Marc R. Bryant, Esq. |
With copies to: |
Secretary and Chief Legal Officer |
Joseph R. Fleming, Esq. |
82 Devonshire Street |
Dechert LLP |
Boston, Massachusetts 02109 |
200 Clarendon Street, 27th Floor |
(Name and Address of Agent for Service) |
Boston, MA 02116-5021 |
Fund /Ticker
Strategic Advisers ® Short Duration Fund /FAUDX
Offered exclusively to certain clients of Strategic Advisers, Inc. - not available for sale to the general public
Prospectus
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
Fund Summary |
Strategic Advisers ® Short Duration Fund |
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Fund Basics |
Investment Details |
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Valuing Shares |
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Shareholder Information |
Additional Information about the Purchase and Sale of Shares |
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Dividends and Capital Gain Distributions |
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Tax Consequences |
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Fund Services |
Fund Management |
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Fund Distribution |
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<R> Appendix |
Financial Highlights </R> |
Prospectus
Fund:
Strategic Advisers
®
Short Duration Fund
The fund seeks to obtain a high level of current income consistent with preservation of capital.
The following table describes the fees and expenses that may be incurred when you buy and hold shares of the fund.
Shareholder fees
|
None |
Annual fund operating expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a % of the value of your investment)
<R> Management fee (fluctuates based on the fund's allocation among underlying funds and sub-advisers) A, C |
0.28% </R> |
<R> Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) fees |
None </R> |
<R> Other expenses A |
0.09% </R> |
<R> Acquired fund fees and expenses (fees and expenses of underlying funds) A |
0.45% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses B |
0.82% </R> |
<R> Fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement C |
0.25% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement B |
0.57% </R> |
<R> A Based on estimated amounts for the current fiscal year. </R>
<R> B Differs from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the Financial Highlights section of the prospectus because of acquired fund fees and expenses. </R>
<R> C Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) has contractually agreed that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 0.55% of the fund's average daily net assets. In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets. This arrangement will remain in effect through September 30, 2014. Strategic Advisers may not discontinue or modify this arrangement without the approval of the Board of Trustees. </R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
This example helps compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
Let's say, hypothetically, that the annual return for shares of the fund is 5% and that your shareholder fees and the annual operating expenses for shares of the fund are exactly as described in the fee table. This example illustrates the effect of fees and expenses, but is not meant to suggest actual or expected fees and expenses or returns, all of which may vary. For every $10,000 you invested, here's how much you would pay in total expenses if you sell all of your shares at the end of each time period indicated:
<R> 1 year |
$ 58 </R> |
<R> 3 years |
$ 201 </R> |
<R>The fund will not incur transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells shares of affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it will incur transaction costs when it buys and sells other types of securities (including non-affiliated exchange traded funds) directly (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 annual operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund's performance. For the period from December 20, 2011 to May 31, 2012, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 5% of the average value of its portfolio.</R>
Prospectus
Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) is permitted, subject to the approval of the Board of Trustees, to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement.
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
<R></R>
<R>An investment in the fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. You could lose money by investing in the fund.</R>
Performance history will be available for the fund after the fund has been in operation for one calendar year.
Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis) has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund.
Gregory Pappas (lead portfolio manager) has managed the fund since December 2011.
<R>Robert Galusza (portfolio manager) has managed Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets since January 2012.</R>
The fund is not available for sale to the general public.
<R>The price to buy one share of the fund is its net asset value per share (NAV). Shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.</R>
<R>The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV. Shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.</R>
The fund is open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open.
The fund has no minimum investment requirement.
Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax and generally will be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, and may also be subject to state or local taxes, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account (in which case you may be taxed later, upon withdrawal of your investment from such account).
Prospectus
The fund, Strategic Advisers, Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and/or their affiliates may pay intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, or service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR, or FDC), for the sale of fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing your intermediary and your investment professional to recommend the fund over another investment. Ask your investment professional or visit your intermediary's web site for more information.
Prospectus
Investment Objective
The fund seeks to obtain a high level of current income consistent with preservation of capital.
Principal Investment Strategies
The fund normally invests the fund's assets in U.S. dollar-denominated money market and investment-grade debt securities, and repurchase agreements.
The fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers in addition to securities of domestic issuers.
In addition, the fund normally maintains a dollar-weighted average maturity of three years or less. In determining a security's maturity for purposes of calculating the fund's average maturity, an estimate of the average time for its principal to be paid may be used. This can be substantially shorter than its stated maturity.
The fund may engage in transactions that have a leveraging effect, including investments in derivatives, regardless of whether it may own the asset, instrument or components of the index underlying the derivative, and forward-settling securities. The fund may invest a significant portion of its assets in these types of investments. The fund's derivative investments may include interest rate swaps, total return swaps, credit default swaps, and futures contracts (both long and short positions) on securities and indexes. The fund may engage in these transactions to increase or decrease its exposure to changing security prices, interest rates, credit qualities, or other factors that affect security values, or to gain or reduce exposure to an asset, instrument, or index.
The fund implements its investment strategies by investing directly in securities through one or more sub-advisers or indirectly in securities through one or more underlying funds, which in turn invest directly in securities.
Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of underlying funds or sub-advisers at any time.
<R>Strategic Advisers allocates the fund's assets among underlying funds and sub-advisers to achieve similar overall interest rate risk to the Citigroup ® 6-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index.</R>
Strategic Advisers allocates the fund's assets among underlying funds and sub-advisers to attempt to diversify the fund's portfolio among different market sectors (for example, corporate, asset-backed or government securities) and different maturities based on its view of the relative value of each sector or maturity.
Strategic Advisers pursues a disciplined, benchmark-driven approach to portfolio construction, and monitors and adjusts allocations to underlying funds and sub-advisers as necessary to favor those underlying funds and sub-advisers that Strategic Advisers believes will provide the most favorable outlook for achieving the fund's investment objective.
<R>When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among underlying funds, Strategic Advisers relies on proprietary fundamental and quantitative fund research in its fund selection process. Factors considered when investing in underlying funds include fund performance, a fund manager's experience and investment style, fund company infrastructure, and fund characteristics such as expense ratio, asset size, and portfolio turnover.</R>
Prospectus
<R>The fund may invest in affiliated fixed-income funds ( i.e., Fidelity funds) and non-affiliated fixed-income funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork ® and in non-affiliated ETFs. Underlying funds include both funds managed by FMR (an affiliated company that, together with Strategic Advisers, is part of Fidelity Investments) or an affiliate and funds managed by investment advisers other than Fidelity. Fidelity may receive service fees that typically are at an annual rate of up to 0.40% of a non-affiliated underlying fund's average daily net assets attributable to purchases through Fidelity's FundsNetwork, though such fees may be higher or lower, or may be charged as transaction and/or account fees. In addition, the fund may invest in ETFs in transactions not occurring through Fidelity's FundsNetwork.</R>
<R>Strategic Advisers generally identifies fixed-income funds by reference to a fund's name, policies, or classification by a third-party ranking or ratings organization. In identifying short-term fixed-income funds, Strategic Advisers generally refers to a fixed income fund's most recent publicly disclosed dollar-weighted average maturity.</R>
<R>Strategic Advisers may actively adjust the allocation of the fund's assets at any time. For current information on fund holdings, please call 1-800-544-3455 or visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com. For information on the underlying funds, see the underlying funds' prospectuses. A copy of any underlying Fidelity fund's prospectus is available at www.fidelity.com or www.advisor.fidelity.com. For a copy of any other underlying fund's prospectus, visit the web site of the company that manages or sponsors that underlying fund.</R>
When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers considers a variety of factors including, but not limited to, a sub-adviser's investment approach, the characteristics of a sub-adviser's typical investment portfolio, and a sub-adviser's performance patterns in different market environments.
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
To select investments, a sub-adviser may analyze the credit quality of the issuer, security-specific features, current valuation relative to alternatives in the market, short-term trading opportunities resulting from market inefficiencies, and potential future valuation. In managing the fund's exposure to various risks, including interest rate risk, a sub-adviser may consider, among other things, the market's overall risk characteristics, the market's current pricing of those risks, information on the fund's competitive universe and internal views of potential future market conditions.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
In selecting foreign securities, a sub-adviser's analysis may also consider the credit, currency, and economic risks associated with the security and the country of its issuer. A sub-adviser may also consider an issuer's potential for success in light of its current financial condition, its industry position, and economic and market conditions.
To earn additional income for the fund, a sub-adviser may use a trading strategy that involves selling (or buying) mortgage securities and simultaneously agreeing to buy (or sell) mortgage securities on a later date at a set price. This trading strategy may increase interest rate exposure and result in an increased portfolio turnover rate which increases transaction costs and may increase taxable gains.
In addition, the fund may have indirect exposure to derivatives through its investments in underlying funds.
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
Description of Principal Security Types
In addition to investing in underlying funds, the fund may invest directly in the following principal security types:
Debt securities are used by issuers to borrow money. The issuer usually pays a fixed, variable, or floating rate of interest, and must repay the amount borrowed, usually at the maturity of the security. Some debt securities, such as zero coupon bonds, do not pay current interest but are sold at a discount from their face values. Debt securities include corporate bonds, government securities, repurchase agreements, mortgage and other asset-backed securities, and other securities that Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser believes have debt-like characteristics, including hybrids and synthetic securities.
Money market securities are high-quality, short-term securities that pay a fixed, variable, or floating interest rate. Money market securities include bank certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, bank time deposits, notes, commercial paper, and U.S. Government securities.
A repurchase agreement is an agreement to buy a security at one price and a simultaneous agreement to sell it back at an agreed-upon price.
Prospectus
Derivatives are investments whose values are tied to an underlying asset, instrument, or index. Derivatives include futures, options, and swaps, such as interest rate swaps (exchanging a floating rate for a fixed rate), total return swaps (exchanging a floating rate for the total return of a security or index) and credit default swaps (buying or selling credit default protection).
Forward-settling securities involve a commitment to purchase or sell specific securities when issued, or at a predetermined price or yield. When a fund does not already own or have the right to obtain securities equivalent in kind and amount, a commitment to sell securities is equivalent to a short sale. Payment and delivery take place after the customary settlement period.
Principal Investment Risks
Many factors affect the fund's performance. The fund's share price changes daily based on the performance of the underlying funds and securities in which it invests and on changes in market conditions and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The fund's reaction to these developments will be affected by the types of underlying funds and securities in which the fund invests, the financial condition, industry and economic sector, and geographic location of an issuer, and the fund's level of investment in the securities of that underlying fund or issuer.
If Strategic Advisers' or a sub-adviser's allocation strategies do not work as intended, the fund may not achieve its objective. The portfolio managers' evaluations and assumptions in selecting underlying funds or individual securities may be incorrect in view of actual market conditions.
When your shares are sold they may be worth more or less than what you paid for them, which means that you could lose money by investing in the fund.
The following factors can significantly affect the fund's performance:
<R> Investing in Other Funds. Regulatory restrictions may limit the amount that one fund can invest in another, and in certain cases further limit investments to the extent a fund's shares are already held by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The fund bears all risks of investment strategies employed by the underlying funds. The fund does not control the investments of the underlying funds, which may have different investment objectives and may engage in investment strategies that the fund would not engage in directly. Aggregation of underlying fund holdings may result in indirect concentration of assets in a particular industry or group of industries, or in a single issuer, which may increase volatility.</R>
<R> Interest Rate Changes. Debt and money market securities have varying levels of sensitivity to changes in interest rates. In general, the price of a debt or money market security can fall when interest rates rise and can rise when interest rates fall. Securities with longer maturities and mortgage securities can be more sensitive to interest rate changes. In other words, the longer the maturity of a security, the greater the impact a change in interest rates could have on the security's price. In addition, short-term and long-term interest rates do not necessarily move in the same amount or the same direction. Short-term securities tend to react to changes in short-term interest rates, and long-term securities tend to react to changes in long-term interest rates.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Foreign Exposure. Foreign securities, securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations, and entities providing credit support or a maturity-shortening structure that are located in foreign countries can involve additional risks relating to political, economic, or regulatory conditions in foreign countries. These risks include fluctuations in foreign currencies; withholding or other taxes; trading, settlement, custodial, and other operational risks; and the less stringent investor protection and disclosure standards of some foreign markets. All of these factors can make foreign investments more volatile than U.S. investments. In addition, foreign markets can perform differently from the U.S. market.
Global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region.
Prepayment. Many types of debt securities, including mortgage securities, are subject to prepayment risk. Prepayment risk occurs when the issuer of a security can repay principal prior to the security's maturity. Securities subject to prepayment can offer less potential for gains during a declining interest rate environment and similar or greater potential for loss in a rising interest rate environment. In addition, the potential impact of prepayment features on the price of a debt security can be difficult to predict and result in greater volatility.
Issuer-Specific Changes. Changes in the financial condition of an issuer or counterparty, changes in specific economic or political conditions that affect a particular type of security or issuer, and changes in general economic or political conditions can increase the risk of default by an issuer or counterparty, which can affect a security's or instrument's credit quality or value. Entities providing credit support or a maturity-shortening structure also can be affected by these types of changes. If the structure of a security fails to function as intended, the security could decline in value.
Leverage Risk. Derivatives, forward-settling securities, and short sale transactions involve leverage because they can provide investment exposure in an amount exceeding the initial investment. Leverage can magnify investment risks and cause losses to be realized more quickly. A small change in the underlying asset, instrument, or index can lead to a significant loss. Assets segregated to cover these transactions may decline in value and are not available to meet redemptions. Forward-settling securities and short sale transactions also involve the risk that a security will not be issued, delivered, available for purchase, or paid for when anticipated. An increase in the market price of securities sold short will result in a loss. Government legislation or regulation could affect the use of these transactions and could limit a fund's ability to pursue its investment strategies.
Prospectus
<R> Investing in ETFs. ETFs may trade in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) at prices below the value of their underlying portfolios and may not be liquid. An ETF that is not actively managed cannot sell poorly performing stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in its index or other benchmark. ETFs that track an index are subject to tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to its index or other benchmark).</R>
Quantitative Investing. The value of securities selected using quantitative analysis can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole or securities selected using only fundamental analysis. The factors used in quantitative analysis and the weight placed on those factors may not be predictive of a security's value. In addition, factors that affect a security's value can change over time and these changes may not be reflected in the quantitative model.
<R></R>
In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
The following policy is fundamental, that is, subject to change only by shareholder approval:
The fund seeks to obtain a high level of current income consistent with preservation of capital.
The fund is open for business each day the NYSE is open.
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. Fidelity normally calculates the fund's NAV as of the close of business of the NYSE, normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The fund's assets normally are valued as of this time for the purpose of computing the fund's NAV.
NAV is not calculated and the fund will not process purchase and redemption requests submitted on days when the fund is not open for business. The time at which shares are priced and until which purchase and redemption orders are accepted may be changed as permitted by the SEC.
To the extent that the fund's assets are traded in other markets on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of the fund's assets may be affected on those days. In addition, trading in some of the fund's assets may not occur on days when the fund is open for business.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) are valued at their respective NAVs. For an explanation of the circumstances under which the underlying funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing, see the underlying funds' prospectuses and statements of additional information (SAIs). The fund's NAV is calculated using the values of the underlying funds in which it invests. Other assets (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued primarily on the basis of market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing service. Certain short-term securities are valued on the basis of amortized cost. If market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available or, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, are deemed unreliable for a security, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before the fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. Fair value pricing will be used for high yield debt securities when available pricing information is determined to be stale or for other reasons not to accurately reflect fair value.
Arbitrage opportunities may exist when trading in a portfolio security or securities is halted and does not resume before a fund calculates its NAV. These arbitrage opportunities may enable short-term traders to dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Securities trading in overseas markets present time zone arbitrage opportunities when events affecting portfolio security values occur after the close of the overseas markets but prior to the close of the U.S. market. Fair valuation of a fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of a fund's NAV by short-term traders.
Fair value pricing is based on subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value of a security may differ materially from the value that would be realized if the security were sold.
Prospectus
THE FUND IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR SALE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
Shares of the fund can be purchased only through certain discretionary investment programs offered by Strategic Advisers. If you are not currently a Strategic Advisers client, please call 1-800-544-3455 (9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday) for more information. Strategic Advisers charges fees for its discretionary investment programs. For more information on these fees, please refer to the "Buying and Selling Information" section of the SAI.
The fund may reject for any reason, or cancel as permitted or required by law, any purchase orders.
Excessive trading of fund shares can harm shareholders in various ways, including reducing the returns to long-term shareholders by increasing costs to the fund (such as brokerage commissions), disrupting portfolio management strategies, and diluting the value of the shares in cases in which fluctuations in markets are not fully priced into the fund's NAV.
Because investments in the fund can be made only by Strategic Advisers on behalf of its clients, the potential for excessive or short-term disruptive purchases and sales is reduced. Accordingly, the Board of Trustees has not adopted policies and procedures designed to discourage excessive trading of fund shares and the fund accommodates frequent trading.
The fund has no exchange privilege with any other fund. The fund does not place a limit on purchases or sales of fund shares by Strategic Advisers. The fund reserves the right, but does not have the obligation, to reject any purchase transaction at any time. In addition, the fund reserves the right to impose restrictions on disruptive, excessive, or short-term trading.
The price to buy one share of the fund is its NAV. The fund's shares are sold without a sales charge.
Shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.
Provided the fund receives an order to buy shares in proper form before the close of business, the fund may place an order to buy shares of an underlying Fidelity fund after the close of business, pursuant to a pre-determined allocation, and receive that day's NAV.
The fund may stop offering shares completely or may offer shares only on a limited basis, for a period of time or permanently.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, purchase orders may be suspended, restricted, or canceled and the monies may be withheld.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV.
Shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form. Normally, redemptions will be processed by the next business day, but it may take up to seven days to pay the redemption proceeds if making immediate payment would adversely affect the fund.
Prospectus
Provided the fund receives an order to sell shares in proper form before the close of business, the fund may place an order to sell shares of an underlying Fidelity fund after the close of business, pursuant to a pre-determined allocation, and receive that day's NAV.
Redemptions may be suspended or payment dates postponed when the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or holidays), when trading on the NYSE is restricted, or as permitted by the SEC.
Redemption proceeds may be paid in underlying fund shares, securities, or other property rather than in cash if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund.
When you terminate your relationship with Strategic Advisers, your shares may be sold at the NAV next calculated, in which case Strategic Advisers would send the redemption proceeds to you.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, redemption requests may be suspended, restricted, canceled, or processed and the proceeds may be withheld.
The fund earns dividends, interest, and other income from its investments, and distributes this income (less expenses) to shareholders as dividends. The fund also realizes capital gains from its investments, and distributes these gains (less any losses) to shareholders as capital gain distributions.
The fund normally declares dividends daily and pays them monthly. The fund normally pays capital gain distributions in July and December.
Dividends and capital gain distributions may be reinvested in additional shares of the fund or paid in cash.
As with any investment, your investment in the fund could have tax consequences for you. If you are not investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account, you should consider these tax consequences.
Taxes on distributions. Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes.
For federal tax purposes, certain of the fund's distributions, including dividends and distributions of short-term capital gains, are taxable to you as ordinary income, while certain of the fund's distributions, including distributions of long-term capital gains, are taxable to you generally as capital gains. A percentage of certain distributions of dividends may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
If Strategic Advisers buys shares on your behalf when a fund has realized but not yet distributed income or capital gains, you will be "buying a dividend" by paying the full price for the shares and then receiving a portion of the price back in the form of a taxable distribution.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
Any taxable distributions you receive from the fund will normally be taxable to you when you receive them, regardless of your distribution option.
Taxes on transactions. Your redemptions may result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. A capital gain or loss on your investment in the fund generally is the difference between the cost of your shares and the price you receive when you sell them.
Prospectus
The fund is a mutual fund, an investment that pools shareholders' money and invests it toward a specified goal.
The fund employs a multi-manager and a fund of funds investment structure. Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of sub-advisers or underlying funds.
Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. The address of Strategic Advisers and its affiliates, unless otherwise indicated below, is 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R>As of December 31, 2011, Strategic Advisers had approximately $261.7 billion in discretionary assets under management.</R>
As the manager, Strategic Advisers has overall responsibility for directing the fund's investments and handling its business affairs.
<R> Pyramis , at 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. Pyramis is an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. As of December 31, 2011, Pyramis had approximately $40.2 billion in discretionary assets under management. Pyramis provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R>Gregory Pappas is lead portfolio manager of the fund, which he has managed since December 2011. He also manages other funds. Since joining Fidelity Investments in 1990, Mr. Pappas has worked as a senior fund analyst, fixed income strategist, and portfolio manager.</R>
<R>Robert Galusza serves as a portfolio manager for Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since January 2012. He also manages other funds. Since joining Fidelity Investments in 1987, Mr. Galusza has worked as a research analyst and a portfolio manager.</R>
The SAI provides additional information about the compensation of, any other accounts managed by, and any fund shares held by the portfolio managers.
From time to time a manager, analyst, or other Fidelity employee may express views regarding a particular company, security, industry, or market sector. The views expressed by any such person are the views of only that individual as of the time expressed and do not necessarily represent the views of Fidelity or any other person in the Fidelity organization. Any such views are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and Fidelity disclaims any responsibility to update such views. These views may not be relied on as investment advice and, because investment decisions for a Fidelity fund are based on numerous factors, may not be relied on as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any Fidelity fund.
The fund pays a management fee to Strategic Advisers. The management fee is calculated and paid to Strategic Advisers every month.
The fund's management fee is calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets. Because the fund's management fee rate may fluctuate, the fund's management fee may be higher or lower in the future. The fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 0.55% of the fund's average daily net assets.
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets through September 30, 2014.
In return for the services of the fund's sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers will pay each of the fund's sub-advisers the fee (as described above) payable to that sub-adviser.
<R>The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the management contract and sub-advisory agreement for the fund is available in the fund's annual report for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, agree to reimburse the fund for, or waive, management fees and other expenses above a specified limit. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid by the fund if expenses fall below the specified limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Reimbursement or waiver arrangements can decrease expenses and boost performance.
FDC distributes the fund's shares.
The fund has adopted a Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) with respect to its shares that recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenues, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other source, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, service-providers, and administrators, that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees of the fund has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Affiliates of Strategic Advisers may receive service fees or distribution fees or both with respect to underlying funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork.
If payments made by Strategic Advisers to FDC or to intermediaries under the Distribution and Service Plan were considered to be paid out of the fund's assets on an ongoing basis, they might increase the cost of your investment and might cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
No dealer, sales representative, or any other person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representations, other than those contained in this prospectus and in the related SAI, in connection with the offer contained in this prospectus. If given or made, such other information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by the fund or FDC. This prospectus and the related SAI do not constitute an offer by the fund or by FDC to sell shares of the fund to or to buy shares of the fund from any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer.
Prospectus
<R>The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the financial history of the fund's shares for the period of the fund's operations. Certain information reflects financial results for a single share of the fund. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in shares of the fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the fund's financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the fund's annual report. A free copy of the annual report is available upon request.</R>
<R> |
Period ended
|
<R> Selected Per-Share Data |
</R> |
<R> Net asset value, beginning of period |
$ 10.00 </R> |
<R> Income from Investment Operations |
</R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) D |
.035 </R> |
<R> Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) |
.051 </R> |
<R> Total from investment operations |
.086 </R> |
<R> Distributions from net investment income |
(.026 ) </R> |
<R> Net asset value, end of period |
$ 10.06 </R> |
<R> Total Return B,C |
.86% </R> |
<R> Ratios to Average Net Assets F |
</R> |
<R> Expenses before reductions |
.48% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of fee waivers, if any |
.23% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of all reductions |
.23% A </R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) |
.79% A </R> |
<R> Supplemental Data |
</R> |
<R> Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) |
$ 2,935,591 </R> |
<R> Portfolio turnover rate G |
5% H </R> |
<R> A Annualized </R>
<R> B Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized. </R>
<R> C Total returns would have been lower if certain expenses had not been reduced during the applicable periods shown. </R>
<R> D Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period. </R>
<R> E For the period December 20, 2011 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2012. </R>
<R> F Expense ratios reflect operating expenses of the Fund. Expenses before reductions do not reflect amounts reimbursed by the investment adviser or reductions from expense offset arrangements and do not represent the amount paid by the Fund during periods when reimbursements or reductions occur. Expense ratios before reductions for start-up periods may not be representative of longer term operating periods. Expenses net of fee waivers reflect expenses after reimbursement by the investment adviser but prior to reductions from expense offset arrangements. Expenses net of all reductions represent the net expenses paid by the Fund. Fees and expenses of the Underlying Funds are not included in the Fund's annualized ratios. The Fund indirectly bears its proportionate share of the expenses of the Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> G Amounts do not include the portfolio activity of the Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> H Amount not annualized </R>
Prospectus
Notes
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OPENING A NEW ACCOUNT To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT ACT), requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or entity that opens an account. For individual investors opening an account: When you open an account, you will be asked for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow Fidelity to identify you. You may also be asked to provide documents that may help to establish your identity, such as your driver's license. For investors other than individuals: When you open an account, you will be asked for the name of the entity, its principal place of business and taxpayer identification number (TIN) and may be requested to provide information on persons with authority or control over the account such as name, residential address, date of birth and social security number. You may also be asked to provide documents, such as drivers' licenses, articles of incorporation, trust instruments or partnership agreements and other information that will help Fidelity identify the entity. |
<R>You can obtain additional information about the fund. A description of the fund's policies and procedures for disclosing its holdings is available in its SAI and on Fidelity's web sites. The SAI also includes more detailed information about the fund and its investments. The SAI is incorporated herein by reference (legally forms a part of the prospectus). The fund's annual and semi-annual reports also include additional information. The fund's annual report includes a discussion of the fund's holdings and recent market conditions and the fund's investment strategies that affected performance.</R>
For a free copy of any of these documents or to request other information or ask questions about the fund, call 1-800-544-3455. In addition, you may visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com for a free copy of a prospectus, SAI, or annual or semi-annual report or to request other information.
The SAI, the fund's annual and semi-annual reports and other related materials are available from the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) Database on the SEC's web site (http://www.sec.gov). You can obtain copies of this information, after paying a duplicating fee, by sending a request by e-mail to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You can also review and copy information about the fund, including the fund's SAI, at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call 1-202-551-8090 for information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference Room. Investment Company Act of 1940, File Number, 811-21991 |
FDC is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). You may obtain information about SIPC, including the SIPC brochure, by visiting www.sipc.org or calling SIPC at 202-371-8300.
Strategic Advisers and FundsNetwork are registered service marks of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
<R>1.934454.101 ASD-PRO-0712</R>
Strategic Advisers ® Short Duration Fund (FAUDX)
A Fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
Offered exclusively to certain clients of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) - not available for sale to the general public.
