of senior executives may help attract qualified officers. However, such compensation packages cannot be so excessive that they are unfair to shareholders or make the company unattractive to potential bidders, thereby serving as a constructive anti-takeover mechanism.
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals on Golden Coffins / Executive Death Benefits.
VIII. State of Incorporation
A.
Voting on State Takeover Statutes
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals to opt in or out of state takeover statutes (including control share acquisition statutes, control share cash-out statutes, freeze-out provisions, fair price provisions, stakeholder laws, poison pill endorsements, severance pay and labor contract provisions, anti-greenmail provisions and disgorgement provisions).
B.
Voting on Reincorporation Proposals
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals to change a company’s state of incorporation.
IX. Mergers and Corporate Restructurings
A.
Mergers and Acquisitions
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals on mergers and acquisitions.

B-12



B.
Corporate Restructuring
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposal on corporate restructuring, including minority squeeze outs, leveraged buyouts, spin-offs, liquidations, and asset sales.
C.
Spin-offs
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals on spin-offs.
D.
Changing Corporate Name
SCM votes on changing the corporate name on a case-by-case basis.
X. Socially Oriented Proposals
A.
Proposals of a Social or Environmental Nature
Consistent with its fiduciary duty to clients, SCM will vote on social and environmental issues with a view toward promoting good corporate citizenship. However, SCM realizes that it cannot require a portfolio company to go beyond applicable legal requirements or put itself in a non‑competitive position.
SCM considers environmental and social issues alongside traditional financial measures to provide a more comprehensive view of the value, risk, and return potential of an investment. Companies may face significant financial, legal and reputational risks resulting from poor environmental and social practices, or negligent oversight of environmental or social issues. SCM’s Environmental, Social, and Governance Framework describes SCM’s approach to consideration of environmental, social, and governance issues within its processes and ownership practices.
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals regarding environmental or social issues. To do this, SCM uses research reports from SCM’s external proxy advisors, company filings and sustainability reports, research from other investors and non-governmental organizations, and the Research Team.
B.
Political Spending and Lobby Proposals
Companies may engage in certain political activities, within legal and regulatory limits, in order to influence public policy consistent with the companies’ values and strategies, and thus serve shareholders’ best long-term economic interests. These activities can create risks, including: the potential for allegations of corruption; the potential for reputational issues associated with a candidate, party or issue; and risks that arise from the complex legal, regulatory and compliance considerations associated with corporate political activity. SCM believes that companies which choose to engage in political activities should develop and maintain robust processes to guide these activities and to mitigate risks, including a level of board oversight.
When presented with shareholder proposals requesting increased disclosure on corporate political activities, SCM may consider the political activities of that company and its peers, the existing level of disclosure, and its view regarding the associated risks. SCM generally believes that it is the duty of boards and management to determine the appropriate level of disclosure of all types of corporate activity.
SCM votes on a case-by-case basis proposals regarding political spending and lobbying activities.


B-13



WESTFIELD CAPITAL MANAGEMENT COMPANY, L.P.
 
SUMMARY OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES
 
Westfield has contracted with Institutional Shareholder Services (the “vendor”) to assist in the proxy voting process, as well as to provide corporate governance research. Westfield utilizes the vendor’s platform to manage and maintain documentation to substantiate the manner in which Westfield votes. Westfield utilizes the ISS Proxy Voting Guidelines which are available on Westfield’s website (www.westfieldcapital.com). Westfield will vote proxies in accordance with the written guidelines unless the analyst or portfolio manager covering the company believes that following the vendor’s guidelines would not be in the Fund’s best interests.
 
Compliance is responsible for identifying conflicts of interest that could arise when voting proxy ballots on behalf of our clients.  Since our business is solely focused on providing investment advisory services, it is unlikely that many material conflicts will arise in connection with proxy voting. Additionally, per Westfield’s Code of Ethics and other internal policies, all employees should avoid situations where potential conflicts may exist. However, Westfield has put in place certain reviews to ensure proxies are voted solely on the investment merits of the proposal. In identifying potential conflicts, Compliance will review many factors, including any existing relationship with Westfield or an employee. If an actual conflict of interest is identified, it is reviewed by the Compliance team, who may consult with the firm’s Operations & Risk Management Committee in such review. If it is determined that the conflict is material in nature, the analyst or manager may not override the vendor’s recommendation.
 





























TSF-54-TST-SAI-1907


B-14




PART C. OTHER INFORMATION
 
Item 28. Exhibits:
 
(a)(1)
 
Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 19, 1993 and Amendment No. 1 dated May 24, 1994, Amendment No. 2 dated February 28, 1997 and Amendment No. 3 dated August 11, 1997, are herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (b)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 36 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 002-80859), filed with the SEC on July 31, 1998.
 
 
 
(a)(2)
 
Amendment No. 4 to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated February 12, 1998 and Amendments to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated March 16, 2000 and April 6, 2000 are herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 42 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 002-80859), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2000.
 
 
 
(a)(3)
 
Amendments to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated September 21, 2000 and March 27, 2001 are herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2001.
 
 
 
(a)(4)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated August 28, 2002 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 48 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on September 6, 2002.
 
 
 
(a)(5)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated November 7, 2002 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 49 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2003.
 
 
 
(a)(6)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated April 14, 2004 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 54 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 30, 2004.
 
 
 
(a)(7)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated January 3, 2006 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 60 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on March 1, 2006.
 
 
 
(a)(8)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated September 30, 2004 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 70 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on February 2, 2009.
 
 
 
(a)(9)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated February 22, 2006 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(9) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 70 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on February 2, 2009.
 
 
 
(a)(10)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated August 15, 2006 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 70 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on February 2, 2009.
(a)(11)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated March 22, 2007 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(11) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 70 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on February 2, 2009.
 
 
 





(a)(12)
 
Amendments to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust are herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(l) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 (File No. 333-177597), filed with the SEC on November 30, 2011.
 
 
 
(a)(13)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(13) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on June 8, 2012.
 
 
 
(a)(14)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated July 31, 2013 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(14) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 22, 2014.
 
 
 
(a)(15)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated July 9, 2014 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(15) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 9, 2014.
 
 
 
(a)(16)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 19, 2016 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(16) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 137 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 28, 2016.
 
 
 
(a)(17)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated November 17, 2016 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(17) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 152 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 27, 2017.
 
 
 
(a)(18)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated April 18, 2017 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(17) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 154 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N–1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 6, 2017.
 
 
 
(a)(19)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated June 29, 2017 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(18) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 154 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 6, 2017.
 
 
 
(a)(20)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated April 17, 2018 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(20) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 193 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on October 29, 2018.
 
 
 
(a)(21)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated August 16, 2018 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(21) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 197 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 29, 2019.
 
 
 
(a)(22)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated August 16, 2018 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(22) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 197 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 29, 2019.
 
 
 
(a)(23)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 2019 is filed herewith.
 
 
 
(a)(24)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 2019 is filed herewith.
 
 
 
(a)(25)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 2019 is filed herewith.
 
 
 
(a)(26)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 2019 is filed herewith.
 
 
 





(b)
 
Amended and Restated By-Laws dated November 19, 2015 are herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 133 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 28, 2016.
 
 
 
(c)
 
Instruments Defining Rights of Security Holders are herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (c) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 10, 2012.
 
 
 
(d)(1)(i)
 
Advisory Agreement with Touchstone Advisors, Inc. dated May 1, 2000, is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2007.
 
 
 
(d)(1)(ii)
 
Amended Schedule 1 dated February 16, 2018 to the Advisory Agreement dated May 1, 2000 between the Registrant and Touchstone Advisors, Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(1)(ii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 193 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on October 29, 2018.

 
 
 
(d)(1)(iii)
 
Amendment to the Advisory Agreement with Touchstone Advisors, Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (6)(c) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-14 (File No. 333-182177), filed with the SEC on October 12, 2012.
 
 
 
(d)(2)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated May 15, 2008 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. with respect to the Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(11) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 68 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2008.





(d)(3)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated April 12, 2010 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. with respect to the Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 73 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 29, 2010.
 
 
 
(d)(4) 
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated April 16, 2012 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC with respect to the Touchstone Value Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (6)(n) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 (File No. 333-177597), filed with the SEC on April 27, 2012.
 
 
 
(d)(5) 
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated April 16, 2012 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Copper Rock Capital Partners, LLC with respect to the Touchstone International Small Cap Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (6)(o) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 (File No. 333-177597), filed with the SEC on April 27, 2012.
 
 
 
(d)(6)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated April 16, 2012 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. with respect to the Touchstone Focused Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (6)(s) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 (File No. 333-177597), filed with the SEC on April 27, 2012.

 
 
 
(d)(7)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated November 30, 2018 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Bramshill Investments LLC with respect to the Touchstone Flexible Income Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 197 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 29, 2019.

 
 
 
(d)(8)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated April 23, 2014 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Sands Capital Management, LLC with respect to the Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(17) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 104 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 23, 2014.

 
 
 
(d)(9)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated July 9, 2014 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and London Company of Virginia d/b/a The London Company with respect to the Touchstone Large Cap Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(16) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 108 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 9, 2014.
(d)(10)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated May 2, 2015 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Rockefeller & Co., Inc., with respect to the Touchstone Sustainability and Impact Equity Fund (formerly the Touchstone Large Cap Growth Fund) is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(15) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 121 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 28, 2015.
 
 
 
(d)(11)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated August 31, 2015 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Ares Capital Management II LLC, with respect to the Touchstone Credit Opportunities Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(1)(ii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 123 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 31, 2015.
 
 
 
(d)(12)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated November 23, 2015 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Wilshire Associates Incorporated, with respect to the Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund and Touchstone Dynamic Global Allocation Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(17) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 128 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on November 24, 2015.
 
 
 





(d)(13)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated August 15, 2016 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and DSM Capital Partners LLC with respect to the Touchstone International Growth Opportunities Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(19) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 138 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), is filed with the SEC on August 15, 2016.

 
 
 
(d)(14)
 
Amendment to Sub-Advisory Agreement between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and DSM Capital Partners LLC with respect to Touchstone International Growth Opportunities Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(16) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 193 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on October 29, 2018.


 
 
 
(d)(15)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated August 15, 2016 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and DSM Capital Partners LLC with respect to the Touchstone Large Company Growth Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(19) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 139 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 14, 2016.


 
 
 
(d)(16)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated December 16, 2016 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. with respect to the Touchstone Ohio Tax-Free Bond Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(20) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 162 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on October 26, 2017.
 
 
 
(d)(17)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated October 28, 2017 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. with respect to the Touchstone Balanced Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(21) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 178 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on March 28, 2018.

 
 
 
(d)(18)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated October 28, 2017 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. with respect to the Touchstone International Equity Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(22) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 178 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on March 28, 2018.
 
 
 
(d)(19)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated October 28, 2017 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. with respect to the Touchstone Large Cap Focused Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(23) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 178 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on March 28, 2018.
 
 
 
(d)(20)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated October 28, 2017 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. with respect to the Touchstone Small Company Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(24) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 178 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on March 28, 2018.
 
 
 
(d)(21)
 
Sub-Advisory Agreement dated November 1, 2018 between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and Wells Capital Management, Inc. with respect to Touchstone Dynamic Equity Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(21) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 197 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 29, 2019.


 
 
 





(e)(1)
 
Distribution Agreement with Touchstone Securities, Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (e)(i) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2001.
 
 
 
(e)(2)
 
Form of Underwriter’s Dealer Agreement is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (e) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 56 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on September 10, 2004.
 
 
 
(f)
 
Touchstone Trustee Deferred Compensation Plan is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (f) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 29, 2009.
 
 
 
(g)(1)
 
Custodian Agreement with Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (g)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 68 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2008.
 
 
 
(g)(2) 
 
Amended Schedule of Global Services & Charges to the Custodian Agreement dated February 1, 2013 between the Registrant and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (g)(2)(i) of Post-Effective Amendment No.24 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 28, 2017.
 
 
 
(h)(1)
 
Recordkeeping Agreement is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(vii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 51 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on March 5, 2004.
 
 
 
(h)(2)
 
Amended Administration Agreement with Touchstone Advisors, Inc. dated January 1, 2007 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 67 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2007.
 
 
 
(h)(3)
 
Amended Schedule, dated January 1, 2015, to the Administration Agreement with Touchstone Advisors, Inc., dated February 17, 2006, as amended January 1, 2007, is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 115 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 24, 2015.
 
 
 
(h)(4)
 
Amended and Restated Sub-Administration and Accounting Services Agreement between Touchstone Advisors, Inc. and BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. dated January 1, 2015 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 114 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on March 5, 2015.
 
 
 
(h)(5)
 
Amended and Restated Transfer Agency Agreement between the Registrant and BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. dated January 1, 2015 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 114 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on March 5, 2015.
 
 
 
(h)(6)(i)
 
State Filing Services Agreement between the Registrant and BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc., dated December 5, 2011 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 10, 2012.
 
 
 
(h)(6)(ii)
 
Amended and Restated Schedule A to the State Filing Services Agreement between the Registrant and BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (13)(h) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 (File No. 333-177597), filed with the SEC on April 27, 2012.
 
 
 
(h)(6)(iii)
 
Amended and Restated Schedule A dated September 6, 2012 to the State Filing Services Agreement dated December 5, 2011 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (13)(o) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-14 (File No. 333-182177), filed with the SEC on October 12, 2012.





 
 
 
(h)(7)
 
Allocation Agreement for Allocation of Fidelity Bond Proceeds is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 10, 2012.
 
 
 
(h)(8)(i)
 
Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement dated July 29, 2013 between the Registrant and Touchstone Advisors, Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 103 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 22, 2014.
 
 
 
(h)(8)(ii)
 
Amended Schedule A dated July 30, 2019 to the Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement dated July 29, 2013 between the Registrant and Touchstone Advisors, Inc. is filed herewith.


(h)(8)(iii)
 
Amended Schedule B dated October 30, 2018 to the Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement dated July 29, 2013 between the Registrant and Touchstone Advisors, Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(8)(iii) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 193 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on October 29, 2018.
 
 
 
(h)(8)(iv)
 
Amended Schedule C, dated April 30, 2019, to the Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement dated July 29, 2013 between the Registrant and Touchstone Advisors, Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(8)(iv) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 197 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 29, 2019.
 
 
 
(h)(8)(v)
 
Amendment to the Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement dated July 29, 2013 between the Registrant and Touchstone Advisors, Inc, is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(8)(v) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 123 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 31, 2015.
 
 
 
(h)(8)(vi)
 
Amendment dated August 31, 2017 to the Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement dated July 29, 2013 between the Registrant and Touchstone Advisors, Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(8)(vi) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 182 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 27, 2018.

 
 
 
(h)(9)
 
Securities Lending Agency Agreement between the Registrant and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. dated February 1, 2013 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(13) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 100 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on October 25, 2013.
 
 
 
(h)(10)
 
Interfund Lending Agreement dated December 15, 2017 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 193 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on October 29, 2018.
 
 
 
(h)(11)
 
Amended & Restated Class Action Services Agreement dated February 16, 2018 between the Registrant and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(12) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 193 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on October 29, 2018.
 
 
 
(i)
 
Not applicable.
 
 
 
(j)
 
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP is filed herewith.
 
 
 
(k)
 
Not applicable.
 
 
 





(l)
 
Copy of Letter of Initial Stockholder, which was filed as an Exhibit to Registrant’s Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1, is hereby incorporated by reference.
 
 
 
(m)(1)
 
Registrant’s Plans of Distribution Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Class A shares and Class C shares are herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (m)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 42 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2000.
 
 
 
(m)(2)
 
Registrant’s Plan of Distribution Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Class B shares is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (m)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 45 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 1, 2001.
 
 
 
(m)(3)(i)
 
Registrant’s Plan of Distribution Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Class A shares with respect to the Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund, Touchstone Dynamic Equity Fund, Touchstone Dynamic Global Allocation Fund, Touchstone Flexible Income Fund, Touchstone Focused Fund, Touchstone International Equity Fund, Touchstone International Small Cap Fund, and Touchstone Value Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (m)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on June 8, 2012.
(m)(3)(ii)
 
Amended Exhibit A to Touchstone Strategic Trust Distribution and Shareholder Services Plan for Class A Shares dated November 16, 2018 is filed herewith.





(m)(4)(i)
 
Registrant’s Plan of Distribution Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Class C shares with respect to the Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund, Touchstone Dynamic Equity Fund, Touchstone Dynamic Global Allocation Fund, Touchstone Flexible Income Fund, Touchstone Focused Fund, Touchstone International Equity Fund, Touchstone International Small Cap Fund, and Touchstone Value Fund is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (m)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on June 8, 2012.
 
 
 
(m)(4)(ii)
 
Amended Exhibit A to Touchstone Strategic Trust Distribution and Shareholder Services Plan for Class C Shares dated November 16, 2018 is filed herewith.
 
 
 
(n)(1)
 
Amended and Restated Rule 18f-3 Plan dated January 1, 2019 is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (n)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 197 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 29, 2019.
 
 
 
(n)(2)
 
Amended Schedule A dated August 23, 2019 to the Amended and Restated Rule 18f-3 Multiple Class Plan is filed herewith.

 
 
 
(o)
 
Reserved.
 
 
 
(p)(1)
 
Code of Ethics for Touchstone Advisors, Inc., the Registrant and Touchstone Securities, Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 115 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 24, 2015.
 
 
 
(p)(2)
 
Code of Ethics for Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 193 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on October 29, 2018.
 
 
 
(p)(3)
 
Code of Ethics for Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. is filed herewith.
 
 
 
(p)(4)
 
Code of Ethics for Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 85 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on June 8, 2012.
 
 
 
(p)(5)
 
Code of Ethics for Copper Rock Capital Partners, LLC is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 83 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 10, 2012.
 
 
 
(p)(6)
 
Code of Ethics for Sands Capital Management, LLC is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(11) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 121 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on July 28, 2015.
 
 
 
(p)(7)
 
Code of Ethics for London Company of Virginia d/b/a The London Company is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(14) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 105 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 033-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 25, 2014.
 
 
 





(p)(8)
 
Code of Ethics for Rockefeller & Co., LLC is filed herewith.
 
 
 
(p)(9)
 
Code of Ethics for Ares Capital Management II, LLC is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(15) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 120 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on June 17, 2015.
 
 
 
(p)(10)
 
Code of Ethics for Wilshire Associates Incorporated is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 197 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 29, 2019.
 
 
 
(p)(11)
 
Code of Ethics for DSM Capital Partners LLC is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(17) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 138 to Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on August 15, 2016.
 
 
 
(p)(12)
 
Code of Ethics for Wells Capital Management is herein incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 152 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File Nos. 002-80859 and 811-03651), filed with the SEC on April 27, 2017.

 
 
 
(p)(13)
 
Code of Ethics for Bramshill Investments, LLC is filed herewith.
 
 
 
(q)
 
Power of Attorney is filed herewith.
 
Item 29. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with the Registrant
 
None.

Item 30. Indemnification
 
(a)  Article VI of the Registrant’s Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification of officers and Trustees as follows:
 
Section 6.4 Indemnification of Trustees, Officers, etc.
 
The Trust shall indemnify each of its Trustees and officers, including persons who serve at the Trust’s request as directors, officers or trustees of another organization in which the Trust has any interest as a shareholder, creditor or otherwise (hereinafter referred to as a “Covered Person”) against all liabilities, including but not limited to amounts paid in satisfaction of judgments, in compromise or as fines and penalties, and expenses, including reasonable accountants’ and counsel fees, incurred by any Covered Person in connection with the defense or disposition of any action, suit or other proceeding, whether civil or criminal, before any court or administrative or legislative body, in which such Covered Person may be or may have been involved as a party or otherwise or with which such person may be or may have been threatened, while in office or thereafter, by reason of being or having been such a Trustee or officer, director or trustee, and except that no Covered Person shall be indemnified against any liability to the Trust or its Shareholders to which such Covered Person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of such Covered Person’s office (“disabling conduct”).  Anything herein contained to the contrary notwithstanding, no Covered Person shall be indemnified for any liability to the Trust or its Shareholders to which such Covered Person would otherwise be subject unless (1) a final decision on the merits is made by a court or other body before whom the proceeding was brought that the Covered Person to be indemnified was not liable by reason of disabling conduct or, (2) in the absence of such a decision, a reasonable determination is made, based upon a review of the facts, that the Covered Person was not liable by reason of disabling conduct, by (a) the vote of a majority of a quorum of Trustees who are neither “interested persons” of the Company as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended nor parties to the proceeding “disinterested, non-party Trustees”), or (b) an independent legal counsel in a written opinion.
 
Section 6.5 Advances of Expenses.
 
The Trust shall advance attorneys’ fees or other expenses incurred by a Covered Person in defending a proceeding, upon the undertaking by or on behalf of the Covered Person to repay the advance unless it is ultimately determined that such Covered





Person is entitled to indemnification, so long as one of the following conditions is met: (i) the Covered Person shall provide security for his undertaking, (ii) the Trust shall be insured against losses arising by reason of any lawful advances, or (iii) a majority of a quorum of the disinterested non-party Trustees of the Trust, or an independent legal counsel in a written opinion, shall determine, based on a review of readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial-type inquiry), that there is reason to believe that the Covered Person ultimately will be found entitled to indemnification.
 