<R>This statement of additional information (SAI) is not a prospectus. Portions of the fund's annual report are incorporated herein. The annual report is supplied with this SAI.</R>
<R>To obtain a free additional copy of the prospectus or SAI, dated July 30, 2012, or an annual report, please call Fidelity at 1-800-544-3455 or visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com.</R>
<R>ASD-PTB-0712
1.934455.101</R>
|
PAGE |
Investment Policies and Limitations |
|
Portfolio Transactions |
|
Valuation |
|
Buying and Selling Information |
|
Distributions and Taxes |
|
Trustees and Officers |
|
Control of Investment Advisers |
|
Management Contract |
|
Proxy Voting Guidelines |
|
Distribution Services |
|
Transfer and Service Agent Agreements |
|
Description of the Trust |
|
Fund Holdings Information |
|
<R>Financial Statements |
|
Appendix |
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS
The following policies and limitations supplement those set forth in the prospectus. Unless otherwise noted, whenever an investment policy or limitation states a maximum percentage of the fund's assets that may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy regarding quality standards, such standard or percentage limitation will be determined immediately after and as a result of the fund's acquisition of such security or other asset. Accordingly, any subsequent change in values, net assets, or other circumstances will not be considered when determining whether the investment complies with the fund's investment policies and limitations.
The fund's fundamental investment policies and limitations cannot be changed without approval by a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act)) of the fund. However, except for the fundamental investment limitations listed below, the investment policies and limitations described in this SAI are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
The following are the fund's fundamental investment limitations set forth in their entirety.
Diversification
The fund may not with respect to 75% of the fund's total assets, purchase the securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities, or securities of other investment companies) if, as a result, (a) more than 5% of the fund's total assets would be invested in the securities of that issuer, or (b) the fund would hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of that issuer.
Senior Securities
The fund may not issue senior securities, except in connection with the insurance program established by the fund pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission or as otherwise permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Borrowing
The fund may not borrow money, except that the fund may borrow money for temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging or investment) in an amount not exceeding 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). Any borrowings that come to exceed this amount will be reduced within three days (not including Sundays and holidays) to the extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation.
Underwriting
The fund may not underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 in the disposition of restricted securities or in connection with investments in other investment companies.
Concentration
The fund may not purchase the securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or 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 (provided that investments in other investment companies shall not be considered an investment in any particular industry for purposes of this investment limitation).
<R>For purposes of the fund's concentration limitation discussed above, Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) or an affiliate may analyze the characteristics of a particular issuer and security and assign an industry or sector classification consistent with those characteristics in the event that the third-party classification provider used by Strategic Advisers does not assign a classification.</R>
Real Estate
The fund may not purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from investing in securities or other instruments backed by real estate or securities of companies engaged in the real estate business).
Commodities
The fund may not purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from purchasing or selling options and futures contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities).
Loans
The fund may not lend any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, but this limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities or to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.
The acquisitions of loans and loan participations excluded from the fund's lending limitation discussed above are only those loans and loan participations considered securities within the meaning of the 1940 Act.
The following investment limitations are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
Short Sales
The fund does not currently intend to sell securities short, unless it owns or has the right to obtain securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short, except for sales of to be announced (TBA) securities, and provided that transactions in futures contracts, options, and swaps are not deemed to constitute selling securities short.
Margin Purchases
The fund does not currently intend to purchase securities on margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of transactions, and provided that margin payments in connection with futures contracts and options on futures contracts shall not constitute purchasing securities on margin.
Borrowing
The fund may borrow money only (a) from a bank or from a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) by engaging in reverse repurchase agreements with any party (reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings for purposes of the fundamental borrowing investment limitation).
Illiquid Securities
The fund does not currently intend to purchase any security if, as a result, more than 10% of its net assets would be invested in securities that are deemed to be illiquid because they are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or because they cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued.
For purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation discussed above, if through a change in values, net assets, or other circumstances, the fund were in a position where more than 10% of its net assets were invested in illiquid securities, it would consider appropriate steps to protect liquidity.
To the extent that the fund acquires the shares of an underlying fund in accordance with Section 12(d)(1)(F) of the 1940 Act, the underlying fund is not obligated to redeem its shares in an amount exceeding 1% of its shares outstanding during any period of less than 30 days. Those underlying fund shares will not be treated as illiquid securities for purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation described above to the extent that the fund is able to dispose of such securities by distributing them in kind to redeeming shareholders. (See "Securities of Other Investment Companies" on page (Click Here).)
Loans
The fund does not currently intend to lend assets other than securities to other parties, except by (a) lending money (up to 15% of the fund's net assets) to a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) assuming any unfunded commitments in connection with the acquisition of loans, loan participations, or other forms of debt instruments. (This limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities, to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.)
In addition to the fund's fundamental and non-fundamental investment limitations discussed above:
For the fund's limitations on futures and options transactions, see the section entitled "Futures, Options, and Swaps" on page (Click Here).
Notwithstanding the foregoing investment limitations, the underlying funds in which the fund may invest have adopted certain investment limitations that may be more or less restrictive than those listed above, thereby permitting the fund to engage indirectly in investment strategies that are prohibited under the investment limitations listed above. The investment limitations of each underlying fund are set forth in its registration statement.
In accordance with its investment program as set forth in the prospectus, the fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in any one underlying Fidelity fund. Although the fund does not intend to concentrate its investments in a particular industry, the fund may indirectly concentrate in a particular industry or group of industries through its investments in one or more underlying funds.
The following pages contain more detailed information about types of instruments in which the fund may invest, techniques the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may employ in pursuit of the fund's investment objective, and a summary of related risks. The fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may not buy all of these instruments or use all of these techniques unless it believes that doing so will help the fund achieve its goal. However, the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) is not required to buy any particular instrument or use any particular technique even if to do so might benefit the fund.
<R>Strategic Advisers ® Short Duration Fund may have exposure to instruments, techniques, and risks either directly or indirectly through an investment in an underlying fund. An underlying fund may invest in the same or other types of instruments and its adviser may employ the same or other types of techniques. Strategic Advisers ® Short Duration Fund's performance will be affected by the instruments, techniques, and risks associated with an underlying fund, in proportion to the amount of assets that the fund allocates to that underlying fund.</R>
On the following pages in this section titled "Investment Policies and Limitations," and except as otherwise indicated, references to "a fund" or "the fund" may relate to Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund or an underlying fund, and references to "an adviser" or "the adviser" may relate to Strategic Advisers (or its affiliates) or a sub-adviser of Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, or an adviser of an underlying fund.
Affiliated Bank Transactions. A Fidelity fund may engage in transactions with financial institutions that are, or may be considered to be, "affiliated persons" of the fund under the 1940 Act. These transactions may involve repurchase agreements with custodian banks; short-term obligations of, and repurchase agreements with, the 50 largest U.S. banks (measured by deposits); municipal securities; U.S. Government securities with affiliated financial institutions that are primary dealers in these securities; short-term currency transactions; and short-term borrowings. In accordance with exemptive orders issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Board of Trustees has established and periodically reviews procedures applicable to transactions involving affiliated financial institutions.
Asset-Backed Securities represent interests in pools of mortgages, loans, receivables, or other assets. Payment of interest and repayment of principal may be largely dependent upon the cash flows generated by the assets backing the securities and, in certain cases, supported by letters of credit, surety bonds, or other credit enhancements. Asset-backed security values may also be affected by other factors including changes in interest rates, the availability of information concerning the pool and its structure, the creditworthiness of the servicing agent for the pool, the originator of the loans or receivables, or the entities providing the credit enhancement. In addition, these securities may be subject to prepayment risk.
Borrowing. If a fund borrows money, its share price may be subject to greater fluctuation until the borrowing is paid off. If a fund makes additional investments while borrowings are outstanding, this may be considered a form of leverage.
<R> Cash Management. A fund may hold uninvested cash or may invest it in cash equivalents such as money market securities, repurchase agreements, or shares of short-term bond or money market funds, including (for Fidelity funds and other advisory clients only) shares of Fidelity central funds. Generally, these securities offer less potential for gains than other types of securities.</R>
<R></R>
Dollar-Weighted Average Maturity is derived by multiplying the value of each investment by the time remaining to its maturity, adding these calculations, and then dividing the total by the value of a fund's portfolio. An obligation's maturity is typically determined on a stated final maturity basis, although there are some exceptions to this rule.
Under certain circumstances, a fund may invest in nominally long-term securities that have maturity shortening features of shorter-term securities, and the maturities of these securities may be deemed to be earlier than their ultimate maturity dates by virtue of an existing demand feature or an adjustable interest rate. Under other circumstances, if it is probable that the issuer of an instrument will take advantage of a maturity-shortening device, such as a call, refunding, or redemption provision, the date on which the instrument will probably be called, refunded, or redeemed may be considered to be its maturity date. The maturities of mortgage securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations, and some asset-backed securities are determined on a weighted average life basis, which is the average time for principal to be repaid. For a mortgage security, this average time is calculated by estimating the timing of principal payments, including unscheduled prepayments, during the life of the mortgage. The weighted average life of these securities is likely to be substantially shorter than their stated final maturity.
Duration of a bond is a measure of the approximate sensitivity of a bond's price to changes in interest rates. Duration is expressed in years. Except for zero coupon bonds, duration is generally shorter than maturity because much of a bond's return consists of interest paid prior to the maturity date. Bonds with longer durations usually have more interest rate sensitivity and price volatility than bonds with shorter durations. Typically, if a bond had a duration of 5 years and interest rates rose 1%, the market value of the bond would decline 5%.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are shares of other investment companies, commodity pools, or other entities that are traded on an exchange. Typically, assets underlying the ETF shares are stocks, though they may also be commodities or other instruments, selected to track a particular index or other benchmark.
Typically, ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark increases. However, in the case of inverse ETFs (also called "short ETFs" or "bear ETFs"), ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark decreases. Inverse ETFs seek to deliver the opposite of the performance of the benchmark they track and are often marketed as a way for investors to profit from, or at least hedge their exposure to, downward moving markets. Investments in inverse ETFs are similar to holding short positions in the underlying benchmark.
ETF shares are redeemable only in large blocks (typically, 50,000 shares) often called "creation units" by persons other than a fund, and are redeemed principally in-kind at each day's next calculated net asset value per share (NAV). ETFs typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by a fund. A fund's purchase of ETFs results in the layering of expenses, such that the fund would indirectly bear a proportionate share of any ETF's operating expenses. Further, while traditional investment companies are continuously offered at NAV, ETFs are traded in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) on an intra-day basis at prices that may be above or below the value of their underlying portfolios.
<R>Some of the risks of investing in an ETF that tracks an index are similar to those of investing in an indexed mutual fund, including tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to the index or other benchmark); and the risk that because an ETF is not actively managed, it cannot sell stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in the index or other benchmark. Other ETF risks include the risk that ETFs may trade in the secondary market at a discount from their NAV and the risk that the ETFs may not be liquid. ETFs also may be leveraged. Leveraged ETFs seek to deliver multiples of the performance of the index or other benchmark they track and use derivatives in an effort to amplify the returns (or decline, in the case of inverse ETFs) of the underlying index or benchmark. While leveraged ETFs may offer the potential for greater return, the potential for loss and the speed at which losses can be realized also are greater. Most leveraged and inverse ETFs "reset" daily, meaning they are designed to achieve their stated objectives on a daily basis. Leveraged and inverse ETFs can deviate substantially from the performance of their underlying benchmark over longer periods of time, particularly in volatile periods.</R>
Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs) are a type of senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt security issued by financial institutions that combines aspects of both bonds and ETFs. An ETN's returns are based on the performance of a market index or other reference asset minus fees and expenses. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are listed on an exchange and traded in the secondary market. However, unlike an ETF, an ETN can be held until the ETN's maturity, at which time the issuer will pay a return linked to the performance of the market index or other reference asset to which the ETN is linked minus certain fees. Unlike regular bonds, ETNs typically do not make periodic interest payments and principal typically is not protected.
<R>ETNs also incur certain expenses not incurred by their applicable index. The market value of an ETN is determined by supply and demand, the current performance of the index or other reference asset, and the credit rating of the ETN issuer. The market value of ETN shares may differ from their intraday indicative value. The value of an ETN may also change due to a change in the issuer's credit rating. As a result, there may be times when an ETN share trades at a premium or discount to its NAV. Some ETNs that use leverage in an effort to amplify the returns of an underlying index or other reference asset can, at times, be relatively illiquid and, thus, they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Leveraged ETNs may offer the potential for greater return, but the potential for loss and speed at which losses can be realized also are greater.</R>
Exposure to Foreign and Emerging Markets. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
Foreign investments involve risks relating to local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments, and may be affected by actions of foreign governments adverse to the interests of U.S. investors. Such actions may include expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on U.S. investment or on the ability to repatriate assets or convert currency into U.S. dollars, or other government intervention. Additionally, governmental issuers of foreign debt securities may be unwilling to pay interest and repay principal when due and may require that the conditions for payment be renegotiated. There is no assurance that a fund's adviser will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their effects. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies and of dividends and interest paid with respect to such securities will fluctuate based on the relative strength of the U.S. dollar.
The risks of foreign investing may be magnified for investments in emerging markets, which may have relatively unstable governments, economies based on only a few industries, and securities markets that trade a small number of securities.
Foreign Currency Transactions. A fund may conduct foreign currency transactions on a spot ( i.e., cash) or forward basis ( i.e., by entering into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies). Although foreign exchange dealers generally do not charge a fee for such conversions, they do realize a profit based on the difference between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the counterparty desire to resell that currency to the dealer. Forward contracts are customized transactions that require a specific amount of a currency to be delivered at a specific exchange rate on a specific date or range of dates in the future. Forward contracts are generally traded in an interbank market directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. The parties to a forward contract may agree to offset or terminate the contract before its maturity, or may hold the contract to maturity and complete the contemplated currency exchange.
Successful use of currency management strategies will depend on an adviser's skill in analyzing currency values. Currency management strategies may substantially change a fund's investment exposure to changes in currency exchange rates and could result in losses to a fund if currencies do not perform as an adviser anticipates. For example, if a currency's value rose at a time when a fund had hedged its position by selling that currency in exchange for dollars, the fund would not participate in the currency's appreciation. If a fund hedges currency exposure through proxy hedges, the fund could realize currency losses from both the hedge and the security position if the two currencies do not move in tandem. Similarly, if a fund increases its exposure to a foreign currency and that currency's value declines, the fund will realize a loss. Foreign currency transactions involve the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted and that a fund's hedging strategies will be ineffective. A fund may be required to limit its hedging transactions in foreign currency forwards, futures, and options in order to maintain its classification as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code (Code). Hedging transactions could result in the application of the mark-to-market provisions of the Code, which may cause an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by a fund and could affect whether dividends paid by a fund are classified as capital gains or ordinary income. A fund will cover its exposure to foreign currency transactions with liquid assets in compliance with applicable requirements. There is no assurance that an adviser's use of currency management strategies will be advantageous to a fund or that it will employ currency management strategies at appropriate times.
Options and Futures Relating to Foreign Currencies. Currency futures contracts are similar to forward currency exchange contracts, except that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency futures contracts call for payment or delivery in U.S. dollars. The underlying instrument of a currency option may be a foreign currency, which generally is purchased or delivered in exchange for U.S. dollars, or may be a futures contract. The purchaser of a currency call obtains the right to purchase the underlying currency, and the purchaser of a currency put obtains the right to sell the underlying currency.
The uses and risks of currency options and futures are similar to options and futures relating to securities or indices, as discussed below. A fund may purchase and sell currency futures and may purchase and write currency options to increase or decrease its exposure to different foreign currencies. Currency options may also be purchased or written in conjunction with each other or with currency futures or forward contracts. Currency futures and options values can be expected to correlate with exchange rates, but may not reflect other factors that affect the value of a fund's investments. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a Yen-denominated security from a decline in the Yen, but will not protect a fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of a fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the fund's investments exactly over time.
Fund's Rights as an Investor. Fidelity funds do not intend to direct or administer the day-to-day operations of any company. A fund may, however, exercise its rights as a shareholder or lender and may communicate its views on important matters of policy to a company's management, board of directors, and shareholders, and holders of a company's other securities when such matters could have a significant effect on the value of the fund's investment in the company. The activities in which a fund may engage, either individually or in conjunction with others, may include, among others, supporting or opposing proposed changes in a company's corporate structure or business activities; seeking changes in a company's directors or management; seeking changes in a company's direction or policies; seeking the sale or reorganization of the company or a portion of its assets; supporting or opposing third-party takeover efforts; supporting the filing of a bankruptcy petition; or foreclosing on collateral securing a security. This area of corporate activity is increasingly prone to litigation and it is possible that a fund could be involved in lawsuits related to such activities. Such activities will be monitored with a view to mitigating, to the extent possible, the risk of litigation against a fund and the risk of actual liability if a fund is involved in litigation. No guarantee can be made, however, that litigation against a fund will not be undertaken or liabilities incurred. The fund's proxy voting guidelines are included in this SAI.
Futures, Options, and Swaps. The success of any strategy involving futures, options, and swaps depends on an adviser's analysis of many economic and mathematical factors and a fund's return may be higher if it never invested in such instruments. Additionally, some of the contracts discussed below are new instruments without a trading history and there can be no assurance that a market for the instruments will continue to exist. Government legislation or regulation could affect the use of such instruments and could limit a fund's ability to pursue its investment strategies.
The requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company may limit the extent to which a fund may enter into futures, options on futures, and forward contracts.
Futures Contracts. In purchasing a futures contract, the buyer agrees to purchase a specified underlying instrument at a specified future date. In selling a futures contract, the seller agrees to sell a specified underlying instrument at a specified date. The price at which the purchase and sale will take place is fixed when the buyer and seller enter into the contract. Some currently available futures contracts are based on specific securities, some are based on commodities or commodities indices (for funds that seek commodities exposure), and some are based on indices of securities prices (including foreign indices for funds that seek foreign exposure). In addition, some currently available futures contracts are based on Eurodollars. Positions in Eurodollar futures reflect market expectations of forward levels of three-month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) rates. Futures on indices and futures not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying instrument. Futures can be held until their delivery dates, or can be closed out by offsetting purchases or sales of futures contracts before then if a liquid market is available. A fund may realize a gain or loss by closing out its futures contracts.
The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in tandem with the value of its underlying instrument. Therefore, purchasing futures contracts will tend to increase a fund's exposure to positive and negative price fluctuations in the underlying instrument, much as if it had purchased the underlying instrument directly. When a fund sells a futures contract, by contrast, the value of its futures position will tend to move in a direction contrary to the market. Selling futures contracts, therefore, will tend to offset both positive and negative market price changes, much as if the underlying instrument had been sold.
<R>The purchaser or seller of a futures contract or an option for a futures contract is not required to deliver or pay for the underlying instrument or the final cash settlement price, as applicable, unless the contract is held until the delivery date. However, both the purchaser and seller are required to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant (FCM), when the contract is entered into. If the value of either party's position declines, that party will be required to make additional "variation margin" payments to settle the change in value on a daily basis. This process of "marking to market" will be reflected in the daily calculation of open positions computed in a fund's NAV. The party that has a gain is entitled to receive all or a portion of this amount. Initial and variation margin payments do not constitute purchasing securities on margin for purposes of a fund's investment limitations. In the event of the bankruptcy or insolvency of an FCM that holds margin on behalf of a fund, the fund may be entitled to return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by the FCM's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the fund. A fund is required to segregate liquid assets equivalent to the fund's outstanding obligations under the contract in excess of the initial margin and variation margin, if any.</R>
Although futures exchanges generally operate similarly in the United States and abroad, foreign futures exchanges may follow trading, settlement, and margin procedures that are different from those for U.S. exchanges. Futures contracts traded outside the United States may involve greater risk of loss than U.S.-traded contracts, including potentially greater risk of losses due to insolvency of a futures broker, exchange member, or other party that may owe initial or variation margin to a fund. Because initial and variation margin payments may be measured in foreign currency, a futures contract traded outside the United States may also involve the risk of foreign currency fluctuation.
There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. Exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for futures contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or other market conditions, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its futures positions could also be impaired. These risks may be heightened for commodity futures contracts, which have historically been subject to greater price volatility than exists for instruments such as stocks and bonds.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded futures contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in futures contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the futures position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Futures prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Futures prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell futures contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's futures positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments. In addition, the price of a commodity futures contract can reflect the storage costs associated with the purchase of the physical commodity.
Options. By purchasing a put option, the purchaser obtains the right (but not the obligation) to sell the option's underlying instrument at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the purchaser pays the current market price for the option (known as the option premium). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific assets or securities, indices of securities or commodities prices, and futures contracts (including commodity futures contracts). The purchaser may terminate its position in a put option by allowing it to expire or by exercising the option. If the option is allowed to expire, the purchaser will lose the entire premium. If the option is exercised, the purchaser completes the sale of the underlying instrument at the strike price. A purchaser may also terminate a put option position by closing it out in the secondary market at its current price, if a liquid secondary market exists.
The buyer of a typical put option can expect to realize a gain if the underlying instrument's price falls substantially. However, if the underlying instrument's price does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer can expect to suffer a loss (limited to the amount of the premium, plus related transaction costs).
The features of call options are essentially the same as those of put options, except that the purchaser of a call option obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. A call buyer typically attempts to participate in potential price increases of the underlying instrument with risk limited to the cost of the option if the underlying instrument's price falls. At the same time, the buyer can expect to suffer a loss if the underlying instrument's price does not rise sufficiently to offset the cost of the option.
The writer of a put or call option takes the opposite side of the transaction from the option's purchaser. In return for receipt of the premium, the writer assumes the obligation to pay or receive the strike price for the option's underlying instrument if the other party to the option chooses to exercise it. The writer may seek to terminate a position in a put option before exercise by closing out the option in the secondary market at its current price. If the secondary market is not liquid for a put option, however, the writer must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes. When writing an option on a futures contract, a fund will be required to make margin payments to an FCM as described above for futures contracts.
If the underlying instrument's price rises, a put writer would generally expect to profit, although its gain would be limited to the amount of the premium it received. If the underlying instrument's price remains the same over time, it is likely that the writer will also profit, because it should be able to close out the option at a lower price. If the underlying instrument's price falls, the put writer would expect to suffer a loss. This loss should be less than the loss from purchasing the underlying instrument directly, however, because the premium received for writing the option should mitigate the effects of the decline.
Writing a call option obligates the writer to sell or deliver the option's underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, upon exercise of the option. The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that writing calls generally is a profitable strategy if prices remain the same or fall. Through receipt of the option premium, a call writer mitigates the effects of a price increase. At the same time, because a call writer must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, even if its current value is greater, a call writer gives up some ability to participate in security price increases.
There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular options contract at any particular time. Options may have relatively low trading volume and liquidity if their strike prices are not close to the underlying instrument's current price. In addition, exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for options contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or otherwise, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its options positions could also be impaired.
Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract size, and strike price, the terms of over-the-counter (OTC) options (options not traded on exchanges) generally are established through negotiation with the other party to the option contract. While this type of arrangement allows the purchaser or writer greater flexibility to tailor an option to its needs, OTC options generally are less liquid and involve greater credit risk than exchange-traded options, which are backed by the clearing organization of the exchanges where they are traded.
Combined positions involve purchasing and writing options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument would construct a combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract. Another possible combined position would involve writing a call option at one strike price and buying a call option at a lower price, to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
A fund may also buy and sell options on swaps. Options on interest rate swaps are known as swaptions. An option on a swap gives a party the right to enter into a new swap agreement or to extend, shorten, cancel or modify an existing swap contract at a specific date in the future in exchange for a premium.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded options contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in options contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the options position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Options prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Options prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the options and futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how options and futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell options contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's options positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments.
Swap Agreements. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors. Swap agreements are two party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors. Swap agreements can vary in term like other fixed-income investments. Most swap agreements are traded over-the-counter. In a standard "swap" transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments (such as securities, commodities, or indices). The gross returns to be exchanged or swapped between the parties are calculated with respect to a notional amount, which is the predetermined dollar principal of the trade representing the hypothetical underlying quantity upon which payment obligations are computed.
Swap agreements can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names, including interest rate swaps (where the parties exchange a floating rate for a fixed rate), asset swaps (where parties combine the purchase or sale of a bond with an interest rate swap), total return swaps, and credit default swaps. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of a fund's investments and its share price and, if applicable, its yield. Swap agreements are subject to liquidity risk, meaning that a fund may be unable to sell a swap contract to a third party at a favorable price.
A total return swap is a contract whereby one party agrees to make a series of payments to another party based on the change in the market value of the assets underlying such contract (which can include a security, commodity, index or baskets thereof) during the specified period. In exchange, the other party to the contract agrees to make a series of payments calculated by reference to an interest rate and/or some other agreed-upon amount (including the change in market value of other underlying assets). A fund may use total return swaps to gain exposure to an asset without owning it or taking physical custody of it. For example, a fund investing in total return commodity swaps will receive the price appreciation of a commodity, commodity index or portion thereof in exchange for payment of an agreed-upon fee.
In a credit default swap, the credit default protection buyer makes periodic payments, known as premiums, to the credit default protection seller. In return the credit default protection seller will make a payment to the credit default protection buyer upon the occurrence of a specified credit event. A credit default swap can refer to a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets, each known as the reference entity or underlying asset. A fund may act as either the buyer or the seller of a credit default swap. A fund may buy or sell credit default protection on a basket of issuers or assets, even if a number of the underlying assets referenced in the basket are lower-quality debt securities. In an unhedged credit default swap, a fund buys credit default protection on a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets without owning the underlying asset or debt issued by the reference entity. Credit default swaps involve greater and different risks than investing directly in the referenced asset, because, in addition to market risk, credit default swaps include liquidity, counterparty and operational risk.
Credit default swaps allow a fund to acquire or reduce credit exposure to a particular issuer, asset or basket of assets. If a swap agreement calls for payments by a fund, the fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. If a fund is the credit default protection seller, the fund will experience a loss if a credit event occurs and the credit of the reference entity or underlying asset has deteriorated. If a fund is the credit default protection buyer, the fund will be required to pay premiums to the credit default protection seller. In the case of a physically settled credit default swap in which a fund is the protection seller, the fund must be prepared to pay par for and take possession of debt of a defaulted issuer delivered to the fund by the credit default protection buyer. Any loss would be offset by the premium payments the fund receives as the seller of credit default protection.
If the creditworthiness of a fund's swap counterparty declines, the risk that the counterparty may not perform could increase, potentially resulting in a loss to the fund. To limit the counterparty risk involved in swap agreements, a Fidelity fund will enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness. Although there can be no assurance that a fund will be able to do so, a fund may be able to reduce or eliminate its exposure under a swap agreement either by assignment or other disposition, or by entering into an offsetting swap agreement with the same party or another creditworthy party. A fund may have limited ability to eliminate its exposure under a credit default swap if the credit of the reference entity or underlying asset has declined.
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<R>If a counterparty to a swap transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in exercising its right to the return of related fund assets under an action against the counterparty.</R>
<R>The trust, on behalf of the Fidelity fund to which this SAI relates, has filed with the National Futures Association a notice claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" (CPO) under the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended, and the rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) promulgated thereunder, with respect to the fund's operation. Accordingly, the trust is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool or a CPO. However, the CFTC has adopted certain rule amendments that significantly affect the continued availability of this exclusion, and may subject advisers to funds to regulation by the CFTC. The scope of application and the effective date of these amendments is still uncertain. As of the date of this SAI, there is no certainty that a fund or its adviser will be able to rely on an exclusion in the future. A fund may determine not to use investment strategies that trigger additional CFTC regulation or may determine to operate subject to CFTC regulation, if applicable. If a fund or its adviser operates subject to CFTC regulation, it may incur additional expenses.</R>
Illiquid Securities cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may be costly to a fund.
Under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, a Fidelity fund's adviser determines the liquidity of the fund's investments and, through reports from the fund's adviser, the Board monitors investments in illiquid securities.
Various factors may be considered in determining the liquidity of a fund's investments, including (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations, (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security).
Increasing Government Debt. The total public debt of the United States and other countries around the globe as a percent of gross domestic product has grown rapidly since the beginning of the 2008 financial downturn. Although high debt levels do not necessarily indicate or cause economic problems, they may create certain systemic risks if sound debt management practices are not implemented.
A high national debt level may increase market pressures to meet government funding needs, which may drive debt cost higher and cause a country to sell additional debt, thereby increasing refinancing risk. A high national debt also raises concerns that a government will not be able to make principal or interest payments when they are due. In the worst case, unsustainable debt levels can decline the valuation of currencies, and can prevent a government from implementing effective counter-cyclical fiscal policy in economic downturns.
On August 5, 2011, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services lowered its long-term sovereign credit rating on the United States one level to "AA+" from "AAA." While Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed the United States' short-term sovereign credit rating as "A-1+," there is no guarantee that Standard & Poor's Ratings Services will not decide to lower this rating in the future. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services stated that its decision was prompted by its view on the rising public debt burden and its perception of greater policymaking uncertainty. The market prices and yields of securities supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government may be adversely affected by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services decisions to downgrade the long-term sovereign credit rating of the United States.
Indexed Securities are instruments whose prices are indexed to the prices of other securities, securities indices, or other financial indicators. Indexed securities typically, but not always, are debt securities or deposits whose values at maturity or coupon rates are determined by reference to a specific instrument, statistic, or measure.
Indexed securities also include commercial paper, certificates of deposit, and other fixed-income securities whose values at maturity or coupon interest rates are determined by reference to the returns of particular stock indices. Indexed securities can be affected by stock prices as well as changes in interest rates and the creditworthiness of their issuers and may not track the indexes as accurately as direct investments in the indexes.
Mortgage-indexed securities, for example, could be structured to replicate the performance of mortgage securities and the characteristics of direct ownership.
The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the instrument or measure to which they are indexed, and may also be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying instruments or measures. Indexed securities are also subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's creditworthiness deteriorates. Recent issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. Government agencies.
<R> Insolvency of Issuers, Counterparties, and Intermediaries. Issuers of fund portfolio securities or counterparties to fund transactions that become insolvent or declare bankruptcy can pose special investment risks. In each circumstance, risk of loss, valuation uncertainty, increased illiquidity, and other unpredictable occurrences may negatively impact an investment. Each of these risks may be amplified in foreign markets, where security trading, settlement, and custodial practices can be less developed than those in the U.S. markets, and bankruptcy laws differ from those of the U.S.</R>
<R>As a general matter, if the issuer of a fund portfolio security is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock have priority over the claims of common stock owners. These events can negatively impact the value of the issuer's securities and the results of related proceedings can be unpredictable.</R>
<R>If a counterparty to a fund transaction, such as a swap transaction, a short sale, a borrowing, or other complex transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in its ability to exercise rights to obtain the return of related fund assets or in exercising other rights against the counterparty. In addition, insolvency and liquidation proceedings take time to resolve, which can limit or preclude a fund's ability to terminate a transaction or obtain related assets or collateral in a timely fashion. Uncertainty may also arise upon the insolvency of a securities or commodities intermediary such as a broker-dealer or futures commission merchant with which a fund has pending transactions. If an intermediary becomes insolvent, while securities positions and other holdings may be protected by U.S. or foreign laws, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether these protections are available to specific trades based on the circumstances. Receiving the benefit of these protections can also take time to resolve, which may result in illiquid positions.</R>
Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program. Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the SEC, a Fidelity fund may lend money to, and borrow money from, other funds advised by Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR) or its affiliates. A Fidelity fund will borrow through the program only when the costs are equal to or lower than the costs of bank loans. A Fidelity fund will lend through the program only when the returns are higher than those available from an investment in repurchase agreements. Interfund loans and borrowings normally extend overnight, but can have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one day's notice. A Fidelity fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional borrowing costs.
Investment-Grade Debt Securities. Investment-grade debt securities include all types of debt instruments that are of medium and high-quality. Investment-grade debt securities include repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. Government securities as well as repurchase agreements collateralized by equity securities, non-investment-grade debt, and all other instruments in which a fund can perfect a security interest, provided the repurchase agreement counterparty has an investment-grade rating. Some investment-grade debt securities may possess speculative characteristics and may be more sensitive to economic changes and to changes in the financial conditions of issuers. An investment-grade rating means the security or issuer is rated investment-grade by a credit rating agency registered as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) with the SEC (for example, Moody's Investors Service, Inc.), or is unrated but considered to be of equivalent quality by a fund's adviser. For purposes of determining the maximum maturity of an investment-grade debt security, an adviser may take into account normal settlement periods.
Investments by Large Shareholders. A fund may experience large redemptions or investments due to transactions in fund shares by large shareholders. While it is impossible to predict the overall effect of these transactions over time, there could be an adverse impact on a fund's performance. In the event of such redemptions or investments, a fund could be required to sell securities or to invest cash at a time when it may not otherwise desire to do so. Such transactions may increase a fund's brokerage and/or other transaction costs. In addition, when investors own a substantial portion of a fund's shares, a large redemption could cause actual expenses to increase, or could result in the fund's current expenses being allocated over a smaller asset base, leading to an increase in the fund's expense ratio. Redemptions of fund shares could also accelerate the realization of taxable capital gains in the fund if sales of securities result in capital gains. The impact of these transactions is likely to be greater when a significant investor purchases, redeems, or owns a substantial portion of the fund's shares. When possible, Fidelity will consider how to minimize these potential adverse effects, and may take such actions as it deems appropriate to address potential adverse effects, including redemption of shares in-kind rather than in cash or carrying out the transactions over a period of time, although there can be no assurance that such actions will be successful.
<R> Loans and Other Direct Debt Instruments. Direct debt instruments are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments involve a risk of loss in case of default or insolvency of the borrower and may offer less legal protection to the purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation, or there may be a requirement that a fund supply additional cash to a borrower on demand. A fund may acquire loans by buying an assignment of all or a portion of the loan from a lender or by purchasing a loan participation from a lender or other purchaser of a participation.</R>
<R>Lenders and purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of interest and repayment of principal. If scheduled interest or principal payments are not made, the value of the instrument may be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured provide more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of failure to make scheduled interest or principal payments. However, there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the borrower's obligation, or that the collateral could be liquidated. Indebtedness of borrowers whose creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks and may be highly speculative. Borrowers that are in bankruptcy or restructuring may never pay off their indebtedness, or may pay only a small fraction of the amount owed. Direct indebtedness of foreign countries also involves a risk that the governmental entities responsible for the repayment of the debt may be unable, or unwilling, to pay interest and repay principal when due.</R>
<R>Direct lending and investments in loans through direct assignment of a financial institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the lender/purchaser could become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of lender liability, a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender. Direct debt instruments may also involve a risk of insolvency of the lending bank or other intermediary. </R>
<R>A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness, the purchaser has direct recourse against the borrower, the purchaser may have to rely on the agent to apply appropriate credit remedies against a borrower. If assets held by the agent for the benefit of a purchaser were determined to be subject to the claims of the agent's general creditors, the purchaser might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or interest.</R>
<R>Direct indebtedness may include letters of credit, revolving credit facilities, or other standby financing commitments that obligate lenders/purchasers to make additional cash payments on demand. These commitments may have the effect of requiring a lender/purchaser to increase its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise have done so, even if the borrower's condition makes it unlikely that the amount will ever be repaid.</R>
<R>For a Fidelity fund that limits the amount of total assets that it will invest in any one issuer or in issuers within the same industry, the fund generally will treat the borrower as the "issuer" of indebtedness held by the fund. In the case of loan participations where a bank or other lending institution serves as financial intermediary between a fund and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the fund the direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC interpretations require a fund, in appropriate circumstances, to treat both the lending bank or other lending institution and the borrower as "issuers" for these purposes. Treating a financial intermediary as an issuer of indebtedness may restrict a fund's ability to invest in indebtedness related to a single financial intermediary, or a group of intermediaries engaged in the same industry, even if the underlying borrowers represent many different companies and industries.</R>
Lower-Quality Debt Securities. Lower-quality debt securities include all types of debt instruments that have poor protection with respect to the payment of interest and repayment of principal, or may be in default. These securities are often considered to be speculative and involve greater risk of loss or price changes due to changes in the issuer's capacity to pay. The market prices of lower-quality debt securities may fluctuate more than those of higher-quality debt securities and may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty, which may follow periods of rising interest rates.
The market for lower-quality debt securities may be thinner and less active than that for higher-quality debt securities, which can adversely affect the prices at which the former are sold. Adverse publicity and changing investor perceptions may affect the liquidity of lower-quality debt securities and the ability of outside pricing services to value lower-quality debt securities.
A fund may choose, at its expense or in conjunction with others, to pursue litigation or otherwise to exercise its rights as a security holder to seek to protect the interests of security holders if it determines this to be in the best interest of the fund's shareholders.
Money Market Securities are high-quality, short-term obligations. Money market securities may be structured to be, or may employ a trust or other form so that they are, eligible investments for money market funds. For example, put features can be used to modify the maturity of a security or interest rate adjustment features can be used to enhance price stability. If a structure fails to function as intended, adverse tax or investment consequences may result. Neither the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) nor any other regulatory authority has ruled definitively on certain legal issues presented by certain structured securities. Future tax or other regulatory determinations could adversely affect the value, liquidity, or tax treatment of the income received from these securities or the nature and timing of distributions made by a fund.
Mortgage Securities are issued by government and non-government entities such as banks, mortgage lenders, or other institutions. A mortgage security is an obligation of the issuer backed by a mortgage or pool of mortgages or a direct interest in an underlying pool of mortgages. Some mortgage securities, such as collateralized mortgage obligations (or "CMOs"), make payments of both principal and interest at a range of specified intervals; others make semiannual interest payments at a predetermined rate and repay principal at maturity (like a typical bond). Mortgage securities are based on different types of mortgages, including those on commercial real estate or residential properties. Stripped mortgage securities are created when the interest and principal components of a mortgage security are separated and sold as individual securities. In the case of a stripped mortgage security, the holder of the "principal-only" security (PO) receives the principal payments made by the underlying mortgage, while the holder of the "interest-only" security (IO) receives interest payments from the same underlying mortgage.
Fannie Maes and Freddie Macs are pass-through securities issued by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, respectively. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, which guarantee payment of interest and repayment of principal on Fannie Maes and Freddie Macs, respectively, are federally chartered corporations supervised by the U.S. Government that act as governmental instrumentalities under authority granted by Congress. Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are authorized to borrow from the U.S. Treasury to meet their obligations. Fannie Maes and Freddie Macs are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government.
The value of mortgage securities may change due to shifts in the market's perception of issuers and changes in interest rates. In addition, regulatory or tax changes may adversely affect the mortgage securities market as a whole. Non-government mortgage securities may offer higher yields than those issued by government entities, but also may be subject to greater price changes than government issues. Mortgage securities are subject to prepayment risk, which is the risk that early principal payments made on the underlying mortgages, usually in response to a reduction in interest rates, will result in the return of principal to the investor, causing it to be invested subsequently at a lower current interest rate. Alternatively, in a rising interest rate environment, mortgage security values may be adversely affected when prepayments on underlying mortgages do not occur as anticipated, resulting in the extension of the security's effective maturity and the related increase in interest rate sensitivity of a longer-term instrument. The prices of stripped mortgage securities tend to be more volatile in response to changes in interest rates than those of non-stripped mortgage securities.
A fund may seek to earn additional income by using a trading strategy (commonly known as "mortgage dollar rolls" or "reverse mortgage dollar rolls") that involves selling (or buying) mortgage securities, realizing a gain or loss, and simultaneously agreeing to purchase (or sell) mortgage securities on a later date at a set price. During the period between the sale and repurchase in a mortgage dollar roll transaction, a fund will not be entitled to receive interest and principal payments on the securities sold but will invest the proceeds of the sale in other securities that are permissible investments for the fund. During the period between the purchase and subsequent sale in a reverse mortgage dollar roll transaction, a fund is entitled to interest and principal payments on the securities purchased. Losses may arise due to changes in the value of the securities or if the counterparty does not perform under the terms of the agreement. If the counterparty files for bankruptcy or becomes insolvent, a fund's right to repurchase or sell securities may be limited. This trading strategy may increase interest rate exposure and result in an increased portfolio turnover rate which increases costs and may increase taxable gains.
Municipal Securities are issued to raise money for a variety of public or private purposes, including general financing for state and local governments, or financing for specific projects or public facilities. They may be issued in anticipation of future revenues and may be backed by the full taxing power of a municipality, the revenues from a specific project, or the credit of a private organization. The value of some or all 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. A municipal security may be owned directly or through a participation interest.
Preferred Securities represent an equity or ownership 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.
Put Features entitle the holder to sell a security back to the issuer or a third party at any time or at specified intervals. In exchange for this benefit, a fund may accept a lower interest rate. Securities with put features are subject to the risk that the put provider is unable to honor the put feature (purchase the security). Put providers often support their ability to buy securities on demand by obtaining letters of credit or other guarantees from other entities. Demand features, standby commitments, and tender options are types of put features.
Real Estate Investment Trusts. Real estate investment trusts issue debt securities to fund the purchase and/or development of commercial properties. The value of these debt securities may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by the trusts, the creditworthiness of the trusts, interest rates, and tax and regulatory requirements. Real estate investment trusts are dependent upon management skill and the cash flow generated by the properties owned by the trusts. Real estate investment trusts are at the risk of the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status of income under the Internal Revenue Code and failing to maintain exemption from the 1940 Act.
Reforms and Government Intervention in the Financial Markets. Economic downturns can trigger various economic, legal, budgetary, tax, and regulatory reforms across the globe. Instability in the financial markets in the wake of the 2008 economic downturn led the U.S. Government and other governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that experienced extreme volatility, and in some cases, a lack of liquidity. Reforms are ongoing and their effects are uncertain. Federal, state, local, foreign, and other governments, their regulatory agencies, or self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which a fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Reforms may also change the way in which a fund is regulated and could limit or preclude a fund's ability to achieve its investment objective or engage in certain strategies. Also, while reforms generally are intended to strengthen markets, systems, and public finances, they could affect fund expenses and the value of fund investments.
The value of a fund's holdings is also generally subject to the risk of future local, national, or global economic disturbances based on unknown weaknesses in the markets in which a fund invests. In the event of such a disturbance, the issuers of securities held by a fund may experience significant declines in the value of their assets and even cease operations, or may receive government assistance accompanied by increased restrictions on their business operations or other government intervention. In addition, it is not certain that the U.S. Government or foreign governments will intervene in response to a future market disturbance and the effect of any such future intervention cannot be predicted.
<R> Repurchase Agreements involve an agreement to purchase a security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price. The resale price reflects the purchase price plus an agreed-upon incremental amount which is unrelated to the coupon rate or maturity of the purchased security. As protection against the risk that the original seller will not fulfill its obligation, the securities are held in a separate account at a bank, marked-to-market daily, and maintained at a value at least equal to the sale price plus the accrued incremental amount. The value of the security purchased may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to purchase the security. In addition, delays or losses could result if the other party to the agreement defaults or becomes insolvent. A fund may be limited in its ability to exercise its right to liquidate assets related to a repurchase agreement with an insolvent counterparty. A Fidelity fund may engage in repurchase agreement transactions with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser.</R>
Restricted Securities are subject to legal restrictions on their sale. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or be costly to a fund. Restricted securities generally can be sold in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (1933 Act), or in a registered public offering. Where registration is required, the holder of a registered security may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expense and a considerable period may elapse between the time it decides to seek registration and the time it may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the holder might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed when it decided to seek registration of the security.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. In a reverse repurchase agreement, a fund sells a security to another party, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that security at an agreed-upon price and time. A Fidelity fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser. Such transactions may increase fluctuations in the market value of a fund's assets and, if applicable, a fund's yield, and may be viewed as a form of leverage.
Securities Lending. Securities lending allows a fund to retain ownership of the securities loaned and, at the same time, earn additional income. The borrower provides the fund with collateral in an amount at least equal to the value of the securities loaned. The fund seeks to maintain the ability to obtain the right to vote or consent on proxy proposals involving material events affecting securities loaned. If the borrower defaults on its obligation to return the securities loaned because of insolvency or other reasons, a fund could experience delays and costs in recovering the securities loaned or in gaining access to the collateral. These delays and costs could be greater for foreign securities. If a fund is not able to recover the securities loaned, the fund may sell the collateral and purchase a replacement investment in the market. The value of the collateral could decrease below the value of the replacement investment by the time the replacement investment is purchased. For a Fidelity fund, loans will be made only to parties deemed by the fund's adviser to be in good standing and when, in the adviser's judgment, the income earned would justify the risks.
<R> Securities of Other Investment Companies, including shares of closed-end investment companies (which include business development companies (BDCs)), unit investment trusts, and open-end investment companies, represent interests in professionally managed portfolios that may invest in any type of instrument. Investing in other investment companies involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, but may involve additional expenses at the investment company-level, such as portfolio management fees and operating expenses. For certain investment companies, such as BDCs, these expenses may be significant. Certain types of investment companies, such as closed-end investment companies, issue a fixed number of shares that trade on a stock exchange or over-the-counter at a premium or a discount to their NAV. Others are continuously offered at NAV, but may also be traded in the secondary market.</R>
<R>The securities of closed-end funds may be leveraged. As a result, a fund may be indirectly exposed to leverage through an investment in such securities. An investment in securities of closed-end funds that use leverage may expose a fund to higher volatility in the market value of such securities and the possibility that the fund's long-term returns on such securities will be diminished.</R>
The extent to which a fund can invest in securities of other investment companies may be limited by federal securities laws.
Short Sales. Short sales involve the market sale of a security a fund has borrowed from a prime broker with which it has a contractual relationship, with the expectation that the security will underperform either the market or the securities that the fund holds long. A fund closes a short sale by purchasing the same security at the current market price and delivering it to the prime broker.
Until a fund closes out a short position, the fund is obligated to pay the prime broker (from which it borrowed the security sold short) interest as well as any dividends that accrue during the period of the loan. While a short position is outstanding, a fund must also pledge a portion of its assets to the prime broker as collateral for the borrowed security. The collateral will be marked to market daily.
Short positions create a risk that a fund will be required to cover them by buying the security at a time when the security has appreciated in value, thus resulting in a loss to the fund. A short position in a security poses more risk than holding the same security long. Because a short position loses value as the security's price increases, the loss on a short sale is theoretically unlimited. The loss on a long position is limited to what a fund originally paid for the security together with any transaction costs. A fund may not always be able to borrow a security the fund seeks to sell short at a particular time or at an acceptable price. As a result, a fund may be unable to fully implement its investment strategy due to a lack of available stocks or for other reasons. It is possible that the market value of the securities a fund holds in long positions will decline at the same time that the market value of the securities the fund has sold short increases, thereby increasing the fund's potential volatility. Because a fund may be required to pay dividends, interest, premiums and other expenses in connection with a short sale, any benefit for the fund resulting from the short sale will be decreased, and the amount of any ultimate gain will be decreased or of any loss will be increased, by the amount of such expenses.
A fund may also enter into short sales against the box. Short sales "against the box" are short sales of securities that a fund owns or has the right to obtain (equivalent in kind or amount to the securities sold short). If a fund enters into a short sale against the box, it will be required to set aside securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short (or securities convertible or exchangeable into such securities) and will be required to hold such securities while the short sale is outstanding. A fund will incur transaction costs, including interest expenses, in connection with opening, maintaining, and closing short sales against the box.
Sources of Liquidity or Credit Support. Issuers may employ various forms of credit and liquidity enhancements, including letters of credit, guarantees, swaps, puts, and demand features, and insurance provided by domestic or foreign entities such as banks and other financial institutions. An adviser and its affiliates may rely on their evaluation of the credit of the issuer or the credit of the liquidity or credit enhancement provider in determining whether to purchase or hold a security supported by such enhancement. In evaluating the credit of a foreign bank or other foreign entities, factors considered may include whether adequate public information about the entity is available and whether the entity may be subject to unfavorable political or economic developments, currency controls, or other government restrictions that might affect its ability to honor its commitment. Changes in the credit quality of the issuer and/or entity providing the enhancement could affect the value of the security or a fund's share price.
Stripped Securities are the separate income or principal components of a debt security. The risks associated with stripped securities are similar to those of other debt securities, although stripped securities may be more volatile, and the value of certain types of stripped securities may move in the same direction as interest rates. U.S. Treasury securities that have been stripped by a Federal Reserve Bank are obligations issued by the U.S. Treasury.
Privately stripped government securities are created when a dealer deposits a U.S. Treasury security or other U.S. Government security with a custodian for safekeeping. The custodian issues separate receipts for the coupon payments and the principal payment, which the dealer then sells.
Structured Securities (also called "structured notes") are derivative debt securities, the interest rate on or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. The value of the interest rate on and/or the principal of structured securities is determined by reference to changes in the value of a reference instrument ( e.g., a security or other financial instrument, asset, currency, interest rate, commodity, or index) or the relative change in two or more reference instruments. A structured security may be positively, negatively, or both positively and negatively indexed; that is, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument increases. Similarly, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument decreases. Further, the change in the principal amount payable with respect to, or the interest rate of, a structured security may be calculated as a multiple of the percentage change (positive or negative) in the value of the underlying reference instrument(s); therefore, the value of such structured security may be very volatile. Structured securities may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because the investor bears the risk of the reference instrument. Structured securities may also be more volatile, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities or more traditional debt securities. In addition, because structured securities generally are traded over-the-counter, structured securities are subject to the creditworthiness of the counterparty of the structured security, and their values may decline substantially if the counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates.
Temporary Defensive Policies. In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, a fund may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If a fund does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund reserves the right to invest without limitation in investment-grade money market or short-term debt instruments for temporary, defensive purposes.
Transfer Agent Bank Accounts. Proceeds from shareholder purchases of a Fidelity fund may pass through a series of demand deposit bank accounts before being held at the fund's custodian. Redemption proceeds may pass from the custodian to the shareholder through a similar series of bank accounts.
If a bank account is registered to the transfer agent or an affiliate, who acts as an agent for the fund when opening, closing, and conducting business in the bank account, the transfer agent or an affiliate may invest overnight balances in the account in repurchase agreements. Any balances that are not invested in repurchase agreements remain in the bank account overnight. Any risks associated with such an account are investment risks of the fund. The fund faces the risk of loss of these balances if the bank becomes insolvent.
Variable and Floating Rate Securities provide for periodic adjustments in the interest rate paid on the security. Variable rate securities provide for a specified periodic adjustment in the interest rate, while floating rate securities have interest rates that change whenever there is a change in a designated benchmark rate or the issuer's credit quality, sometimes subject to a cap or floor on such rate. Some variable or floating rate securities are structured with put features that permit holders to demand payment of the unpaid principal balance plus accrued interest from the issuers or certain financial intermediaries. For purposes of determining the maximum maturity of a variable or floating rate security, a fund's adviser may take into account normal settlement periods.
When-Issued and Forward Purchase or Sale Transactions involve a commitment to purchase or sell specific securities at a predetermined price or yield in which payment and delivery take place after the customary settlement period for that type of security. Typically, no interest accrues to the purchaser until the security is delivered.
When purchasing securities pursuant to one of these transactions, the purchaser assumes the rights and risks of ownership, including the risks of price and yield fluctuations and the risk that the security will not be issued as anticipated. Because payment for the securities is not required until the delivery date, these risks are in addition to the risks associated with a fund's investments. If a fund remains substantially fully invested at a time when a purchase is outstanding, the purchases may result in a form of leverage. When a fund has sold a security pursuant to one of these transactions, the fund does not participate in further gains or losses with respect to the security. If the other party to a delayed-delivery transaction fails to deliver or pay for the securities, a fund could miss a favorable price or yield opportunity or suffer a loss.
A fund may renegotiate a when-issued or forward transaction and may sell the underlying securities before delivery, which may result in capital gains or losses for the fund.
A fund may also engage in purchases or sales of "to be announced" or "TBA" securities, which usually are transactions in which a fund buys or sells mortgage-backed securities on a forward commitment basis. A TBA transaction typically does not designate the actual security to be delivered and only includes an approximate principal amount. TBA trades can be used by a fund for investment purposes in order to gain exposure to certain securities, or for hedging purposes to adjust the risk exposure of a fund portfolio without having to restructure a portfolio. Purchases and sales of TBA securities involve risks similar to those discussed above for other when-issued and forward purchase and sale transactions. In addition, when a fund sells TBA securities, it incurs risks similar to those incurred in short sales. For example, when a fund sells TBA securities without owning or having the right to obtain the deliverable securities, it incurs a risk of loss because it could have to purchase the securities at a price that is higher than the price at which it sold them. Also, a fund may be unable to purchase the deliverable securities if the corresponding market is illiquid. In such transactions, the fund will set aside liquid assets in an amount sufficient to offset its exposure as long as the fund's obligations are outstanding.
Zero Coupon Bonds do not make interest payments; instead, they are sold at a discount from their face value and are redeemed at face value when they mature. Because zero coupon bonds do not pay current income, their prices can be more volatile than other types of fixed-income securities when interest rates change. In calculating a fund's dividend, a portion of the difference between a zero coupon bond's purchase price and its face value is considered income.
To the extent that Strategic Advisers grants investment management authority over an allocated portion of the fund's assets to a sub-adviser (see the section entitled "Management Contract"), that sub-adviser is authorized to provide the services described in the respective sub-advisory agreement, and in accordance with the policies described in this section.
Orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities are placed on behalf of the fund by Strategic Advisers (either directly or through its affiliates) or a sub-adviser, pursuant to authority contained in the management contract and the respective sub-advisory agreement.
Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be responsible for the placement of portfolio securities transactions for other investment companies and investment accounts for which it has or its affiliates have investment discretion.
The fund will not incur any commissions or sales charges when it invests in affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it may incur such costs when it invests directly in other types of securities, including ETFs.
Purchases and sales of equity securities on a securities exchange or OTC are effected through brokers who receive compensation for their services. Generally, compensation relating to securities traded on foreign exchanges will be higher than compensation relating to securities traded on U.S. exchanges and may not be subject to negotiation. Compensation may also be paid in connection with principal transactions (in both OTC securities and securities listed on an exchange) and agency OTC transactions executed with an electronic communications network (ECN) or an alternative trading system. Equity securities may be purchased from underwriters at prices that include underwriting fees.
Purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally made with an issuer or a primary market-maker acting as principal. Although there is no stated brokerage commission paid by the fund for any fixed-income security, the price paid by the fund to an underwriter includes the disclosed underwriting fee and prices in secondary trades usually include an undisclosed dealer commission or markup reflecting the spread between the bid and ask prices of the fixed-income security. New issues of equity and fixed-income securities may also be purchased in underwritten fixed price offerings.