Section 6.6 Indemnification Not Exclusive, etc.
 
The right of indemnification provided by this Article VI shall not be exclusive of or affect any other rights to which any such Covered Person may be entitled.  As used in this Article VI, “Covered Person” shall include such person’s heirs, executors and administrators, an “interested Covered Person” is one against whom the action, suit or other proceeding in question or another action, suit or other proceeding on the same or similar grounds is then or has been pending or threatened, and a “disinterested” person is a person against whom none of such actions, suits or other proceedings or another action, suit or other proceeding on the same or similar grounds is then or has been pending or threatened.  Nothing contained in this article shall affect any rights to indemnification to which personnel of the Trust, other than Trustees and officers, and other persons may be entitled by contract or otherwise under law, nor the power of the Trust to purchase and maintain liability insurance on behalf of any such person.
 
(b)  The Registrant maintains a mutual fund and investment advisory professional and directors and officer’s liability policy.  The policy provides coverage to the Registrant, its trustees and officers and includes losses by reason of any act, error, omission, misstatement, misleading statement, neglect or breach of duty.  The Registrant may not pay for insurance that protects the Trustees and officers against liabilities arising from action involving willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of their offices.
 
The advisory agreements and the sub-advisory agreements provide that Touchstone Advisors, Inc. (or a sub-advisor) shall not be liable for any act or omission in the course of rendering services, absent willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence or reckless disregard by Touchstone (or a sub-advisor) of its obligations under the agreement.
 





Item 31.  Business and Other Connections of the Investment Adviser
 
A.
TOUCHSTONE ADVISORS, INC. (the “Advisor”) is a registered investment advisor that provides investment advisory services to the Touchstone Fund Complex. The following list sets forth the business and other connections of the directors and executive officers of the Advisor.  Unless otherwise noted, the address of the corporations listed below is 303 Broadway, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202.

*The address is 400 Broadway, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202.
 
(1)
Jill T. McGruder — CEO and Director Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
(a)
President and Chief Executive Officer — IFS Financial Services, Inc.

(b)
President and Chief Executive Officer — Integrity Life Insurance Co.

(c)
President and Chief Executive Officer — National Integrity Life Insurance Co.

(d)
Director, President and Chief Executive Officer - Cincinnati Analysts, Inc.

(e)
Trustee and President — Touchstone Fund Complex

(f)
Senior Vice President — Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc.*

(g)
Senior Vice President — W&S Brokerage Services, Inc.*

(h)
Director and Chief Executive Officer — Touchstone Securities, Inc.

(i)
Director — Western & Southern Financial Group*, Cincinnati Analysts, Inc., IFS Financial Services, Inc., Integrity Life Insurance Company, National Integrity Life Insurance Company, W&S Financial Group Distributors, Inc.*, W&S Brokerage Services, Inc.*, LaRosa’s, Inc. (2334 Boudinot Avenue Cincinnati, OH 45238)

(2)
Donald J. Wuebbling — Director - Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
(a)
Director — Touchstone Securities, Inc., W&S Financial Group Distributors, Inc.*, Eagle Realty Investments, Inc.*, Cincinnati Analysts, Inc., Integrity Life Insurance Company,* National Integrity Life Insurance Company,* Eagle Realty Group, LLC*, IFS Financial Services, Inc., Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc., W&S Brokerage Services, Inc.*, Columbus Life Insurance Company
 
(3)
James J. Vance — Senior Vice President and Treasurer - Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
(a)
Vice President and Treasurer — The Western and Southern Life Insurance Company*, IFS Financial Services, Inc., W&S Financial Group Distributors, Inc.*, Columbus Life Insurance Company*, Eagle Realty Group, LLC*, Eagle Realty Investments, Inc.*, Integrity Life Insurance Company, National Integrity Life Insurance Company, The Lafayette Life Insurance Company

(b)
Treasurer — Cincinnati Analysts, Inc., W&S Brokerage Services, Inc.*, Fort Washington Capital Partners, LLC, Insurance Profillment Solutions*, Tristate Ventures, LLC*, Touchstone Securities, Inc., Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc.
 
(4)
Terrie A. Wiedenheft — Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operations Officer - Touchstone Advisors, Inc.

(a)
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operations Officer - IFS Financial Services, Inc. 

(b)
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - W&S Brokerage Services, Inc.*

(c)
Chief Financial Officer - Cincinnati Analysts, Inc., Touchstone Securities, Inc.

(d)
Senior Vice President - Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc. 






(e)
Vice President, Commission Accounting and Finance - Integrity Life Insurance Company, National Integrity Life Insurance Company 

(f)
Treasurer and Controller - Touchstone Fund Complex
 
(5)
James N. Clark — Director - Touchstone Advisors, Inc.Vice President, Director and Secretary — Western & Southern Mutual Holding Company*, Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc.*, Western & Southern Life Assurance Company*

(a)
Director — Columbus Life Insurance Company*, Eagle Realty Group, LLC*, Eagle Realty Investments, Inc.*, Touchstone Securities, Inc., W&S Financial Group Distributors, Inc.*, Cincinnati Analysts, Inc., IFS Financial Services, The Lafayette Life Insurance Company*

(6)
Sarah S. Herron — Secretary — Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
(a)
Secretary — Touchstone Securities, Inc.,

(b)
Corporate Secretary — W&S Brokerage Services, Inc.*

(c)
Senior Counsel — Securities — Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc.*
 
(7)
Steven M. Graziano — President — Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
(a)
Vice President — Touchstone Fund Complex 

(b)
President — Touchstone Securities, Inc.
 
(8)
Timothy S. Stearns — Chief Compliance Officer — Touchstone Advisors, Inc., Touchstone Fund Complex, W&S Brokerage Services, Inc.*
 
(9)
Timothy D. Paulin — Senior Vice President, Investment Research and Product Management — Touchstone Advisors, Inc.

(a)
Vice President — Touchstone Fund Complex

(10) Daniel R. Larson — Vice President — Touchstone Advisors, Inc.

(a) Vice President — Touchstone Securities, Inc.
 
B.
FORT WASHINGTON INVESTMENT ADVISORS, INC. (“Fort Washington”) is a registered investment adviser that provides sub-advisory services to the Funds. Fort Washington serves as the Sub-Advisor to the Touchstone Focused Fund,Touchstone Balanced Fund, Touchstone International Equity Fund, Touchstone Large Cap Focused Fund, Touchstone Small Company Fund, Touchstone Ohio Tax-Free Fund and certain series of Touchstone Funds Group Trust and Touchstone Variable Series Trust. Fort Washington also provides investment advice to institutional and individual clients.  The address of Fort Washington is 303 Broadway, Cincinnati, OH 45202.
 
The following list sets forth the business and other connections of the directors and executive officers of Fort Washington.

*The address is 400 Broadway, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202.

(1)    Maribeth S. Rahe, President & Chief Executive Officer

(a)  Board Member, Executive/Foundation Committee of Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber; Leadership Development, Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber of Commerce; Life Trustee, New York Landmarks Conservancy; Life Trustee, Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center; Board Member, Consolidated Communications Illinois Holdings Inc.; Chair, Audit Committee, Consolidated Communications Illinois Holdings, Inc.; Member, Nominating/Governance and Compensation Committees, Consolidated Communications Illinois Holdings, Inc.; Vice Chairman, Executive/Finance Committee, Cincinnati Arts Association; Advisory Board, Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur; Member, Partner-In-Action, Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur; Interim Chair Fundraising Committee, Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur;
Advisory Board, Williams College of Business, Xavier University; Advisory Board, CincyTech USA; Investment Committee, United Way of Cincinnati; Board Member, First Financial Bank; Member, Audit/Trust/M&A Committees,





First Financial Bank; Vice-Chair, Capital Markets Committee, First Financial Bank; Executive Committee, Commonwealth Club; Governing Board of Directors, Greater Cincinnati Foundation; Advisory Board Member, Cintrifuse; Executive Committee Member, Cincinnati Women’s Executive Forum; Board of Governors, Executive Committee, Cincinnati Country Club; President, Women’s Capital Club; Foundation Board of Trustees, Executive Committee, Cincinnati Regional Chamber of Commerce;

(b)   President & CEO of Tristate Ventures, LLC*

(c)   President, Buckeye Venture Partners, LLC

(d)    President, W&S Investment Holdings, LLC

(e)    President & CEO of Fort Washington Capital Partners, LLC

(2)     Nicholas P. Sargen, Director, Senior Economic Advisor, Director

(3)     John F. Barrett, Director, Chairman

(a)   Chairman of Board & CEO, The Western and Southern Life Insurance Company, Western-Southern Life Assurance Company, Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc., Western & Southern Mutual Holding Company

(b)   Director & Chairman, Columbus Life Insurance Company, Integrity Life Insurance Company, National Integrity Life Insurance Company, The Lafayette Life Insurance Company; Gerber Life Insurance Company; National Integrity Life Insurance Company;

(c)    Director, Eagle Realty Group, Eagle Realty Investments, Eagle Realty Capital Partners

(d)    President & Trustee, Western & Southern Financial Fund

(e)    Board Member, Convergys Corp, Cintas Corporation

(f)     Director, American Council of Life Insurers; Director, Financial Services Roundtable; Board Member, Americans for the Arts; Member & Executive Committee, Cincinnati Center City Development Corporation; Board of Governors, Cincinnati USA Partnership for Economic Development; Member, Cincinnati Business Committee; Co-Chairman, Greater Cincinnati Scholarship Association; Member, Cincinnati Equity Fund; Honorary Trustee, Sigma Alpha Epsilon Foundation; Chairman, Medical Center Fund, UC; Advisory Board, Barrett Cancer Center; Vice Chairman, UC Foundation Capital Campaign; Honorary Chairman, UC Presidential Bicentennial Commission

(4)    Brendan M. White, Senior Vice President Co-Chief Investment Officer

(5)   
Roger M. Lanham, Senior Vice President, Co-Chief Investment Officer

(6)        Michele Hawkins, Chief Compliance Officer & Managing Director

(a)    Advisory Board Member, Xavier University Cintas Institute for Business Ethics & Social Responsibility

(7)          Jay Johnston, Vice-President, Corporate Finance and Treasurer,

(8)  
Martin W. Flesher, Managing Director of Business Development and Sales

(9)         Jonathan D. Niemeyer, Director, Senior Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, General Counsel

(a)     Board of Directors, The Pro Foundation Inc., Board of Advisors, David Pollack’s Empower Foundation

(b)     Sr. Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer & General Counsel, Columbus Life Insurance Company, The Lafayette Life Insurance Company, The Western and Southern Life Insurance Company, Western-Southern Life Assurance Company, Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc., Western & Southern Mutual Holding Company; Eagle Realty Group, LLC; Eagle Realty Investments, Inc.;






(c)     Director, Insurance Profillment Solutions, LLC; Columbus Life Insurance Company; Eagle Realty Capital Partners; LLC, Eagle Realty Group, LLC; Eagle Realty Investments, LLC; Gerber Life Insurance Company; IFS Financial Services, Inc.; Integrity Life Insurance Company; National Integrity Life Insurance Company; The Lafayette Life Insurance Company; Touchstone Advisors, Inc.; Touchstone Securities, Inc.; W&S Brokerage Services, Inc.; W&S Financial Group Distributors, Inc.; Western & Southern Agency, Inc.

(d)     Board Member, Association of Life Insurance Counsel

(e)     Sr. Vice President, Gerber Life Insurance Company

(10)       Donald J.  Wuebbling, Director

(a)     Secretary & Counsel, The Western and Southern Life Insurance Company, Western- Southern Life Assurance Company, Western & Southern Financial Group, Inc., Western & Southern Mutual Holding Company, Columbus Life Insurance Company, The Lafayette Life Insurance Company

(b)    Director, Touchstone Advisors, Inc., Touchstone Securities, Inc., W&S Financial Group Distributors, Inc., IFS Financial Services, Inc., Integrity Life Insurance Company, W&S Brokerage Services, Inc., Eagle Realty Group, Eagle Realty Investments, Eagle Realty Capital Partners, LLC, National Integrity Life Insurance Company, Western & Southern Agency, Inc.; Gerber Life Insurance Company

(11)       Eric J. Walzer, Vice President , Investment Operations

(12) David T. Henderson, Chief Risk Officer

(13) Jeffrey L. Stainton, Secretary

(14) Gerald J. Ulland, Chief Financial Officer
 
C.            Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. (“Westfield”) is a registered investment advisor providing sub-advisory services to the Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund and Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund.  The address of Westfield is One Financial Center, Boston, MA 02111.  The following are executive officers and directors of Westfield:
 
Westfield is majority employee owned. Strategic business decisions are managed and controlled by an executive management committee composed of William A. Muggia, Hamlen Thompson, Bruce Jacobs, Richard Lee, Robert Flores, Ethan Meyers and John Montgomery.
 
D.            Wells Capital Management, Inc. (“Wells Capital”) is a registered investment advisor that provides sub-advisory services to the Touchstone Strategic Trust.  The address of Wells Capital is 525 Market Street, 12th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105.

The directors and officers of Wells Capital are provided on Wells Capital’s most recently filed Schedule A of Form ADV (IARD No. 104973; SEC File No. 801-21122, which is incorporated herein by reference.  No director or officer of Wells Capital has been engaged in any other business or profession of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.

 
E.            Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss LLC (“Barrow Hanley”) is a registered investment advisor that provides sub-advisory services to the Touchstone Value Fund.  The address of Barrow Hanley is 2200 Ross Avenue, 31st Floor Dallas, TX 75201.
 
The directors and officers of Barrow Hanley are provided on Barrow Hanley’s most recently filed Schedule A of Form ADV (IARD No. 105519; SEC File No. 801-31237), which is incorporated herein by reference.  The only employment of a substantial nature of each of Barrow Hanley’s directors and officers is with Barrow Hanley and its affiliated companies.
 
F.             Copper Rock Capital Partners, LLC (“Copper Rock”) is a registered investment advisor that provides sub-advisory services to the Touchstone International Small Cap Fund .  The address of Copper Rock is 200 Clarendon Street, 51st Floor Boston, MA 02116.
 





The directors and officers of Copper Rock are provided on Copper Rock’s most recently filed Schedule A of Form ADV (IARD No. 134176; SEC File No. 801-63900), which is incorporated herein by reference.  The only employment of a substantial nature of each of Copper Rock’s directors and officers is with Copper Rock and its affiliated companies.

G.            Bramshill Investments, LLC (“Bramshill”), is a registered investment advisor that serves as the sub-advisor to the Flexible Income Fund.  The address of Bramshill is 411 Hackensack Avenue, 9th Floor, Hackensack, New Jersey 07601.

The directors and officers of Bramshill are provided on Bramshill’s most recently filed Schedule A of Form ADV (IARD No. 162492; SEC File No. 801-74578), which is incorporated herein by reference.

 
H.             Sands Capital Management, LLC (“Sands Capital”) is a registered investment adviser that provides sub-advisory services to the Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund, certain series of Touchstone Funds Group Trust, and Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust.  The address of Sands Capital is 1000 Wilson Blvd., Suite 3000, Arlington, VA 22209. The directors, officers and/or partners of Sands Capital have been engaged in the below capacities with other companies within the last two fiscal years:

Name and Position with Investment Adviser
Name and Principal Business Address of Other Company
Connection with Other Company
Frank M. Sands
Chief Executive Officer
Sands Capital Ventures, LLC
1000 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 3000
Arlington, VA 22209
Investment Board Member
 
 
 
Jonathan Goodman
General Counsel
Sands Capital Ventures, LLC
1000 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 3000
Arlington, VA 22209
General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer
 
 
 
Stephen Nimmo
Executive Managing Director
Sands Capital Ventures, LLC
1000 Wilson Boulevard
Suite 3000
Arlington, VA 22209
Provides client relations service


I.    London Company of Virginia d/b/a The London Company (“TLC”) is a registered investment advisor providing sub-advisory services to the Touchstone Large Cap Fund, certain series of Touchstone Funds Group Trust, and Touchstone Variable Series Trust. The address of TLC is 1800 Bayberry Court, Suite 301, Richmond, Virginia, 23226. No director, officer or partner of TLC has been engaged in any other business or profession of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.
 
J.            Rockefeller & Co., LLC (“Rockefeller”) is a registered investment advisor providing sub-advisory services to the Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund. The address of Rockefeller is 45 Rockefeller Plaza, Fifth Floor, New York, New York 10111. Officers and employees of Rockefeller and its affiliates may serve as non-executive directors of for-profit businesses, including financial services companies that provide services to Rockefeller and/or to clients of Rockefeller. Rockefeller has adopted procedures and practices in seeking to mitigate conflicts of interests that may result from such outside business affiliations.

K.     Ares Capital Management II, LLC (“Ares”) is a registered investment advisor providing sub-advisory services to the Touchstone Credit Opportunities Fund.  The address of Ares is 2000 Avenue of the Stars, 12 th Floor, Los Angeles, California 90067. No director, officer or partner of Ares has been engaged in any other business or profession of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.

L.    Wilshire Associates Incorporated (“Wilshire”) is a registered investment advisor providing sub-advisory services to the Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund, the Touchstone Dynamic Global Allocation Fund, and certain series of Touchstone Variable Series Trust.. The address of Wilshire is 1299 Ocean Avenue Suite 700, Santa Monica, CA 90401. No director, officer or partner of Wilshire has been engaged in any other business or profession of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.

M.     DSM Capital Partners LLC ("DSM") is a registered investment advisor providing sub-advisory services to the Touchstone International Growth Opportunities Fund and the Touchstone Large Company Growth Fund. The address of DSM is 7111 Fairway





Drive, Suite 350, Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418. No director, officer or partner of DSM has been engaged in any other business or profession of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.

Item 32.        Principal Underwriters
 
(a)    Touchstone Securities, Inc. acts as underwriter for the Touchstone Fund Complex.
(b)    Unless otherwise noted, the address of the persons named below is 303 Broadway, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202. 
 
 
POSITION WITH
 
POSITION WITH
NAME
 
UNDERWRITER
 
REGISTRANT
Steven M. Graziano
 
President
 
Vice President
Jill T. McGruder
 
Director & CEO
 
Trustee and President
James N. Clark*
 
Director
 
None
Donald J. Wuebbling*
 
Director
 
None
Daniel L. Larson
 
Vice President
 
None
James J. Vance*
 
Treasurer
 
None
Terrie A. Wiedenheft
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
Controller and Treasurer
Thomas A. Shoemake
 
Chief Compliance Officer
 
None
Sarah S. Herron
 
Secretary
 
None
Sharon L. Karp
 
Vice President
 
None
Kathleen A. Cornelius
 
AVP and Assistant Treasurer
 
None
Jay V. Johnson
 
AVP and Assistant Treasurer
 
None
John S. Musgrove
 
AVP and Assistant Treasurer
 
None
Timothy D. Speed
 
Assistant Treasurer
 
None
Cheryl J. Stotts
 
Assistant Treasurer
 
None
 
(c)     None.
 
Item 33.       Location of Accounts and Records
 
Books or other documents required to be maintained by Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended and the rules promulgated thereunder, are maintained as follows:
 
(a)   With respect to Rules 31a-1(a); 31a-1(b)(1); (2)(a) and (b); (3); (6); (8); (12); and 31a-1(d), the required books and records will be maintained at the offices of Registrant’s Custodian:
 
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.
40 Water Street
Boston, MA 02109
 
(b)   With respect to Rules 31a-1(a); 31a-1(b)(1), (4); (2)(C) and (D); (4); (5); (6); (8); (9); (10); (11); and 31a-1(f), the required books and records are maintained at the offices of the Registrant’s Administrator and Sub-Administrator.
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway, Suite 1100
Cincinnati, OH 45202
 
BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc.
4400 Computer Drive
Westborough, MA 01581
 
BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc.
201 Washington Street, 34th Floor
Boston, MA 02108
 





(c)   With respect to Rules 31a-1(b)(5), (6), (9) and (10) and 31a-1(f), the required books and records are maintained at the principal offices of the Registrant’s investment advisors:
 
All Funds:
 
Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway, Suite 1100
Cincinnati, OH 45202
 
Touchstone Focused Fund, Touchstone Balanced Fund, Touchstone International Equity Fund, Touchstone Large Cap Focused Fund, Touchstone Small Company Fund and Touchstone Ohio Tax-Free Bond Fund
Fort Washington Investment Advisors, Inc.
303 Broadway, Suite 1200
Cincinnati, OH 45202
 
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund and Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund
Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P.
One Financial Center
Boston, MA 02111
 
Touchstone Large Cap Fund
London Company of Virginia d/b/a The London Company (“TLC”)
1801 Bayberry Court, Suite 301
Richmond, VA 23226
 
Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund
Rockefeller & Co., LLC.
45 Rockefeller Plaza, Fifth Floor
New York, NY 10111
 
Touchstone Dynamic Equity Fund
Wells Capital Management, Inc.
525 Market Street, 12th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94105

Touchstone Value Fund
Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss LLC
2200 Ross Avenue, 31st Floor
Dallas, TX 75201
 
Touchstone International Small Cap Fund
Copper Rock Capital Partner, LLC
200 Clarendon Street, 51st Floor
Boston, MA 02116
 
Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund, and Touchstone Dynamic Global Allocation Fund
Wilshire Associates Incorporated
1299 Ocean Avenue, Suite 700
Santa Monica, CA 90401
 
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund
Bramshill Investments, LLC
411 Hackensack Avenue, 9th Floor
Hackensack, New Jersey 07601

Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
Sands Capital Management, LLC
1000 Wilson Blvd., Suite 3000
Arlington, VA 22209






Touchstone Credit Opportunities Fund
Ares Capital Management II, LLC
2000 Avenue of the Stars, 12th Floor
Los Angeles, CA 90067

Touchstone Large Company Growth Fund and Touchstone International Growth Opportunities Fund
DSM Capital Partners LLC
7111 Fairway Drive
Palm Beach Gardens, FL 33418

    
Item 34.       Management Services Not Discussed in Part A or Part B
 
None.
 