The Trustees of the fund periodically review Strategic Advisers' and its affiliates' and each sub-adviser's performance of their respective responsibilities in connection with the placement of portfolio securities transactions on behalf of the fund. The Trustees also review the compensation paid by the fund over representative periods of time to determine if it was reasonable in relation to the benefits to the fund.
Strategic Advisers.
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Strategic Advisers, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, the following: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and characteristics of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for avoiding or lessening market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
The trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Strategic Advisers or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker may be higher than the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Strategic Advisers or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
Benefit to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these brokerage and research products or services with their own resources. To minimize the potential for conflicts of interest, the trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services Strategic Advisers or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates or have no explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.
Strategic Advisers' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Strategic Advisers or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Strategic Advisers or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately, rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) who have entered into arrangements with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with certain brokers, including National Financial Services LLC (NFS), with whom they are under common control, provided Strategic Advisers or its affiliates determine that these affiliates' trade execution abilities and costs are comparable to those of non-affiliated, qualified brokerage firms. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with brokers that use NFS as a clearing agent.
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
Non-U.S. Transactions
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers.
Trade Allocation
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Strategic Advisers to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis).
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Pyramis or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Pyramis, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Pyramis or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and character of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Pyramis and/or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for lessening or avoiding market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis and/or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Pyramis and/or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Pyramis or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker is generally the same as the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Pyramis or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Pyramis' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Pyramis or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in their investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Pyramis or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
Benefits to Pyramis. Pyramis' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these products or services with their own resources. However, the trading desks of Pyramis and its affiliates are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services that Pyramis or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Pyramis or its affiliates or might not have an explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.
Pyramis' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Pyramis or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Pyramis or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Pyramis or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Pyramis, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Pyramis or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Pyramis or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Pyramis or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Pyramis or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Pyramis or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Pyramis or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Pyramis or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Pyramis and its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Pyramis' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately ( e.g., with hard dollars), rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Pyramis' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Pyramis or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) who have entered into arrangements with Pyramis or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
Pyramis or its affiliates may be authorized to place portfolio transactions with Fidelity Capital Markets (FCM), a division of NFS, an affiliated broker-dealer of Pyramis and its affiliates, or other broker-dealers with whom they are under common control, and use CrossStream, an alternative trading system operated by NFS, if they reasonably believe the quality of the transaction is comparable to what it would be with other qualified broker-dealers. With respect to trades that are executed by Pyramis' affiliates, Pyramis and such affiliate seek to ensure that the trade execution obtained is comparable to that of unaffiliated brokers and that the continued use of such affiliate is appropriate. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may place trades with broker-dealers that use NFS as a clearing agent.
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
Non-U.S. Securities Transactions
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers or may engage a third party to do so.
Trade Allocation
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Pyramis or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Pyramis or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Pyramis to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
Commissions Paid
A fund may pay compensation including both commissions and spreads in connection with the placement of portfolio transactions. The amount of brokerage commissions paid by a fund may change from year to year because of, among other things, changing asset levels, shareholder activity, and/or portfolio turnover.
<R>For the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 5%. Variations in turnover rate may be due to a fluctuating volume of shareholder purchase and redemption orders, market conditions, and/or changes in Strategic Advisers' investment outlook.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund held securities issued by one or more of its regular brokers or dealers or a parent company of its regular brokers or dealers. The following table shows the aggregate value of the securities of the regular broker or dealer or parent company held by the fund as of the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012.</R>
<R> Fund |
Regular Broker or Dealer |
Aggregate Value of
|
<R>Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund |
Bank of America Corp. |
$ 10,240,430</R> |
<R> |
Citigroup, Inc. |
$ 15,283,704</R> |
<R> |
Credit Suisse Group |
$ 11,590,222</R> |
<R> |
Deutsche Bank AG |
$ 5,996,686</R> |
<R> |
BNP Paribas |
$ 6,546,322</R> |
<R> |
Barclays PLC |
$ 11,289,843</R> |
<R> |
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. |
$ 2,926,674</R> |
<R> |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. |
$ 16,017,008</R> |
<R> |
UBS AG |
$ 3,818,418</R> |
<R>The following table shows the total amount of brokerage commissions paid by the fund, comprising commissions paid on securities and/or futures transactions, as applicable, for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012. The total amount of brokerage commissions paid is stated as a dollar amount and a percentage of the fund's average net assets.</R>
<R>Fiscal Year
|
|
Dollar
|
Percentage of
|
<R>2012 A |
|
$ 1,582 |
0.00%</R> |
<R> A Fund commenced operations December 20, 2011.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid $791 in brokerage commissions to firms that may have provided research or brokerage services involving approximately $8,955 of transactions.</R>
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. The NAV of the fund is computed by adding the value of the fund's investments, cash, and other assets, subtracting its liabilities, and dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding.
The Board of Trustees has ultimate responsibility for pricing, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers has established the Strategic Advisers Fair Value Committee (Strategic Advisers Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities. The Strategic Advisers Committee may rely on information and recommendations provided by affiliates of Strategic Advisers in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, including the fair valuation of securities.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) held by the fund are valued at their respective NAVs. If an underlying fund's NAV is unavailable, shares of that underlying fund will be fair valued in good faith by the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Generally, other portfolio securities and assets held by the fund, as well as portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity non-money market fund, are valued as follows:
Most equity securities (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued at the official closing price or the last reported sale price or, if no sale has occurred, at the last quoted bid price on the primary market or exchange on which they are traded.
Debt securities and other assets for which market quotations are readily available may be valued at market values in the principal market in which they normally are traded, as furnished by recognized dealers in such securities or assets. Or, debt securities and convertible securities may be valued on the basis of information furnished by a pricing service that uses a valuation matrix which incorporates both dealer-supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Use of pricing services has been approved by the Board of Trustees. A number of pricing services are available, and the fund may use various pricing services or discontinue the use of any pricing service.
Short-term securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less for which market quotations and information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available are valued at amortized cost, which approximates current value.
Futures contracts are valued at the settlement or closing price. Options are valued at their market quotations, if available. Swaps are valued daily using quotations received from independent pricing services or recognized dealers.
Independent brokers or quotation services provide prices of foreign securities in their local currency. Fidelity Service Company, Inc. (FSC) gathers all exchange rates daily at the close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) using the last quoted bid price on the local currency and then translates the value of foreign securities from their local currencies into U.S. dollars. Any changes in the value of forward contracts due to exchange rate fluctuations and days to maturity are included in the calculation of NAV.
The Board of Trustees of the underlying Fidelity funds has ultimate responsibility for pricing portfolio securities and assets held by those funds, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to FMR. FMR has established the FMR Fair Value Committee (FMR Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities.
<R>Other portfolio securities and assets for which market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available or, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, are deemed unreliable will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before a fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, that security will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. In fair valuing a security, the FMR Committee and the Strategic Advisers Committee may consider factors including price movements in futures contracts and American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), market and trading trends, the bid/ask quotes of brokers, and off-exchange institutional trading.</R>
Portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity money market fund are valued on the basis of amortized cost. This technique involves initially valuing an instrument at its cost as adjusted for amortization of premium or accretion of discount rather than its current market value. The amortized cost value of an instrument may be higher or lower than the price a money market fund would receive if it sold the instrument.
At such intervals as they deem appropriate, the Trustees of an underlying Fidelity money market fund consider the extent to which NAV calculated using market valuations would deviate from the $1.00 per share calculated using amortized cost valuation. If the Trustees believe that a deviation from a money market fund's amortized cost per share may result in material dilution or other unfair results to shareholders, the Trustees have agreed to take such corrective action, if any, as they deem appropriate to eliminate or reduce, to the extent reasonably practicable, the dilution or unfair results. Such corrective action could include selling portfolio instruments prior to maturity to realize capital gains or losses or to shorten average portfolio maturity; withholding dividends; redeeming shares in kind; establishing NAV by using available market quotations; and such other measures as the Trustees may deem appropriate.
BUYING AND SELLING INFORMATION
Shares of the fund are offered only to certain clients of Strategic Advisers that have granted Strategic Advisers discretionary investment authority. If you are not currently a Strategic Advisers client, please call 1-800-544-3455 for more information.
Investors participating in a Strategic Advisers discretionary investment program are charged an annual advisory fee based on a percentage of the average market value of assets in their account. The stated fee is then reduced by a credit reflecting the amount of fees, if any, received by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates from mutual funds for investment management or certain other services.
The fund may make redemption payments in whole or in part in readily marketable securities or other property pursuant to procedures approved by the Trustees if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund. Such securities or other property will be valued for this purpose as they are valued in computing the fund's NAV. Shareholders that receive securities or other property will realize, upon receipt, a gain or loss for tax purposes, and will incur additional costs and be exposed to market risk prior to and upon the sale of such securities or other property.
The fund, in its discretion, may determine to issue its shares in kind in exchange for securities held by the purchaser having a value, determined in accordance with the fund's policies for valuation of portfolio securities, equal to the purchase price of the fund shares issued. The fund will accept for in-kind purchases only securities or other instruments that are appropriate under its investment objective and policies. In addition, the fund generally will not accept securities of any issuer unless they are liquid, have a readily ascertainable market value, and are not subject to restrictions on resale. All dividends, distributions, and subscription or other rights associated with the securities become the property of the fund, along with the securities. Shares purchased in exchange for securities in kind generally cannot be redeemed for fifteen days following the exchange to allow time for the transfer to settle.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
Dividends. A portion of the fund's income may qualify for the dividends-received deduction available to corporate shareholders, but it is unlikely that all of the fund's income will qualify for the deduction. A portion of the fund's dividends, when distributed to individual shareholders, may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
Capital Gain Distributions. The fund's long-term capital gain distributions, including amounts attributable to an underlying fund's long-term capital gain distributions, are federally taxable to shareholders generally as capital gains.
Returns of Capital. If the fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
Foreign Tax Credit or Deduction. Foreign governments may impose withholding taxes on dividends and interest earned by the fund with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. Foreign governments may also impose taxes on other payments or gains with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. As a general matter, if, at the close of its fiscal year, more than 50% of the fund's total assets is invested in securities of foreign issuers, the fund may elect to pass through eligible foreign taxes paid and thereby allow shareholders to take a deduction or, if they meet certain holding period requirements with respect to fund shares, a credit on their individual tax returns. In addition, if at the close of each quarter of its fiscal year at least 50% of the fund's total assets is represented by interests in other regulated investment companies, the same rules will apply to any foreign tax credits that underlying funds pass through to the fund. The amount of foreign taxes paid by the fund will be reduced to the extent that the fund lends securities over the dividend record date. Special rules may apply to the credit for individuals who receive dividends qualifying for the long-term capital gains tax rate.
Tax Status of the Fund. The fund intends to qualify each year as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code so that it will not be liable for federal tax on income and capital gains distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify as a regulated investment company, and avoid being subject to federal income or excise taxes at the fund level, the fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains within each calendar year as well as on a fiscal year basis (if the fiscal year is other than the calendar year), and intends to comply with other tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies.
Other Tax Information. The information above is only a summary of some of the tax consequences generally affecting the fund and its shareholders, and no attempt has been made to discuss individual tax consequences. It is up to you or your tax preparer to determine whether the sale of shares of the fund resulted in a capital gain or loss or other tax consequence to you. In addition to federal income taxes, shareholders may be subject to state and local taxes on fund distributions, and shares may be subject to state and local personal property taxes. Investors should consult their tax advisers to determine whether the fund is suitable to their particular tax situation.
<R>The Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and executive officers of the trust and fund, as applicable, are listed below. The Board of Trustees governs the fund and is responsible for protecting the interests of shareholders. The Trustees are experienced executives who meet periodically throughout the year to oversee the fund's activities, review contractual arrangements with companies that provide services to the fund, oversee management of the risks associated with such activities and contractual arrangements, and review the fund's performance. If the interests of the fund and an underlying Fidelity fund were to diverge, a conflict of interest could arise and affect how the Trustees and Member of the Advisory Board fulfill their fiduciary duties to the affected funds. Strategic Advisers has structured the fund to avoid these potential conflicts, although there may be situations where a conflict of interest is unavoidable. In such instances, Strategic Advisers, the Trustees, and Member of the Advisory Board would take reasonable steps to minimize and, if possible, eliminate the conflict. Each of the Trustees oversees 26 funds advised by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate.</R>
The Trustees hold office without limit in time except that (a) any Trustee may resign; (b) any Trustee may be removed by written instrument, signed by at least two-thirds of the number of Trustees prior to such removal; (c) any Trustee who requests to be retired or who has become incapacitated by illness or injury may be retired by written instrument signed by a majority of the other Trustees; and (d) any Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of shareholders by a two-thirds vote of the outstanding voting securities of the trust. The executive officers and Advisory Board Member hold office without limit in time, except that any officer and Advisory Board Member may resign or may be removed by a vote of a majority of the Trustees at any regular meeting or any special meeting of the Trustees. Except as indicated, each individual has held the office shown or other offices in the same company for the past five years.
Each Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) is referred to herein as an Independent Trustee.
Experience, Skills, Attributes, and Qualifications of the Fund's Trustees. The Governance and Nominating Committee has adopted a statement of policy that describes the experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills that are necessary and desirable for potential Independent Trustee candidates (Statement of Policy). The Board believes that each Trustee satisfied at the time he or she was initially elected or appointed a Trustee, and continues to satisfy, the standards contemplated by the Statement of Policy. The Governance and Nominating Committee may also engage professional search firms to help identify potential Independent Trustee candidates with experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills consistent with the Statement of Policy. Additional criteria based on the composition and skills of the current Independent Trustees, as well as experience or skills that may be appropriate in light of future changes to board composition, business conditions, and regulatory or other developments, may be considered by the professional search firms and the Governance and Nominating Committee. In addition, the Board takes into account the Trustees' commitment and participation in Board and committee meetings, as well as their leadership of standing and ad hoc committees throughout their tenure.
In determining that a particular Trustee was and continues to be qualified to serve as a Trustee, the Board has considered a variety of criteria, none of which, in isolation, was controlling. The Board believes that, collectively, the Trustees have balanced and diverse experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills, which allow the Board to operate effectively in governing the fund and protecting the interests of shareholders. Information about the specific experience, skills, attributes, and qualifications of each Trustee, which in each case led to the Board's conclusion that the Trustee should serve (or continue to serve) as a trustee of the fund, is provided below.
Board Structure and Oversight Function. Roger T. Servison is an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) and currently serves as Chairman. The Trustees have determined that an interested Chairman is appropriate and benefits shareholders because an interested Chairman has a personal and professional stake in the quality and continuity of services provided to the fund. Independent Trustees exercise their informed business judgment to appoint an individual of their choosing to serve as Chairman, regardless of whether the Trustee happens to be independent or a member of management. The Independent Trustees have determined that they can act independently and effectively without having an Independent Trustee serve as Chairman and that a key structural component for assuring that they are in a position to do so is for the Independent Trustees to constitute a substantial majority for the Board. The Independent Trustees also regularly meet in executive session. Ralph F. Cox serves as the lead Independent Trustee and as such (i) acts as a liaison between the Independent Trustees and management with respect to matters important to the Independent Trustees and (ii) with management prepares agendas for Board meetings.
<R>Fidelity funds are overseen by different Boards of Trustees. The fund's Board oversees asset allocation funds as well as the Fidelity enhanced index funds. Other boards oversee Fidelity's investment-grade bond, money market, and asset allocation funds and Fidelity's equity and high income funds. The fund may invest in Fidelity funds overseen by such other Boards. The use of separate Boards, each with its own committee structure, allows the Trustees of each group of Fidelity funds to focus on the unique issues of the funds they oversee, including common research, investment, and operational issues.</R>
<R>The Trustees primarily operate as a full Board, but also operate in committees, to facilitate the timely and efficient consideration of all matters of importance to the Trustees, the fund, and fund shareholders and to facilitate compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and oversight of the fund's activities and associated risks. The Board has charged Strategic Advisers and its affiliates with (i) identifying events or circumstances the occurrence of which could have demonstrably adverse effects on the fund's business and/or reputation; (ii) implementing processes and controls to lessen the possibility that such events or circumstances occur or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur; and (iii) creating and maintaining a system designed to evaluate continuously business and market conditions in order to facilitate the identification and implementation processes described in (i) and (ii) above. Because the day-to-day operations and activities of the fund are carried out by or through Strategic Advisers, its affiliates and other service providers, the fund's exposure to risks is mitigated but not eliminated by the processes overseen by the Trustees. Board oversight of different aspects of the fund's activities is exercised primarily through the full Board, but also through the Audit and Compliance Committee. Appropriate personnel, including but not limited to the fund's Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), FMR's internal auditor, the independent accountants, the fund's Treasurer and portfolio management personnel, make periodic reports to the Board's committees, as appropriate. The responsibilities of each committee, including their oversight responsibilities, are described further under "Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees."</R>
<R> Interested Trustees *:</R>
<R>Correspondence intended for each Trustee who is an interested person may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.</R>
Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience + |
|
Roger T. Servison (66) |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006 Mr. Servison is Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Servison serves as President of Strategic New Business Development for Fidelity Investments and serves as a Director of Strategic Advisers. Previously, Mr. Servison oversaw Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company (2005-2006) and Strategic Advisers (2005-2007). Mr. Servison also served as President and a Director of Fidelity Brokerage Services (Japan), LLC (1994-2004). |
<R>Derek L. Young (47)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Mr. Young is Vice President of Fidelity's Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present), President and a Director of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011-present), President of Fidelity Global Asset Allocation (GAA) (2011-present), and Vice Chairman of Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (2011-present). Previously, Mr. Young served as Chief Investment Officer of GAA (2009-2011) and as a portfolio manager. |
<R>* Trustees have been determined to be "Interested Trustees" by virtue of, among other things, their affiliation with the trust or various entities under common control with Strategic Advisers.</R>
<R> + The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.</R>
Independent Trustees :
Correspondence intended for each Independent Trustee (that is, the Trustees other than the Interested Trustees) may be sent to Fidelity Investments, P.O. Box 55235, Boston, Massachusetts 02205-5235.
Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience + |
|
<R>Peter C. Aldrich (68)</R> |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006 Mr. Aldrich is a Director of the National Bureau of Economic Research and a Director of the funds of BlackRock Realty Group (2006-present). Previously, Mr. Aldrich served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010), a Managing Member of Poseidon, LLC (foreign private investment, 1998-2004), and Chairman and Managing Member of AEGIS, LLC (foreign private investment, 1997-2004). Mr. Aldrich also served as Faculty Chairman of The Research Council on Global Investment of The Conference Board (business and professional education non-profit, 1999-2004). Mr. Aldrich is a Member of the Boards of Trustees of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. |
<R>Amy Butte Liebowitz (44)</R> |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011 Ms. Butte Liebowitz is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of TILE Financial (financial internet service, 2008-present). Previously, Ms. Butte Liebowitz served as the Chief Financial Officer and member of the Board of Directors of MF Global (broker-dealer, 2006-2008), and Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the New York Stock Exchange (2004-2006). Ms. Butte Liebowitz is a member of the Boards of Directors of Accion International and the New York Women's Forum, as well as a selected participant in the World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader program. |
Ralph F. Cox (79) |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006 Mr. Cox is President of RABAR Enterprises (management consulting for the petroleum industry). Mr. Cox is a Director of Abraxas Petroleum (exploration and production). Mr. Cox is a member of the Advisory Boards of the Business and Engineering Schools of Texas A&M University and the Engineering School of University of Texas at Austin. Previously, Mr. Cox served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010) and as an Advisory Director of CH2M Hill Companies (engineering, 1981-2011). Mr. Ralph F. Cox and Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. are not related. |
<R>Karen Kaplan (52)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Ms. Kaplan is President of Hill Holliday (advertising and specialized marketing, 2007-present). Ms. Kaplan is a Director of DSM (dba Delta Dental, Doral, and DentaQuest) (2004-present), Member of the Board of Governors of the Chief Executives' Club of Boston (2010-present), Member of the Board of the Massachusetts Conference for Women (2008-present), and Director of the Executive Committee of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce (2006-present). She is also a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, an action oriented community of the most effective CEOs, heads of state, Nobel Prize winners, and non-governmental leaders in the world. Previously, Ms. Kaplan served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010), President of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2008-2010), Treasurer of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2002-2006), Vice Chair of the Board of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (2003-2010), Director of United Way of Massachusetts Bay (2004-2006), Director of ADVO (direct mail marketing, 2003-2007), and Director of Tweeter Home Entertainment Group (2006-2007). |
+ The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.
Advisory Board Member and Executive Officers :
Correspondence intended for each executive officer and Howard E. Cox, Jr. may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
Name, Age; Principal Occupation |
|
<R>Howard E. Cox, Jr. (68)</R> |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 Member of the Advisory Board of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II. Mr. Cox is a Member of the Advisory Board of Devonshire Investors (2009-present). Mr. Cox serves as an Advisory Partner of Greylock (venture capital) and a Director of Stryker Corporation (medical products and services). Previously, Mr. Cox served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010) and a Member of the Secretary of Defense's Business Board of Directors (2008-2010). Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. and Mr. Ralph F. Cox are not related. |
Kenneth B. Robins (42) |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 President and Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Robins also serves as President and Treasurer of other Fidelity Equity and High Income Funds (2008-present) and Assistant Treasurer of other Fidelity Fixed Income and Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present). Mr. Robins is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). Previously, Mr. Robins served as Deputy Treasurer of the Fidelity funds (2005-2008) and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2006-2008). |
<R>Marc Bryant (46)</R> |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of the fund. Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Fidelity Investments. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments, Mr. Bryant served as a Senior Vice President and the Head of Global Retail Legal for AllianceBernstein L.P. (2006-2010), and as the General Counsel for ProFund Advisors LLC (2001-2006). |
<R></R>
Name, Age; Principal Occupation |
|
<R>Elizabeth Paige Baumann (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Officer of the fund. Ms. Baumann also serves as AML Officer of the Fidelity funds (2012-present) and The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2012-present), Chief AML Officer of FMR LLC (2012-present), and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Ms. Baumann served as Vice President and Deputy Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2007-2012). |
<R>Nicholas E. Steck (48)</R> |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 Chief Financial Officer of the fund. Mr. Steck serves as Senior Vice President of Fidelity Pricing and Cash Management Services (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. During the period 2002 to 2009, Mr. Steck served as a Compliance Officer of FMR, Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc., FMR LLC, Fidelity Research & Analysis (U.K.) Inc., Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc. |
<R>Laura M. Doherty (43)</R> |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 Chief Compliance Officer of the fund. Ms. Doherty also serves as Senior Vice President of the Office of the Chief Compliance Officer (2008-present). Previously, Ms. Doherty served as a Vice President in Fidelity's Corporate Audit department (1998-2008). |
Adrien E. Deberghes (44) |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Deberghes also serves as Assistant Treasurer (2010-present) and Deputy Treasurer (2008-present) of other Fidelity funds and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2008-present). Previously, Mr. Deberghes served as Senior Vice President of Mutual Fund Administration at State Street Corporation (2007-2008), Senior Director of Mutual Fund Administration at Investors Bank & Trust (2005-2007), and Director of Finance for Dunkin' Brands (2000-2005). |
Jonathan Davis (43) |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Davis is also Assistant Treasurer of certain Fidelity funds. Mr. Davis is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Mr. Davis served as Vice President and Associate General Counsel of FMR LLC (2003-2010). |
Margaret A. Carey (38) |
|
|
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 Assistant Secretary of the fund. Ms. Carey is also Assistant Secretary of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). |
Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees. The Board of Trustees has established two committees to supplement the work of the Board as a whole. The members of each committee are Independent Trustees.
<R>The Audit and Compliance Committee is composed of Ms. Butte Liebowitz (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Ralph Cox, and Ms. Kaplan. All committee members must be able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including a company's balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. The committee determines whether at least one member of the committee is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined in rules promulgated by the SEC under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The committee normally meets in conjunction with in person meetings of the Board of Trustees, or more frequently as called by the Chair. The committee meets separately periodically with the fund's Treasurer, the fund's Chief Financial Officer, the fund's CCO, personnel responsible for the internal audit function of FMR LLC, and the fund's outside auditors. The committee has direct responsibility for the appointment, compensation, and oversight of the work of the outside auditors employed by the fund for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or related work. The committee assists the Trustees in overseeing and monitoring: (i) the systems of internal accounting and financial controls of the fund and the fund's service providers, (ii) the financial reporting processes of the fund, (iii) the independence, objectivity and qualification of the auditors to the fund, (iv) the annual audits of the fund's financial statements, and (v) the accounting policies and disclosures of the fund. The committee considers and acts upon (i) the provision by any outside auditor of any non-audit services for any fund, and (ii) the provision by any outside auditor of certain non-audit services to fund service providers and their affiliates to the extent that such approval (in the case of this clause (ii)) is required under applicable regulations (Auditor Independence Regulations) of the SEC. In furtherance of the foregoing, the committee has adopted (and may from time to time amend or supplement) and provides oversight of policies and procedures for non-audit engagements by outside auditors of the fund. It is responsible for approving all audit engagement fees and terms for the fund and for resolving disagreements between the fund and any outside auditor regarding the fund's financial reporting, and has sole authority to hire and fire any auditor. Auditors of the fund report directly to the committee. The committee will obtain assurance of independence and objectivity from the outside auditors, including a formal written statement delineating all relationships between the auditor and the fund and any service providers consistent with Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Ethics and Independence Rule 3526, Communication with Audit Committees Concerning Independence. The committee will discuss with the outside auditors any such disclosed relationships and their impact on the auditor's independence and objectivity. The committee will receive reports of compliance with provisions of the Auditor Independence Regulations relating to the hiring of employees or former employees of the outside auditors. It oversees and receives reports on the fund's service providers' internal controls and reviews with management, internal auditors, and outside auditors the adequacy and effectiveness of the fund's and service providers' accounting and financial controls, including: (i) any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting that are reasonably likely to adversely affect the fund's ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial data; (ii) any change in the fund's internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the fund's internal control over financial reporting; and (iii) any fraud, whether material or not, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the fund's or service provider's internal controls over financial reporting. The committee will review with counsel any legal matters that may have a material impact on the fund's financial statements and any material reports or inquiries received from regulators or governmental agencies. The committee reviews at least annually a report from the outside auditor describing (i) any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality control review, peer review, or PCAOB examination of the auditing firm and (ii) any material issues raised by any inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional authorities of the auditing firm since the most recent report and in each case any steps taken to deal with such issues. The committee will oversee and receive reports on the fund's financial reporting process and will receive reports from an outside auditor relating to (i) critical accounting policies and practices used by the fund, (ii) alternative accounting treatments that the auditor has discussed with Strategic Advisers, and (iii) other material written communications between the auditor and Strategic Advisers (as determined by the auditor). The committee will discuss with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors and, if appropriate, internal audit personnel of FMR LLC, their qualitative judgments about the appropriateness and acceptability of accounting principles and financial disclosure practices used or proposed for adoption by the fund. The committee will review with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors, and internal audit personnel of FMR LLC (to the extent relevant) the results of audits of the fund's financial statements. The committee will review periodically the fund's major internal controls exposures and the steps that have been taken to monitor and control such exposures. The committee also oversees the administration and operation of the compliance policies and procedures of the fund and its service providers as required by Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act. The committee is responsible for the review and approval of policies and procedures relating to (i) provisions of the Code of Ethics, (ii) anti-money laundering requirements, (iii) compliance with investment restrictions and limitations, (iv) privacy, (v) recordkeeping, and (vi) other compliance policies and procedures which are not otherwise delegated to another committee of the Board of Trustees or reserved to the Board itself. The committee has responsibility for recommending to the Board the designation of a CCO of the fund. The committee serves as the primary point of contact between the CCO and the Board, it oversees the annual performance review and compensation of the CCO and, if required, makes recommendations to the Board with respect to the removal of the appointed CCO. The committee receives reports on significant correspondence with regulators or governmental agencies, employee complaints or published reports which raise concerns regarding compliance matters, and copies of significant non-routine correspondence with the SEC. The committee receives reports from the CCO including the annual report concerning the fund's compliance policies as required by Rule 38a-1 and quarterly reports in respect of any breaches of fiduciary duty or violations of federal securities laws. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The Governance and Nominating Committee is composed of Mr. Ralph Cox (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, and Mses. Butte Liebowitz and Kaplan. The committee meets as called by the Chair. With respect to fund governance and board administration matters, the committee periodically reviews procedures of the Board of Trustees and its committees (including committee charters) and periodically reviews compensation of Independent Trustees. The committee monitors corporate governance matters and makes recommendations to the Board of Trustees on the frequency and structure of the Board of Trustee meetings and on any other aspect of Board procedures. It reviews the performance of legal counsel employed by the funds and the Independent Trustees. On behalf of the Independent Trustees, the committee will make such findings and determinations as to the independence of counsel for the Independent Trustees as may be necessary or appropriate under applicable regulations or otherwise. The committee is also responsible for Board administrative matters applicable to Independent Trustees, such as expense reimbursement policies and compensation for attendance at meetings, conferences and other events. The committee monitors compliance with, acts as the administrator of, and makes determinations in respect of, the provisions of the code of ethics and any supplemental policies regarding personal securities transactions applicable to the Independent Trustees. The committee monitors the functioning of each Board committee and makes recommendations for any changes, including the creation or elimination of standing or ad hoc Board committees. The committee monitors regulatory and other developments to determine whether to recommend modifications to the committee's responsibilities or other Trustee policies and procedures in light of rule changes, reports concerning "best practices" in corporate governance and other developments in mutual fund governance. The committee recommends that the Board establish such special or ad hoc Board committees as may be desirable or necessary from time to time in order to address ethical, legal, or other matters that may arise. The committee also oversees the annual self-evaluation of the Board of Trustees and establishes procedures to allow it to exercise this oversight function. In conducting this oversight, the committee shall address all matters that it considers relevant to the performance of the Board of Trustees and shall report the results of its evaluation to the Board of Trustees, including any recommended amendments to the principles of governance, and any recommended changes to the fund's or the Board of Trustees' policies, procedures, and structures. The committee reviews periodically the size and composition of the Board of Trustees as a whole and recommends, if necessary, measures to be taken so that the Board of Trustees reflects the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and diversity required for the Board as a whole and contains at least the minimum number of Independent Trustees required by law. The committee makes nominations for the election or appointment of Independent Trustees and for membership on committees. The committee shall have authority to retain and terminate any third-party advisers, including authority to approve fees and other retention terms. Such advisers may include search firms to identify Independent Trustee candidates and board compensation consultants. The committee may conduct or authorize investigations into or studies of matters within the committee's scope of responsibilities, and may retain, at the fund's expense, such independent counsel or other advisers as it deems necessary. The committee will consider nominees to the Board of Trustees recommended by shareholders based upon the criteria applied to candidates presented to the committee by a search firm or other source. Recommendations, along with appropriate background material concerning the candidate that demonstrates his or her ability to serve as an Independent Trustee of the fund, should be submitted to the Chair of the committee at the address maintained for communications with Independent Trustees. If the committee retains a search firm, the Chair will generally forward all such submissions to the search firm for evaluation. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by each Trustee in the fund and in all funds in the aggregate within the same fund family overseen by the Trustee for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011 (or as of March 31, 2012 for Mr. Young, Trustee as of March 1, 2012).</R>
Independent Trustees |
||||
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Peter C. Aldrich |
Amy Butte Liebowitz |
Ralph F. Cox |
Karen Kaplan |
Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund |
none |
none |
none |
none |
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none |
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the compensation of each Trustee and Member of the Advisory Board for his or her services for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, or calendar year ended December 31, 2011, as applicable.</R>
<R>Compensation Table 1</R> |
|||||
<R>
AGGREGATE
|
Peter C.
|
Amy Butte
|
Ralph F.
|
Karen
|
</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund + |
$ 3,771 |
$ 3,771 |
$ 3,771 |
$ 3,771 |
</R> |
<R>
TOTAL COMPENSATION
|
$ 95,000 |
$ 23,750 |
$ 95,000 |
$ 95,000 |
</R> |
<R> 1 Roger T. Servison, Howard E. Cox, Jr., and Derek L. Young are interested persons and are compensated by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate (including FMR).</R>
<R> 2 Effective September 8, 2011, Ms. Butte Liebowitz serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.</R>
<R> + Estimated for the fund's first full year.</R>
<R> A Reflects compensation received for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011, for 22 funds of two trusts.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and officers of the fund owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the fund's total outstanding shares.</R>
CONTROL OF INVESTMENT ADVISERS
FMR LLC, as successor by merger to FMR Corp., is the ultimate parent company of Strategic Advisers and Pyramis. The voting common shares of FMR LLC are divided into two series. Series B is held predominantly by members of the Edward C. Johnson 3d and Abigail P. Johnson family, directly or through trust and limited liability companies, and is entitled to 49% of the vote on any matter acted upon by the voting common shares. Series A is held predominantly by non-Johnson family member employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates and is entitled to 51% of the vote on any such matter. The Johnson family group and all other Series B shareholders have entered into a shareholders' voting agreement under which all Series B shares will be voted in accordance with the majority vote of Series B shares. Under the 1940 Act, control of a company is presumed where one individual or group of individuals owns more than 25% of the voting securities of that company. Therefore, through their ownership of voting common shares and the execution of the shareholders' voting agreement, members of the Johnson family may be deemed, under the 1940 Act, to form a controlling group with respect to FMR LLC.
At present, the primary business activities of FMR LLC and its subsidiaries are: (i) the provision of investment advisory, management, shareholder, investment information and assistance and certain fiduciary services for individual and institutional investors; (ii) the provision of securities brokerage services; (iii) the management and development of real estate; and (iv) the investment in and operation of a number of emerging businesses.
<R>Pyramis is a registered investment adviser. FMR LLC is the ultimate parent company of Pyramis. Information regarding the ownership of FMR LLC is disclosed above.</R>
Strategic Advisers, Pyramis (the Investment Advisers), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and the fund have adopted codes of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act that set forth employees' fiduciary responsibilities regarding the fund, establish procedures for personal investing, and restrict certain transactions. Employees subject to the codes of ethics, including the Investment Advisers' investment personnel, may invest in securities for their own investment accounts, including securities that may be purchased or held by the fund.
The fund has entered into a management contract with Strategic Advisers, pursuant to which Strategic Advisers furnishes investment advisory and other services.
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
Strategic Advisers has retained Pyramis to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. The sub-adviser does not sponsor the fund.
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
Management and Sub-Advisory Services. Under the terms of its management contract with the fund, Strategic Advisers acts as investment adviser and, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, directs the investments of the fund in accordance with its investment objective, policies and limitations. Strategic Advisers is authorized, in its discretion, to allocate the fund's assets pursuant to its investment strategy. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates provide the fund with all necessary office facilities and personnel for servicing the fund's investments, compensate all officers of the fund and all Trustees who are interested persons of the trust or of Strategic Advisers, and compensate all personnel of the fund or Strategic Advisers performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities.
In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, provide the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the fund. These services include providing facilities for maintaining the fund's organization; supervising relations with custodians, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, underwriters and other persons dealing with the fund; preparing all general shareholder communications and conducting shareholder relations; maintaining the fund's records and the registration of the fund's shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws; developing management and shareholder services for the fund; and furnishing reports, evaluations and analyses on a variety of subjects to the Trustees.
Under its respective sub-advisory agreement, and subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, each sub-adviser directs the investment of its allocated portion of the fund's assets in accordance with the fund's investment objective, policies and limitations.
Management-Related Expenses. In addition to the management fee payable to Strategic Advisers and the fees payable to the transfer agent and pricing and bookkeeping agent, the fund pays all of its expenses that are not assumed by those parties. The fund pays for the typesetting, printing, and mailing of its proxy materials to shareholders, legal expenses, and the fees of the custodian, auditor, and Independent Trustees. The fund's management contract further provides that the fund will pay for typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, notices, and reports to shareholders; however, under the terms of the fund's transfer agent agreement, the transfer agent bears these costs. Other expenses paid by the fund include interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, the fund's proportionate share of insurance premiums and Investment Company Institute dues, and the costs of registering shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws. The fund is also liable for such non-recurring expenses as may arise, including costs of any litigation to which the fund may be a party, and any obligation it may have to indemnify its officers and Trustees with respect to litigation.
Management Fees. For the services of Strategic Advisers under the management contract, the fund pays Strategic Advisers a monthly management fee calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets; provided, however, that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 0.55% of the fund's average daily net assets.
In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the fund until September 30, 2014. The fee waiver by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns.
<R>The following table shows the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers for the past fiscal year and the amount of waivers reducing management fees for the fund.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on December 20, 2011.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, voluntarily reimburse all or a portion of the fund's operating expenses. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid for these expense reimbursements in the amount that expenses fall below the limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Expense reimbursements by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns, and repayment of the reimbursement by the fund will decrease its returns.
Sub-Adviser - Pyramis. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Pyramis pursuant to which Pyramis may provide investment advisory services for the fund.
<R>Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Pyramis fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Pyramis pursuant to a separately negotiated investment mandate (a "Strategy"). The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Pyramis under a particular Strategy based on the following rate schedule:</R>
Low Duration Bond : |
|||||
0.20% of the first $100 million in assets; |
|||||
0.15% of the next $400 million in assets; and |
|||||
0.09% on any amount in excess of $500 million in assets |
<R>Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Pyramis pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R>The following table shows the amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to Pyramis for the past fiscal year.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on December 20, 2011</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
<R>Differences between the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers and the amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to Pyramis may be due to expense estimates, which are accrued in the period to which they relate and adjusted when actual amounts are known.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Strategic Advisers.
Gregory Pappas is an employee of Strategic Advisers, a subsidiary of FMR LLC and an affiliate of FMR. Strategic Advisers is the adviser to the fund.
<R>Mr. Pappas is the lead portfolio manager of the fund and receives compensation for his services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of the portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by Strategic Advisers or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
The portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The primary components of the portfolio manager's bonus are based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account, and (ii) the investment performance of a broad range of Strategic Advisers funds and accounts, including the fund. Accounts may include model portfolios designed for asset allocation, retirement planning, or tax-sensitive goals. The pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to his tenure on those fund(s) and account(s), and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over his tenure. Each component is calculated separately over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with the portfolio manager's tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a benchmark index and peer group. A subjective component of the bonus is based on the portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of Strategic Advisers.
<R>The portion of the portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of his fund is based on the fund's pre-tax investment performance measured against the Citigroup ® 6-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index, and the pre-tax investment performance of the fund within the Morningstar ® Ultrashort Bond peer group. The portfolio manager may be compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, Strategic Advisers' parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement, and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.</R>
The portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in a fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, the portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. The portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as the portfolio manager must allocate his time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate. The portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Pappas as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund ($2,936 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Pappas was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Pyramis.
<R>Robert Galusza is the portfolio manager of Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund and receives compensation for his services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of the portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by FMR or its affiliates or at the election of the portfolio manager. </R>
<R> The portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at FMR or its affiliates. The primary components of the portfolio manager's bonus is based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index assigned to each fund or account and (ii) the investment performance of other taxable bond funds and accounts. The pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to his tenure on those fund(s) and account(s) and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over his tenure. Each component is calculated separately over the portfolio manager's tenure on those fund(s) and account(s) over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with his tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a benchmark index. A smaller, subjective component of the portfolio manager's bonus is based on the portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of FMR or its affiliates. The portion of the portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund is based on the pre-tax investment performance of the fund measured against the Barclays ® 6 Month Swap Index. The portfolio manager also is compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, FMR Co.'s parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.</R>
<R> The portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in the fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, the portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. The portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as the portfolio manager must allocate his time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by FMR Co. or an affiliate. The portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Galusza as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund ($754 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Galusza was none.</R>
Proxy Voting - Strategic Advisers.
The following Proxy Voting Guidelines were established by the Board of Trustees of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of the fund, after consultation with Strategic Advisers. (The guidelines are reviewed periodically by Strategic Advisers and its affiliates and by the Independent Trustees of the fund, and, accordingly, are subject to change.)
I. General Principles
A. The funds in the trust generally intend to vote shares of underlying funds using echo voting procedures (that is, in the same proportion as the holders of all other shares of the particular underlying fund).
B. Any proposals not covered by paragraph A above or other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate Strategic Advisers analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review and approval by the General Counsel or Compliance Officer of FMR or the General Counsel of FMR LLC.
Sub-Adviser:
Proxy voting policies and procedures are used by the sub-adviser to determine how to vote proxies relating to the securities held by its allocated portion of the fund's assets. The proxy voting policies and procedures used by the sub-adviser are described below.
Proxy Voting - Pyramis.
I. General Principles
A. Voting of shares will be conducted in a manner consistent with the best interests of clients as follows: (i) securities of a portfolio company will generally be voted in a manner consistent with the Guidelines; and (ii) voting will be done without regard to any other Pyramis or Fidelity companies' relationship, business or otherwise, with that portfolio company.
B. <R>FMR Investment Proxy Research votes proxies on behalf of Pyramis' clients. Like other Pyramis employees, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees have a fiduciary duty to never place their own personal interest ahead of the interests of Pyramis's clients and are instructed to avoid actual and apparent conflicts of interest. In the event of a conflict of interest, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees, like other Pyramis employees, will escalate to their managers or the Ethics Office, as appropriate, in accordance with Fidelity's corporate policy on conflicts of interest. A conflict of interest arises when there are factors that may prompt one to question whether a Fidelity and/or Pyramis employee is acting solely on the best interests of Pyramis, Fidelity and their customers. Employees are expected to avoid situations that could present even the appearance of a conflict between their interests and the interests of Pyramis and its customers.</R>
C. Except as set forth herein, Pyramis will generally vote in favor of routine management proposals.
D. Non-routine proposals will generally be voted in accordance with the Guidelines.
E. Non-routine proposals not covered by the Guidelines or involving other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review by an attorney within FMR's General Counsel's office and a member of senior management within FMR Investment Proxy Research. A significant pattern of such proposals or other special circumstances will be referred to Pyramis' Senior Compliance Officer or his designee.
F. Pyramis will vote on shareholder proposals not specifically addressed by the Guidelines based on an evaluation of a proposal's likelihood to enhance the economic returns or profitability of the portfolio company or to maximize shareholder value. Where information is not readily available to analyze the economic impact of the proposal, Pyramis will generally abstain.
G. Many Pyramis accounts invest in voting securities issued by companies that are domiciled outside the United States and are not listed on a U.S. securities exchange. Corporate governance standards, legal or regulatory requirements and disclosure practices in foreign countries can differ from those in the United States. When voting proxies relating to non-U.S. securities, Pyramis will generally evaluate proposals in the context of the Guidelines and where applicable and feasible, take into consideration differing laws, regulations and practices in the relevant foreign market in determining how to vote shares.
H. In certain non-U.S. jurisdictions, shareholders voting shares of a portfolio company may be restricted from trading the shares for a period of time around the shareholder meeting date. Because such trading restrictions can hinder portfolio management and could result in a loss of liquidity for a client, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in circumstances where such restrictions apply. In addition, certain non-U.S. jurisdictions require voting shareholders to disclose current share ownership on a fund-by-fund basis. When such disclosure requirements apply, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in order to safeguard fund holdings information.
I. Where a management-sponsored proposal is inconsistent with the Guidelines, Pyramis may receive a company's commitment to modify the proposal or its practice to conform to the Guidelines, and Pyramis will generally support management based on this commitment. If a company subsequently does not abide by its commitment, Pyramis will generally withhold authority for the election of directors at the next election.
II. Definitions (as used in this document)
A. Anti-Takeover Provision - includes fair price amendments; classified boards; "blank check" preferred stock; Golden Parachutes; supermajority provisions; Poison Pills; restricting the right to call special meetings; and any other provision that eliminates or limits shareholder rights.
B. Golden Parachute - Employment contracts, agreements, or policies that include an excise tax gross-up provision; single trigger for cash incentives; or may result in a lump sum payment of cash and acceleration of equity that may total more than three times annual compensation (salary and bonus) in the event of a termination following a change in control.
C. Greenmail - payment of a premium to repurchase shares from a shareholder seeking to take over a company through a proxy contest or other means.
D. Sunset Provision - a condition in a charter or plan that specifies an expiration date.
E. Permitted Bid Feature - a provision suspending the application of a Poison Pill, by shareholder referendum, in the event a potential acquirer announces a bona fide offer for all outstanding shares.
F. Poison Pill - a strategy employed by a potential take-over/target company to make its stock less attractive to an acquirer. Poison Pills are generally designed to dilute the acquirer's ownership and value in the event of a take-over.
G. Large-Capitalization Company - a company included in the Russell 1000 ® index.
H. Small-Capitalization Company - a company not included in the Russell 1000 ® index that is not a Micro-Capitalization Company.
I. Micro-Capitalization Company - a company with a market capitalization under US $300 million.
J. Evergreen Provision - a feature which provides for an automatic increase in the shares available for grant under an equity award plan on a regular basis.
III. Directors
A. Incumbent Directors
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of incumbent and nominee directors except where one or more such directors clearly appear to have failed to exercise reasonable judgment. Pyramis will also generally withhold authority for the election of all directors or directors on responsible committees if:
1. An Anti-Takeover Provision was introduced, an Anti-Takeover Provision was extended, or a new Anti-Takeover Provision was adopted upon the expiration of an existing Anti-Takeover Provision, without shareholder approval except as set forth below.
With respect to Poison Pills, however, Pyramis will consider not withholding authority on the election of directors if all of the following conditions are met when a Poison Pill is introduced, extended, or adopted:
a. The Poison Pill includes a Sunset Provision of less than five years;
b. The Poison Pill includes a Permitted Bid Feature;
c. The Poison Pill is linked to a business strategy that will result in greater value for the shareholders; and
d. Shareholder approval is required to reinstate the Poison Pill upon expiration.
Pyramis will also consider not withholding authority on the election of directors when one or more of the conditions above are not met if a board is willing to strongly consider seeking shareholder ratification of, or adding above conditions noted a. and b. to an existing Poison Pill. In such a case, if the company does not take appropriate action prior to the next annual shareholder meeting, Pyramis will withhold authority on the election of directors.
2. The company refuses, upon request by Pyramis, to amend the Poison Pill to allow Pyramis to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.
3. Within the last year and without shareholder approval, a company's board of directors or compensation committee has repriced outstanding options, exchanged outstanding options for equity, or tendered cash for outstanding options.
4. <R>Executive compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as: (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether the company has admitted to or settled a regulatory proceeding relating to options backdating; (iv) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (v) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (vi) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.</R>
5. To gain Pyramis' support on a proposal, the company made a commitment to modify a proposal or practice to conform to the Guidelines and the company has failed to act on that commitment.
6. The director attended fewer than 75% of the aggregate number of meetings of the board or its committees on which the director served during the company's prior fiscal year, absent extenuating circumstances.
7. The board is not composed of a majority of independent directors.
B. Indemnification
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of charter and by-law amendments expanding the indemnification of directors and/or limiting their liability for breaches of care unless Pyramis is otherwise dissatisfied with the performance of management or the proposal is accompanied by Anti-Takeover Provisions.
C. Independent Chairperson
Pyramis will generally vote against shareholder proposals calling for or recommending the appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson. However, Pyramis will consider voting for such proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson appears likely to further the interests of shareholders and to promote effective oversight of management by the board of directors.
D. Majority Director Elections
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals calling for directors to be elected by an affirmative majority of votes cast in a board election, provided that the proposal allows for plurality voting standard in the case of contested elections (i.e., where there are more nominees than board seats). Pyramis may consider voting against such shareholder proposals where a company's board has adopted an alternative measure, such as a director resignation policy, that provides a meaningful alternative to the majority voting standard and appropriately addresses situations where an incumbent director fails to receive the support of a majority of the votes cast in an uncontested election.
IV. Compensation
A. Executive Compensation
1. Advisory votes on executive compensation
<R>a. Pyramis will generally vote for proposals to ratify executive compensation unless such compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as, among other things, (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance-based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (iv) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (v) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.</R>
b. Pyramis will generally vote against proposals to ratify Golden Parachutes.
2. Frequency of advisory vote on executive compensation
Pyramis will generally support annual advisory votes on executive compensation.
B. Equity Award Plans (including stock options, restricted stock awards, and other stock awards).
Pyramis will generally vote against equity award plans or amendments to authorize additional shares under such plans if:
1. (a) The company's average three year burn rate is greater than 1.5% for a Large-Capitalization Company, 2.5% for a Small-Capitalization Company or 3.5% for a Micro-Capitalization Company; and (b) there were no circumstances specific to the company or the plans that lead Pyramis to conclude that the burn rate is acceptable.
2. In the case of stock option plans, (a) the offering price of options is less than 100% of fair market value on the date of grant, except that the offering price may be as low as 85% of fair market value if the discount is expressly granted in lieu of salary or cash bonus; (b) the plan's terms allow repricing of underwater options; or (c) the board/committee has repriced options outstanding under the plan in the past two years without shareholder approval.
<R></R>
3. The plan includes an Evergreen Provision.
4. The plan provides for the acceleration of vesting of equity awards even though an actual change in control may not occur.
C. Equity Exchanges and Repricing
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a management proposal to exchange, reprice or tender for cash, outstanding options if the proposed exchange, repricing, or tender offer is consistent with the interests of shareholders, taking into account such factors as:</R>
1. Whether the proposal excludes senior management and directors;
2. Whether the exchange or repricing proposal is value neutral to shareholders based upon an acceptable pricing model;
3. The company's relative performance compared to other companies within the relevant industry or industries;
4. Economic and other conditions affecting the relevant industry or industries in which the company competes; and
5. Any other facts or circumstances relevant to determining whether an exchange or repricing proposal is consistent with the interests of shareholders.
D. Employee Stock Purchase Plans
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of employee stock purchase plans if the minimum stock purchase price is equal to or greater than 85% of the stock's fair market value and the plan constitutes a reasonable effort to encourage broad based participation in the company's equity. In the case of non-U.S. company stock purchase plans, Pyramis may permit a lower minimum stock purchase price equal to the prevailing "best practices" in the relevant non-U.S. market, provided that the minimum stock purchase price must be at least 75% of the stock's fair market value.
E. Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs)
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of non-leveraged ESOPs. For leveraged ESOPs, Pyramis may examine the company's state of incorporation, existence of supermajority vote rules in the charter, number of shares authorized for the ESOP, and number of shares held by insiders. Pyramis may also examine where the ESOP shares are purchased and the dilution effect of the purchase. Pyramis will generally vote against leveraged ESOPs if all outstanding loans are due immediately upon change in control.
F. Bonus Plans and Tax Deductibility Proposals
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of cash and stock incentive plans that are submitted for shareholder approval in order to qualify for favorable tax treatment under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, provided that the plan includes well defined and appropriate performance criteria, and with respect to any cash component, that the maximum award per participant is clearly stated and is not unreasonable or excessive.
V. Anti-Takeover Provisions
Pyramis will generally vote against a proposal to adopt or approve the adoption of an Anti-Takeover Provision unless:
A. The Poison Pill includes the following features:
1. A Sunset Provision of no greater than five years;
2. Linked to a business strategy that is expected to result in greater value for the shareholders;
3. Requires shareholder approval to be reinstated upon expiration or if amended;
4. Contains a Permitted Bid Feature; and
5. Allows Pyramis accounts to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.
B. An Anti-Greenmail proposal that does not include other Anti-Takeover Provisions; or
C. It is a fair price amendment that considers a two-year price history or less.
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a proposal to eliminate an Anti-Takeover Provisions unless:
D. In the case of proposals to declassify a board of directors, Pyramis will generally vote against such a proposal if the issuer's Articles of Incorporation or applicable statutes include a provision whereby a majority of directors may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by written consent, or other reasonable procedures, by a majority of shareholders entitled to vote for the election of directors.
E. <R>In the case of shareholder proposals regarding shareholders' right to call special meetings, Pyramis generally will vote against each proposal if the threshold required to call a special meeting is less than 25% of the outstanding stock.</R>
F. <R>In the case of proposals regarding shareholders' right to act by written consent, Pyramis will generally vote against each proposal if it does not include appropriate mechanisms for implementation including, among other things, that at least 25% of the outstanding stock request that the company establish a record date determining which shareholders are entitled to act and that consents be solicited from all shareholders.</R>
VI. Capital Structure/Incorporation
A. Increases in Common Stock
Pyramis will generally vote against a provision to increase a company's common stock if such increase will result in a total number of authorized shares greater than three times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares, including stock options, except in the case of real estate investment trusts, where an increase that will result in a total number of authorized shares up to five times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares is generally acceptable.
B. New Classes of Shares
Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction of new classes of stock with differential voting rights.
C. Cumulative Voting Rights
Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction and in favor of the elimination of cumulative voting rights.
D. Acquisition or Business Combination Statutes
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposed amendments to a company's certificate of incorporation or by-laws that enable the company to opt out of the control shares acquisition or business combination statutes.
E. Incorporation or Reincorporation in Another State or Country
<R>Pyramis will generally vote for management proposals calling for, or recommending that, a portfolio company reincorporate in another state or country if, on balance, the economic and corporate governance factors in the proposed jurisdiction appear reasonably likely to be better aligned with shareholder interests, taking into account the corporate laws of the current and proposed jurisdictions and any changes to the company's current and proposed governing documents. Pyramis will consider supporting such shareholder proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, remaining incorporated in the current jurisdiction appears misaligned with shareholder interests.</R>
VII. Shares of Investment Companies
A. <R>If applicable, when a Pyramis account invests in an underlying Fidelity Fund with public shareholders, an exchange traded fund (ETF), or non-affiliated fund, Pyramis will vote in the same proportion as all other voting shareholders of such underlying fund or class ("echo voting"). Pyramis may choose not to vote if "echo voting" is not operationally feasible.</R>
B. Certain Pyramis accounts may invest in shares of underlying Fidelity Funds, which are held exclusively by Fidelity Funds or accounts managed by FMR or an affiliate. Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals recommended by the underlying funds' Board of Trustees.
VIII. Other
A. Voting Process
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals to adopt confidential voting and independent vote tabulation practices.