Item 35.       Undertakings
 
None.








SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for effectiveness of this Post-Effective Amendment (“PEA”) No. 200 to its Registration Statement on Form N-1A under Rule 485(b) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and has duly caused this PEA No. 200 to its Registration Statement on Form N-1A to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Cincinnati, State of Ohio, on July 25, 2019.

 
TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Jill T. McGruder
 
 
Jill T. McGruder
 
 
President

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Post-Effective Amendment No. 200 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

*
 
Trustee
 
July 25, 2019
Karen Carnahan
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
*
 
Trustee
 
July 25, 2019
Phillip R. Cox
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
*
 
Trustee
 
July 25, 2019
William C. Gale
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
*
 
Trustee
 
July 25, 2019
Susan J. Hickenlooper
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
*
 
Trustee
 
July 25, 2019
Kevin A. Robie
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
*
 
Trustee
 
July 25, 2019
Edward J. VonderBrink
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Jill T. McGruder
 
Trustee and President
 
July 25, 2019
Jill T. McGruder
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Terrie A. Wiedenheft
 
Controller, Treasurer and Principal Financial Officer
 
July 25, 2019
Terrie A. Wiedenheft
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
*By:
/s/ Terrie A. Wiedenheft
 
 
 
July 25, 2019
 
Terrie A. Wiedenheft
 
 
 
 
 
(Attorney-in-Fact Pursuant to Power of Attorney filed herewith)
 
 






EXHIBIT INDEX
 
 
 
 
(a)(23)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 2019.
 
 
 
(a)(24)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 2019.
 
 
 
(a)(25)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 2019.
 
 
 
(a)(26)
 
Amendment to Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated May 16, 2019.
 
 
 
(h)(8)(ii)
 
Amended Schedule A dated July 30, 2019 to the Amended and Restated Expense Limitation Agreement dated July 29, 2013 between the Registrant and Touchstone Advisors, Inc.
 
 
 
(j)
 
Consent of Ernst & Young LLP
 
 
 
(n)(2)
 
Amended Schedule A dated August 23, 2019 to the Amended and Restated Rule 18f-3 Multiple Class Plan

 
 
 
(m)(3)(ii)
 
Amended Exhibit A to Touchstone Strategic Trust Distribution and Shareholder Services Plan for Class A Shares dated November 16, 2018.
 
 
 
(m)(4)(ii)
 
Amended Exhibit A to Touchstone Strategic Trust Distribution and Shareholder Services Plan for Class C Shares dated November 16, 2018.
 
 
 
(p)(3)
 
Code of Ethics for Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P.
 
 
 
(p)(8)
 
Code of Ethics for Rockefeller & Co., LLC.
 
 
 
(p)(13)
 
Code of Ethics for Bramshill Investments, LLC.
 
 
 
(q)
 
Power of Attorney





TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
AMENDMENT TO
RESTATED AGREEMENT AND DECLARATION OF TRUST
The undersigned, being a majority of the Trustees of Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”), acting pursuant to Sections 4.1 and 7.3 of the Trust’s Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust, dated May 19, 1993, as amended (the “Declaration”), hereby adopt the following resolutions:

WHEREAS, pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization among the Touchstone Controlled Growth with Income Fund (the “Fund”) and Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund (the “Acquiring Fund”), each a series of the Trust, executed by the Trust pursuant to authorization granted by the Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) at a Board meeting held on February 12, 2019, pursuant to notice duly given and at which a quorum consisting of at least a majority of the Trustees was present and acting throughout, the Fund (i) transferred all of its assets to the Acquiring Fund in exchange solely for voting shares of beneficial interest of the Acquiring Fund and the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of all of the liabilities of the Fund; and (ii) distributed pro rata to Fund shareholders the Acquiring Fund shares received in complete liquidation and termination of the Fund; and
WHEREAS, as of the date hereof, there are no shares outstanding of the Fund.
RESOLVED, that pursuant to Section 4.1 of the Declaration, the Shares of the Touchstone Controlled Growth with Income Fund, and the establishment and designation thereof, are hereby abolished; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that Section 4.2 of the Declaration is hereby amended to remove the Touchstone Controlled Growth with Income Fund as a Series of the Trust, and following execution of such amendment to the Declaration (the “Amendment”), the proper officers of the Trust be, and they hereby are, authorized to file or cause to be filed such Amendment with the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Clerk of the City of Boston.
Capitalized terms used but not defined in this amendment to the Declaration have the meanings otherwise assigned to them in the Declaration.
[Signature Page Follows]






IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, being a majority of the Trustees of the Trust, hereunto set their hand this 16 th day of May, 2019.

/s/ Karen Carnahan         
Karen Carnahan
/s/ Phillip R. Cox         
Phillip R. Cox
/s/ William C. Gale         
William C. Gale
/s/ Susan J. Hickenlooper         
Susan J. Hickenlooper
/s/ Jill T. McGruder         
Jill T. McGruder
/s/ Kevin A. Robie         
Kevin A. Robie
/s/ Edward J. VonderBrink         
Edward J. VonderBrink
 





TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
AMENDMENT TO
RESTATED AGREEMENT AND DECLARATION OF TRUST
The undersigned, being a majority of the Trustees of Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”), acting pursuant to Sections 4.1 and 7.3 of the Trust’s Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust, dated May 19, 1993, as amended (the “Declaration”), hereby adopt the following resolutions:

WHEREAS, pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization among the Touchstone Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”) and Touchstone Small Company Fund (the “Acquiring Fund”), each a series of the Trust, executed by the Trust pursuant to authorization granted by the Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) at a Board meeting held on May 17, 2018, pursuant to notice duly given and at which a quorum consisting of at least a majority of the Trustees was present and acting throughout, the Fund (i) transferred all of its assets to the Acquiring Fund in exchange solely for voting shares of beneficial interest of the Acquiring Fund and the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of all of the liabilities of the Fund; and (ii) distributed pro rata to Fund shareholders the Acquiring Fund shares received in complete liquidation and termination of the Fund; and
WHEREAS, as of the date hereof, there are no shares outstanding of the Fund.
RESOLVED, that pursuant to Section 4.1 of the Declaration, the Shares of the Touchstone Small Cap Growth Fund, and the establishment and designation thereof, are hereby abolished; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that Section 4.2 of the Declaration is hereby amended to remove the Touchstone Small Cap Growth Fund as a Series of the Trust, and following execution of such amendment to the Declaration (the “Amendment”), the proper officers of the Trust be, and they hereby are, authorized to file or cause to be filed such Amendment with the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Clerk of the City of Boston.
Capitalized terms used but not defined in this amendment to the Declaration have the meanings otherwise assigned to them in the Declaration.
[Signature Page Follows]






IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, being a majority of the Trustees of the Trust, hereunto set their hand this 16 th day of May, 2019.

/s/ Karen Carnahan      
Karen Carnahan
/s/ Phillip R. Cox      
Phillip R. Cox
/s/ William C. Gale         
William C. Gale
/s/ Susan J. Kickenlooper         
Susan J. Hickenlooper
/s/ Jill T. McGruder         
Jill T. McGruder
/s/ Kevin A. Robie         
Kevin A. Robie
/s/ Edward J. VonderBrink         
Edward J. VonderBrink
 





TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
AMENDMENT TO
RESTATED AGREEMENT AND DECLARATION OF TRUST
The undersigned, being a majority of the Trustees of Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”), acting pursuant to Sections 4.1 and 7.3 of the Trust’s Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust, dated May 19, 1993, as amended (the “Declaration”), hereby adopt the following resolutions:

WHEREAS, pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Reorganization among the Touchstone Small Cap Value Opportunities Fund (the “Fund”), a series of the Trust, and Touchstone Small Cap Value Fund (the “Acquiring Fund”), a series of Touchstone Funds Group Trust (the “Acquiring Trust” and collectively with the Trust, the “Trusts”), executed by the Trusts pursuant to authorization granted by the Trustees of the Trusts (the “Board”) at a Board meeting held on May 17, 2018, pursuant to notice duly given and at which a quorum consisting of at least a majority of the Trustees was present and acting throughout, the Fund (i) transferred all of its assets to the Acquiring Fund in exchange solely for voting shares of beneficial interest of the Acquiring Fund and the assumption by the Acquiring Fund of all of the liabilities of the Fund; and (ii) distributed pro rata to Fund shareholders the Acquiring Fund shares received in complete liquidation and termination of the Fund; and
WHEREAS, as of the date hereof, there are no shares outstanding of the Fund.
RESOLVED, that pursuant to Section 4.1 of the Declaration, the Shares of the Touchstone Small Cap Value Opportunities Fund, and the establishment and designation thereof, are hereby abolished; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that Section 4.2 of the Declaration is hereby amended to remove the Touchstone Small Cap Value Opportunities Fund as a Series of the Trust, and following execution of such amendment to the Declaration (the “Amendment”), the proper officers of the Trust be, and they hereby are, authorized to file or cause to be filed such Amendment with the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Clerk of the City of Boston.
Capitalized terms used but not defined in this amendment to the Declaration have the meanings otherwise assigned to them in the Declaration.
[Signature Page Follows]






IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, being a majority of the Trustees of the Trust, hereunto set their hand this 16 th day of May, 2019.

/s/ Karen Carnahan          
Karen Carnahan
/s/ Phillip R. Cox         
Phillip R. Cox
/s/ William C. Gale         
William C. Gale
/s/ Susan J. Hickenlooper         
Susan J. Hickenlooper
/s/ Jill T. McGruder         
Jill T. McGruder
/s/ Kevin A. Robie         
Kevin A. Robie
/s/ Edward J. VonderBrink         
Edward J. VonderBrink
 




TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
AMENDMENT TO
RESTATED AGREEMENT AND DECLARATION OF TRUST
The undersigned, being a majority of the Trustees of Touchstone Strategic Trust (the “Trust”), acting pursuant to Sections 4.1 and 7.3 of the Trust’s Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust, dated May 19, 1993, as amended (the “Declaration”), hereby adopt the following resolutions:

WHEREAS, pursuant to a Plan of Liquidation for the Touchstone International Value Fund (the “Fund”) executed by the Trust pursuant to authorization granted by the Trustees of the Trust (the “Board”) at a meeting of the Trustees held on February 12, 2019 pursuant to notice duly given and at which a quorum consisting of at least a majority of the Trustees was present and acting throughout, the Fund has ceased normal business operations, liquidated its assets, provided for the payment or discharge of its liabilities, and, as of the date hereof, distributed to each remaining shareholder of the Fund such shareholder’s proportionate interest in the remaining net assets of the Fund; and
WHEREAS, as of the date hereof, there are no shares outstanding of the Fund.
RESOLVED, that pursuant to Section 4.1 of the Declaration, the Shares of the Touchstone International Value Fund, and the establishment and designation thereof, are hereby abolished; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that Section 4.2 of the Declaration is hereby amended to remove the Touchstone International Value Fund as a Series of the Trust, and following execution of such amendment to the Declaration (the “Amendment”), the proper officers of the Trust be, and they hereby are, authorized to file or cause to be filed such Amendment with the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and the Clerk of the City of Boston.
Capitalized terms used but not defined in this amendment to the Declaration have the meanings otherwise assigned to them in the Declaration.
[Signature Page Follows]






IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned, being a majority of the Trustees of the Trust, hereunto set their hand this 16 th day of May, 2019.

/s/ Karen Carnahan         
Karen Carnahan
/s/ Phillip R. Cox      
Phillip R. Cox
/s/ William C. Gale         
William C. Gale
/s/ Susan J. Hickenlooper         
Susan J. Hickenlooper
/s/ Jill T. McGruder         
Jill T. McGruder
/s/ Kevin A. Robie         
Kevin A. Robie
/s/ Edward J. VonderBrink         
Edward J. VonderBrink
 






Schedule A
Dated July 30, 2019
To The
Expense Limitation Agreement
Dated July 29, 2013
Between
Touchstone Strategic Trust and Touchstone Advisors, Inc.




FYE 3/31
Class
Expense Limit
Termination Date
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund
A
1.04%
July 30, 2020
 
C
1.79%
July 30, 2020
 
Y
0.79%
July 30, 2020
 
Institutional
0.69%
July 30, 2020
Touchstone Focused Fund
A
1.20%
July 30, 2020
 
C
1.95%
July 30, 2020
 
Y
0.95%
July 30, 2020
 
Institutional
0.83%
July 30, 2020
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund
A
1.24%
July 30, 2020
 
C
1.99%
July 30, 2020
 
Y
0.99%
July 30, 2020
 
Institutional
0.89%
July 30, 2020
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund
A
1.39%
July 30, 2020
 
C
2.14%
July 30, 2020
 
Y
1.14%
July 30, 2020
 
Institutional
0.99%
July 30, 2020
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
A
1.60%
November 17, 2020
 
C
2.35%
November 17, 2020
 
Y
1.35%
November 17, 2020
 
Institutional
1.25%
November 17, 2020
Touchstone Sustainability & Impact Equity Fund
A
1.17%
July 30, 2020
 
C
1.99%
July 30, 2020
 
Y
0.90%
July 30, 2020
Institutional
0.89%
July 30, 2020











This Schedule A to the Expense Limitation Agreement is hereby executed as of the date first set forth above.

 

TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
 
 
 



 
By:
/s/ Terrie A. Wiedenheft
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Terrie A. Wiedenheft
Controller and Treasurer
 
 
 
 
TOUCHSTONE ADVISORS, INC.
 
 
 
 



 
 
By:
/s/ Steven M. Graziano
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Steven M. Graziano
President

 

By:
/s/ Terrie A. Wiedenheft
Terrie A. Wiedenheft
Chief Financial Officer

















CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We consent to the references to our firm under the captions “Financial Highlights” in the Prospectus and the reference to our firm in the Statement of Additional Information, including references under the captions “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” and “Financial Statements” and to the incorporation by reference of our report dated May 21, 2019 on the financial statements and financial highlights of Touchstone Strategic Trust (comprising, respectively, Touchstone Flexible Income Fund, Touchstone Focused Fund, Touchstone Global ESG Fund (formerly known as Touchstone Sustainability and Impact Fund), Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund, Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund, and Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund), included in the Annual Report to Shareholders for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2019, in Post-Effective Amendment Number 200 to the Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933 (Form N-1A, No. 002-80859), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Cincinnati, Ohio
July 25, 2019



AMENDED EXHIBIT A
to
TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
DISTRIBUTION AND SHAREHOLDER SERVICES PLAN
for
CLASS A SHARES

Dated: November 16, 2018

Touchstone Balanced Fund
Touchstone Controlled Growth with Income Fund
Touchstone Credit Opportunities Fund
Touchstone Dynamic Equity Fund
Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund
Touchstone Dynamic Global Allocation Fund
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund
Touchstone Focused Fund
Touchstone International Growth Opportunities Fund
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund
Touchstone International Equity Fund
Touchstone International Small Cap Fund
Touchstone International Value Fund
Touchstone Large Cap Focused Fund
Touchstone Large Cap Fund
Touchstone Large Cap Growth Fund
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund
Touchstone Ohio Tax-Free Bond Fund
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
Touchstone Small Company Fund
Touchstone Sustainability and Impact Equity Fund
Touchstone Value Fund

This Amended Exhibit A to the Touchstone Strategic Trust’s Distribution and Shareholder Services Plan is executed as of the date first set forth above.

TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST



By:_ /s/ Terrie A. Wiedenheft __________
Name: Terrie A. Wiedenheft
Title: Treasurer and Controller
TOUCHSTONE SECURITIES, INC.



By:_ /s/ Terrie A. Wiedenheft __________  
Name: Terrie A. Wiedenheft
Title: Chief Financial Officer


By:_ /s/ Steven M. Graziano ___________
Name: Steven M. Graziano
Title: President




AMENDED EXHIBIT A
to
TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST
DISTRIBUTION AND SHAREHOLDER SERVICES PLAN
for
CLASS C SHARES

Dated: November 16, 2018

Touchstone Balanced Fund
Touchstone Controlled Growth with Income Fund
Touchstone Credit Opportunities Fund
Touchstone Dynamic Equity Fund
Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund
Touchstone Dynamic Global Allocation Fund
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund
Touchstone Focused Fund
Touchstone International Growth Opportunities Fund
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund
Touchstone International Equity Fund
Touchstone International Small Cap Fund
Touchstone International Value Fund
Touchstone Large Cap Focused Fund
Touchstone Large Cap Fund
Touchstone Large Cap Growth Fund
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund
Touchstone Ohio Tax-Free Bond Fund
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
Touchstone Small Company Fund
Touchstone Sustainability and Impact Equity Fund
Touchstone Value Fund

This Amended Exhibit A to the Touchstone Strategic Trust’s Distribution and Shareholder Services Plan is executed as of the date first set forth above.
TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST



By:_ /s/ Terrie A. Wiedenheft __________
Name: Terrie A. Wiedenheft
Title: Treasurer and Controller
TOUCHSTONE SECURITIES, INC.



By:_ /s/ Terrie A. Wiedenheft __________
Name: Terrie A. Wiedenheft
Title: Chief Financial Officer


By:_ /s/ Steven M. Graziano ___________
Name: Steven M. Graziano
Title: President


AMENDED SCHEDULE A
to the
AMENDED AND RESTATED RULE 18F-3
MULTIPLE CLASS PLAN
Dated August 23, 2019

The Trusts’ Funds and Classes that are currently offered are listed below:

Trust
Funds
Class A
Class C
Class Y
Class Z
Institutional Class
Class S
Touchstone Funds Group Trust
Touchstone Active Bond Fund
x
x
x
 
x
 
Touchstone Credit Opportunities II Fund
x
x
x
 
x
 
Touchstone High Yield Fund
x
x
x
 
x
 
Touchstone Mid Cap Fund
x
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Mid Cap Value Fund
x
x
x
 
x
 
Touchstone International ESG Equity Fund
x
x
x
 
x
 
Touchstone Sands Capital Select Growth Fund
x
x
x
x
 
 
Touchstone Small Cap Fund
x
x
x
 
x
 
Touchstone Small Cap Value Fund
x
x
x
 
x
 
Touchstone Anti-Benchmark International Core Equity Fund
 
 
x
 
x
 
Touchstone Anti-Benchmark US Core Equity Fund
 
 
x
 
x
 
Touchstone Impact Bond Fund
x
x
x
 
x
 
Touchstone Ultra Short Duration Fixed Income Fund
x
x
x
x
x
x








Trust
Funds
Class A
Class C
Class Y
Institutional
Class
Class
R6
Touchstone Strategic Trust

Touchstone Dynamic Equity Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Dynamic Diversified Income Fund
x
x
x
 
 
Touchstone Dynamic Global Allocation Fund
x
x
x
 
 
Touchstone Value Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Focused Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone International Small Cap Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Growth Opportunities Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Global ESG Equity Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Mid Cap Growth Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Flexible Income Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Sands Capital Emerging Markets Growth Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Large Cap Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Credit Opportunities Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Large Company Growth Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone International Growth Opportunities Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Ohio Tax-Free Bond Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Balanced Fund
x
x
x
 
 
Touchstone International Equity Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Large Cap Focused Fund
x
x
x
x
 
Touchstone Small Company Fund
x
x
x
x
x

[Signature page follows]







This Amended Schedule A to the Amended and Restated Rule 18f-3 Multiple Class Plan is executed as of the date first set forth above.

 
TOUCHSTONE FUNDS GROUP TRUST and  TOUCHSTONE STRATEGIC TRUST , each by itself and on behalf of the series listed in this Schedule A
 
 
 
 
 
By:
/s/ Terrie A. Wiedenheft
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Name:
Terrie A. Wiedenheft
 
Title:
Treasurer and Controller
 
 
 

    















Bramshill Investments, LLC



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Code of Ethics

April 2019



This Code of Ethics (the “Code”) is the sole property of Bramshill Investments, LLC and its subsidiaries and affiliates (collectively, the “Firm”) and must be returned to the Firm upon termination for any reason of a Supervised Person’s (as defined within this Code) association with the Firm. The contents of the Code are strictly confidential. Supervised Persons may not duplicate, copy or reproduce the Code in whole or in part or make it available in any form to non-Supervised Persons without prior approval in writing from the Firm’s Chief Compliance Officer (as defined within this Code).