B. Regulated Industries
<R>Voting of shares in securities of any regulated industry (e.g. U.S. banking) organization shall be conducted in a manner consistent with conditions that may be specified by the industry's regulator (e.g. the Federal Reserve Board) for a determination under applicable law (e.g. federal banking law) that no client or group of clients has acquired control of such organization.</R>
To view a fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30, if applicable, visit www.fidelity.com/proxyvotingresults or visit the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.
<R>The fund has entered into a distribution agreement with FDC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. The principal business address of FDC is 100 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917. FDC is a broker-dealer registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. The distribution agreement calls for FDC to use all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of the fund, which are continuously offered at NAV. Promotional and administrative expenses in connection with the offer and sale of shares are paid by Strategic Advisers.</R>
The Trustees have approved a Distribution and Service Plan with respect to shares of the fund (the Plan) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the Rule). The Rule provides in substance that a mutual fund may not engage directly or indirectly in financing any activity that is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund except pursuant to a plan approved on behalf of the fund under the Rule. The Plan, as approved by the Trustees, allows the fund and Strategic Advisers to incur certain expenses that might be considered to constitute indirect payment by the fund of distribution expenses.
Under the Plan, if the payment of management fees by the fund to Strategic Advisers is deemed to be indirect financing by the fund of the distribution of its shares, such payment is authorized by the Plan. The Plan specifically recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. In addition, the Plan provides that Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers or FDC), that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Prior to approving the Plan, the Trustees carefully considered all pertinent factors relating to the implementation of the Plan, and determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit the fund and its shareholders. In particular, the Trustees noted that the Plan does not authorize payments by the fund other than those made to Strategic Advisers under its management contract with the fund. To the extent that the Plan gives Strategic Advisers and FDC greater flexibility in connection with the distribution of shares of the fund, additional sales of shares of the fund or stabilization of cash flows may result. Furthermore, certain shareholder support services may be provided more effectively under the Plan by local entities with whom shareholders have other relationships.
TRANSFER AND SERVICE AGENT AGREEMENTS
The fund has entered into a transfer agent agreement with Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC), an affiliate of Strategic Advisers, which is located at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. Under the terms of the agreement, FIIOC (or an agent, including an affiliate) performs transfer agency services for the fund.
For providing transfer agency services, FIIOC receives an account fee and an asset-based fee with respect to assets managed by one or more sub-advisers and assets invested in non-affiliated ETFs. For retail accounts, these fees are based on fund type. For certain institutional accounts, these fees are based on size of position and fund type. For institutional retirement accounts, these fees are based on account type and fund type. The account fee is billed monthly on a pro rata basis at one-twelfth of the applicable annual rate as of the end of each calendar month. The asset-based fee is calculated and paid monthly on the basis of average daily net assets. For assets invested in underlying Fidelity funds, each underlying Fidelity fund pays its respective transfer agent (either FIIOC or an affiliate of FIIOC) fees based, in part, on the number of positions in and assets of the fund invested in such underlying Fidelity fund.
FIIOC also may collect fees charged in connection with providing certain types of services such as exchanges, closing out fund balances, maintaining fund positions with low balances, checkwriting, wire transactions, and providing historical account research.
FIIOC bears the expense of typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, and all other reports, notices, and statements to existing shareholders, with the exception of proxy statements.
The fund has also entered into a service agent agreement with FSC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers (or an agent, including an affiliate). Under the terms of the agreement, FSC calculates the NAV and dividends for the fund and maintains the fund's portfolio and general accounting records.
For providing pricing and bookkeeping services, FSC receives a monthly fee based on the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month.
The annual rates for pricing and bookkeeping services for the fund are 0.0415% of the first $500 million of average net assets, 0.0301% of average net assets between $500 million and $3.5 billion, 0.0041% of average net assets between $3.5 billion and $25 billion, and 0.0019% of average net assets in excess of $25 billion.
<R>Pricing and bookkeeping fees paid by the fund to FSC for the past fiscal year are shown in the following table.</R>
<R> Fund |
2012</R> |
<R>Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund |
$ 266,389 *</R> |
<R> * From December 20, 2011.</R>
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRUST
<R> Trust Organization. Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund is a fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, an open-end management investment company created under an initial trust instrument dated March 8, 2006. Currently, there are 20 funds offered in the trust: Strategic Advisers Core Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund. The Trustees are permitted to create additional funds in the trust and to create additional classes of the fund.</R>
The assets of the trust received for the issue or sale of shares of each of its funds and all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, subject to the rights of creditors, are allocated to such fund, and constitute the underlying assets of such fund. The underlying assets of each fund in the trust shall be charged with the liabilities and expenses attributable to such fund. Any general expenses of the trust shall be allocated between or among any one or more of the funds.
Shareholder Liability. The trust is a statutory trust organized under Delaware law. Delaware law provides that, except to the extent otherwise provided in the Trust Instrument, shareholders shall be entitled to the same limitations of personal liability extended to stockholders of private corporations for profit organized under the general corporation law of Delaware. The courts of some states, however, may decline to apply Delaware law on this point. The Trust Instrument contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for the debts, liabilities, obligations, and expenses of the trust. The Trust Instrument provides that the trust shall not have any claim against shareholders except for the payment of the purchase price of shares and requires that each agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the trust or the Trustees relating to the trust or to a fund shall include a provision limiting the obligations created thereby to the trust or to one or more funds and its or their assets. The Trust Instrument further provides that shareholders of a fund shall not have a claim on or right to any assets belonging to any other fund.
The Trust Instrument provides for indemnification out of each fund's property of any shareholder or former shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the fund solely by reason of his or her being or having been a shareholder and not because of his or her acts or omissions or for some other reason. The Trust Instrument also provides that each fund shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which Delaware law does not apply, no contractual limitation of liability was in effect, and a fund is unable to meet its obligations. Strategic Advisers believes that, in view of the above, the risk of personal liability to shareholders is extremely remote.
Voting Rights. Each fund's capital consists of shares of beneficial interest. As a shareholder, you are entitled to one vote for each dollar of net asset value you own. The voting rights of shareholders can be changed only by a shareholder vote. Shares may be voted in the aggregate, by fund, and by class.
<R>The shares have no preemptive or conversion rights. Shares are fully paid and nonassessable, except as set forth under the heading "Shareholder Liability" above.</R>
On matters submitted for consideration by shareholders of any underlying fund, the fund will vote its shares in proportion to the vote of all other holders of the same class of shares of that underlying fund.
The trust or a fund or a class may be terminated upon the sale of its assets to, or merger with, another open-end management investment company, series, or class thereof, or upon liquidation and distribution of its assets. The Trustees may reorganize, terminate, merge, or sell all or a portion of the assets of the trust or a fund or a class without prior shareholder approval. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the trust, shareholders of each of its funds are entitled to receive the underlying assets of such fund available for distribution. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of a fund or a class, shareholders of that fund or that class are entitled to receive the underlying assets of the fund or class available for distribution.
Custodians. State Street Bank and Trust Company, 1776 Heritage Drive, Quincy, Massachusetts, is custodian of the assets of the fund. The custodian is responsible for the safekeeping of the fund's assets and the appointment of any subcustodian banks and clearing agencies. The Bank of New York Mellon and JPMorgan Chase Bank, each headquartered in New York, also may serve as special purpose custodians of certain assets in connection with repurchase agreement transactions.
Strategic Advisers, its officers and directors, its affiliated companies, Member of the Advisory Board, and Members of the Board of Trustees may, from time to time, conduct transactions with various banks, including banks serving as custodians for certain funds advised by Strategic Advisers. Transactions that have occurred to date include mortgages and personal and general business loans. In the judgment of Strategic Advisers, the terms and conditions of those transactions were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other fund relationships.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 125 High Street, Boston, Massachusetts, independent registered public accounting firm, audits financial statements for the fund and provides other audit, tax, and related services.
The fund views holdings information as sensitive and limits its dissemination. The Board authorized Strategic Advisers, in consultation with FMR, to establish and administer guidelines for the dissemination of fund holdings information, which may be amended at any time without prior notice. FMR's Disclosure Policy Committee (comprising executive officers of FMR) evaluates disclosure policy with the goal of serving the fund's best interests by striking an appropriate balance between providing information about the fund's portfolio and protecting the fund from potentially harmful disclosure. The Board reviews the administration and modification of these guidelines and receives reports from the fund's chief compliance officer periodically.
Other registered investment companies that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be subject to different portfolio holdings disclosure policies, and neither Strategic Advisers nor the Board exercises control over such policies or disclosure. In addition, separate account clients of Strategic Advisers and the sub-advisers have access to their portfolio holdings and are not subject to the fund's portfolio holdings disclosure policies. Some of the funds that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser and some of the separate accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser have investment objectives and strategies that are substantially similar or identical to the fund's and, therefore, potentially substantially similar, and in certain cases nearly identical, portfolio holdings as the fund.
The fund will provide a full list of holdings monthly on www.fidelity.com 30 days after the month-end (excluding high income security holdings, which generally will be presented collectively monthly and included in a list of full holdings 60 days after its fiscal quarter-end).
Unless otherwise indicated, this information will be available on the web site until updated for the next applicable period.
The fund may also from time to time provide or make available to the Board or third parties upon request specific fund level performance attribution information and statistics. Third parties may include fund shareholders or prospective fund shareholders, members of the press, consultants, and ratings and ranking organizations.
<R> The Use of Holdings In Connection With Fund Operations. Material non-public holdings information may be provided as part of the investment activities of the fund to: entities which, by explicit agreement or by virtue of their respective duties to the fund, are required to maintain the confidentiality of the information disclosed; other parties if legally required; or persons Strategic Advisers believes will not misuse the disclosed information. These entities, parties, and persons include, but are not limited to: the fund's trustees; the fund's manager, its sub-advisers, if any, and their affiliates whose access persons are subject to a code of ethics; contractors who are subject to a confidentiality agreement; the fund's auditors; the fund's custodians; proxy voting service providers; financial printers; pricing service vendors; broker-dealers in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or requests for price quotations or bids on one or more securities; counsel to the fund or its Independent Trustees; regulatory authorities; stock exchanges and other listing organizations; parties to litigation; third parties in connection with a bankruptcy proceeding relating to a fund holding; and third parties who have submitted a standing request to a money market fund for daily holdings information. Non-public holdings information may also be provided to an issuer regarding the number or percentage of its shares that are owned by the fund and in connection with redemptions in kind.</R>
<R> Other Uses Of Holdings Information. In addition, the fund may provide material non-public holdings information to (i) third parties that calculate information derived from holdings for use by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, (ii) ratings and rankings organizations, and (iii) an investment adviser, trustee, or their agents to whom holdings are disclosed for due diligence purposes or in anticipation of a merger involving the fund. Each individual request is reviewed by the Disclosure Policy Committee which must find, in its sole discretion that, based on the specific facts and circumstances, the disclosure appears unlikely to be harmful to the fund. Entities receiving this information must have in place control mechanisms to reasonably ensure or otherwise agree that, (a) the holdings information will be kept confidential, (b) no employee shall use the information to effect trading or for their personal benefit, and (c) the nature and type of information that they, in turn, may disclose to third parties is limited. Strategic Advisers relies primarily on the existence of non-disclosure agreements and/or control mechanisms when determining that disclosure is not likely to be harmful to the fund.</R>
At this time, the entities receiving information described in the preceding paragraph are: Factset Research Systems Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day) and Anacomp Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day).
Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, or the fund will not enter into any arrangements with third parties from which they derive consideration for the disclosure of material non-public holdings information. If, in the future, Strategic Advisers desired to make such an arrangement, it would seek prior Board approval and any such arrangements would be disclosed in the fund's SAI.
There can be no assurance that the fund's policies and procedures with respect to disclosure of fund portfolio holdings will prevent the misuse of such information by individuals and firms that receive such information.
<R>The fund's financial statements and financial highlights for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012, and report of the independent registered public accounting firm, are included in the fund's annual report and are incorporated herein by reference. Total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table may differ from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the financial highlights because total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table include any acquired fund fees and expenses, whereas the ratios of expenses in the financial highlights do not. Acquired funds include other investment companies in which the fund has invested, if and to the extent it is permitted to do so. Total annual operating expenses in the prospectus fee table and the financial highlights do not include any expenses associated with investments in certain structured or synthetic products that may rely on the exception from the definition of "investment company" provided by section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act.</R>
Strategic Advisers is a registered service mark of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
Fund /Ticker
Strategic Advisers ® Growth Multi-Manager Fund /FMELX
Prospectus
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
Fund Summary |
Strategic Advisers ® Growth Multi-Manager Fund |
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Fund Basics |
Investment Details |
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Valuing Shares |
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Shareholder Information |
Additional Information about the Purchase and Sale of Shares |
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Exchanging Shares |
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Features and Policies |
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Dividends and Capital Gain Distributions |
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Tax Consequences |
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Fund Services |
Fund Management |
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Fund Distribution |
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<R> Appendix |
Financial Highlights </R> |
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<R> |
Additional Information about the Index </R> |
Prospectus
Fund:
Strategic Advisers
®
Growth Multi-Manager Fund
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The following table describes the fees and expenses that may be incurred when you buy and hold shares of the fund.
Shareholder fees
|
None |
Annual fund operating expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a % of the value of your investment)
<R> Management fee (fluctuates based on the fund's allocation among underlying funds and sub-advisers) B |
0.55% </R> |
<R> Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) fees |
None </R> |
<R> Other expenses |
0.37% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses A |
0.92% </R> |
<R> A Differs from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the Financial Highlights section of the prospectus because of acquired fund fees and expenses. </R>
<R> B Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) has contractually agreed that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.00% of the fund's average daily net assets. In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to reimburse the fund to the extent that total operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, extraordinary expenses, and acquired fund fees and expenses, if any ) , as a percentage of its average net assets, exceed 0.97%. This arrangement will remain in effect through July 31, 2013. Strategic Advisers may not discontinue or modify this arrangement without the approval of the Board of Trustees. </R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
This example helps compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
Let's say, hypothetically, that the annual return for shares of the fund is 5% and that your shareholder fees and the annual operating expenses for shares of the fund are exactly as described in the fee table. This example illustrates the effect of fees and expenses, but is not meant to suggest actual or expected fees and expenses or returns, all of which may vary. For every $10,000 you invested, here's how much you would pay in total expenses if you sell all of your shares at the end of each time period indicated:
<R> 1 year |
$ 94 </R> |
<R> 3 years |
$ 293 </R> |
<R> 5 years |
$ 509 </R> |
<R> 10 years |
$ 1,131 </R> |
<R>The fund will not incur transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells shares of affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it will incur transaction costs when it buys and sells other types of securities (including non-affiliated exchange traded funds) directly (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 annual operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund's performance. For the period from November 16, 2011 to May 31, 2012, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 50% (annualized) of the average value of its portfolio.</R>
Prospectus
Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) is permitted, subject to the approval of the Board of Trustees, to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement.
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
In addition, the fund is considered non-diversified and can invest a greater portion of assets in securities of a smaller number of individual issuers than a diversified fund. As a result, changes in the market value of a single investment could cause greater fluctuations in share price than would occur in a more diversified fund.
<R>An investment in the fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. You could lose money by investing in the fund.</R>
Performance history will be available for the fund after the fund has been in operation for one calendar year.
<R>Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. ClariVest Asset Management LLC (ClariVest), Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc. (MSIM), Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis), Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company (WRIMCO), and Winslow Capital Management, LLC (Winslow) have been retained to serve as sub-advisers for the fund.</R>
<R>John A. Stone (lead portfolio manager) has managed the fund since November 2011.</R>
<R>David J. Pavan (co-manager) and Frank Feng (co-manager) have managed ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
<R>Ed Wagner (co-manager) has managed ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets since February 2012.</R>
<R>Dennis P. Lynch (lead manager), David S. Cohen (co-manager), Sam G. Chainani (co-manager), Alexander T. Norton (co-manager), Jason C. Yeung (co-manager), and Armistead B. Nash (co-manager) have managed MSIM's portion of the fund's assets since December 2011.</R>
<R>Stephen Balter (co-manager) and Christopher Galizio (co-manager) have managed Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Daniel P. Becker (co-manager) and Philip J. Sanders (co-manager) have managed WRIMCO's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
<R>Justin H. Kelly (co-manager), R. Bart Wear (co-manager), and Clark J. Winslow (co-manager) have managed Winslow's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
Shares of the fund generally are available only to: (i) employer-sponsored retirement plans (including profit sharing, 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and similar plans) for which an affiliate of Strategic Advisers provides recordkeeping services; and (ii) Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund accounts held by individuals who currently own shares of the fund originally held in an employer sponsored retirement plan. You may buy or sell shares in various ways:
The price to buy one share of the fund is its net asset value per share (NAV). Your shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after your investment is received in proper form.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV. Your shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after your order is received in proper form.
The fund is open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open.
There is no purchase minimum for fund shares.
Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax and generally will be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, and may also be subject to state or local taxes, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account (in which case you may be taxed later, upon withdrawal of your investment from such account).
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
The fund, Strategic Advisers, Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and/or their affiliates may pay intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, or service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR, or FDC), for the sale of fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing your intermediary and your investment professional to recommend the fund over another investment. Ask your investment professional or visit your intermediary's web site for more information.
Prospectus
Investment Objective
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies
The fund normally invests primarily in common stocks.
The fund invests in companies that are believed to have above-average growth potential. Growth may be measured by factors such as earnings or revenue.
Companies with high growth potential tend to be companies with higher than average price/earnings (P/E) or price/book (P/B) ratios. Companies with strong growth potential often have new products, technologies, distribution channels, or other opportunities, or have a strong industry or market position. The stocks of these companies are often called "growth" stocks.
The fund normally invests primarily in securities of companies with large market capitalizations. Although a universal definition of large market capitalization companies does not exist, for purposes of this fund, large market capitalization companies generally are defined as those companies with market capitalizations similar to those of companies included in the Russell 1000 Growth Index. A company's market capitalization is based on its current market capitalization or its market capitalization at the time of the fund's investment. The size of the companies in the index changes with market conditions and the composition of the index.
The fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers in addition to securities of domestic issuers.
The fund implements its investment strategies by investing directly in securities through one or more sub-advisers or indirectly in securities through one or more underlying funds, which in turn invest directly in securities.
Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of underlying funds or sub-advisers at any time.
Strategic Advisers pursues a disciplined, benchmark-driven approach to portfolio construction, and monitors and adjusts allocations to underlying funds and sub-advisers as necessary to favor those underlying funds and sub-advisers that Strategic Advisers believes will provide the most favorable outlook for achieving the fund's investment objective.
<R>When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among underlying funds, Strategic Advisers relies on proprietary fundamental and quantitative fund research in its fund selection process. Factors considered when investing in underlying funds include fund performance, a fund manager's experience and investment style, fund company infrastructure, and fund characteristics such as expense ratio, asset size, and portfolio turnover.</R>
<R>The fund may invest in affiliated funds ( i.e., Fidelity funds) and non-affiliated funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork ® and in non-affiliated ETFs. Underlying funds include both funds managed by FMR (an affiliated company that, together with Strategic Advisers, is part of Fidelity Investments) or an affiliate and funds managed by investment advisers other than Fidelity. Fidelity may receive service fees that typically are at an annual rate of up to 0.40% of a non-affiliated underlying fund's average daily net assets attributable to purchases through Fidelity's FundsNetwork, though such fees may be higher or lower, or may be charged as transactions and/or account fees. In addition, the fund may invest in ETFs in transactions not occurring through Fidelity's FundsNetwork.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Strategic Advisers may actively adjust the allocation of the fund's assets at any time. For current information on fund holdings, please call 1-800-835-5095 (plan accounts) or 1-800-544-3455 (all other accounts) or visit Fidelity's web site at www.401k.com (plan accounts) or www.fidelity.com (all other accounts). For information on the underlying funds, see the underlying funds' prospectuses. A copy of any underlying Fidelity fund's prospectus is available at www.fidelity.com or www.advisor.fidelity.com. For a copy of any other underlying fund's prospectus, visit the web site of the company that manages or sponsors that underlying fund.</R>
When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers considers a variety of factors including, but not limited to, a sub-adviser's investment approach, the characteristics of a sub-adviser's typical investment portfolio, and a sub-adviser's performance patterns in different market environments.
Common types of investment approaches that a sub-adviser may use in selecting investments for a fund include, but are not limited to, quantitative analysis, fundamental analysis, or a combination of both approaches. Quantitative analysis refers to programmatic models that analyze such factors as growth potential, valuation, liquidity, and investment risk based on data inputs. Fundamental analysis involves a bottom-up assessment of a company's potential for success in light of factors including its financial condition, earnings outlook, strategy, management, industry position, and economic and market conditions.
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
The fund may also use various techniques, such as buying and selling futures contracts, to increase or decrease its exposure to changing security prices or other factors that affect security values. In addition, the fund may have indirect exposure to derivatives through its investments in underlying funds.
<R>Because the fund is considered non-diversified, a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund.</R>
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Description of Principal Security Types
In addition to investing in underlying funds, the fund may invest directly in the following principal security types:
Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Different types of equity securities provide different voting and dividend rights and priority in the event of the bankruptcy of the issuer. Equity securities include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, and warrants.
Principal Investment Risks
<R>Many factors affect the fund's performance. The fund's share price changes daily based on the performance of the underlying funds and securities in which it invests and on changes in market conditions and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The fund's reaction to these developments will be affected by the types of underlying funds and securities in which the fund invests, the financial condition, industry and economic sector, and geographic location of an issuer, and the fund's level of investment in the securities of that underlying fund or issuer. In addition, because a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund, the fund's performance could be closely tied to that one issuer or underlying fund and could be more volatile than the performance of more diversified funds.</R>
If Strategic Advisers' or a sub-adviser's allocation strategies do not work as intended, the fund may not achieve its objective. The portfolio managers' evaluations and assumptions in selecting underlying funds or individual securities may be incorrect in view of actual market conditions.
When your shares are sold they may be worth more or less than what you paid for them, which means that you could lose money by investing in the fund.
The following factors can significantly affect the fund's performance:
Multiple Sub-Adviser Risk. Because each sub-adviser manages its allocated portion independently from another sub-adviser, it is possible that the sub-advisers' security selection processes may not complement one another. As a result, the fund's aggregate exposure to a particular industry or group of industries, or to a single issuer, could unintentionally be larger or smaller than intended. Because each sub-adviser directs the trading for its own portion of the fund, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisers, the fund may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were managing the entire fund.
Prospectus
<R> Investing in Other Funds. Regulatory restrictions may limit the amount that one fund can invest in another, and in certain cases further limit investments to the extent a fund's shares are already held by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The fund bears all risks of investment strategies employed by the underlying funds. The fund does not control the investments of the underlying funds, which may have different investment objectives and may engage in investment strategies that the fund would not engage in directly. Aggregation of underlying fund holdings may result in indirect concentration of assets in a particular industry or group of industries, or in a single issuer, which may increase volatility.</R>
<R> Stock Market Volatility. The value of equity securities fluctuates in response to issuer, political, market, and economic developments. Fluctuations can be dramatic over the short as well as long term, and different parts of the market and different types of equity securities can react differently to these developments. For example, large cap stocks can react differently from small cap stocks, "growth" stocks can react differently from "value" stocks, and stocks selected using quantitative or technical analysis can react differently than stocks selected using fundamental analysis. Issuer, political, or economic developments can affect a single issuer, issuers within an industry or economic sector or geographic region, or the market as a whole. Changes in the financial condition of a single issuer can impact the market as a whole. Terrorism and related geo-political risks have led, and may in the future lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on world economies and markets generally.</R>
Foreign Exposure. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations can involve additional risks relating to political, economic, or regulatory conditions in foreign countries. These risks include fluctuations in foreign currencies; withholding or other taxes; trading, settlement, custodial, and other operational risks; and the less stringent investor protection and disclosure standards of some foreign markets. All of these factors can make foreign investments, especially those in emerging markets, more volatile and potentially less liquid than U.S. investments. In addition, foreign markets can perform differently from the U.S. market.
Global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region.
Industry Exposure. Market conditions, interest rates, and economic, regulatory, or financial developments could significantly affect a single industry or a group of related industries, and the securities of companies in that industry or group of industries could react similarly to these or other developments. In addition, from time to time, a small number of companies may represent a large portion of a single industry or a group of related industries as a whole, and these companies can be sensitive to adverse economic, regulatory, or financial developments.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Issuer-Specific Changes. Changes in the financial condition of an issuer or counterparty, changes in specific economic or political conditions that affect a particular type of security or issuer, and changes in general economic or political conditions can increase the risk of default by an issuer or counterparty, which can affect a security's or instrument's value. The value of securities of smaller, less well-known issuers can be more volatile than that of larger issuers.
<R> Investing in ETFs. ETFs may trade in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) at prices below the value of their underlying portfolios and may not be liquid. An ETF that is not actively managed cannot sell poorly performing stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in its index or other benchmark. ETFs that track an index are subject to tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to its index or other benchmark).</R>
"Growth" Investing. "Growth" stocks can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole and other types of stocks. "Growth" stocks tend to be more expensive relative to their earnings or assets compared to other types of stocks. As a result, "growth" stocks tend to be sensitive to changes in their earnings and more volatile than other types of stocks.
Quantitative Investing. The value of securities selected using quantitative analysis can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole or securities selected using only fundamental analysis. The factors used in quantitative analysis and the weight placed on those factors may not be predictive of a security's value. In addition, factors that affect a security's value can change over time and these changes may not be reflected in the quantitative model.
In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
The following policy is fundamental, that is, subject to change only by shareholder approval:
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The fund is open for business each day the NYSE is open.
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. Fidelity normally calculates the fund's NAV as of the close of business of the NYSE, normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The fund's assets normally are valued as of this time for the purpose of computing the fund's NAV.
Prospectus
NAV is not calculated and the fund will not process purchase and redemption requests submitted on days when the fund is not open for business. The time at which shares are priced and until which purchase and redemption orders are accepted may be changed as permitted by the SEC.
To the extent that the fund's assets are traded in other markets on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of the fund's assets may be affected on those days. In addition, trading in some of the fund's assets may not occur on days when the fund is open for business.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) are valued at their respective NAVs. For an explanation of the circumstances under which the underlying funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing, see the underlying funds' prospectuses and statements of additional information (SAIs). The fund's NAV is calculated using the values of the underlying funds in which it invests. Other assets (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued primarily on the basis of market quotations or official closing prices. Certain short-term securities are valued on the basis of amortized cost. If market quotations or official closing prices are not readily available or, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, are deemed unreliable for a security, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before the fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Arbitrage opportunities may exist when trading in a portfolio security or securities is halted and does not resume before a fund calculates its NAV. These arbitrage opportunities may enable short-term traders to dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Securities trading in overseas markets present time zone arbitrage opportunities when events affecting portfolio security values occur after the close of the overseas markets but prior to the close of the U.S. market. Fair valuation of a fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of a fund's NAV by short-term traders.
Although the fund has policies regarding excessive trading, these too may not be effective to prevent short-term NAV arbitrage trading, particularly in regard to omnibus accounts.
Fair value pricing is based on subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value of a security may differ materially from the value that would be realized if the security were sold.