Table of Contents
Introduction 1
I.
General     4
A.
Statement of General Principles    4
B.
Initial and Annual Acknowledgment    5
C.
Reporting Vio lations of the Code of Ethics    5
II.
Supervised Persons’ Conduct    6
A.
Conflicts of Interest    6
B.
Outside Business Activities    6
C.
Gifts and Entertainment    6
D.
Affiliates     7
E.
Political Contributions    8
III.
Prevention and Detection of Insider Trading    10
IV.
Personal Trading Policies and Procedures    12
A.
B.
Securities and Instruments that Require Pre-Clearance    12
C.
D.
Personal Trading Accounts    13
E.
F.
Investments in Limited Offerings and Initial Public Offerings    14
G.
Reporting     15
H.
Review     17
I.
Remedial Actions    17
V.
Bad Actor Rule    18
A.
Definitions     18
B.
Verification by Covered Persons    19
C.
Remedial Actions    19
Appendix A    20
Appendix B    21
Appendix C    22
Appendix D    24

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Appendix E    25
Appendix F    26












































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Introduction
This Code is applicable to each Supervised Person (as defined below) of the Firm and is intended to govern the activities and conduct of Supervised Persons on behalf of the Firm, as well as certain personal activities and conduct of Supervised Persons. The Code does not attempt to serve as a comprehensive guide regarding the conduct of Supervised Persons, but rather is intended to establish general rules of conduct and procedures applicable to all Supervised Persons.
Any questions regarding this Code, or other compliance issues, must be directed to the Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”). The CCO is responsible for administering and implementing this Code. All Supervised Persons and Access Persons are required to be thoroughly familiar with the Firm’s standards and procedures as described in this Code.
In order to make it easier to review and understand the standards and procedures of this Code, commonly used terms are defined below:
“Access Person,” as defined in the Advisers Act (as defined below) means any Supervised Person of the Firm who: (i) has access to non-public information regarding Clients’ (as defined below) investments, including the purchase or sale of Securities (as defined below); (ii) has access to non-public information regarding the portfolio holdings of any Client; (iii) is involved in making investment and Securities recommendations to the Clients; (iv) has access to such recommendations that are non-public; or (v) is a director, officer or partner of the Firm. For purposes of clarity, the CCO has designated all Supervised Persons as Access Persons.
“Advisers Act” means the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended.
“Beneficial Ownership” in Securities (as defined below) means direct or indirect pecuniary interest in the Securities held or shared directly or indirectly through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise. A Supervised Person or Access Person is presumed to be a Beneficial Owner of Securities that are held by his or her immediate family members sharing the Supervised Person’s or the Access Person’s household or to which the Supervised Person and Access Persons provides material financial support.
“Chief Compliance Officer” or “CCO” means William Nieporte or such other person as may be designated from time to time.
“Chief Executive Officer” or “CCO” means Arthur DeGaetano or such other person as may be designated from time to time.
“Client” means any entity to which the Firm provides investment advisory or management services, including investment funds and the beneficial owners of separately managed accounts.
“Non-Discretionary Account” means an account for which the Supervised Person/Access Person has designated investment discretion entirely to a third party. In such account, the Supervised Person/Access Person cannot exercise any investment discretion in the purchase or sale of Securities.
“Firm” means Bramshill Investments, LLC and each affiliated entity under common control, which are engaged in the business of providing investment advisory or management services.
“Fund” means any pooled investment vehicle (e.g., a private fund vehicle) to which the Firm provides investment advisory or management services.

“Initial Public Offering” or “IPO” means an offering of Securities registered under the Securities Act (as defined below), the issuer of which, immediately before the registration, was not subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act (as defined below).

“Investment Company Act” means the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

“Non-Reportable Securities” excludes exchange traded-funds (“ETFs”), diversified ETFs, and closed-end mutual funds (which are Reportable Securities, as defined below) but includes: (i) direct obligations of the United States federal government; (ii) bankers’ acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper and high-quality short-term debt instruments, including repurchase agreements; (iii) shares issued by money market funds; (iv) shares issued by open- end registered investment companies (e.g., open-end mutual funds), other than Funds advised or underwritten by the Firm or an affiliate; or, (v) shares issued by unit investment trusts that are invested exclusively in one or more open-end registered investment companies, none of which are advised or underwritten by the Firm or an affiliate.

“Principals” means, collectively, Arthur DeGaetano, Stephen Selver and William Nieporte.

“Personal Trading Account” means a personal investment or trading account of a Supervised Person or Access Person or a related account. Specifically, Personal Trading Account includes:
(i) trusts for which an Supervised Person or Access Person acts as trustee, executor, Client custodian or discretionary manager; (ii) accounts for the benefit of the Supervised Person or Access Person’s spouse or minor child; (iii) accounts for the benefit of a relative living with the Supervised Person or Access Person; and (iv) accounts for the benefit of any person to whom the Supervised Person or Access Person provides material financial support.

A Personal Trading Account may also include an investment or trading account over which a Supervised Person or Access Person exercises control or provides investment advice or a proprietary investment or trading account maintained for the Firm or its Supervised Persons and Access Persons.

“Private Placement” means an offering of Securities that is exempt from registration under the Securities Act, pursuant to Section 4(2) or Section 4(6) or pursuant to Rules 504, 505 or 506 of Regulation D.

“Reportable Securities” see Securities, defined below.
“RIC Clients” means Clients that are registered investment companies under the Investment Company Act. Except as otherwise provided herein, RIC Clients are to be treated in the same manner as other types of Clients.
“SEC” means the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.
“Security” or “Securities” means any, or a combination of any, note, stock, treasury stock, security future, bond, debenture, evidence of indebtedness, certificate of interest or participation in any profit-sharing agreement, collateral-trust certificate, preorganization certificate or subscription, transferable share, investment contract, voting-trust certificate, certificate of deposit for a security, fractional undivided interest in oil, gas or other mineral rights, any put, call, straddle, option or privilege on any security (including a certificate of deposit) or on any group or index of securities (including any interest therein or based on the value thereof) or any put,

call, straddle, option or privilege entered into on a national securities exchange relating to foreign currency or, in general, any interest or instrument commonly known as a “security” or any certificate of interest or participation in, temporary or interim certificate for, receipt for, guaranty of or warrant or right to subscribe to or purchase any of the foregoing. For purposes of this Code, all “Securities” are deemed to be “Reportable Securities.”
“Securities Act” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
“Securities Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.
“Supervised Person” means any partner, officer, director (or other person occupying a similar status or performing similar functions) or employee of the Firm or other person who provides investment advice on behalf of the Firm and is subject to the supervision and control of the Firm.


Other capitalized terms used herein may be defined elsewhere in the Code or have the meaning given such term under applicable law.

I.
General
A.
Statement of General Principles

The Firm has adopted this Code in compliance with Rule 204A-1 of the Advisers Act and Rule 17j-1 of the Investment Company Act. Pursuant to Section 206 of the Advisers Act, this Code is predicated on the principle that the Firm owes a fiduciary duty to any entity to which the Firm provides investment advisory or management services, including its Clients. The interests of the Clients must always be recognized, respected and take precedence over the personal interest of Supervised Persons. In any decision relating to personal investments or other matters, Supervised Persons must assiduously avoid serving their own personal interests ahead of any Client’s interests, taking inappropriate advantage of their position with the Firm or taking inappropriate advantage on the Firm’s behalf.

In connection with Rule 17j-1(b) of the Investment Company Act, it is unlawful for the Firm or any Access Person:

1)
To employ any device, scheme or artifice to defraud a Client;
2)
To make any untrue statement of a material fact to a Client or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements made to a Client, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading;
3)
To engage in any act, practice or course of business that operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit on a Client; or
4)
To engage in any manipulative practice with respect to a Client.

In connection with Rule 17j-1(c)(1) of the Investment Company Act, the Firm has adopted this Code, which the Firm believes contains provisions reasonably necessary to prevent its Access Persons from engaging in any unlawful conduct prohibited by the four above points.

It is critical that Supervised Persons avoid any situation that might present, or appear to present, any actual or potential conflict of interest with the interests of the Client, or compromise or appear to compromise, Supervised Persons’ ability to exercise fully their independent best judgment for the benefit of the Clients. Accordingly, all Personal Trading Account activity, and Supervised Persons’ activities generally, must comply fully with both the letter and spirit of this Code and the principles described herein. Moreover, Supervised Persons are required to comply with all applicable securities laws, rules and regulations and must report promptly any violations of securities laws, rules or regulations of this Code to the CCO.

Disciplinary actions for failure to comply with the Code may include cancellation of personal trading transactions, disgorgement of profits from such transactions, suspension of personal trading privileges, suspension of employment or termination of employment. The CCO will determine, in consultation with the other Principals, what disciplinary and remedial action is warranted, taking into consideration the relevant facts and circumstances, including the severity of the violation, possible harm to the Clients and their investors and whether the Supervised Person has previously engaged in any improper conduct. Ultimately, however, the decision whether to impose disciplinary action or remedial measures and sanctions, and the nature of such disciplinary actions or remedial measures and sanctions, rests with the CCO.

The CCO will maintain a copy of each Code that is in effect, or was in effect at any time within the past five years, in the Firm’s principal office.
B.
Initial and Annual Acknowledgment
The Code is an integral part of the Firm’s compliance program. The Code may be revised and supplemented from time to time.

Each Supervised Person upon hire is required to sign the “Initial Certification and Acknowledgment Form” ( Appendix A ) acknowledging that he or she has received a copy of the Code and certifying that he or she has read and understands the Code and agrees to abide by its provisions. Thereafter, each Supervised Person shall, at least annually, sign the Firm’s “Annual Certification Acknowledgment Form” ( Appendix B ) reaffirming, among other things, that he or she continues to abide by the Code’s provisions and that he or she has reported all Securities transactions, with the exception of transactions in Non-Reportable Securities.

C.
Reporting Violations of the Code of Ethics
All Supervised Persons must promptly report any violations of the Code to the CCO. Any violations reported to, or independently discovered by, the CCO shall be promptly reviewed, investigated and reported to the Firm’s other Principals. The CCO will maintain a record of any violation of the Code, and of any action taken as a result of the violation, in the Firm’s principal office for at least five years after the end of the fiscal year in which the violation occurred.
All reported Code violations will be treated as being made on an anonymous basis. Any retaliation for reporting a violation of the Code will constitute a further violation of the Code, as well as a possible violation of the anti-retaliation provisions of the SEC’s Whistleblower Rule, Section 21F of the Securities Exchange Act. For more information, please refer to the “Whistleblower Policy” in the Firm’s compliance manual.
On an annual basis, the CCO will furnish to each RIC Client’s board of directors a written report that describes any issues arising under the Code since the last report provided to such board of directors, including, but not limited to, information about any material violations of the Code and any sanctions imposed in response to such violations, if applicable. In each report, the CCO will also certify that the Firm has adopted procedures reasonable necessary to prevent Access Persons from violating the Code. Each report will be maintained for at least five years after the end of the fiscal year in which it was made, the first two years in the Firm’s principal office.

II.
Supervised Persons’ Conduct
A.
Conflicts of Interest
It is the policy of the Firm that all Supervised Persons conduct the business affairs of the Firm in accordance with the highest principles of business ethics and in such manner that no conflict of interest, actual or potential, can be construed. All Supervised Persons should promptly report to the CCO any situation or circumstance which may give rise to a conflict of interest. The CCO will maintain an inventory of all material conflicts of interest through the use of a conflicts log.
B.
Outside Business Activities
Business activities other than employment at the Firm may present conflicts of interest. Such instances may include, but are not limited to: (i) serving as an officer, director, trustee or partner of any business organization; (ii) participating as a member of a limited liability company or a limited partner of a limited partnership; or (iii) serving as a Supervised Person or consultant, a teacher or lecturer, a publisher of articles or a radio or television guest. Accordingly, each Supervised Person must disclose upon hire all outside business activities to the CCO, and prior to engaging in any new outside business activity, must seek approval from the CCO by submitting an Outside Business Activity Approval Form ( Appendix C ). 1
The CCO will determine whether permission to engage in the outside activity should be granted or denied, based on a consideration of the nature of the outside activity, the number of hours involved, the amount of compensation and any other factors that in the CCO’s discretion may be relevant.
Unless prior approval is granted by the CCO, the Firm generally does not permit Supervised Persons to serve as an officer, partner or employee of another company or business or as a member of the board of directors or trustees of any business organization, other than a civic or charitable organization. This prohibition is specifically relevant in the context of the boards of directors of the Firm’s portfolio companies. These types of positions present particular conflicts of interest and a determination of a Supervised Person’s eligibility to serve in such a position necessarily involves an assessment of whether such service would be consistent with the interests of the Firm or compromise the Supervised Person’s fiduciary duty to the Clients.
Under no circumstances may a Supervised Person represent or suggest that his or her association with any outside business activity in any way reflects the approval by the Firm of that organization, such organization’s securities, its manner of doing business or any person connected with such organization or its activities.
C.
Gifts and Entertainment
In light of the nature of the Firm’s business, its fiduciary obligations to the Clients, as well as the regulatory environment in which the Firm conducts its business, the Firm has adopted this Gifts and Entertainment policy to impose limits on, and monitor the nature and quantity of, “business-related” gifts, gratuities and entertainment. “Business-related” gifts, gratuities and entertainment are those that the Firm’s Supervised Persons give to, or receive from, a person or firm that: (i) conducts business with or provides services to the Firm; (ii) may do business or is being solicited to do business with the Firm; or (iii) is associated with an organization that conducts or seeks to conduct business with the Firm. In addition, Supervised Persons may not be



1 The CCO must submit pre-approval requests on his own behalf to the CEO.

compensated, directly or indirectly, except by the Firm or when otherwise approved by the Firm (including approval by the CCO or others, as provided elsewhere in this Code).
This policy is not intended to prevent Supervised Persons from giving or receiving gifts, gratuities or entertainment, provided that such gifts and entertainment are not extravagant, costly, lavish or excessive. The policy is intended to ensure that the practice of giving and accepting gifts, gratuities or entertainment is not abused and does not compromise the integrity, objectivity or fiduciary responsibilities of the Firm or its Supervised Persons, create an appearance of impropriety or raise potential conflicts of interest. For purposes of this policy, value is the higher of cost or fair market value. Gifts and entertainment among Supervised Persons are not subject to the guidelines set forth below.
If there is any question as to the scope or application of this policy, Supervised Persons should consult with the CCO.
D.
Affiliates
For purposes of managing conflicts, specifically those relevant to the Firm’s registered investment company (“RIC”) clients, the CCO will prepare and revise as needed a list of the Firm’s and each RIC client’s affiliated persons. Prior to establishing any new trading arrangement or other new relationship, the Supervised Person in charge of coordinating the relationship must review the affiliated persons list and promptly bring any potential issues to the CCO’s attention. The CCO will be responsible for ensuring the Firm adheres to each RIC client’s Rule 17e-1 procedures regarding transactions with affiliated broker-dealers.

1.
Required Gift and Entertainment Approvals
a.
Offering and Accepting Gifts and Entertainment
A “gift” refers to any object or thing of value provided for the recipient’s personal use or enjoyment. If, for example, the giver of tickets for an event does not intend in advance to be present at such event, then the tickets will be deemed a gift. “Entertainment” refers to meals, sporting events or other entertainment events where the giver intends to participate in or attends the event with the recipient (e.g., accompanies the recipient of baseball tickets to the game). If the giver intends to participate in the event, then such an event will be deemed entertainment.
b. Pre-Clearance

All Supervised Persons are required to obtain the preapproval of the CCO or the other partners prior to giving or receiving a gift or entertainment (“G&E”) valued in excess of $250 to/from any individual or company with whom the Firm has a business relationship, provided that the G&E is not costly, lavish or excessive as to raise questions of impropriety. While the written policy includes the $250 threshold, all Supervised Persons are encouraged to proactively report (before or after) any business related G&E. The partners are permitted to exercise their discretion and are not explicitly covered under this policy, however, they too should report business related G&E. For G&E that exceeds this threshold, Supervised Persons must submit a Gift and Entertainment Approval Form (Appendix D) to the CCO upon receipt of or prior to
offering such entertainment. 2





2 The CCO must submit any pre-approval requests on his own behalf to the CEO.

Each Supervised Person is expected to use professional judgment in entertaining and being entertained by a business associate. If there is any question as to whether a specific entertainment event can be accepted or given, the CCO should be consulted.
Supervised Persons may attend seminars sponsored or paid for by any third party with whom the Firm conducts business, or could reasonably be expected to conduct business, provided that attendance at the seminar is not so costly or the event so lavish as to raise conflict of interest issues. If there is any question as to whether such an event may raise conflict of interest issues, the CCO should be consulted.
c.
Broker and Counterparty Event Disclosures
Supervised Persons must inform the CCO prior to attending any event that is paid for or sponsored by a broker or other counterparty, where the actual or estimated value of such Supervised Person’s attendance is above $100. Along with such notice, the Supervised Person must provide the CCO with a description of the event, its purpose, a list of attendees and the estimated or actual value of the Supervised Person’s attendance.
d.
Prohibited Conduct
No gift or entertainment should ever be accepted with the expectation of any quid pro quo from the Firm or any Supervised Person. Supervised Persons are prohibited from giving, and must tactfully refuse, any gift of cash, gift certificate or cash equivalents.
Furthermore, to ensure compliance with the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”), Supervised Persons are prohibited from directly or indirectly paying or giving, offering or promising to pay, give or authorize or approving such offer or payment, of any funds, gifts, services or anything else of any value, no matter how small, or seemingly insignificant, to any Government Official (as such term is defined under the FCPA) for any business or Firm- related reasons. For more information, please refer to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act section of the Firm’s compliance manual.
E.
Political Contributions
Rule 206(4)-5 under the Advisers Act (the “Pay-to-Play Rule”) addresses practices commonly known as “pay-to-play”, where an investment adviser or its Supervised Persons directly or indirectly make contributions or other payments to certain U.S. public officials with the intent of generating investment advisory business. Violations of the Pay to Play Rule can have serious implications on the Firm’s ability to manage such capital. Specifically, the Firm can be precluded from managing money for a U.S. state or local government entity or may need to return fees received or waive fees to be received from such government entity for up to two years.
The Political Contributions Policy is designed to ensure that Political Contributions (as defined below) by Supervised Persons do not violate the Pay-to-Play Rule in addition to other state or local laws, which generally limit the amount of Political Contributions that advisers and their Supervised Persons may make to state and local government officials, candidates and political parties.
The Political Contributions Policy places certain restrictions and obligations on Supervised Persons in connection with their Political Contributions and Solicitation Activities (as defined herein). The policy prohibits any direct or indirect Political Contributions to any officials or candidates in the United States that are intended to or may appear to influence the investment decisions (e.g., the awarding of investment management contracts) of those entities

affiliated, directly or indirectly, with those officials.    The policy also governs all Political Contributions made in the Firm’s name or on the Firm’s behalf.

1.
Definitions
For purposes of this Political Contributions policy, the following definitions apply:
“Political Contribution” means a contribution to any candidate or official for federal, state or local public office. Specifically, a Political Contribution is any gift, subscription, loan, advance, deposit of money or thing of value made for the purpose of supporting a candidate for or influencing an election to office. This includes, for example, repaying a candidate’s campaign debt incurred in connection with any such election or paying the transition or inaugural expenses of the successful candidate for any such election. “Political Contribution” also includes “in-kind” and monetary contributions to a candidate or official, as well as indirect contributions (e.g., contributions made at the behest of a Supervised Person through a family member or friend). This term includes contributions made to a political action committee (as defined below).
“Political Fundraising” means to fundraise and/or communicate, directly or indirectly, for the purpose of obtaining or arranging a Political Contribution or otherwise facilitate the Political Contributions made by other parties.
“Political Action Committee” or “PAC” means an organization that raises money privately to influence elections or legislation. Contribution to a PAC may not be prohibited, but in all instances, Supervised Persons must obtain prior approval of such Political Contributions to PACs from the CCO. Any questions regarding whether a contribution to an organization requires pre-clearance under this policy should be directed to the CCO.
“Solicitation Activity” means coordinating, or soliciting any person or PAC to make, any (i) Political Contributions; or (ii) payments to a political party of a state or locality where the Firm is providing or seeking to provide investment advisory services to a government entity.

2.
Pre-Clearance and Disclosure
Supervised Persons are required to disclose Political Contributions made by themselves and any family member living in the same household or to whom the Supervised Person provides material financial support, within the past two years at the time of hire and annually thereafter in a questionnaire distributed to the Supervised Person by the Firm.
Supervised Persons and any family member living in the same household or to whom the Supervised Person provides material financial support, must obtain prior written approval from the CCO before making any Political Contribution to or participating in any political Solicitation Activity on behalf of any political candidate, official, party or organization. A Supervised Person may request approval from the CCO by completing and submitting a “Political Contribution Approval Form” ( Appendix E ). The CCO will keep a copy of any such approvals and a summary of the rationale for such approvals in the records of the Firm.