Prospectus
THE FUND IS AVAILABLE ONLY TO CERTAIN EMPLOYER-SPONSORED RETIREMENT PLANS AND FIDELITY BROKERAGE OR MUTUAL FUND ACCOUNTS. PLEASE SEE "FUND SUMMARY - PURCHASE AND SALE OF SHARES" ABOVE FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS.
Fidelity Investments was established in 1946 to manage one of America's first mutual funds. Today, Fidelity is one of the world's largest providers of financial services.
In addition to its mutual fund business, the company operates one of America's leading brokerage firms, Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC. Fidelity is also a leader in providing tax-advantaged retirement plans for individuals investing on their own or through their employer.
Subject to the purchase and sale requirements stated above, you may buy or sell shares of a fund through a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account. If you buy or sell shares of a fund (other than by exchange) through a Fidelity brokerage account, your transactions generally involve your Fidelity brokerage core (a settlement vehicle included as part of your Fidelity brokerage account).
If you do not currently have a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account and would like to invest in a fund, you may need to complete an application. For more information about a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account, please visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com, call 1-800-FIDELITY, or visit a Fidelity Investor Center (call 1-800-544-9797 for the center nearest you).
<R>You may also buy or sell shares of the fund through a retirement account (such as an IRA or an account funded through salary deduction) or an investment professional. Retirement specialists are available at 1-800-544-4774 to answer your questions about Fidelity retirement products. If you buy or sell shares of a fund through a retirement account or an investment professional, the procedures for buying, selling, and exchanging shares of the fund and the account features and policies may differ from those discussed in this prospectus. Fees in addition to those discussed in this prospectus may also apply. For example, you may be charged a transaction fee if you buy or sell shares of the fund through a non-Fidelity broker or other investment professional.</R>
You should include the following information with any order to buy, sell, or exchange shares:
Certain methods of contacting Fidelity, such as by telephone or electronically, may be unavailable or delayed (for example, during periods of unusual market activity). In addition, the level and type of service available may be restricted based on criteria established by Fidelity.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
The fund may reject for any reason, or cancel as permitted or required by law, any purchase or exchange, including transactions deemed to represent excessive trading, at any time.
Excessive trading of fund shares can harm shareholders in various ways, including reducing the returns to long-term shareholders by increasing costs to the fund (such as brokerage commissions), disrupting portfolio management strategies, and diluting the value of the shares in cases in which fluctuations in markets are not fully priced into the fund's NAV.
The Board of Trustees has adopted policies designed to discourage excessive trading of fund shares. Excessive trading activity in the fund is measured by the number of roundtrip transactions in a shareholder's account. A roundtrip transaction occurs when a shareholder sells fund shares (including exchanges) within 30 days of the purchase date.
<R>Shareholders with two or more roundtrip transactions in a single fund within a rolling 90-day period will be blocked from making additional purchases or exchange purchases of the fund for 85 days. Shareholders with four or more roundtrip transactions across all Fidelity funds within any rolling 12-month period will be blocked for at least 85 days from additional purchases or exchange purchases across all Fidelity funds. Any roundtrip within 12 months of the expiration of a multi-fund block will initiate another multi-fund block. Repeat offenders may be subject to long-term or permanent blocks on purchase or exchange purchase transactions in any account under the shareholder's control at any time. In addition to enforcing these roundtrip limitations, the fund may in its discretion restrict, reject, or cancel any purchases or exchanges that, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, may be disruptive to the management of the fund or otherwise not be in the fund's interests.</R>
The following transactions are exempt from the fund's excessive trading policy described above: (i) transactions of $1,000 or less, (ii) systematic withdrawal and/or contribution programs, (iii) mandatory retirement distributions, and (iv) transactions initiated by a plan sponsor or sponsors of certain employee benefit plans or other related accounts. In addition, the fund's excessive trading policy does not apply to transactions initiated by the trustee or adviser to a donor-advised charitable gift fund, qualified fund of fund(s), or other strategy funds. A qualified fund of fund(s) is a mutual fund, qualified tuition program, or other strategy fund consisting of qualified plan assets that either applies the fund's excessive trading policies to shareholders at the fund of fund(s) level, or demonstrates that the fund of fund(s) has an investment strategy coupled with policies designed to control frequent trading that are reasonably likely to be effective as determined by the fund's Treasurer.
Prospectus
Omnibus accounts, in which shares are held in the name of an intermediary on behalf of multiple investors, are a common form of holding shares among retirement plans and financial intermediaries such as brokers, advisers, and third-party administrators. Individual trades in omnibus accounts are often not disclosed to the fund, making it difficult to determine whether a particular shareholder is engaging in excessive trading. Excessive trading in omnibus accounts is likely to go undetected by the fund and may increase costs to the fund and disrupt its portfolio management.
Under policies adopted by the Board of Trustees, intermediaries will be permitted to apply the fund's excessive trading policy (described above), or their own excessive trading policy if approved by Strategic Advisers. In these cases, the fund will typically not request or receive individual account data but will rely on the intermediary to monitor trading activity in good faith in accordance with its or the fund's policies. Reliance on intermediaries increases the risk that excessive trading may go undetected. For other intermediaries, the fund will generally monitor trading activity at the omnibus account level to attempt to identify disruptive trades. The fund may request transaction information, as frequently as daily, from any intermediary at any time, and may apply the fund's policy to transactions that exceed thresholds established by the Board of Trustees. The fund may prohibit purchases of fund shares by an intermediary or by some or all of any intermediary's clients. There is no assurance that Strategic Advisers will request data with sufficient frequency to detect or deter excessive trading in omnibus accounts effectively.
If you purchase or sell fund shares through a financial intermediary, you may wish to contact the intermediary to determine the policies applicable to your account.
For employer-sponsored retirement plans, only participant directed exchanges count toward the roundtrip limits. Employer-sponsored retirement plan participants whose activity triggers a purchase or exchange block will be permitted one trade every calendar quarter. In the event of a block, employer and participant contributions and loan repayments by the participant may still be invested in the fund.
The fund will monitor aggregate trading activity of adviser transactions to attempt to identify excessive trading in qualified wrap programs, as defined below. Excessive trading by an adviser will lead to fund blocks and the wrap program will lose its qualified status. Adviser transactions will not be matched with client-directed transactions unless the wrap program ceases to be a qualified wrap program (but all client-directed transactions will be subject to the fund's excessive trading policy). A qualified wrap program is: (i) a program whose adviser certifies that it has investment discretion over $100 million or more in client assets invested in mutual funds at the time of the certification, (ii) a program in which the adviser directs transactions in the accounts participating in the program in concert with changes in a model portfolio, and (iii) managed by an adviser who agrees to give Strategic Advisers sufficient information to permit Strategic Advisers to identify the individual accounts in the wrap program.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
The fund reserves the right at any time to restrict purchases or exchanges or impose conditions that are more restrictive on excessive or disruptive trading than those stated in this prospectus. The fund's Treasurer is authorized to suspend the fund's policies during periods of severe market turbulence or national emergency. The fund reserves the right to modify its policies at any time without prior notice.
The fund does not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions of fund shares by investors, except to the extent permitted by the policies described above.
As described in "Valuing Shares," the fund also uses fair value pricing to help reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders. There is no assurance that the fund's excessive trading policy will be effective, or will successfully detect or deter excessive or disruptive trading.
The price to buy one share of the fund is its NAV. The fund's shares are sold without a sales charge.
Your shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after your investment is received in proper form.
The fund has authorized certain intermediaries to accept orders to buy shares on its behalf. When authorized intermediaries receive an order in proper form, the order is considered as being placed with the fund, and shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after the order is received by the authorized intermediary. Orders by funds of funds for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment manager will be treated as received by the fund at the same time that the corresponding orders are received in proper form by the funds of funds.
There is no minimum balance or purchase minimum for investments through Portfolio Advisory Services, a mutual fund or a qualified tuition program for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment manager, certain Fidelity retirement accounts funded through salary deduction, or fund positions opened with the proceeds of distributions from such retirement accounts or from a Fidelity systematic withdrawal service. In addition, the fund may waive or lower purchase minimums in other circumstances.
The fund may stop offering shares completely or may offer shares only on a limited basis, for a period of time or permanently.
If your payment is not received and collected, your purchase may be canceled and you could be liable for any losses or fees the fund or Fidelity has incurred.
Prospectus
Certain financial institutions that have entered into sales agreements with FDC may enter confirmed purchase orders on behalf of customers by phone, with payment to follow no later than the time when fund shares are priced on the following business day. If payment is not received by that time, the order will be canceled and the financial institution could be held liable for resulting fees or losses.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, purchase orders may be suspended, restricted, or canceled and the monies may be withheld.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV.
Your shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after your order is received in proper form. Normally, redemptions will be processed by the next business day, but it may take up to seven days to pay the redemption proceeds if making immediate payment would adversely affect the fund.
The fund has authorized certain intermediaries to accept orders to sell shares on its behalf. When authorized intermediaries receive an order in proper form, the order is considered as being placed with the fund, and shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after the order is received by the authorized intermediary. Orders by funds of funds for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment manager will be treated as received by the fund at the same time that the corresponding orders are received in proper form by the funds of funds.
A signature guarantee is designed to protect you and Fidelity from fraud. Fidelity may require that your request be made in writing and include a signature guarantee in certain circumstances, such as:
You should be able to obtain a signature guarantee from a bank, broker (including Fidelity Investor Centers), dealer, credit union (if authorized under state law), securities exchange or association, clearing agency, or savings association. A notary public cannot provide a signature guarantee.
When you place an order to sell shares, note the following:
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
An exchange involves the redemption of all or a portion of the shares of one fund and the purchase of shares of another fund.
If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, your shares of the fund may be exchanged into shares of any class of a Fidelity fund available through your plan. If you hold your shares of the fund through a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, your shares of the fund may be exchanged into shares of other Fidelity funds.
However, you should note the following policies and restrictions governing exchanges:
Prospectus
The fund may terminate or modify exchange privileges in the future.
Other funds may have different exchange restrictions and minimums, and may impose redemption fees of up to 2.00% of the amount exchanged. Check each fund's prospectus for details.
The following features may be available to buy and sell shares of the fund or to move money to and from your account, if you are investing through a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account. Please visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com or call 1-800-544-6666 for more information.
Electronic Funds Transfer: electronic money movement through the Automated Clearing House • To transfer money between a bank account and a Fidelity brokerage account or Fidelity mutual fund account. • You can use electronic funds transfer to: - Make periodic (automatic) purchases of Fidelity fund shares or payments to your Fidelity brokerage account. - Make periodic (automatic) redemptions of Fidelity fund shares or withdrawals from your Fidelity brokerage account. |
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Wire: electronic money movement through the Federal Reserve wire system • To transfer money between a bank account and a Fidelity brokerage account or Fidelity mutual fund account. |
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Automatic Transactions: periodic (automatic) transactions • To directly deposit all or a portion of your compensation from your employer (or the U.S. Government, in the case of Social Security) into a Fidelity brokerage account or Fidelity mutual fund account. • To make contributions from a Fidelity mutual fund account to a Fidelity mutual fund IRA. • To sell shares of a Fidelity money market fund and simultaneously to buy shares of another Fidelity fund in a Fidelity mutual fund account. |
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
The following policies apply to you as a shareholder.
Statements that Fidelity sends to you include the following:
<R>To reduce expenses, only one copy of most financial reports and prospectuses may be mailed to households, even if more than one person in a household holds shares of the fund. Call Fidelity at 1-800-835-5095 (for employer-sponsored retirement plans) or 1-800-544-8544 (for all other accounts) if you need additional copies of financial reports or prospectuses. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, contact Fidelity in writing at P.O. Box 770001, Cincinnati, Ohio 45277-0002.</R>
Electronic copies of most financial reports and prospectuses are available at Fidelity's web site. To participate in Fidelity's electronic delivery program, call Fidelity or visit Fidelity's web site for more information.
<R>You may initiate many transactions by telephone or electronically. Fidelity will not be responsible for any loss, cost, expense, or other liability resulting from unauthorized transactions if it follows reasonable security procedures designed to verify the identity of the investor. Fidelity will request personalized security codes or other information, and may also record calls. For transactions conducted through the Internet, Fidelity recommends the use of an Internet browser with 128-bit encryption. You should verify the accuracy of your confirmation statements upon receipt and notify Fidelity immediately of any discrepancies in your account activity. If you do not want the ability to sell and exchange by telephone, call Fidelity for instructions. Additional documentation may be required from corporations, associations, and certain fiduciaries.</R>
You may also be asked to provide additional information in order for Fidelity to verify your identity in accordance with requirements under anti-money laundering regulations. Accounts may be restricted and/or closed, and the monies withheld, pending verification of this information or as otherwise required under these and other federal regulations.
If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, Fidelity may deduct a small balance maintenance fee of $12.00 from a fund balance with a value of less than $2,000 in shares. It is expected that fund balances will be valued after November 1 but prior to December 31 of each calendar year. Fund positions opened after September 30 will not be subject to the fee for that calendar year. The fee, which is payable to Fidelity, is designed to offset in part the relatively higher costs of servicing smaller fund positions. This fee will not be deducted from fund positions opened after January 1 of that calendar year if those positions use certain regular investment plans.
Prospectus
If your fund balance falls below $2,000 worth of shares ($500 for fund balances in Fidelity Simplified Employee Pension-IRA and Keogh accounts, and Non-Fidelity Prototype Retirement accounts) for any reason, including solely due to declines in NAV, and you do not increase your balance, Fidelity may sell all of your shares and send the proceeds to you after providing you with at least 30 days' notice to reestablish the minimum balance. Your shares will be sold at the NAV on the day Fidelity closes your fund position. Certain fund positions are not subject to these balance requirements and will not be closed for failure to maintain a minimum balance.
Fidelity may charge a fee for certain services, such as providing historical account documents.
The fund earns dividends, interest, and other income from its investments, and distributes this income (less expenses) to shareholders as dividends. The fund also realizes capital gains from its investments, and distributes these gains (less any losses) to shareholders as capital gain distributions.
The fund normally pays dividends and capital gain distributions in July and December.
If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, all dividends and capital gains distributions paid will be automatically reinvested. If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, when you open an account, specify on your application how you want to receive your distributions. The following distribution options are available for shares of the fund:
1. Reinvestment Option. Your dividends and capital gain distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the fund. If you do not indicate a choice on your application, you will be assigned this option.
2. Income-Earned Option. Your capital gain distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the fund. Your dividends will be paid in cash.
3. Cash Option. Your dividends and capital gain distributions will be paid in cash.
4. Directed Dividends ® Option. Your dividends will be automatically invested in shares of another identically registered Fidelity fund. Your capital gain distributions will be automatically invested in shares of another identically registered Fidelity fund, automatically reinvested in additional shares of the fund, or paid in cash.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
If the distribution option you prefer is not listed on your account application, or if you want to change your current distribution option, visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com or call 1-800-544-6666 for more information.
If you elect to receive distributions paid in cash by check and the U.S. Postal Service does not deliver your checks, your distribution option may be converted to the Reinvestment Option. You will not receive interest on amounts represented by uncashed distribution checks.
If your dividend check(s) remains uncashed for more than six months, your check(s) may be invested in additional shares of the fund at the NAV next calculated on the day of the investment.
As with any investment, your investment in the fund could have tax consequences for you. If you are not investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account, you should consider these tax consequences.
Taxes on distributions. If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, distributions by the fund to tax-advantaged retirement plan accounts are not taxable currently. If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes.
For federal tax purposes, certain of the fund's distributions, including dividends and distributions of short-term capital gains, are taxable to you as ordinary income, while certain of the fund's distributions, including distributions of long-term capital gains, are taxable to you generally as capital gains. A percentage of certain distributions of dividends may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
<R>If you buy shares when a fund has realized but not yet distributed income or capital gains, you will be "buying a dividend" by paying the full price for the shares and then receiving a portion of the price back in the form of a taxable distribution.</R>
Any taxable distributions you receive from the fund will normally be taxable to you when you receive them, regardless of your distribution option.
Taxes on transactions. If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, exchanges within a tax-advantaged retirement plan account will not result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. Please consult your tax advisor regarding the tax treatment of distributions from a tax-advantaged retirement plan account. If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, your redemptions, including exchanges, may result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. A capital gain or loss on your investment in the fund generally is the difference between the cost of your shares and the price you receive when you sell them.
Prospectus
The fund is a mutual fund, an investment that pools shareholders' money and invests it toward a specified goal.
The fund employs a multi-manager and a fund of funds investment structure. Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of sub-advisers or underlying funds.
Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. The address of Strategic Advisers and its affiliates, unless otherwise indicated below, is 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R>As of December 31, 2011, Strategic Advisers had approximately $261.7 billion in discretionary assets under management.</R>
As the manager, Strategic Advisers has overall responsibility for directing the fund's investments and handling its business affairs.
<R> ClariVest , at 11452 El Camino Real, Suite 250, San Diego, California 92130, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, ClariVest had approximately $2.9 billion in discretionary assets under management. ClariVest provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> MSIM , at 522 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10032, has been retained to serve as sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, MSIM had approximately $303.7 billion in discretionary assets under management. MSIM provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Pyramis , at 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. Pyramis is an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. As of December 31, 2011, Pyramis had approximately $40.2 billion in discretionary assets under management. Pyramis provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> WRIMCO , at 6300 Lamar Avenue, P.O. Box 29217, Overland Park, Kansas 66201-9217, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, WRIMCO had approximately $43.2 billion in discretionary assets under management. WRIMCO provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Winslow , at 4720 IDS Tower, 80 South Eighth Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, Winslow had approximately $31.3 billion in discretionary assets under management. Winslow provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
Strategic Advisers
<R>John A. Stone is lead portfolio manager of the fund, which he has managed since November 2011. He also manages other funds. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments in 2008 as a portfolio manager, Mr. Stone worked as a portfolio manager and a Principal at Mercer Global Investments beginning in 2006.</R>
ClariVest
<R>David J. Pavan, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He is a founder and owner of ClariVest Asset Management LLC and portfolio manager with primary responsibility for the US large-cap growth investment strategy. Prior to forming ClariVest in March 2006, Mr. Pavan was the portfolio manager for the Systematic US large-cap growth strategies at Nicholas-Applegate Capital Management, and was a member of the Systematic investment team that managed over $5 billion in assets at the firm. Previously, he served as a quantitative analyst at Putnam Investments. Prior to this, Mr. Pavan was a partner at Genus Capital Management, where he worked as an equity analyst. Mr. Pavan holds a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the University of Waterloo, an MBA from Queen's University, and a Masters in Computational Finance from Carnegie Mellon University. Mr. Pavan has nineteen years of investment experience.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Frank Feng, Ph.D., serves as co-portfolio manager for ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He is a founder and owner of ClariVest Asset Management LLC and portfolio manager with primary responsibility for the US large-cap core strategy. Prior to forming ClariVest in March 2006, Mr. Feng was the portfolio manager for the Systematic US large-cap core strategy and served as a member of the Systematic investment team that managed over $5 billion in assets at Nicholas-Applegate Capital Management. Before joining Nicholas-Applegate, Mr. Feng served as a senior quantitative analyst with Thomson Financial/Vestek Systems and as a credit analyst with Providian Financial. He received a BA from Jiaotong University, Xian, China, an MBA from The University of International Business & Economics, Beijing, China, and a PhD in finance from Georgia State University. Mr. Feng has fifteen years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Ed Wagner serves as co-portfolio manager for ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since February 2012. He joined ClariVest in December 2007 as a portfolio manager with responsibility for US small-cap and mid-cap investment strategies, and transitioned to mid-cap and large-cap strategies in 2012. Prior to joining ClariVest, Ed was a business analyst at Advent Software where he was responsible for fixed income and derivatives functionality for Geneva, Advent's hedge fund accounting product. Before joining Advent, Ed was an investment analyst for US small cap strategies and served as a member of the Systematic investment team at Nicholas-Applegate Capital Management. Before joining Nicholas-Applegate, Ed was an Assistant Product Manager and Junior Quantitative Analyst for Vestek Systems. Ed holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of California, San Diego, and an MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management. Ed has eighteen years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Dennis P. Lynch serves as lead manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Lynch, Managing Director, is the head of growth investing for MSIM. Prior to joining the firm, he worked as a sell side analyst for JP Morgan Securities. Mr. Lynch received a B.A. in Political Science from Hamilton College, and an M.B.A. in Finance, with honors, from Columbia University. Mr. Lynch joined MSIM in 1998, and has 17 years of investment experience.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
<R>David S. Cohen serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Cohen, Managing Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 1999. Mr. Cohen is an investor on the team. Prior to joining the firm, he was a senior fund accountant at Alliance Capital. Previously, he was a fund accountant at Natwest and Wall Street Trust. Mr. Cohen received a B.S. in Management, summa cum laude, from Pace University. Mr. Cohen joined MSIM in 1993, and has 23 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Sam G. Chainani, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Chainani, Managing Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 2000. Sam is an investor on the team. He received a B.S. in Management with a concentration in Finance from Binghamton University. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Mr. Chainani joined MSIM in 1996, and has 15 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Alexander T. Norton serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Norton, Executive Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 2000. Alex is an investor on MSIM's Growth Team. Prior to joining the firm, he was an associate in Equity Derivative Sales and later an associate in Equity Research at Donaldson Lufkin & Jenrette. Previously, he was a Bond Broker with Cantor Fitzgerald. Alex received a B.A. in History from the University of Pennsylvania, and an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School in Finance. Mr. Norton joined MSIM in 2000, and has 16 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Jason C. Yeung, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Yeung, Managing Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 2004. Jason is an investor on the team. Prior to joining the firm, he was a senior research analyst at Ramius Capital Group. Previously, he was an equity research analyst at Deutsche Bank. Mr. Yeung received a B.A. in International Relations, Phi Beta Kappa, from Johns Hopkins University and an M.Phil. from the University of Cambridge in International Relations. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Mr. Yeung joined MSIM in 2002, and has 14 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Armistead B. Nash serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Nash, Executive Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 2004. Mr. Nash is an investor on the team. Prior to joining the firm, he was an associate in investment product development at BlackRock Financial Management. Previously, he was a research analyst in high yield research at KEA Capital. Mr. Nash received a B.A. from the University of Virginia in History, and an M.B.A. from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business in Business Administration. Mr. Nash joined MSIM in 2002, and has 11 years of investment experience.</R>
Prospectus
Pyramis
<R>Stephen Balter, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He is a portfolio manager at Pyramis Global Advisors, a unit of Fidelity. In this role, Mr. Balter serves as portfolio manager of large capitalization growth assets. Prior to joining Pyramis in February 2007, Mr. Balter was co-chair of Growth Investing at Pioneer Investments in Boston and co-managed Pioneer Growth Shares and Pioneer Fundamental Growth. Prior to joining Pioneer, Mr. Balter was portfolio manager at 2100 Capital Group, a subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, where he managed the 2100 Capital Group Discovery Fund, a US equity market neutral hedge fund. Prior to joining 2100 Capital Group, Mr. Balter spent four years at Putnam Investments as senior vice president and was co-manager of the Putnam Utilities Growth and Income Fund as well as sector team leader for Telecommunications research. Prior to working at Putnam, Mr. Balter spent four years at Pioneer on both the emerging markets and domestic equity research teams covering various industries including telecommunications, consumer, industrials, and technology. Mr. Balter has more than 15 years of experience in the investment industry. Mr. Balter earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Wesleyan University and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the Olin School of Business at Babson College.</R>
<R>Christopher Galizio, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He is a portfolio manager at Pyramis Global Advisors, a unit of Fidelity. In this role, Mr. Galizio serves as portfolio manager of large capitalization growth assets. Prior to joining Pyramis in February 2007, Mr. Galizio was both a portfolio manager and analyst during a 13-year tenure at Pioneer Investments. From 2004 to 2006, Mr. Galizio was co-head of growth investing and co-managed Pioneer Growth Shares and Pioneer Fundamental Growth. From 2001 to 2004, Mr. Galizio was the head of global technology research and managed the Pioneer Global Technology Fund. During his career at Pioneer, Mr. Galizio covered a number of US equity sectors including technology, energy, and industrials. Prior to joining Pioneer's domestic equity research staff, Mr. Galizio was an international equity analyst for Pioneer, covering Japan and emerging markets. He has more than 17 years of investment industry experience. Mr. Galizio earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Government from Wesleyan University and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois.</R>
WRIMCO
<R>Daniel P. Becker, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for WRIMCO's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He is a Senior Vice President and portfolio manager of Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company. Mr. Becker graduated from the University of Wisconsin at Madison in 1987 with a B.S. in mathematical economics. He earned an MS with an emphasis in finance, investments, and banking from the University of Wisconsin Graduate School of Business in 1989. Mr. Becker was previously affiliated with the State of Wisconsin Investment Board as a research technician from June 1988 through February 1989 and as an investment analyst beginning in February 1989. Mr. Becker joined WRIMCO in October 1989.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
<R>Philip J. Sanders, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for WRIMCO's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He is a Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer, and portfolio manager of Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company. Mr. Sanders received his BA in economics in 1980 from the University of Michigan. He earned an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1986. Mr. Sanders was previously affiliated with Banc of America Capital Management from 1988 to 1998. Mr. Sanders served as lead portfolio manager of Banc of America's large cap growth style with assets of approximately $2 billion in mutual fund and individually managed institutional accounts. Mr. Sanders joined Waddell & Reed in August 1998.</R>
Winslow
<R>Justin H. Kelly, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for Winslow's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He is a Senior Managing Director and portfolio manager/analyst of Winslow Capital Management and has been with the firm since 1999. Previously, Mr. Kelly was a Vice President and co-head of the Technology Research Team at Investment Advisers, Inc. in Minneapolis from 1997 to 1999. For the four years prior, he was an investment banker in New York City for Prudential Securities and then Salomon Brothers. Mr. Kelly graduated Summa Cum Laude from Babson College in 1993 with a B.S. in Finance/Investments. He is also a Chartered Financial Analyst.</R>
<R>R. Bart Wear, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for Winslow's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He is a Senior Managing Director and portfolio manager/analyst of Winslow Capital Management and has been with the firm since 1997. Previously, Mr. Wear was a Principal and equity manager at Baird Capital Management in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from 1996 to 1997. For the thirteen years prior, he served as a Senior Vice President/Senior Portfolio Manager and Director of Research at Firstar Investment Research and Management Company. Mr. Wear graduated with honors from Arizona State University in 1982 with a B.S. in Finance. He is also a Chartered Financial Analyst.</R>
<R>Clark J. Winslow serves as co-portfolio manager for Winslow's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He founded Winslow Capital Management in 1992 and is the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer. From 1987 to 1992 Mr. Winslow served as a Senior Vice President at Alliance Capital Management managing institutional assets. From 1980 to 1987 he served as a Managing Director at J.W. Bristol & Co. in New York. Mr. Winslow started in portfolio management at MacKay-Shields Financial in 1975. He began his investment career at Baker, Weeks & Co. as an institutional research analyst from 1966 to 1975 covering technology. Mr. Winslow earned a B.A. from Yale University in 1962 and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School in 1965.</R>
Prospectus
The SAI provides additional information about the compensation of, any other accounts managed by, and any fund shares held by the portfolio managers.