3.
Corporate Contributions
Supervised Persons may not use personal or corporate funds to make Political Contributions on behalf of or in the name of the Firm. Further, the Firm will not reimburse Political Contributions made by Supervised Persons. All requests for Political Contributions to be made on behalf of or in the name of the Firm should be directed to the CCO.

- 9 -

4.
Charitable Contributions Distinguished

5.
Contributions to a charity are not considered Political Contributions unless made to, through, in the name of or to a fund controlled by a federal, state or local candidate or official. This policy is not intended to impede legitimate, charitable fund-raising activities. Any questions regarding whether an organization is a charity should be directed to the CCO. If deemed appropriate and does not cause a conflict of interest, Bramshill may match up to $500 of any charitable donation made by a Supervised Person. Bramshill, nor any Supervised Person, may not contribute more than $250 to any ERISA related entity. International Contributions
Political Contributions by the Firm or Supervised Persons to politically connected individuals or entities, anywhere in the world, with the intention of influencing such individuals or entities for business purposes are strictly prohibited. For more information, please refer to sections of the Firm’s compliance manual on the FCPA and UK Bribery Act.

III.
Prevention and Detection of Insider Trading
The Firm’s business may require Supervised Persons and Access Persons to deal with highly confidential or sensitive information. The misuse of such information, which is also known as material non-public information, may violate federal and state securities laws as well as other regulatory requirements. Such misuse may also damage the reputation and financial position of the Firm and its Supervised Persons and Access Persons and therefore must be avoided.
The misuse of material non-public information is generally known as “insider trading”. Insider trading is not explicitly defined in securities laws; however, it has been interpreted to mean trading on the basis of material non-public information for profit or to avoid loss. Securities laws have been interpreted to prohibit trading while in possession of material non- public information, whether received directly or indirectly or communicating material non-public information to others in breach of a fiduciary duty.
The Firm forbids all Supervised Persons and Access Persons from trading for the Firm, on behalf of the Clients, oneself or for others on the basis of material non-public information. Furthermore, communicating material non-public information to others, except as provided below, is expressly forbidden. The Firm’s policy extends to activities within and outside a Supervised Person’s and Access Person’s relationship with the Firm.
Violations of this policy may include stringent penalties, in addition to disciplinary actions that may be taken by the Firm. Supervised Persons and Access Persons may face monetary penalties of up to three times the illicit profits gained or losses avoided, as well as disgorgement of profits or losses avoided from such transactions, disbarment from the securities industry and/or incarceration. In addition, the Firm may face monetary penalties and reputational damage.
It is the responsibility of each Supervised Person and Access Person to notify the CCO immediately if they have come into possession of material non-public information. If a Supervised Person or Access Person has questions as to whether he or she is in possession of material non-public information, the Supervised Person or Access Person should consult with the CCO. For more information, please refer to the section on material non-public information in the Firm’s compliance manual.



IV.
Personal Trading Policies and Procedures
Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act requires the Firm’s Code to impose certain restrictions on the personal securities trading of Supervised Persons and Access Persons and any family member living in the same household or to whom the Supervised Person or Access Person provides material financial support. Such restrictions include obtaining pre-approval for certain trades or private transactions and reporting certain trading activities and Securities holdings.
Pursuant to the Rule, the following Personal Trading Policy is designed to prevent potential legal, business or ethical conflicts and to minimize the risk of unlawful trading in any Personal Trading Account and guard against the misuse of confidential information. All personal trading and other activities of Supervised Persons and Access Persons and any family member living in the same household or to whom the Supervised Person or Access Person provides material financial support, must avoid any conflict or perceived conflict with the interests of the Firm, the Clients and the investors in the Clients.
Supervised Persons are expected to devote their time during the course of the business day to the business of the Firm. The Firm discourages, and monitors for, excessive personal trading that would distract Supervised Persons from their daily work responsibilities.
A.
Pre-Clearance Procedures
Supervised Persons and Access Persons must complete and deliver to the CCO the Firm’s Personal Securities Trading Approval Form ( Appendix F ) before executing any transaction in a Personal Trading Account. If the CCO intends to trade in his Personal Trading Account, he will submit the Personal Securities Trading Approval Form to the CEO, who will carry out the responsibilities applicable to the CCO, as described further below. The CCO shall retain all Personal Securities Trading Approval Form, with such forms indicating whether Supervised Persons’ or Access Persons’ requests for pre-clearance have been approved or denied. When submitting requests, Supervised Persons and Access Persons are required to certify that they do not possess material non-public information or have any other reason preventing them from engaging in the requested transaction.
The CCO will promptly notify a Supervised Person or Access Person of the Firm’s approval or denial of the requested transaction by sending notification to the Supervised Person or Access Person. Once pre-clearance for a transaction is granted, the transaction must be executed within 3 days of approval. If the transaction is not executed or is only partially executed within the approved timeframe, a new pre-clearance request must be submitted to the CCO prior to executing or continuing the transaction.
All notifications of approval or denial of pre-clearance to enter into a personal Securities transaction issued by the CCO are confidential. Supervised Persons and Access Persons are prohibited from disclosing such approvals or denials to other Supervised Persons or Access Persons.
B.
Securities and Instruments that Require Pre-Clearance
Supervised Persons and Access Persons must obtain pre-clearance in writing from the CCO for any personal securities transaction before completing the transaction.
Transactions involving exempt Securities (as discussed below) do not require pre- clearance from the CCO. However, any interest in a limited offering, initial public offering,

Private Placement, interest in a private fund (i.e., hedge fund or private equity fund) or interest in a private company all require pre-clearance.
C.
Exempt Securities
The restrictions of the Code shall not apply to: (i) purchases or sales in any Non- Discretionary Account; (ii) purchases that are part of any broker-assisted dividend reinvestment plan, (iii) direct investment program; (iv) purchases effected upon the exercise of rights issued by an issuer or company pro-rata to all holders of a class of Securities to the extent such rights were acquired from such issuer or company or the sale of such rights; or (v) purchases or sales of shares issued by mutual funds (that are not offered by the Firm); (vi) purchases or sales of shares issued by ETFs and (vii) diversified ETFs.
D.
Personal Trading Accounts
Supervised Persons and Access Persons are required to report to the CCO, upon hire and at least annually thereafter, all Personal Trading Accounts of the Supervised Person or Access Person and all Securities held in these accounts. Additionally, upon opening or closing a Personal Trading Account, Supervised Persons and Access Persons are required to notify the CCO accordingly by email or in writing. Each Supervised Person and Access Person shall authorize duplicate copies of all account statements relating to such Personal Trading Accounts to be sent to the CCO or the Firm’s designated third party and shall report all private securities transactions that are not reflected in the account statements of such Personal Trading Accounts to the CCO promptly.
E.
Restricted List
In general, a Restricted List may consist of the Securities of: (i) issuers or companies with respect to which the CCO has been made aware that an Access Person or Supervised Person has received, expects to receive or may be in a position to receive material non-public information;
(ii) issuers or companies on whose board of directors or similar body an Access Person or Supervised Person serves (notwithstanding an “open window” period, during which such issuers or companies are not restricted); (iii) private entities with which the Firm has entered into a Confidentiality Agreement (a “CA”) when information under such agreement may include material non-public information of a public issuer or company; (iv) companies for which any Supervised Person or Access Person has received material non-public information when evaluating hedging strategies or private positions; and (v) other companies that the Firm, Access Persons, Supervised Persons or the Clients should not be trading or in which such investments should not be made for various reasons, as may be determined from time to time by the CCO or management of the Firm.
Any time a Supervised Person or Access Person receives material non-public information (as described in the “Policies and Procedures to Prevent and Detect Insider Trading” section of the Firm’s compliance manual) about a company that has issued publicly traded Securities, that company will be added to the Firm’s Restricted List. Supervised Persons and Access Persons are responsible for contacting the CCO any time that they receive or intend to receive any non- public information about a public company. They are also responsible for notifying the CCO of any other circumstances in which a company should be added to the Restricted List. The CCO shall be responsible for maintaining the Firm’s Restricted List.

1.
Overview
Absent an exception granted by the CCO, Supervised Persons, Access Persons and any family member living in the same household or to whom the Supervised Person or Access Person provides material financial support, are prohibited from trading or otherwise investing in the Securities of issuers or companies that are on the Firm’s Restricted List in Supervised Persons’ and Access Persons’ Personal Trading Accounts or on behalf of a Client’s account until such Security is removed from the Restricted List.
The Restricted List is confidential and may not be disclosed to anyone outside the Firm as it may contain material non-public information. It is therefore vital that Supervised Persons and Access Persons do not disclose the contents of the Restricted List to anyone outside of the Firm or to Supervised Persons or Access Persons who do not have a legitimate need to know, without the prior consent of the CCO.

2.
Contents
The CCO shall maintain the following on the Restricted List: the date a Security was added, the date such Security is expected to be removed; the name of the issuer of such Security; and the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP, if applicable. The CCO shall also maintain a non- distributable version of the Restricted List which contains, in addition to the foregoing, the person who made such determination that the Security should be added to the Restricted List and the material non-public information associated with the Security.

3.
Review
The CCO will review the Restricted List on a regular basis to determine whether any Supervised Persons or Access Persons remain in possession of non-public information. Specifically, the CCO, during the course of his review, will update the Restricted List to reflect additional issuers or companies for which the Firm has material non-public information or those issuers or companies for which the Firm no longer has non-public information. Additionally, an issuer or company can be removed from the Restricted List by the CCO at other times if it can be determined that no Supervised Person or Access Person remains in possession of material non- public information and no Supervised Person or Access Person has any intention of obtaining such information.
If an issuer or company is on the Restricted list because the Firm has entered into a CA with respect to such issuer or company, the issuer or company may be removed from the Restricted List upon: (i) the expiration or termination of the CA; (ii) the announcement of the transaction with respect to which the CA was signed; or (iii) the company’s determination not to pursue the transaction with respect to which the CA was signed, provided that the CCO reasonably concludes that the Firm is not at such time in possession of material non-public information regarding the issuer or company. The CCO should document the reasons an issuer or company has been removed from the Restricted List.
The CCO may, but is not required to, consider the opinion of the Firm’s investment professionals or outside legal counsel in making a determination as to whether an issuer or company should be added or removed from the Restricted List.
F.
Investments in Limited Offerings and Initial Public Offerings
No Supervised Person and Access Person shall acquire, directly or indirectly, any Beneficial Ownership in any limited offering or initial public offering (an “IPO”) without first

obtaining prior approval of the CCO in order to preclude any possibility of the Supervised Person or Access Person profiting improperly from his or her position with Firm. The CCO shall obtain from the Supervised Person or Access Person the full details of the proposed transaction and decide whether any Clients have any foreseeable interest in purchasing such security.
G.
Cryptocurrencies, Initial Coin Offerings, Tokens and Other Digital Assets
Decentralized virtual currency or cryptocurrency platforms operate under a variety of different structures, primarily using a distributed ledger system. A single-facet cryptocurrency is generally considered a “commodity” and thus falls outside the definition of a “security” under
U.S. federal securities laws. Therefore, the Company’s personal trading policy does not directly apply to cryptocurrencies, except to the extent they are being used to facilitate an underlying transaction involving a security (as described further in the paragraph below). An Employee seeking to acquire, for example, Bitcoin or Ether on an exchange using a flat currency (e.g., USD, EUR, GBP) is required to notify the CCO.
An initial coin offering or “ICO” is a method of fundraising, similar to crowdfunding, for a new venture wherein investors obtain interests in the form of coins or tokens in exchange for legal tender or another established cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or Ether. In this situation, the coin or token (i.e., the interest in the venture) may be considered a security and therefore treated the same as a traditional private investment under the Company’s personal trading policy. If an Employee seeks to make an investment, regardless of the flat or virtual currency used to fund the transaction, with an expectation of profit derived from the managerial efforts of others, then the coin or token is likely a security and preapproval and ongoing reporting is therefore required.
Accordingly, prior to participating in any ICO or investment (virtual or otherwise) with a profits interest contingent on the management efforts of others, Employees are required to submit a preapproval request to the CCO. The CCO will undertake an analysis to determine whether a securities transaction is implicated, whether a conflict of interest or other compliance concern exists, and whether approval would be consistent with the Company’s policies and procedures.
The CCO may request additional information as deemed necessary to make such a determination and Employees must submit a new preapproval request for each subsequent or add-on ICO related investment. To the extent an Employee seeks to take an active role with respect to any ICO or cryptography related venture, he or she may also be required to seek preapproval as an outside business activity.
H.
Reporting
In order to provide the Firm with information to enable it to determine with reasonable assurance any indications or the appearance of a conflict of interest with the investment activity of the Clients, each Supervised Person and Access Person must submit the following reports to the CCO showing all transactions in which the Supervised Person or Access Person and any family member living in the same household or to whom the Supervised Person or Access Person provides material financial support, has or by reason of such transaction acquires, any direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership. 3 The CCO will notify all Supervised Persons and Access



3 For purposes of these procedures where the activity involves the Personal Trading Accounts or trading activity of the CCO, copies of any notice, account statement or report will be given to the CEO who will be responsible for approving trades requested in any Personal Trading Account of the CCO.

Persons of their reporting obligations in connection with Rule 17j-1(d)(4) of the Investment Company Act. The CCO will maintain a record of all Supervised Persons and Access Persons, currently or within the past five years, who are or were required to make the following reports in the Firm’s principal office. All of the following reports furnished by Supervised Persons and Access Persons will be maintained in the Firm’s principal office for at least five years after the end of the fiscal year in which the report was provided.

1.
Quarterly Transaction Reports
Supervised Persons and Access Persons are required to instruct their brokers to send to the Firm duplicate account statements for all Personal Trading Accounts of themselves and any family member living in the same household or to whom the Supervised Person or Access Person provides material financial support. Such statements must be received by the CCO or a designated third-party, no later than thirty days after the end of each calendar quarter, and shall be considered sufficient in satisfying such Supervised Persons’ and Access Persons’ obligations with regard to quarterly transaction reporting. No additional certification is required. If their trades do not occur through a broker-dealer (i.e., purchase of a private investment fund), such transactions shall be reported separately at the time of the transaction and a record of such investment will be retained accordingly.
Consistent with the Advisers Act, the quarterly transaction reports shall contain at least the following information for each transaction in a Reportable Security in which the Supervised Person or Access Person had, or as a result of the transaction acquired, any direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership: (i) the date of the transaction, the title and, as applicable, the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, the interest rate and maturity date (if applicable), the number of shares and the principal amount of each involved; (ii) the nature of the transaction ( i.e. , purchase, sale or any other type of acquisition or disposition); (iii) the price of the Reportable Security at which the transaction was effected; (iv) the name of the broker, dealer or bank with or through which the transaction was effected; and (v) the date that the report is submitted.

2.
Initial and Annual Holdings Reports
New Supervised Persons and Access Persons will be required to report all of their personal securities holdings no later than ten days after the commencement of their employment. Upon the start of employment, the CCO will request the initial holdings report, which must be submitted within 10 days of an Access Persons’ start date. The initial holdings report must be current as of a date not more than 45 days prior to the date the person becomes a Supervised Person or Access Person with the Firm. Annually thereafter, existing Supervised Persons and Access Persons are required to provide the Firm with a complete list of Reportable Securities holdings, no later than 45 days after calendar year end.
Each holdings report (both the initial and annual) must contain, at a minimum: (i) the title and type of Security and, as applicable, the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, number of shares and principal amount of each Reportable Security in which the Supervised Person or Access Person has any direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership; (ii) the name of any broker, dealer or bank with which the Supervised Person or Access Person maintains an account in which any Securities are held for the Supervised Person or Access Person’s direct or indirect benefit; and (iii) the date the Supervised Person or Access Person submits the report. This information can be completed by providing the Firm with the most recent brokerage statement of

the Supervised Person or Access Person and their associated family members or dependents, whereby such statements list the requisite details of such holdings.
All Supervised Persons and Access Persons must certify to the completeness and accuracy of their initial and annual holdings reports via the Employee Compliance Questionnaire, which must be completed upon hire and annually thereafter.
I.
Review
On at least a quarterly basis, or at any other time as may be prudent, the CCO shall review the personal trading activity of all Supervised Persons and Access Persons. The CCO will closely monitor the investment activity of Supervised Persons and Access Persons, including a reconciliation of initial, annual and quarterly reporting, to detect any abuses, including violations of the preapproval requirements specified herein.
J.
Remedial Actions
The Firm takes the potential for conflicts of interest caused by personal trading very seriously. The Firm reserves the right to prevent purchases or sales of a Security by a Supervised Person or Access Person for any reason it deems appropriate. In the event that the Firm’s personal trading policies are not complied with, the Firm reserves the right to impose various sanctions on Supervised Persons and Access Persons that violate the Code. Such remedial action may include restrictions on future personal trading by the Supervised Person or Access Person, monetary fines, disgorgement of profits, reprimand or termination.

V.
Bad Actor Rule
The Bad Actor Rule, effective September 23, 2013, prohibits the Firm from relying on the Rule 506 exemption if the Firm, or any person covered by the Rule, has had a disqualifying event as of the Rule’s effective date. For purposes of this Rule, “covered persons” include: (i) the Firm, including its predecessors and affiliates; (ii) directors and certain officers;(iii) general partners and managing members of the Firm; (iv) 20% beneficial owners of any of the Clients (based on voting power); (v) investment managers and principals of pooled investment funds;
(vi) promoters and persons compensated for soliciting investors as well as the general partners, directors, officers; and (vii) managing members of any compensated solicitor.
A.
Definitions
For purposes of this policy, the following definitions apply:
“Disqualifying Events” include:
“Criminal convictions” in connection with the purchase or sale of a Security, making of a false filing with the SEC or arising out of the conduct of certain types of financial intermediaries. The criminal conviction must have occurred within 10 years of the proposed sale of Securities (or five years in the case of the issuer or company and its predecessors and affiliated issuers or companies).
“Court injunctions and restraining orders” in connection with the purchase or sale of a Security, making of a false filing with the SEC or arising out of the conduct of certain types of financial intermediaries. The injunction or restraining order must have occurred within five years of the proposed sale of Securities.
“Final orders” from the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, federal banking agencies, the National Credit Union Administration, or state regulators of Securities, insurance, banking, savings associations or credit unions that:
     Bar the issuer or company from associating with a regulated entity, engaging in the business of Securities, insurance or banking or engaging in savings association or credit union activities; or
     Are based on fraudulent, manipulative or deceptive conduct and are issued within 10 years of the proposed sale of Securities.
“Certain SEC disciplinary orders” relating to brokers, dealers, municipal Securities dealers, investment companies and investment advisers and their associated persons.
“SEC cease-and-desist orders” related to violations of certain anti-fraud provisions and registration requirements of the federal Securities laws.
“SEC stop orders” and orders suspending the Regulation A exemption issued within five years of the proposed sale of Securities.
“Suspension or expulsion” from membership in a self-regulatory organization (SRO) or from association with an SRO member.
“Order” is a written directive issued pursuant to statutory authority and procedures, including an order of denial, exemption, suspension or revocation. Unless included in an order, this term does not include special stipulations, undertakings or agreements relating to payments, limitations on activity or other restrictions.

“Proceeding” means a formal administrative or civil action initiated by a governmental agency, self-regulatory organization or foreign financial regulatory authority; a felony criminal indictment or information (or equivalent formal charge); or a misdemeanor criminal information (or equivalent formal charge). This term does not include other civil litigation, investigations or arrests or similar charges brought in the absence of a formal criminal indictment or information (or equivalent formal charge).
“Self-Regulatory Organization (SRO)” is any national securities or commodities exchange, registered securities association or registered clearing agency. For example, the Chicago Board of Trade (“CBOT”), Chicago Options Exchange (“CBOE”), the Financial Industry Regulatory Association (“FINRA”) and New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) are self-regulatory organizations.
“U.S. Postal Service false representation order” is a scheme or device for obtaining money or property through mail by means of false representations.
B.
Verification by Covered Persons
The Firm will take reasonable steps to ensure that no covered person has been the subject of a Disqualifying Event. Reasonable steps include a factual inquiry made to all covered persons. This may be in the form of questionnaires, certifications, contractual representations, covenants and undertakings. The Firm may also wish to consult publicly available databases.
The Rule provides an exception from disqualification when the Firm can show it did not know and, in the exercise of reasonable care, could not have known that a covered person with a Disqualifying Event participated in the offering. The Rule does not apply to events that occurred prior to September 23, 2013, the effective date; however the Firm must disclose to investors any Disqualifying Events by covered persons prior to the effective date of the Rule.
The Firm is required to carry out a factual inquiry of its covered persons in a reasonable timeframe in relation to the circumstances of the offering and the participants. An initial inquiry by the Firm, verified annually thereafter, shall be considered reasonable, provided there are no other indicia to suggest a covered person has been the subject of a disqualifying event.
C.
Remedial Actions
In the event that a covered person has had a Disqualifying Event, the Firm will be prohibited from relying on the Rule 506 exemption unless certain actions are taken to remedy the disqualification. Remedial actions may include terminating or reassigning disqualified individuals, restructuring governance and control arrangements, terminating engagement with a placement agent or other covered financial intermediary, postponing or foregoing capital raising or pursuing alternative capital raising methods, buying out or otherwise inducing 20% beneficial owners to reduce their ownership positions or preventing bad actors from becoming 20% beneficial owners (i.e., exercising rights of first refusal and excluding bad actors from financing rounds).


Code of Ethics
Initial Certification and Acknowledgment Form Bramshill Investments, LLC

Appendix A

The undersigned supervised person (the “Supervised Person”) of Bramshill Investments, LLC (the “Firm”) acknowledges that he or she received a copy of the Code of Ethics and the Appendices attached thereto (collectively, the “Code”) and certifies that he or she has read and understands all provisions of the Code and agrees to abide by the provisions contained therein. The Supervised Person understands that observance of the provisions contained in the Code is a material condition of his or her employment by the Firm and that any violation of such provisions by the Supervised Person may subject the Supervised Person to immediate termination by the Firm as well as possible civil or criminal penalties. Any capitalized terms not defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Code.
The undersigned Supervised Person hereby certifies that:
a)
The Supervised Person has disclosed to the Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) all Personal Trading as defined in the Firm’s Code and has completed an initial holdings report;
b)
The Supervised Person has made or will make arrangements to provide to the CCO copies of all account statements relating to Personal Trading Accounts or that he or she will report to the Firm’s CCO, on a quarterly basis, all securities transactions in all Personal Trading Accounts and shall include all required information in such reports;
c)
The Supervised Person has reported all private securities transactions that are not effected through Personal Trading Accounts;
d)
The Supervised Person has reported all outside business activities; and,
e)
The responses provided on the Employee Compliance Questionnaire and all other disclosure forms are truthful and complete and if any such responses cease to be truthful or complete, the Supervised Person will promptly report any changes to the CCO.




Signature of Supervised Person



Name of Supervised Person    Date


Code of Ethics
Annual Certification and Acknowledgment Form Bramshill Investments, LLC

Appendix B

The undersigned Supervised Person (the “Supervised Person”) of Bramshill Investments, LLC (the “Firm”) acknowledges that he or she received and read a copy of the Code of Ethics and the Appendices attached thereto (collectively, the “Code”) and certifies that he or she understands the provisions of the Code and has during the past year complied with and will continue to abide by, the provisions of the Code. The Supervised Person understands that observance of the provisions contained in the Code is a material condition of his or her employment with the Firm and that any violation of such provisions by the Supervised Person may subject the Supervised Person to immediate termination by the Firm as well as possible civil or criminal penalties. Any capitalized terms not defined herein shall have the meanings ascribed to them in the Code.
The undersigned Supervised Person hereby certifies that:
a)
The Supervised Person has disclosed to the CCO all Personal Trading Accounts as defined in the Firm’s Code and has provided to the CCO copies of all account statements relating to Personal Trading Accounts or has reported to the Firm’s CCO, on a quarterly basis, all securities transactions in all Personal Trading Accounts, which reports include all required information.
b)
The Supervised Person has reported all private securities transactions that are not effected through Personal Trading Accounts during the last year (or since the date of hire if less than one year).
c)
The Supervised Person has reported all outside business activities.
d)
The responses provided on his or her Employee Compliance Questionnaire and all other disclosure forms (a copy of each of which is attached) continue to be truthful and complete or that the Supervised Person has reported all changes to the CCO and if any such responses cease to be truthful or complete, the Supervised Person will promptly report any changes to the CCO.




Signature of Supervised Person



Name of Supervised Person    Date


Outside Business Activity Approval Form Bramshill Investments, LLC

Appendix C


Please complete a separate copy of this form for each new Outside Affiliation or Activity for which you would like approval. You may also be asked to provide additional information to assist in evaluating this request.


Name of the Entity:
Is the Entity publicly traded?
Yes    No
Does the Supervised Person expect to have access or receive material, non-public information regarding the Entity?
Yes    No
What is the nature of business or activity of the Entity?




Please describe any financial interest (including equity ownership interest) that you will have in the Entity or compensation that you will receive from the Entity.



Approximate hours per month you will devote to the Entity During business hours:     

After business hours:     


Your Title or Function with the Entity (including whether you will have an active role in management):



Date affiliation or activity will begin:

Do you know of any significant adverse information about the Entity or any conflict between the Entity and the Firm?
Yes    No
If yes, please explain:




Do you have or control a brokerage account for the above Entity?




Are you involved in making investment decisions for or on behalf of this Entity?






Supervised Person Signature


CCO Signature



Print Name



Print Name



Date



Date


Gift and Entertainment Approval Form Bramshill Investments, LLC

Supervised Person:              Date:              Type:

Appendix D

Gift Entertainment
Description:



Provider:


Did Provider participate? Yes
No

Recipient:


Did Recipient participate? Yes
No

Estimated Value:         
I certify that this description is a true and accurate depiction of the gift or event and that receipt of this gift or attendance of this event shall create no conflict of interest.



    

Signature of Chief Compliance Officer

Signature of Supervised Person



    

Print Name

Print Name



    

Date

Date


Political Contribution Approval Form Bramshill Investments, LLC

Appendix E


Supervised Person Name:              Propose d Contribution is intended for:         Individual / Organization Name of Individual/Organization                  If Individual, Candidate’s Current Title and Office    


If Organization, Organization Type (Political Party, Action Committee, etc.)




What Office/Position is this candidate running for?





Date of the primary of general election for this position? Candidate’s City/State
Are you eligible to vote for this individual?



Yes    No

    
Have you made prior contributions to this Organization/Candidate within the last 24 months?
Yes No


If “Yes”, how much have you previously contributed and when?



Dollar Amount of Proposed Contribution    $


I attest that the above disclosed Political Contribution(s) are complete and accurate and that I have included all that I am currently involved with.


Supervised Person Signature(s)
Date     


Political Contribution has been approved: YES NO



Authorized Signature(s)_     

Date     


Personal Securities Trading Approval Form Bramshill Investments, LLC

Name:          Date:         
Issuer: Ticker/CUSIP:
Details of Proposed Transaction: Buy    Sell    Short
Type of security (e.g., note, common stock, preferred stock):



Quantity of shares or unit: Approximate price per share/units:

Appendix F

Account for which transaction will be made (Please include broker/placement agent name and account number):



Is this an IPO allocation? Yes    No
Is this security a Private Placement? Yes    No
To the Supervised Person’s knowledge, is there any order pending execution in the security for a Client?
Yes    No
To the Supervised Person’s knowledge, is the Firm considering any trades in the security for a Client?
Yes    No
I certify that I am not in possession of any material non-public information relating to the security for which I am seeking pre-clearance.
Signature:          Date:         

Compliance Department Use Only:
Comments:






Transaction Approved Transaction Denied

Signature:
    
Name:
    
Title:
    
Date:
    


Code of Ethics


In accordance with Rule 204A-1 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and with Rule 17j-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, Westfield Capital Management Company, L.P. (“Westfield”) has developed and implemented this Code of Ethics (the “Code”) to set forth standards for business conduct and personal activities. The Code serves many purposes. Among them are to:

educate employees of Westfield’s expectations and the laws governing their conduct;
remind employees that they are in a position of trust and must act with complete propriety at all times;
protect the reputation of Westfield;
guard against violations of securities laws;
protect Westfield’s clients by deterring misconduct; and
establish procedures for employees to follow so Westfield can assess whether employees are complying with our ethical principles.

Key terms used throughout this Code are defined in Appendix A.

Persons Covered by the Code
All permanent Westfield employees are covered under the Code. All employees are deemed an “Access Person”. Compliance will deem an Access Person also as an “Investment Person” if the person makes or participates in making investment recommendations for client accounts. Investment Persons may be required to provide additional information for certain personal activities and may be subject to additional transactional restrictions than non-Investment Persons. At any time, employees may check their status by contacting Compliance.

Temporary employees may be subject to either all or certain provisions within the Code. Compliance may also deem a temporary employee an Access Person.

Waivers to Code
The Chief Compliance Officer (the “CCO”) and the Compliance Officer (the “CO”) have the authority to grant written waivers of the provisions of this Code in appropriate instances. However, Westfield expects that waivers will be granted only in rare instances. Compliance will document any waivers granted. No waivers shall be granted on any provisions of the Code that are mandated by the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”).
  
Ethical Principles
As a fiduciary for its clients, Westfield owes its clients the utmost duty of loyalty, good faith, and fair dealing. As an employee of Westfield, you are obligated to uphold these important duties. Westfield expects every employee to uphold these principles when acting on behalf of the firm or in any capacity that may affect the firm’s advisory business.
 
Employees must act with honesty, integrity, and professionalism in all aspects of our business.
Employees are to place the interests of Westfield’s clients first, at all times.
Employees must not take advantage of their positions or of investment opportunities that would otherwise be available for Westfield's clients.
Employees must treat all information concerning clients (e.g., trading, holdings, investment recommendations, and financial situations) confidential.
Employees must exercise independent, unbiased judgment in the investment decision-making process.

Standards of Business Conduct
The following standards govern all conduct, whether or not the conduct is covered by more specific provisions in the Code or other Westfield policies.

Employees must comply with applicable federal securities laws.

Employees must not:

Defraud any Westfield client in any manner;

Mislead any client, including making a statement that omits material facts or passing along information that is baseless or suspected to be untrue;

Engage in any act, practice or course of conduct which operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit upon any client (e.g., creating the false appearance of active trading in client accounts);

Engage in any manipulative practice with respect to any client; or

Engage in any manipulative practice with respect to securities, including price or market manipulation. This includes rumor mongering, which is illegal and can lead to allegations of market manipulation.

Employees are prohibited from inappropriately favoring the interests of one client over another as it would constitute a breach of fiduciary duty.

Employees must not use for their own direct or indirect benefit (or the benefit of anyone other than Westfield’s clients) information about: (a)Westfield's trading or investment recommendations for client accounts, (b) our relationships with our clients, or (c) our relationships with the brokerage community. Personal securities transactions must be conducted in accordance with applicable provisions in the Code.

Employees must comply with the spirit and letter of the Code and other internal policies. Technical compliance with the requirements in the Code or other policies does not insulate you from scrutiny for any actions that can create the appearance of a violation or the appearance that you are circumventing the rules.

Employees must avoid any actual or potential conflicts of interest with Westfield clients. Employees will be required to complete certifications or questionnaires on such matters. It is the employee’s responsibility to promptly notify Compliance of any changes to their responses.
   
Employees must ensure that any personal activities (e.g., personal trading) conducted during work hours do not interfere (or appears to interfere) with their daily work.

Employees must disclose any family members who have senior level positions at public or private companies.

Employees must not accept from or give to clients or other business contacts any gifts or business entertainment that would present an actual or potential conflict of interest, or would be viewed as improper. (See Westfield’s policy on Gifts and Business Entertainment)

Employees may not recommend, implement, or consider any securities transaction for client accounts without having disclosed any material business or personal relationship (e.g., family member is a senior employee) with or beneficial ownership or other material interest in the issuer or its affiliates, to Compliance. If Compliance deems the disclosed interest to present a material conflict, the employee may not participate in any decision-making process regarding that issuer.

Employees must act in the best interest of Westfield’s clients regarding execution and other costs paid by clients for brokerage services. This includes disclosing to Compliance any personal investment in any business or personal (e.g., family member) relationship with brokers utilized by Westfield for client transactions or research services. All employees must strictly adhere to Westfield’s policies and procedures regarding brokerage services, including those on best execution, research services, and directed brokerage.

Employees must disclose to Compliance any personal investments or other interests in third party service providers if the employees negotiate or make decisions on behalf of the firm with such third party service providers. If any employee has such an interest, Compliance may prohibit the person from negotiating or making decisions regarding Westfield’s business with those companies.

Employees are prohibited from making referrals to clients (e.g., attorneys, accountants) if the employee will benefit in any way.

Reporting Unethical or Illegal Behavior
If at any time an employee has knowledge of any behavior that might be viewed as unethical, illegal or in violation of internal policies, the employee must report such behavior immediately. Reports should be made to the CCO and/or the CO. In the case of an actual or suspected violation by the CCO, employees should notify the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”).

How to Report . To promote employee reporting, while protecting the employee and maintaining their identity in confidence, Westfield offers different methods for reporting.

Contact the CCO and/or CO
Employees may report actual or suspected violations by contacting the CCO and/or the CO directly (or the CEO if the suspected violation is by the CCO). Employees are not required to report such matters to their senior managers before contacting the CCO and/or CO.

Report through Schwab Compliance Technologies
Reports can be submitted through Schwab Compliance Technologies ( https://client.schwabct.com ) by clicking on Confidential Reporting Form (Whistleblower). Such reports are accessible by the CCO only. All reports are anonymous.

What to Report . Employees should report any: a) noncompliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, or internal policies such as the Code; b) fraud or illegal acts involving any aspect of the firm’s business; c) material misstatements in regulatory filings, internal books and records, client records or reports, and financial statements; d) activity that is harmful to clients; and e) material deviations from required controls and procedures that safeguard clients and the firm.

Usage of Information Provided . The CCO will take the steps deemed necessary under the circumstances to investigate relevant facts surrounding the information provided, and to take any appropriate corrective measures. Reporting employees typically will not be notified of any actions the firm is taking in response to their comments.

Guidance . Employees are encouraged to seek guidance from the CCO and/or the CO with respect to any violation and to refrain from any action or transaction that might lead to the appearance of a violation.

Confidentiality . Any report created shall be treated confidentially. Best efforts will be used to ensure that specific details of the report cannot be used to identify the reporting employee.

Retaliation. No employee who in good faith reports a suspected unethical or illegal business practice will be subject to retaliation or discipline for having done so, even if such reports ultimately establish that no violation had occurred.

SEC Whistleblower Program
Westfield encourages employees to report unethical or illegal behavior to the firm first, but employees also have an option of directly reporting actual or suspected violations to the SEC’s Whistleblower Office. The SEC offers awards and incentives to individuals who voluntarily provide original information that leads to a successful enforcement. There are very specific criteria and procedures that apply when making such a report to the SEC. Regardless of the employee’s reporting method, Westfield will utilize the framework described directly above with regards to reported information.

The SEC encourages individuals to submit information in writing by filling out their questionnaire at https://denebleo.sec.gov/TCRExternal/disclaimer.xhtml . Alternatively, you may submit information by mail to the Office of the Whistleblower at 100 F Street, NE, Mail Stop 5971, Washington, D.C. 20549 or by fax to (703) 813-9322.

Employees have the option to directly report actual or suspected violations to the SEC during and after their employment with Westfield.
Personal Trading
(All references to Access Persons in this section include family members.)

Preclearance Requirement
Access Persons must obtain approval from Compliance prior to entering into any personal securities transactions in a Covered Security for a Covered Account, as defined in Appendix A. Written approval must be received prior to executing any personal security transaction.

With limited exceptions, approvals are valid until 4:00pm on the day they were granted. Approvals for certain transactions (e.g., private offering of securities) may be extended with the CCO’s or CO’s permission. In such instances, the approval is valid until either the transaction is executed or revoked by Compliance. Access Persons are responsible for notifying Compliance when the transaction has been either completed or cancelled.

Because Westfield primarily supervises domestic growth equities, certain transactions and securities pose minimal conflicts with our clients. As such, the following securities also are exempt from the preclearance requirement. (Reporting requirements still apply). If a security or transaction is not listed directly below or excluded from the Covered Security definition in Appendix A, then it must be precleared.

ETFs and ETNs that are not short the market, a sector, industry, etc.

Closed-end mutual funds

Gifting or transferring shares from one account to another

Municipal bonds

Submitting Preclearance Requests
Preclearance requests for securities transactions should be submitted through the online personal transactions system, Schwab Compliance Technologies (the “personal trading system”). Compliance will set up each Access Person in the system and provide training. It is important that Access Persons not share their passwords with anyone as they are responsible for the information created, modified, and deleted from the system under their login information.

Should an Access Person wish to make a personal security transaction but does not have access to the system, the person must contact a senior member of Compliance for preclearance of the transaction. Compliance will enter the transaction into the system, which will send an approval or denial, via email, to the requestor. It is the Access Person’s responsibility to ensure that the trade information contained in the email confirmation is complete and accurate (i.e., transaction type, shares requested, brokerage account, and security name) prior to entering into the transaction.

Private Offerings
Any requests to enter into private offerings of securities must be first discussed with a senior member of Compliance. At a minimum, Compliance will request a copy of the offering documents, if applicable and available, in order to obtain the security/issuer name, investment amount, and target investment date. If the transaction is approved, Compliance will set up the security in the personal trading system, and the employee may then submit the preclearance request. Access Persons must receive a written approval (either from the personal trading system or email from Compliance) before entering into the transaction.




Reviewing Preclearance Requests
Preclearance requests are not reviewed until after 9:30am. Preclearance requests submitted prior to 9:30am will be placed in pending status. Preclearance requests that go into pending after 3:00pm will be reviewed on a best efforts basis. If a response is not received by 4:00pm, Access Persons are not permitted to enter into the trade and must re-enter the preclearance request the following day.

Compliance has full authority to:
revoke a preclearance any time after it is granted;
require an Access Person to close out or reverse a transaction; and
not provide an explanation for a preclearance denial or revocation, especially when the reasons are confidential in nature.

Restrictions to Personal Securities Transactions
The following restrictions and limitations have been placed on personal securities transactions to address actual or possible conflicts arising from personal trading activities.

Material, Non-public Information. Access Persons who possess or have been made aware of material, non-public information regarding a security, or the issuer of a security may not engage in any transaction of such security or related security. (See Westfield’s policy on Insider Trading.)

Market Manipulation. Access Persons may not engage in any transactions intended to raise, lower, or maintain the price of any security.

Market Timing and Excessive Trading. Access Persons must not engage in excessive trading or market timing activities with respect to any mutual fund. When placing trades in any mutual fund, whether the trade is placed directly in a personal account, 401(k) account, deferred compensation account, account held with an intermediary or any other account, Access Persons must comply with the rules set forth in the fund’s prospectus and SAI regarding the frequency and timing of such trades.

Transactions with Clients. Access Persons are prohibited from knowingly selling to, or purchasing from, a client any security or other property, except publicly–traded securities issued by such client.

Transactions Likely to Raise Conflicts with Duties to Clients. Access Persons may not enter into any transactions that: a) may have a negative impact on their attention to their responsibilities to the firm or our clients (e.g., trading frequently in personal accounts), or b) overextend their financial resources or commit them to financial liability that they are unable to meet.

Derivatives, Warrants and Rights . Access Persons are prohibited from trading options, forwards, swaps, warrants, rights and any other similar security in their Covered Accounts.

Private and Limited Offerings (e.g., IPOs). Typically, if client accounts are participating in a private or limited offering, Access Persons may not participate in the same offering. With prior approval from the CCO or CO, Access Persons may participate alongside client accounts but the client’s interest will always come first. This includes Access Persons invested in Westfield’s LPs (e.g., Micro Cap Fund).

Short Selling and Short ETFs/ETNs . Access Persons are prohibited from short selling securities in their Covered Accounts. This applies to ETFs/ETNs that are short the market, a sector, industry, etc.

30-Day Holding Period . Covered Security investments made in Covered Accounts must be held for a minimum period of 30 calendar days after purchase (day one starts one day after trade date). ETFs and ETNs are not subject to the 30-day holding period.

Investment Team Sales in Covered Securities
All analysts (defined as sector and research analysts) that own securities in their covered accounts that overlap with their sector universe and are owned in a Westfield strategy managed by Westfield’s Investment Committee must hold such security or securities until they have been fully liquidated from all strategies.  Once the security is fully liquidated, the analyst may sell their personal shares 5 business days following the last client sale.  

All individual portfolio managers that own securities in their covered accounts that overlap with the individual portfolios that they manage, must hold such security or securities until they have been fully liquidated from all client accounts under their management. Once the security is fully liquidated; the portfolio manager may sell their personal shares 5 business days following the last client sale.

The above restrictions do not apply to securities that are held due to client restrictions (e.g., tax considerations, retention for proxy voting, etc.). Any exceptions must be approved by the CCO or a designee. Analysts may continue to trim and/or sell securities for their covered accounts that are not in their sector universe. Portfolio managers may continue to trim/sell securities for their covered accounts that are not held in the portfolios they manage. Any trims/sales will still follow the above personal securities transaction restrictions, front running and blackout periods as applicable.

Front Running and Blackout Periods
Front running is an illegal practice. Access Persons should not enter into a personal security transaction when the Access Person knows, or has reason to believe, that the security or related security: a) has recently been acted upon, b) may in the near future be recommended for action, or c) may in the near future be acted upon by the firm for client accounts.

For Covered Securities that have been traded in client accounts, the blackout period begins five business days before the client trade and ends five days after the last client trade. If the Covered Security was traded for reasons outside of an investment recommendation (e.g., cash flow, rebalancing/dispersion, etc.), the blackout period begins when the trades are placed on the blotter and ends when the trades have been completed. 

For Covered Securities that have been recommended or are “under consideration,” the blackout period begins five business days before the day a security was recommended or placed under consideration and typically ends five business days thereafter. Some securities may remain on the restricted list for longer periods of time. Compliance has full discretion to decide whether a security is restricted and for how long.

ETFs and ETNs are not subject to the blackout periods discussed in this section.

New Employees
All new employees will be required to be in compliance with Westfield’s Code within 10 calendar days from their date of hire (e.g., must cover short positions).

New investment team employees will be allowed 10 calendar days to trim/liquidate securities within their sector universe that overlap with a strategy managed by Westfield’s Investment Committee. However, all other provisions within the Code must be followed (e.g., must follow preclearance requirements, blackout periods apply).

Initial 401(k) allocations, including open-end mutual Funds sub-advised or advised by Westfield do not require preclearance.

Reporting Requirements for Personal Securities Transactions
Unless noted in Exemptions in this section, Access Persons must file the reports described below, even if the person has had no holdings, transactions or accounts to list in the reports.

Most reports are submitted through the personal trading system, which will track the dates and times of submissions. All submissions will remain confidential and will not be accessible by anyone other than Compliance and to the extent necessary to implement and enforce the provisions of the Code or to comply with regulatory or legal requirements.

Access Persons are responsible for reviewing and verifying the information on all of their reports prior to submission. You must promptly speak with Compliance about any errors, omissions or discrepancies on these reports before they are submitted.

Initial and Annual Holdings Reports. Access Persons must submit a report of their holdings in Covered Securities within 10 days after the day they become an Access Person and on an annual basis thereafter. Initial holdings information should be current as of a date no more than 45 days prior to the employee’s date of becoming an Access Person. Annual holding reports should be as of December 31 st , and submitted within 30 days after the calendar year end. For each holding, Access Persons must provide: 1) the title and type of security, 2) as applicable, the exchange ticker symbol or cusip number, 3) the number of shares and principal amount of each reportable security in which the access person has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership, 4) the name of any broker, dealer or bank with which the access person maintains an account in which any securities are held for the access person’s direct or indirect benefit, and 5) the date the access person submits the report.

Quarterly Transaction Reports . Access Persons are required to report Covered Securities transactions for the most recent calendar quarter. Each transaction should indicate: 1) the date of the transaction, the title, and as applicable the exchange ticker symbol or cusip number, interest rate and maturity date, number of shares, and principal amount of each reportable security involved, 2) the nature of the transaction (i.e., purchase, sale or any other type of acquisition or disposition), 3) the price of the security at which the transaction was effected, 4) the name of broker, dealer or bank with or through which the transaction was effected, and 5) the date the access person submits the report. Quarterly transaction reports are due within 30 days after the calendar quarter end.

Initial Investment Account Reports. Access Persons must submit brokerage statements for all accounts held for their direct or indirect benefit within 10 days after the day they become an Access Person. Compliance will review these statements and determine if the accounts would fall under ongoing reporting requirements (i.e., a Covered Account). Statements should be dated no later than 45 days prior to the employee becoming an Access Person.

Quarterly Investment Account Reports. Access Persons must certify to a list of their Covered Accounts (as defined in Appendix A). Quarterly account reports are due within 30 days after the calendar quarter end.

Access Persons must notify Compliance of any new and closed Covered Accounts as soon as reasonably possible. Closed accounts will remain active in the personal trading system and will be subject to applicable reporting requirements described above, unless Compliance has been notified otherwise.

Duplicate Statements or Confirms. Duplicate copies of personal transaction confirmations or account statements are required for Covered Accounts. Copies of such documents must be sent directly to Compliance or through an electronic feed into the personal trading system. Employees with accounts set up to receive electronic feeds in the personal trading system are not required to provide paper copies of confirmations or statements as transactions and positions directly feed into the system. If Compliance does not receive the appropriate electronic data or duplicate confirmations and statements, Compliance will request the documents from the Access Person. This requirement does not satisfy the quarterly or annual reporting requirements outlined above.

Private Investments. A confirmation of the investment with the invested dollar amount must be submitted to Compliance promptly after the investment is made.

Exemptions
The following transactions are exempt from the preclearance and/or reporting requirements discussed previously. Access Persons should be reminded that these exemptions do not absolve them from violations of other Westfield policies, applicable laws and regulations, as well as the spirit of the Code.

No Knowledge or Control . Transactions where the Access Person has no influence, control or knowledge are exempt from preclearance (e.g., corporate or broker actions).

§
Subject to Compliance approval, Access Persons can omit any report with respect to securities held in accounts over which the Access Person had no direct or indirect influence or control.

Managed Accounts. Transactions effected in accounts managed by an external financial adviser are exempt from preclearance and reporting requirements. Access Persons may speak to their adviser about their financial goals and objectives, but they are not permitted to consult with their adviser (or be consulted) on any specific security transactions. To qualify for this exemption, Access Persons must:

Have their financial adviser provide an initial written certification to Westfield on the arrangement and/or provide a copy of the managed account agreement with their financial adviser.

Complete certifications quarterly regarding their influence or control over these accounts.

Annually have their financial adviser provide a written certification to Westfield that they did not consult with their adviser on any specific security transactions and that the adviser did not consult with them on any specific security transactions.

If requested, provide Compliance with copies of holdings and/or transactions made in their account(s).

529 Plans or College Savings Plans. Transactions in 529 Plans or college savings plans are exempt from preclearance and reporting requirements. (Does not apply to Coverdell ESAs that are invested in Covered Securities.)

Automatic Investment Plans. Transactions effected pursuant to an automatic investment plan are exempt from preclearance and reporting requirements.

Prior Employer’s Profit Sharing or Retirement Plans. Transactions executed in a prior employer’s profit sharing or retirement plan are exempt from preclearance and reporting. This exemption does not apply to transactions in reportable securities or to any discretionary brokerage account option that may be available from a former employer. Such transactions/accounts are subject to preclearance and reporting requirements.

Other. Transactions in securities determined by Compliance to present a low potential for impropriety or the appearance of impropriety may be exempt from transactional restrictions and preclearance/reporting requirements. Compliance will review these on a case-by-case basis.
Administration
Approval and Distribution
Compliance will distribute the Code (either as a stand-alone document or as part of the firm’s Compliance Manual) to all employees during the first week of hire and at least annually thereafter. Employees are required to acknowledge their having received, read, and complied with the Code.

Material amendments or material revisions made to this Code will be approved by the CCO and the Management Committee. Upon approval, the Code will be distributed to all employees shortly thereafter. Immaterial amendments do not require Management Committee approval and will be distributed either with material amendments or during the annual distribution period. Employees may be required to complete appropriate acknowledgements after distribution.

Training and Education
Compliance is responsible for coordinating the training and education of employees regarding the Code. All newly hired employees are required to complete a compliance overview session that includes a review of the Code. They also are required to acknowledge that they have attended the new employee training and have received a copy of the Code (typically as part of the firm’s Compliance Manual). Temporary or contract employees will be required to sign a confidentiality agreement and attend a compliance overview session.

Employees are required to attend all training sessions and read any applicable materials that Compliance deems appropriate. On occasion, it may be necessary for certain departments or individuals to receive additional training. Should this be the case, a member of Compliance will coordinate with the appropriate department managers to discuss particular topics and concerns to address at the training session.

Personal Transactions Monitoring
On at least a quarterly basis, a member of Compliance will review and monitor required reports for conformity with all applicable provisions outlined in the personal trading section. Each member of the Compliance Department will review and monitor each other’s reports as required by the Code.

Annual Review of Code
The CCO and/or the CO will review, at least annually, the adequacy of the Code and the effectiveness of its implementation. Such results are usually recorded in the firm’s annual testing program.

Reports to Management Committee
At least annually, the CCO will report material Code matters to Westfield's Management Committee. On occasion, the CCO will also report immaterial items to the Management Committee in order to keep them informed of Code matters.

Recordkeeping Requirements
Westfield will maintain the following records in a readily accessible place for a period of not less than seven years.
A copy of each Code that is in effect, or at any time within the past seven years;
A record of any violation of the Code, and of any action taken as a result of the violation, for seven years after the end of the fiscal year in which the violation occurred;
A copy of each report and acknowledgement made under the Code for the past seven years after the end of the fiscal year in which the report is made or information is provided;
A list of names of persons, currently or within the past seven years, who are or were Access Persons or Investment Persons;
A record of any decision, and the reasons supporting the decision, for approving the acquisition of IPOs and limited offerings for at least seven years after the end of the fiscal year in which the approval was granted; and
A record of any granted waivers or exceptions, and supporting reasons, to any provisions of the Code.

Violations and Sanctions
Westfield treats violations of the Code (including violations of the spirit of the Code) very seriously. If an employee violates either the letter or the spirit of this Code, Westfield may impose disciplinary actions or fines, or it may make a civil or criminal referral to appropriate regulatory entities. (Refer to Appendix B for the sanctions table.) Code violations become a part of the employee’s employment history at Westfield. Multiple violations within a 12-month period will be reported to Human Resources and appropriate supervisors or managers. Employees should always consult with the CCO or CO if they are in doubt of any of the requirements or restrictions in the Code.

A senior member of Compliance will notify employees of any discrepancy between their personal activities and the rules outlined in this Code. Each violation and the circumstances surrounding each violation will be reviewed by a senior member of Compliance. Based on the review, a senior member of Compliance will determine whether the policies established in this Code have been violated, and whether any action should be taken. The CCO and/or the CO will determine appropriate sanctions (in accordance with Westfield’s sanctions guidelines). Once the sanction has been approved, Compliance will notify the employee. Compliance has the discretion of reporting material Code matters to the Operations & Risk Management Committee and/or the Management Committee.



Appendix A: Glossary of Terms

Access Person is any Westfield employee or non-employee who meets at least one of the following conditions:
is an officer, director, or partner
has access to nonpublic information about client purchases or sales of securities
makes or participates in making investment recommendations to clients
has access to client investment recommendations that are non-public
has access to nonpublic information regarding the portfolio holdings of affiliated mutual funds

Beneficial Interest generally refers to the opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or share in any profit.

Business Day refers to every official Westfield working day of the week.

Client Account refers to any account over which Westfield has been granted authority to purchase and/or sell securities on the client’s behalf.

Covered Account refers to any investment account over which an Access Person:
a.
has direct or indirect beneficial interest; or
b.
exercises investment control, meaning he or she actually provides input into or makes the security buy and/or sell decisions for the account. The account does not need to be in an Access Person’s name; if an Access Person has either joint or sole investment control over an account, it may be considered a Covered Account.
 
Covered Security refers to any security or fund that does not fall under one of the following exceptions:
Direct obligations of the Government of the United States (e.g., treasury bills, treasury bonds, U.S. savings bonds);
Bankers’ acceptances, bank certificates of deposits, commercial paper, and high-quality short term debt instruments, including repurchase agreements;
Shares issued by money market funds;
Shares issued by open-end mutual funds that are not sub-advised or advised by Westfield;
Shares issued by unit investment trusts (“UITs”) that are invested exclusively in one or more open-end mutual funds, none of which are sub-advised or advised by Westfield.

Employee means all Westfield personnel who are not hired on a temporary or contract basis.

Family member refers to a spouse, children, step-children, grandchildren, parents, step-parents, grandparents, domestic partners, siblings, parents-in-law, children-in-law, as well as adoptive relationships sharing the same household.

Investment Person means any Access Person who makes or participates in making investment recommendations for client accounts.

Reportable Fund means any pooled fund, regardless of whether it is offered publicly or privately, for which Westfield serves as adviser or sub-adviser. This includes Westfield limited partnerships.

Short Selling means selling a security that is not owned in the account.

Appendix B: Sanctions Guidelines

Sanctions can be more or less than what is indicated in the table below. Sanctions such as disgorgement of profits (gross of any taxes or transaction costs) and reversal of trades may be considered in addition to or instead of the sanctions indicated in the table below, In recommending sanctions, Compliance will:

Consider an employee’s role and responsibilities, past trading history, facts and circumstances around the violation and other applicable factors
Impose the highest of all applicable sanctions, if a violation falls within more than one category or if multiple violations occur on the same day
Review violations not listed in the table on a case-by-case basis
Consult with the Management Committee or Operations & Risk Management Committee members, if needed


Violation
Management and Investment Committee, Research Analysts, Traders, Officers
All Other Employees
Late Reporting or Certification

All listed fines are per day after due date and per report or certification
First Offense : $500

Second Offense : $750 and suspension of personal securities transaction rights (up to 6 months)

Subsequent Offense : $1,500 and suspension of personal securities transaction rights (up to 12 months)
First Offense : $100

Second Offense : $200 and suspension of personal securities transaction rights (up to 3 months)

Subsequent Offense : $300 and suspension of personal securities transaction rights (up to 6 months)

Failure to Preclear
First Offense : $2,000 per transaction and suspension of personal securities transaction rights for 30 days

Second Offense : $5,000 per transaction and suspension of personal securities transaction rights for 3 months

Subsequent Offense : $10,000 per transaction and suspension of personal securities transaction rights for 12 months
First Offense : $500 per transaction

Second Offense : $1,000 per transaction and suspension of personal securities transaction rights for 30 days

Subsequent Offense : $2,500 per transaction and suspension of personal securities transaction rights for 6 months
Market Timing

Termination of employment and civil or criminal referral
Termination of employment and civil or criminal referral
Failure to Make Accurate or Complete Reports

Monetary fines starting at $5,000; suspension of personal securities transaction rights; possible termination of employment
Monetary fines starting at $1,000; suspension of personal securities transaction rights; possible termination of employment
Front Running

$2,500 per transaction; temporary or permanent suspension of personal securities transaction rights; possible termination of employment
$2,500 per transaction; temporary or permanent suspension of personal securities transaction rights; possible termination of employment
30-day Holding Period


First Offense : 2,000 per transaction

Second Offense : $5,000 per transaction; suspension of personal transaction rights (up to 6 months)

Subsequent Offense : $7,500 per transaction; suspension of personal securities transaction rights (up to 12 months)
First Offense : $500 per transaction

Second Offense : $1,000 per transaction; suspension of personal transaction rights (up to 6 months)

Subsequent Offense : $2,500 per transaction; suspension of personal securities transaction rights (up to 12 months)






Date Approved:     


ROCKEFELLER & CO. LLC

CODE OF ETHICS

General

The Code of Ethics (the “Code”) of Rockefeller & Co. LLC ("R&Co.") is intended to fulfill the firm's obligations under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”) and Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Investment Company Act”) with respect to registered investment companies advised by R&Co. (“Affiliated Mutual Funds”), to set forth standards of conduct and to require compliance with the federal securities laws. As a registered investment adviser, the firm owes a duty of loyalty to each of its clients, which requires that the firm serve the best interests of its clients at all times. This Code is supplemented by a number of other published directives, including the Policy on Business Conduct and the R&Co. Employee Handbook. Topics covered elsewhere include outside officerships or directorships, gifts policy, political contributions, confidentiality and privacy, and prohibition of insider trading. R&Co. must provide a copy of the Code to any client or prospective client upon request.

R&Co.’s Legal Department and the Compliance Committee are responsible for the administration and enforcement of this Code. If a person subject to this Code is in doubt as to whether a proposed action or securities transaction is proper, the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department should be consulted. When legally and ethically permissible, the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department may approve exceptions to the strict limitations described in this Code.

This Code of Ethics applies to the following persons (“Supervised Persons”):

(1)    Directors and officers of R&Co. (or other persons occupying a similar status or performing similar functions);

(2)    Employees of R&Co., Rockefeller Trust Company, N.A. and The Rockefeller Trust Company (Delaware); and

(3)    Any other person subject to R&Co.’s supervision and control who the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department determines to be subject to the Code.


 
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Adopted January 1, 1994
Amended February 2019




Standards of Conduct

It is R&Co.’s policy to maintain the highest standards of service for its clients. As a fiduciary, the firm has a duty to act honestly, in good faith and in clients’ best interests, and to exercise the degree of care, diligence and skill that a reasonably prudent manager would exercise in the circumstances. This standard of care extends to the services provided by all Supervised Persons in each facet of R&Co.’s business operations.

R&Co. will not tolerate illegal or improper actions undertaken either for personal benefit or in a misguided effort to achieve gains on behalf of the firm or its clients. Violations of this Code may result in disciplinary action, including dismissal. Violations of legal prohibitions on insider trading may result in permanent bars from employment in the securities industry, imprisonment, civil penalties, criminal fines and third-party lawsuits.

Compliance with Laws and Regulations

Supervised Persons must comply with applicable federal securities laws. Each Supervised Person has a duty to know, understand and comply with all relevant legal, regulatory and ethical requirements applicable to his or her duties and responsibilities. Any Supervised Person who is uncertain about these requirements should contact the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department for guidance.

Conflicts of Interest; Outside Business Activities

As a fiduciary, R&Co. has an affirmative duty of care, loyalty, honesty and good faith to act in the best interests of its clients. Compliance with this duty can be achieved by seeking to avoid conflicts of interest and by fully disclosing to the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department all material facts concerning any conflict that does arise with respect to any client. R&Co. employees may not engage in outside business activities, such as compensated outside employment or serving as a director of another firm, without first obtaining approval from their Manager, Human Resources and the Legal Department. Please refer to the Policy on Business Conduct and the Employee Handbook for additional information.

Personal Securities Transactions

Certain Supervised Persons designated by the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department as “Access Persons” must report their personal securities transactions and holdings, and are subject to other personal trading restrictions. All Access Persons are deemed to be Access Persons for purposes of the Advisers Act and Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act.

An Access Person is a Supervised Person who has access to nonpublic information regarding clients’ purchases or sales of securities (other than as clients or representatives of clients), who is involved in making securities recommendations to clients or who has access to such recommendations that are nonpublic. The Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another

 
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Adopted January 1, 1994
Amended February 2019




senior member of the Legal Department shall identify all Access Persons who are required to make these reports and inform those Access Persons of their reporting obligations.

Access Persons may not, in connection with the purchase, sale or gift, directly or indirectly, of a security held or to be acquired by a client:

(1)    Defraud such client in any manner;
    
(2)
Mislead such client, including by making a statement that omits material facts;

(3)
Engage in any act, practice or course of conduct which operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit upon such client;

(4)
Engage in any manipulative practice with respect to such client; or

(5)
Engage in any manipulative practice with respect to securities, including price manipulation.

The specific provisions and procedures relating to personal trading by Access Persons are set forth in the Personal Trading Policy attached as Schedule A .

Certification of Compliance and Training

R&Co. will provide Supervised Persons with a copy of the Code and any amendments or supplements thereto. Each Supervised Person must submit to the Legal Department at least annually an acknowledgement of receipt of the Code and any such amendments and supplements. Completion and submission of the acknowledgment form accompanying the annual distribution of the firm’s compliance policies and procedures satisfies this requirement.

Reporting of Code Violations

Any violations or suspected violations of the Code must be promptly reported to the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department or pursuant to R&Co.’s Whistleblower Policy. Examples include: (i) noncompliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; (ii) fraud or illegal acts involving any aspect of R&Co.’s business; and (iii) material misstatements in regulatory filings, internal books and records, client records or reports. Such reporting should be made confidentially, in person, by telephone or in writing or anonymous pursuant to R&Co.’s Whistleblower Policy.



Sanctions

In connection with any violation of the Code, the Compliance Committee may impose such sanctions as it deems appropriate, including, but not limited to, fines, warning letters and

 
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Adopted January 1, 1994
Amended February 2019




disgorgement of profits. Violations which are intentional or which are of a more serious nature could result in other disciplinary action, including termination of employment.

Internal Reporting and Escalation

The Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department will periodically report on matters relating to the administration of the Code and violations thereof to the Compliance Committee. Significant violations of the Code will be reported by the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department to R&Co.’s Chief Executive Officer and/or the Audit and Compliance Committee of Rockefeller Capital Management L.P., as deemed appropriate.

Reports to Affiliated Mutual Funds

On a periodic basis, but not less than annually, the Chief Compliance Officer shall prepare a written report to the chief compliance officer and board of trustees or directors of each Affiliated Mutual Fund setting forth the following:

(1)
A description of any material issues arising under the Code which relate to the Affiliated Mutual Fund since the last report to the Affiliated Mutual Fund chief compliance officer and board of trustees including, but not limited to, information about material violations of the Code or underlying procedures and sanctions imposed in response to the material violations;
 
(2)
A certification on behalf of R&Co. that R&Co. has adopted procedures which it believes are reasonably designed to prevent Access Persons from violating the Code; and

(3)
A summary of existing procedures concerning personal investing and any changes in procedures made during the past year.

Recordkeeping Requirements

R&Co. will maintain the following records in a readily accessible place:

(1)
A copy of each version of the Code that has been in effect at any time during the past six years;

(2)
A record of any violation of the Code and any action taken as a result of such violation for six years from the end of the fiscal year in which the violation occurred;

(3)
A list of the names of persons who were Supervised Persons and Access Persons at any time within the past six years;


 
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Amended February 2019




(4)
A record of all acknowledgements of receipt of the Code and amendments for each person who is currently, or within the past six years was, a Supervised Person;

(5)
Holdings and transactions reports made pursuant to the Code, including any brokerage confirmations and account statements submitted in lieu of these reports within the past six years;

(6)
A record of any approval (as required in Personal Trading Policy attached as Schedule A ) of, together with the supporting reasons for such approval, the acquisition of securities by Access Persons in IPOs and limited offerings for at least six years after the end of the fiscal year in which approval was granted.

(7)
A copy of each report made to an Affiliated Mutual Fund’s chief compliance officer and board of trustees for at least six years after the end of the fiscal year in which it was made.

Associated R&Co. Policies
Policy on Business Conduct
Code of Ethics Interpretive Memoranda
Insider Trading Policy
Whistleblower Policy
Pay-to-Play Policy
Privacy Policy
SEC Record Retention Policy
Employee Handbook

 
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Schedule A

Personal Trading Policy
Applicable to Access Persons

Administration of the Code of Ethics and the Personal Trading Policy
    
R&Co. utilizes a third party solution, BasisCode Compliance (the “Reporting System”), to assist in its administration of the Code and this Personal Trading Policy. The Reporting System must be used by Access Persons to submit all required reports and to request preclearance of securities transactions, unless a different arrangement has been authorized by the Legal Department.

Any person with the authority to approve any transaction or exemption under this Personal Trading Policy (each, an “Authorized Person”) may not approve any transaction or exemption involving themselves or their related accounts, and must have another Authorized Person approve their transactions and exemptions.

Account Disclosure

Access Persons must disclose to the Legal Department all brokerage and other investment accounts, including private investments, retirmenet plans, trusts and investment clubs, in which the Access Person has direct or indirect influence or control (a “ Controlled Account ”) or a direct or indirect beneficial interest (a “ Beneficial Interest Account ”), within 10 days of becoming an Access Person. Thereafter, Access Person must disclose any new Controlled Accounts and Beneficial Interest Accounts within 30 days of the end of the calendar quarter in which the account is established. In making these disclosure, the Access Person must provide the account holder’s name and the name and the account number of the financial institution where the account is held and such other information as may be requested by the Legal Department.

Please refer to Appendix I for additional information about the criteria for determining if an account is considered a Controlled Account or a Beneficial Interest Account under the Personal Trading Policy.

Approved Brokers

Access Persons must maintain their brokerage and investment accounts at a broker that transmits securities transactions and holdings information through a data feed to the Reporting System (each, an “Approved Broker”), unless one of the exceptions set forth below applies. A current list of Approved Brokers is provided as Appendix II . Each Access Person is required to complete all paperwork required by the Approved Broker in order to have their account holdings and transaction information included on the data feed into the Reporting System.

Persons designated as Access Persons are expected to transition all of their non-exempt brokerage and investment accounts to an Approved Broker within 30 days of becoming an Access Person.

 
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Exceptions:

(1)
Exempt Accounts : Personal securities accounts over which an Access Person has no direct or indirect influence or control (for example, a blind trust or a third-party discretionary management arrangement that meets certain requirements) are not subject to this Personal Trading Policy and can be maintained at any financial services firm. For this exemption to apply, the Access Person cannot (a) be consulted in advance with respect to transactions in the account, (b) suggest or direct any particular transactions in the account, or (c) consult with the trustee or discretionary manager as to the particular allocation of investments to be made in the account. Requests for such an exemption must be submitted to the Legal Department through the Reporting System using Preclearance and Reporting Exemption Form. Access Persons will be notified through the Reporting System if the exemption request has been approved or denied. Exempt Accounts must be recorded on the Reporting System and are subject to periodic review in order to confirm compliance with the terms of the exemption.

(2)
Exempt Rockefeller Accounts : Segregated accounts managed by R&Co., and investments made in the firm’s 401K and compensation plans (collectively, “Exempt Rockefeller Accounts”) are not required to be maintained at an Approved Broker.

(3)
Mutual Fund Transfer Agent Accounts : Shares of open-end U.S. mutual funds which are not subject to reporting requirements under this Personal Trading Policy, are not required to be maintained at an Approved Broker. Investments in open-end U.S. mutual funds advised or subadvised by R&Co. (“Affiliated Mutual Funds”), which are subject to reporting under this Personal Trading Policy, must be maintained at an Approved Broker or in an exempt account. A list of R&Co.’s current Affiliated Mutual Funds is attached as Appendix III .

(4)
Private Securities Exceptions: Investments in private securities (hedge funds, private equity fund, direct private equity, etc.) are not required to be held with an Approved Broker.

(5)
Other Approved Exceptions: The Legal Department may approve exceptions from the requirement that a personal securities account be maintained at an Approved Broker for other reasons. Examples of situations where such an exemption may be granted include, but are not limited to:

(a)
accounts which are unable to be transferred such as 529 Plans, 401K plans, and securities accounts controlled or owned by an Access Person’s spouse or family members who are employed by other financial services firms that require accounts to be maintained at such other financial services firms;


 
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(b)
accounts for temporary Access Persons such as interns, temporary employees and contractors; and

(c)
such other situations as determined to be appropriate by the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department.

If an Access Person is granted an exception from the requirement that a personal securities account be maintained at an Approved Broker, the Access Person must still disclose the account by recording it on the Reporting System and comply with the requirments if this Personal Trading Policy to the extent applicable.

Restricted Trading List

R&Co. maintains a “Restricted Trading List” which identifies the securities of issuers, if any, which may be the subject of material, nonpublic information ("inside information") possessed by R&Co. Any Access Person possessing inside information about a public company should report that fact to the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or the General Counsel. If the inside information may be attributed to R&Co., the issuer will in most cases be added to the Restricted Trading List. Any Access Person possessing inside information is prohibited from communicating the inside information to others inside or outside of the firm and is prohibited from purchasing, selling or otherwise transacting in the securities of any companies whose securities are affected by the inside information for their own account or the accounts of clients or any other person or entity. R&Co. has a separate published policy on insider trading which should be referred to in case of question.

Preclearance

General Preclearance Requirement
    
Access Persons must obtain permission prior to engaging in a personal securities transaction (including a purchase, sale, exercise of an option or a gift) in any security in a Controlled Account, with the exception of transactions in Exempt Securities (defined below) and transactions in exchange traded funds and exchange traded notes. Requests seeking permission to engage in a personal securities transaction should normally by submitted through the Reporting System.

In general, the Trading Desk will evaluate preclearance requests relating to personal security transactions involving publicly traded securities, and the Legal Department will evaluate preclearance requests relating to initial public offerings (“IPOs”) and limited offerings such as private placements (each, a “Limited Offering”). Access Persons should take into consideration the possibility that a preclearance request may not be timely processed or may be denied when considering personal investment activities subject to this Personal Trading Policy.

Access Persons will receive notification (typically through the Reporting System) if a preclearance request has been approved or denied. Unless some other specific arrangement is

 
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approved by the Trading Desk or the Legal Department, preclearance is only effective for the day it is issued or for the specified IPO or Limited Offering.

In general, any security subject to the Personal Trading Policy’s preclearance requirements may not be purchased or sold in a Controlled Account while the issuer is otherwise restricted from Access Person personal trading pursuant to the requirements set forth below under Preclearance Restrictions, unless prior approval is obtained from the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department.
   
Enhanced Preclearance Requirements

Members of the Investment Department, Institutional Sales Department, Trading Desk and Settlements Team, and any other Access Person specifically notified by the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department as having increased preclearance obligations due to their close contact with members of such departments or groups, are subject to an enhanced preclearance review.

For public securities, the Trading Desk will coordinate this enhanced preclearance review and will notify the Chief Investment Officer or his designee of the trade request prior to granting preclearance. If the Chief Investment Officer or his designee determines that any such personal securities transaction poses a potential conflict with R&Co.’s asset management activities, the Chief Investment Officer or his designee may instruct the Trading Desk to deny clearance, prohibit the Access Person from executing the transaction (notwithstanding receipt of clearance from the Trading Desk) or take such other actions as deemed appropriate including, without limitation, requiring the reversal of the trade and/or the disgorgement of any profits relating to the trade.

Recordkeeping

The Legal Department oversees the retention of preclearance inquiries relating to Access Person investments in IPOs and Limited Offerings, including investments in R&Co.’s private investment vehicles. The Trading Desk is responsible for maintaining, or causing to be maintained, records associated with the preclearance reviews they perform.

Preclearance Restrictions

Securities on the Restricted Trading List

In general, any security subject the Personal Trading Policy’s preclearance requirements may not be purchased or sold in a Controlled Account while the issuer is on the Restricted Trading List, unless prior approval is obtained from the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or the General Counsel.

Securities on the Grey List


 
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The Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department may also establish a “Grey List” which identifies issuers of securities which are subject to an enhanced preclearance review for reasons deemed appropriate to R&Co.’s compliance program. Requests by Access Persons to invest in the securities of issuers on the Grey List must be reviewed by the Chief Compliance Officer, Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department and may be denied or be subject to certain restrictions or limitations.
    
Restrictions on IPOs and Limited Offerings

No security may be purchased or sold in a Controlled Account if the purchase would deprive any R&Co. client of an investment opportunity, after taking into account all other such clients' investments and investment objectives. This restriction is likely to have practical significance only when a desirable security is in short supply, such as a "new issue", thinly traded security or a private investment opportunity. The Chief Compliance Officer, the Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department must specifically preclear any investments by Access Persons in IPOs and in Limited Offerings (e.g., private placements), provided, however, that preclearance requests from Access Persons subject to the Enhanced Preclearance Requirements shall also require the approval of the Chief Investment Officer or his designee. In general, approval may be granted to an Access Person when the IPO or Limited Offering is not the subject of, or a probable subject of, an active client recommendation and participation does not otherwise raise any significant conflict issues.

Restrictions Due to Potential Conflicts with Client Transactions

No security may be purchased or sold in a Controlled Account by an Access Person if the sale or purchase is effected with a view to making a profit on an anticipated market action of the security as a result of being recommended to any client for purchase or sale. In addition, no security may be purchased or sold in a Controlled Account in a transaction with a R&Co. client without prior approval from the Chief Compliance Officer, the Compliance Officer or a senior member of the Legal Department, except for investments and disinvestments in mutual funds and other pooled investment vehicles which comply with all requirements under this Personal Trading Policy.

Access Persons will be generally be restricted from trading in securities subject to the Personal Trading Policy’s preclearance requirements for Controlled Accounts if the transaction raises a potential conflict with a client transaction such as when:

(1)
The issuer of such security is the subject of an active buying or selling program for clients;

(2)
The issuer of such security is the probable subject of an investment recommendation or of a buying or selling program until such time as either (i) an investment recommendation concerning such security is communicated to clients (in which event paragraph 1 above would apply) or (ii) a determination is made that the security is no longer the probable subject of an investment recommendation or of a buying or selling program; or

 
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(3)
An open order is pending for a client in the same issuer.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, there is a presumption that transactions by Access Persons which are not effected with a view to making a profit on an anticipated market action of the security as a result of being recommended to any client for purchase or sale and which meet the following de minimis criteria are not in conflict with client transactions and may be approved provided the transactions do not involve securities on the Restricted List or which are otherwise subject to trading restrictions under the this Personal Trading Policy:
 
(1)
Transactions in equity securities involving up to 2,000 shares of an issuer and not exceeding $25,000 in value;

(2)
Options involving up to 15 contracts but not exceeding $25,000 in exposure; and

(3)
Fixed income securities involving up to $25,000 face value.

Notwithstanding the above, all transactions requested by Access Person who are subject to the Enhanced Preclearance Requirement must be reviewed in accordance with such procedures regardless of the size or value of the proposed transaction.

Reporting Requirements

The Legal Department will notify each Access Person (either through an email from the Reporting System or the corporate email system) of the date by which the required holdings and transaction disclosures are required to be completed. Access Persons do not need to file reports for accounts maintained at Approved Brokers as holdings and transactions information for such accounts is transmitted by data feeds to the Reporting System. To the extent an Access Person has transitions and holdings in reportable securities which are not transmitted on a data feed, the Access Person must manually record all required information on the Reporting System, unless an alternative arrangement is approved by the Legal Department. As noted previously, transactions and holdings in Exempt Accounts are not required to be entered into the Reporting System.

Initial and Annual Holding Reports

All Access Persons must disclose to the Legal Department within 10 days of becoming an Access Person and annually thereafter a list of all securities (except for Exempt Securities) held in such Access Person’s Controlled Accounts and Beneficial Interest Accounts, including the title of the security, the number of shares and/or principal amounts of the holding. The holdings must be current as of a date not more than 45 days prior to the person becoming an Access Person (initial report) or the date the disclosure is submitted (annual report).

Quarterly Transactions Reports


 
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All Access Persons must disclose to the Legal Department their securities transactions (except for transactions involving Exempt Securities) in their Controlled Accounts and Beneficial Interest Accounts, containing the date of the transaction, the issue, the number of shares or the principal amount, the nature of the transaction, the price received, and the name of the broker, dealer or bank through which the transaction was effected within 30 days after the end of each calendar quarter.

Review and Enforcement

    Each quarter, all trades disclosed by Access Persons are compared against all client trades. Trades by Access Persons and clients involving securities of the same issuer which occur within a period of 10 days before or 10 days after each other are flagged and individually reviewed for potential conflicts and compliance by such Access Persons with the Personal Trading Policy’s preclearance requirements. Personal security transactions disclosed by Access Persons are also reviewed to detect any potential illegal or improper trading activity, including failure to preclear nonexempt personal securities transactions, trading in securities which appear on the Restricted Trading List and insider trading. In addition, Access Persons may be selected for additional ad hoc reviews and analysis, including but not limited to reviews of account statements obtained directly by R&Co. from brokerage firms and other financial institutions. If either the Chief Compliance Officer or Compliance Officer is selected for such a review, the review will be conducted by another senior member of the Legal Department.

The Compliance Officer coordinates the above reviews and reports on the results of such reviews to Chief Compliance Officer and the Compliance Committee. It is important to bear in mind that the negligible market impact of a small trade does not excuse a violation of the Personal Trading Policy if the transaction crosses or competes with a client trade.

Exempt Securities – No Preclearance or Reporting Required

The following investments are not subject to preclearance or other restrictions and need not be included in an Access Person’s annual holdings and quarterly transaction reports:

(1)
Direct obligations of the Government of the United States;

(2)
Bankers acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper and high quality short-term debt instruments, including repurchase agreements;

(3)
Shares issued by money market funds;

(4)
Shares issued by open-end U.S. mutual funds and U.S. investment trusts that are invested exclusively in open-end U.S. mutual funds; and

(5)
Participation in an automatic investment plan.


 
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Notwithstanding the foregoing, transactions and holdings of shares issued by open-end U.S. mutual funds affiliated with or managed by R&Co. are required to report on an Access Person’s holdings and transaction reports unless held in an Exempt Account.

Confidentiality

All transactions and holdings reports and broker account information will be maintained in confidence, except to the extent necessary to implement and enforce the provisions of the Personal Trading Policy and Code or to comply with requests for information from regulators, auditors and other legal authorities. Personal trade related matters which involve potential violations of securities laws by Access Persons may be disclosed to outside counsel and reported to regulators and other legal authorities.

Violations

Violations of the Personal Trading Policy, depending on the facts and circumstances, may result in the issuance by R&Co. to an Access Person of a written warning, a monetary fine, disgorgement of profits, or, for violations which are intentional or of a more serious nature, other disciplinary action up to and including dismissal. Violations of securities laws by Access Persons may involve significant civil and criminal penalties.


 
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Appendix I
Controlled Account

A “Controlled Account” is an account over which you have direct or indirect influence or control.

“Control” exists in securities owned directly or jointly with another person (including ownership through a nominee) or in securities which are:

(a)
Held in the name of the Access Person of their immediate family members or household. Immediate family members include: (i) a person’s spouse, parents, in-laws, children and stepchildren,  (ii) members of a person’s household, (iii) an individual to whom a person provides financial support of more than 50 percent of the individual’s annual income, or (iv) a person who is claimed as a dependent for federal income tax purposes (collectively, “Immediate Family Members”);

(b)
Held in the name of an individual outside of your family or household where the Access Person has direct or indirect control over securities investments. This could include the account of a friend whom you have reason to believe accepts your advice on the purchase or sale of reportable securities

(c)
Held in the name of a trust or estate where the Access Person serves as trustee or executor; or

(d)
Held in the name of an entity where the Access Person has direct or indirect control over securities investments. This could include the investment activity of a not-for profit organization in whose investment committee the Access Person serves or the account of a friend whom the Access Person has reason to believe accepts his or her advice on the purchase or sale of reportable securities. The legal right to execute transactions in an account is regarded as "control" whether or not that right is ever exercised.

Beneficial Interest Account

A "Beneficial Interest Account" is an account in which an Access Person has the opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or share in any profit derived from the account. This would include, for example, direct accounts, joint accounts, and trusts or other accounts established for the benefit of the Access Person. In addition, the Code presumes that trusts or accounts established for the benefit of the Access Person’s Immediate Family Members is a Beneficial Interest Account.

A "Beneficial Interest" exists in securities owned directly or jointly with another person (including ownership through a nominee) or in securities which are:

(a)    Held in the name of a trust where the Access Person is a beneficiary;


 
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(b)    held in the name of or in a trust for the benefit of, an Immediate Family Member of the Access Person, absent special circumstances indicating that the reporting person does not obtain benefits substantially equivalent to those of ownership;

(c)    held in the name of another person, if by reason of any contract, understanding, relationship, agreement or other arrangement the Access Person obtains benefits substantially equivalent to those of ownership (e.g. the ability to exercise a controlling influence over the application of the income derived from such securities or to meet expenses which the reporting person otherwise would meet from other sources) or if the Access Person can vest or revest title in himself or herself at once or at some future time; or

(d)    held by any partnership, closely-held corporation, trust or estate, to the extent of the reporting person's interest therein.

The above examples are not exhaustive of all situations in which a control relationship or a beneficial interest can exist. If you are uncertain, please contact the Chief Compliance Officer, Chief Compliance Officer or another senior member of the Legal Department.


 
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Appendix II

APPROVED BROKER LIST


Bank of America
Morgan Stanley
Capital One
Oppenheimer & Co.
Charles Schwab
Pershing
Credit Suisse
Raymond James
Deutsche Bank
RBC Dain Rauscher
E-Trade
Scottrade
Edward Jones
Stifel
Fidelity
TD Ameritrade
Goldman Sachs
Trust Company of America
Interactive Brokers
UBS
JP Morgan Chase
Vanguard
Merrill Lynch
Wells Fargo


 
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Appendix III

AFFILIATED MUTUAL FUNDS


Rockefeller Equity Allocation Fund
Rockefelleller Intermediate Tax Exempt New York Bond Fund
Rockefeller Core Taxable Bond Fund
 
Transamerica Global Equity Fund
Rockefeller Intermediate Tax Exempt National Bond Fund
Touchstone Sustainability and Impact Equity Fund


 
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POWER OF ATTORNEY
Touchstone Funds Group Trust
Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust
Touchstone Strategic Trust
Touchstone Variable Series Trust

Each of the undersigned Trustees of each of the following Trusts: Touchstone Funds Group Trust, Touchstone Institutional Funds Trust, Touchstone Strategic Trust, and Touchstone Variable Series Trust (each a “Trust” and collectively, the “Trusts”) hereby revokes all prior appointments of attorney-in-fact with regards to any amendment to the Registration Statement of any Trust on Form N-1A, and hereby authorizes and appoints each of Jill T. McGruder, Terrie A. Wiedenheft, Meredyth A. Whitford, and Timothy S. Stearns or any of them, his or her true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent, with full power to each such attorney-in-fact and agent to sign for him or her and in his or her name, place and stead, in his or her capacity as a Trustee of each Trust, any and all amendments to the Registration Statement of any Trust on Form N-1A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto, and any and all other documents and papers in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, granting unto said attorneys-in-fact and agents full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing requisite or necessary to be done in connection therewith as fully to all intents and purposes, as he or she might or could do in person, with full power of substitution and revocation, hereby ratifying and confirming all said attorney-in-fact and agent may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue of this power of attorney.
The undersigned Trustees hereby execute this Power of Attorney as of this 17th day of June, 2019.

/s/ Karen Carnahan
Karen Carnahan
/s/Phillip R. Cox
Phillip R. Cox
/s/ William C. Gale
William C. Gale
/s/ Susan J. Hickenlooper
Susan J. Hickenlooper
/s/ Jill T. McGruder  
Jill T. McGruder
/s/ Kevin A. Robie  
Kevin A. Robie
/s/ Edward J. VonderBrink
Edward J. VonderBrink