From time to time a manager, analyst, or other Fidelity employee may express views regarding a particular company, security, industry, or market sector. The views expressed by any such person are the views of only that individual as of the time expressed and do not necessarily represent the views of Fidelity or any other person in the Fidelity organization. Any such views are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and Fidelity disclaims any responsibility to update such views. These views may not be relied on as investment advice and, because investment decisions for a Fidelity fund are based on numerous factors, may not be relied on as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any Fidelity fund.
The fund pays a management fee to Strategic Advisers. The management fee is calculated and paid to Strategic Advisers every month.
The fund's management fee is calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.30% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets. Because the fund's management fee rate may fluctuate, the fund's management fee may be higher or lower in the future. The fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.00% of the fund's average daily net assets.
In return for the services of the fund's sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers will pay each of the fund's sub-advisers the fee (as described above) payable to that sub-adviser.
<R>The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the management contract and sub-advisory agreements with ClariVest, Pyramis, WRIMCO, and Winslow for the fund is available in the fund's semi-annual report for the fiscal period ended November 30, 2011. The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the sub-advisory agreement with MSIM for the fund is available in the fund's annual report for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, agree to reimburse the fund for, or waive, management fees and other expenses above a specified limit. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid by the fund if expenses fall below the specified limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
Reimbursement or waiver arrangements can decrease expenses and boost performance.
<R>As of May 31, 2012, approximately 99.59% of the fund's total outstanding shares was held by Strategic Advisers and/or another entity or entities of which FMR LLC is the ultimate parent.</R>
FDC distributes the fund's shares.
<R>Intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR or FDC), may receive from Strategic Advisers, FMR, FDC, and/or their affiliates compensation for providing recordkeeping and administrative services, as well as other retirement plan expenses, and compensation for services intended to result in the sale of fund shares. These payments are described in more detail in this section and in the SAI.</R>
The fund has adopted a Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) with respect to its shares that recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenues, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other source, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, service-providers, and administrators, that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees of the fund has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Affiliates of Strategic Advisers may receive service fees or distribution fees or both with respect to underlying funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork.
If payments made by Strategic Advisers to FDC or to intermediaries under the Distribution and Service Plan were considered to be paid out of the fund's assets on an ongoing basis, they might increase the cost of your investment and might cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
From time to time, FDC may offer special promotional programs to investors who purchase shares of Fidelity funds. For example, FDC may offer merchandise, discounts, vouchers, or similar items to investors who purchase shares of certain Fidelity funds during certain periods. To determine if you qualify for any such programs, contact Fidelity or visit our web site at www.fidelity.com.
No dealer, sales representative, or any other person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representations, other than those contained in this prospectus and in the related SAI, in connection with the offer contained in this prospectus. If given or made, such other information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by the fund or FDC. This prospectus and the related SAI do not constitute an offer by the fund or by FDC to sell shares of the fund to or to buy shares of the fund from any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer.
Prospectus
The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the financial history of the fund's shares for the period of the fund's operations. Certain information reflects financial results for a single share of the fund. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in shares of the fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the fund's financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the fund's annual report. A free copy of the annual report is available upon request.
<R> Year ended May 31, |
2012 D </R> |
<R> Selected Per-Share Data |
</R> |
<R> Net asset value, beginning of period |
$ 10.00 </R> |
<R> Income from Investment Operations |
</R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) C |
.02 </R> |
<R> Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) |
.46 </R> |
<R> Total from investment operations |
.48 </R> |
<R> Distributions from net investment income |
(.01 ) </R> |
<R> Net asset value, end of period |
$ 10.47 </R> |
<R> Total Return B |
4.83% </R> |
<R> Ratios to Average Net Assets E |
</R> |
<R> Expenses before reductions |
.91% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of fee waivers, if any |
.91% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of all reductions |
.91% A </R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) |
.32% A </R> |
<R> Supplemental Data |
</R> |
<R> Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) |
$ 52,717 </R> |
<R> Portfolio turnover rate F |
50% A </R> |
<R> A Annualized </R>
<R> B Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized. </R>
<R> C Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period. </R>
<R> D For the period November 16, 2011 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2012. </R>
<R> E Expense ratios reflect operating expenses of the Fund. Expenses before reductions do not reflect amounts reimbursed by the investment adviser or reductions from expense offset arrangements and do not represent the amount paid by the Fund during periods when reimbursements or reductions occur. Expense ratios before reductions for start-up periods may not be representative of longer term operating periods. Expenses net of fee waivers reflect expenses after reimbursement by the investment adviser but prior to reductions from expense offset arrangements. Expenses net of all reductions represent the net expenses paid by the Fund. Fees and expenses of the Underlying Funds are not included in the Fund's annualized ratios. The Fund indirectly bears its proportionate share of the expenses of the Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> F Amounts do not include the portfolio activity of any Underlying Funds. </R>
Prospectus
Russell 1000 Growth Index is a market capitalization-weighted index designed to measure the performance of the large-cap growth segment of the U.S. equity market. It includes those Russell 1000 Index companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth rates.
Prospectus
Notes
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OPENING A NEW ACCOUNT To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT ACT), requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or entity that opens an account. For individual investors opening an account: When you open an account, you will be asked for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow Fidelity to identify you. You may also be asked to provide documents that may help to establish your identity, such as your driver's license. For investors other than individuals: When you open an account, you will be asked for the name of the entity, its principal place of business and taxpayer identification number (TIN) and may be requested to provide information on persons with authority or control over the account such as name, residential address, date of birth and social security number. You may also be asked to provide documents, such as drivers' licenses, articles of incorporation, trust instruments or partnership agreements and other information that will help Fidelity identify the entity. |
<R>You can obtain additional information about the fund. A description of the fund's policies and procedures for disclosing its holdings is available in its SAI and on Fidelity's web sites. The SAI also includes more detailed information about the fund and its investments. The SAI is incorporated herein by reference (legally forms a part of the prospectus). The fund's annual and semi-annual reports also include additional information. The fund's annual report includes a discussion of the fund's holdings and recent market conditions and the fund's investment strategies that affected performance.</R>
<R>For a free copy of any of these documents or to request other information or ask questions about the fund, call 1-800-835-5095 (plan accounts) or 1-800-544-3455 (all other accounts). In addition, you may visit the web site at www.401k.com (plan accounts) or www.fidelity.com (all other accounts) for a free copy of a prospectus, SAI, or annual or semi-annual report or to request other information.</R>
The SAI, the fund's annual and semi-annual reports and other related materials are available from the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) Database on the SEC's web site (http://www.sec.gov). You can obtain copies of this information, after paying a duplicating fee, by sending a request by e-mail to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You can also review and copy information about the fund, including the fund's SAI, at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call 1-202-551-8090 for information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference Room. Investment Company Act of 1940, File Number, 811-21991 |
FDC is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). You may obtain information about SIPC, including the SIPC brochure, by visiting www.sipc.org or calling SIPC at 202-371-8300.
Strategic Advisers and FundsNetwork are registered service marks of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
<R>1.931549.102 MMG-PRO-0712</R>
Strategic Advisers ® Growth Multi-Manager Fund (FMELX)
A Fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
<R>This statement of additional information (SAI) is not a prospectus. Portions of the fund's annual report are incorporated herein. The annual report is supplied with this SAI.</R>
<R>To obtain a free additional copy of the prospectus or SAI, dated July 30, 2012, or an annual report, please call Fidelity at 1-800-835-5095 (plan accounts) or 1-800-544-3455 (all other accounts) or visit the web site at www.401k.com (plan accounts) or www.fidelity.com (all other accounts).</R>
<R>MMG-PTB-0712
1.931550.102</R>
|
PAGE |
Investment Policies and Limitations |
|
Portfolio Transactions |
|
Valuation |
|
Buying, Selling, and Exchanging Information |
|
Distributions and Taxes |
|
Trustees and Officers |
|
Control of Investment Advisers |
|
Management Contract |
|
Proxy Voting Guidelines |
|
Distribution Services |
|
Transfer and Service Agent Agreements |
|
Description of the Trust |
|
Fund Holdings Information |
|
<R>Financial Statements |
|
Appendix |
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS
The following policies and limitations supplement those set forth in the prospectus. Unless otherwise noted, whenever an investment policy or limitation states a maximum percentage of the fund's assets that may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy regarding quality standards, such standard or percentage limitation will be determined immediately after and as a result of the fund's acquisition of such security or other asset. Accordingly, any subsequent change in values, net assets, or other circumstances will not be considered when determining whether the investment complies with the fund's investment policies and limitations.
The fund's fundamental investment policies and limitations cannot be changed without approval by a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act)) of the fund. However, except for the fundamental investment limitations listed below, the investment policies and limitations described in this SAI are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
The following are the fund's fundamental investment limitations set forth in their entirety.
Senior Securities
The fund may not issue senior securities, except in connection with the insurance program established by the fund pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission or as otherwise permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Borrowing
The fund may not borrow money, except that the fund may borrow money for temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging or investment) in an amount not exceeding 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). Any borrowings that come to exceed this amount will be reduced within three days (not including Sundays and holidays) to the extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation.
Underwriting
The fund may not underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 in the disposition of restricted securities or in connection with investments in other investment companies.
Concentration
The fund may not purchase the securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or 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.
For purposes of the fund's concentration limitation discussed above, Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) or an affiliate may analyze the characteristics of a particular issuer and security and assign an industry or sector classification consistent with those characteristics in the event that the third-party classification provider used by Strategic Advisers does not assign a classification.
Real Estate
The fund may not purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from investing in securities or other instruments backed by real estate or securities of companies engaged in the real estate business).
Commodities
The fund may not purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from purchasing or selling options and futures contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities).
Loans
The fund may not lend any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, but this limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities or to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.
The following investment limitations are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
Diversification
In order to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, the fund currently intends to comply with certain diversification limits imposed by Subchapter M.
<R>Subchapter M generally requires the fund to invest no more than 25% of its total assets in securities of any one issuer and to invest at least 50% of its total assets so that (a) no more than 5% of the fund's total assets are invested in securities of any one issuer, and (b) the fund does not hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of that issuer. However, Subchapter M allows unlimited investments in cash, cash items, government securities (as defined in Subchapter M) and securities of other regulated investment companies. These tax requirements are generally applied at the end of each quarter of the fund's taxable year.</R>
Short Sales
The fund does not currently intend to sell securities short, unless it owns or has the right to obtain securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short, and provided that transactions in futures contracts and options are not deemed to constitute selling securities short.
Margin Purchases
The fund does not currently intend to purchase securities on margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of transactions, and provided that margin payments in connection with futures contracts and options on futures contracts shall not constitute purchasing securities on margin.
Borrowing
The fund may borrow money only (a) from a bank or from a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) by engaging in reverse repurchase agreements with any party (reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings for purposes of the fundamental borrowing investment limitation).
Illiquid Securities
The fund does not currently intend to purchase any security if, as a result, more than 10% of its net assets would be invested in securities that are deemed to be illiquid because they are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or because they cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued.
For purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation discussed above, if through a change in values, net assets, or other circumstances, the fund were in a position where more than 10% of its net assets were invested in illiquid securities, it would consider appropriate steps to protect liquidity.
To the extent that the fund acquires the shares of an underlying fund in accordance with Section 12(d)(1)(F) of the 1940 Act, the underlying fund is not obligated to redeem its shares in an amount exceeding 1% of its shares outstanding during any period of less than 30 days. Those underlying fund shares will not be treated as illiquid securities for purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation described above to the extent that the fund is able to dispose of such securities by distributing them in kind to redeeming shareholders. (See "Securities of Other Investment Companies" on page 16.)
Loans
The fund does not currently intend to lend assets other than securities to other parties, except by (a) lending money (up to 15% of the fund's net assets) to a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) assuming any unfunded commitments in connection with the acquisition of loans, loan participations, or other forms of debt instruments. (This limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities, to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.)
In addition to the fund's fundamental and non-fundamental investment limitations discussed above:
For the fund's limitations on futures and options transactions, see the section entitled "Futures, Options, and Swaps" on page (Click Here).
Notwithstanding the foregoing investment limitations, the underlying funds in which the fund may invest have adopted certain investment limitations that may be more or less restrictive than those listed above, thereby permitting the fund to engage indirectly in investment strategies that are prohibited under the investment limitations listed above. The investment limitations of each underlying fund are set forth in its registration statement.
In accordance with its investment program as set forth in the prospectus, the fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in any one underlying Fidelity fund. Although the fund does not intend to concentrate its investments in a particular industry, the fund may indirectly concentrate in a particular industry or group of industries through its investments in one or more underlying funds.
The following pages contain more detailed information about types of instruments in which the fund may invest, techniques the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may employ in pursuit of the fund's investment objective, and a summary of related risks. The fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may not buy all of these instruments or use all of these techniques unless it believes that doing so will help the fund achieve its goal. However, the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) is not required to buy any particular instrument or use any particular technique even if to do so might benefit the fund.
Strategic Advisers ® Growth Multi-Manager Fund may have exposure to instruments, techniques, and risks either directly or indirectly through an investment in an underlying fund. An underlying fund may invest in the same or other types of instruments and its adviser may employ the same or other types of techniques. Strategic Advisers ® Growth Multi-Manager Fund's performance will be affected by the instruments, techniques, and risks associated with an underlying fund, in proportion to the amount of assets that the fund allocates to that underlying fund.
On the following pages in this section titled "Investment Policies and Limitations," and except as otherwise indicated, references to "a fund" or "the fund" may relate to Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund or an underlying fund, and references to "an adviser" or "the adviser" may relate to Strategic Advisers (or its affiliates) or a sub-adviser of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, or an adviser of an underlying fund.
Borrowing. If a fund borrows money, its share price may be subject to greater fluctuation until the borrowing is paid off. If a fund makes additional investments while borrowings are outstanding, this may be considered a form of leverage.
<R> Cash Management. A fund may hold uninvested cash or may invest it in cash equivalents such as money market securities, repurchase agreements, or shares of short-term bond or money market funds, including (for Fidelity funds and other advisory clients only) shares of Fidelity central funds. Generally, these securities offer less potential for gains than other types of securities.</R>
<R> Common Stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock take precedence over the claims of those who own common stock, although related proceedings can take time to resolve and results can be unpredictable.</R>
Convertible Securities are bonds, debentures, notes, or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible security held by a fund is called for redemption or conversion, the fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.
Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield, convertible securities generally sell at prices above their "conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stocks and interest rates. When the underlying common stocks decline in value, convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities. However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the underlying common stocks rise in value, the value of convertible securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time, however, the difference between the market value of convertible securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because convertible securities may also be interest-rate sensitive, their value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk, and are often lower-quality securities.
Debt Securities are used by issuers to borrow money. The issuer usually pays a fixed, variable, or floating rate of interest, and must repay the amount borrowed, usually at the maturity of the security. Some debt securities, such as zero coupon bonds, do not pay interest but are sold at a deep discount from their face values. Debt securities include corporate bonds, government securities, repurchase agreements, and mortgage and other asset-backed securities.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are shares of other investment companies, commodity pools, or other entities that are traded on an exchange. Typically, assets underlying the ETF shares are stocks, though they may also be commodities or other instruments, selected to track a particular index or other benchmark.
Typically, ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark increases. However, in the case of inverse ETFs (also called "short ETFs" or "bear ETFs"), ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark decreases. Inverse ETFs seek to deliver the opposite of the performance of the benchmark they track and are often marketed as a way for investors to profit from, or at least hedge their exposure to, downward moving markets. Investments in inverse ETFs are similar to holding short positions in the underlying benchmark.
ETF shares are redeemable only in large blocks (typically, 50,000 shares) often called "creation units" by persons other than a fund, and are redeemed principally in-kind at each day's next calculated net asset value per share (NAV). ETFs typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by a fund. A fund's purchase of ETFs results in the layering of expenses, such that the fund would indirectly bear a proportionate share of any ETF's operating expenses. Further, while traditional investment companies are continuously offered at NAV, ETFs are traded in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) on an intra-day basis at prices that may be above or below the value of their underlying portfolios.
Some of the risks of investing in an ETF that tracks an index are similar to those of investing in an indexed mutual fund, including tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to the index or other benchmark); and the risk that because an ETF is not actively managed, it cannot sell stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in the index or other benchmark. Other ETF risks include the risk that ETFs may trade in the secondary market at a discount from their NAV and the risk that the ETFs may not be liquid. ETFs also may be leveraged. Leveraged ETFs seek to deliver multiples of the performance of the index or other benchmark they track and use derivatives in an effort to amplify the returns (or decline, in the case of inverse ETFs) of the underlying index or benchmark. While leveraged ETFs may offer the potential for greater return, the potential for loss and the speed at which losses can be realized also are greater. Most leveraged and inverse ETFs "reset" daily, meaning they are designed to achieve their stated objectives on a daily basis. Leveraged and inverse ETFs can deviate substantially from the performance of their underlying benchmark over longer periods of time, particularly in volatile periods.
Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs) are a type of senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt security issued by financial institutions that combines aspects of both bonds and ETFs. An ETN's returns are based on the performance of a market index or other reference asset minus fees and expenses. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are listed on an exchange and traded in the secondary market. However, unlike an ETF, an ETN can be held until the ETN's maturity, at which time the issuer will pay a return linked to the performance of the market index or other reference asset to which the ETN is linked minus certain fees. Unlike regular bonds, ETNs typically do not make periodic interest payments and principal typically is not protected.
<R>ETNs also incur certain expenses not incurred by their applicable index. The market value of an ETN is determined by supply and demand, the current performance of the index or other reference asset, and the credit rating of the ETN issuer. The market value of ETN shares may differ from their intraday indicative value. The value of an ETN may also change due to a change in the issuer's credit rating. As a result, there may be times when an ETN share trades at a premium or discount to its NAV. Some ETNs that use leverage in an effort to amplify the returns of an underlying index or other reference asset can, at times, be relatively illiquid and, thus, they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Leveraged ETNs may offer the potential for greater return, but the potential for loss and speed at which losses can be realized also are greater.</R>
Exposure to Foreign and Emerging Markets. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
Foreign investments involve risks relating to local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments, and may be affected by actions of foreign governments adverse to the interests of U.S. investors. Such actions may include expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on U.S. investment or on the ability to repatriate assets or convert currency into U.S. dollars, or other government intervention. Additionally, governmental issuers of foreign debt securities may be unwilling to pay interest and repay principal when due and may require that the conditions for payment be renegotiated. There is no assurance that a fund's adviser will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their effects. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies and of dividends and interest paid with respect to such securities will fluctuate based on the relative strength of the U.S. dollar.
<R>It is anticipated that in most cases the best available market for foreign securities will be on an exchange or in over-the-counter (OTC) markets located outside of the United States. Foreign stock markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as those in the United States, and securities of some foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. issuers. Foreign security trading, settlement and custodial practices (including those involving securities settlement where fund assets may be released prior to receipt of payment) are often less developed than those in U.S. markets, and may result in increased investment or valuation risk or substantial delays in the event of a failed trade or the insolvency of, or breach of duty by, a foreign broker-dealer, securities depository, or foreign subcustodian. In addition, the costs associated with foreign investments, including withholding taxes, brokerage commissions, and custodial costs, are generally higher than with U.S. investments.</R>
Foreign markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. markets. Foreign issuers are generally not bound by uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements and standards of practice comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. Adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis. In general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States. OTC markets tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain countries, may be totally unregulated. Regulatory enforcement may be influenced by economic or political concerns, and investors may have difficulty enforcing their legal rights in foreign countries.
Some foreign securities impose restrictions on transfer within the United States or to U.S. persons. Although securities subject to such transfer restrictions may be marketable abroad, they may be less liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject to such restrictions.
American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. The underlying shares are held in trust by a custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. However, ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. These risks include foreign exchange risk as well as the political and economic risks of the underlying issuer's country.
The risks of foreign investing may be magnified for investments in emerging markets. Security prices in emerging markets can be significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets, reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets may have relatively unstable governments, may present the risks of nationalization of businesses, restrictions on foreign ownership and prohibitions on the repatriation of assets, and may have less protection of property rights than more developed countries. The economies of countries with emerging markets may be based on only a few industries, may be highly vulnerable to changes in local or global trade conditions, and may suffer from extreme and volatile debt burdens or inflation rates. Local securities markets may trade a small number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of holdings difficult or impossible at times.
Foreign Currency Transactions. A fund may conduct foreign currency transactions on a spot ( i.e., cash) or forward basis ( i.e., by entering into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies). Although foreign exchange dealers generally do not charge a fee for such conversions, they do realize a profit based on the difference between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the counterparty desire to resell that currency to the dealer. Forward contracts are customized transactions that require a specific amount of a currency to be delivered at a specific exchange rate on a specific date or range of dates in the future. Forward contracts are generally traded in an interbank market directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. The parties to a forward contract may agree to offset or terminate the contract before its maturity, or may hold the contract to maturity and complete the contemplated currency exchange.
<R>The following discussion summarizes the principal currency management strategies involving forward contracts that could be used by a fund. A fund may also use swap agreements, indexed securities, and options and futures contracts relating to foreign currencies for the same purposes. Forward contracts not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying currency. All of these instruments and transactions are subject to the risk that the counterparty will default.</R>
A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect a fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the U.S. dollar price of the security. Forward contracts to purchase or sell a foreign currency may also be used by a fund in anticipation of future purchases or sales of securities denominated in foreign currency, even if the specific investments have not yet been selected.
A fund may also use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. For example, if a fund owned securities denominated in pounds sterling, it could enter into a forward contract to sell pounds sterling in return for U.S. dollars to hedge against possible declines in the pound's value. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge," would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations, but would not offset changes in security values caused by other factors. A fund could also hedge the position by selling another currency expected to perform similarly to the pound sterling. This type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S. dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged securities are denominated.
A fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency into another. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased, much as if a fund had sold a security denominated in one currency and purchased an equivalent security denominated in another. A fund may cross-hedge its U.S. dollar exposure in order to achieve a representative weighted mix of the major currencies in its benchmark index and/or to cover an underweight country or region exposure in its portfolio. Cross-hedges protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency, but will cause a fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases.
Successful use of currency management strategies will depend on an adviser's skill in analyzing currency values. Currency management strategies may substantially change a fund's investment exposure to changes in currency exchange rates and could result in losses to a fund if currencies do not perform as an adviser anticipates. For example, if a currency's value rose at a time when a fund had hedged its position by selling that currency in exchange for dollars, the fund would not participate in the currency's appreciation. If a fund hedges currency exposure through proxy hedges, the fund could realize currency losses from both the hedge and the security position if the two currencies do not move in tandem. Similarly, if a fund increases its exposure to a foreign currency and that currency's value declines, the fund will realize a loss. Foreign currency transactions involve the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted and that a fund's hedging strategies will be ineffective. A fund may be required to limit its hedging transactions in foreign currency forwards, futures, and options in order to maintain its classification as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code (Code). Hedging transactions could result in the application of the mark-to-market provisions of the Code, which may cause an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by a fund and could affect whether dividends paid by a fund are classified as capital gains or ordinary income. A fund will cover its exposure to foreign currency transactions with liquid assets in compliance with applicable requirements. There is no assurance that an adviser's use of currency management strategies will be advantageous to a fund or that it will employ currency management strategies at appropriate times.
Options and Futures Relating to Foreign Currencies. Currency futures contracts are similar to forward currency exchange contracts, except that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency futures contracts call for payment or delivery in U.S. dollars. The underlying instrument of a currency option may be a foreign currency, which generally is purchased or delivered in exchange for U.S. dollars, or may be a futures contract. The purchaser of a currency call obtains the right to purchase the underlying currency, and the purchaser of a currency put obtains the right to sell the underlying currency.
The uses and risks of currency options and futures are similar to options and futures relating to securities or indices, as discussed below. A fund may purchase and sell currency futures and may purchase and write currency options to increase or decrease its exposure to different foreign currencies. Currency options may also be purchased or written in conjunction with each other or with currency futures or forward contracts. Currency futures and options values can be expected to correlate with exchange rates, but may not reflect other factors that affect the value of a fund's investments. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a Yen-denominated security from a decline in the Yen, but will not protect a fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of a fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the fund's investments exactly over time.
Foreign Repurchase Agreements. Foreign repurchase agreements involve an agreement to purchase a foreign security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price in either U.S. dollars or foreign currency. Unlike typical U.S. repurchase agreements, foreign repurchase agreements may not be fully collateralized at all times. The value of a security purchased by a fund may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to repurchase the security. In the event of default by the counterparty, a fund may suffer a loss if the value of the security purchased is less than the agreed-upon repurchase price, or if the fund is unable to successfully assert a claim to the collateral under foreign laws. As a result, foreign repurchase agreements may involve higher credit risks than repurchase agreements in U.S. markets, as well as risks associated with currency fluctuations. In addition, as with other emerging market investments, repurchase agreements with counterparties located in emerging markets or relating to emerging markets may involve issuers or counterparties with lower credit ratings than typical U.S. repurchase agreements.
Fund's Rights as an Investor. Fidelity funds do not intend to direct or administer the day-to-day operations of any company. A fund may, however, exercise its rights as a shareholder or lender and may communicate its views on important matters of policy to a company's management, board of directors, and shareholders, and holders of a company's other securities when such matters could have a significant effect on the value of the fund's investment in the company. The activities in which a fund may engage, either individually or in conjunction with others, may include, among others, supporting or opposing proposed changes in a company's corporate structure or business activities; seeking changes in a company's directors or management; seeking changes in a company's direction or policies; seeking the sale or reorganization of the company or a portion of its assets; supporting or opposing third-party takeover efforts; supporting the filing of a bankruptcy petition; or foreclosing on collateral securing a security. This area of corporate activity is increasingly prone to litigation and it is possible that a fund could be involved in lawsuits related to such activities. Such activities will be monitored with a view to mitigating, to the extent possible, the risk of litigation against a fund and the risk of actual liability if a fund is involved in litigation. No guarantee can be made, however, that litigation against a fund will not be undertaken or liabilities incurred. The fund's proxy voting guidelines are included in this SAI.
Futures, Options, and Swaps. The success of any strategy involving futures, options, and swaps depends on an adviser's analysis of many economic and mathematical factors and a fund's return may be higher if it never invested in such instruments. Additionally, some of the contracts discussed below are new instruments without a trading history and there can be no assurance that a market for the instruments will continue to exist. Government legislation or regulation could affect the use of such instruments and could limit a fund's ability to pursue its investment strategies.
Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund will not: (a) sell futures contracts, purchase put options, or write call options if, as a result, more than 25% of the fund's total assets would be hedged with futures and options under normal conditions; (b) purchase futures contracts or write put options if, as a result, the fund's total obligations upon settlement or exercise of purchased futures contracts and written put options would exceed 25% of its total assets under normal conditions; or (c) purchase call options if, as a result, the current value of option premiums for call options purchased by the fund would exceed 5% of the fund's total assets. These limitations do not apply to options attached to or acquired or traded together with their underlying securities, and do not apply to structured notes.
The limitations on the fund's investments in futures contracts, options, and swaps, and the fund's policies regarding futures contracts, options, and swaps may be changed as regulatory agencies permit.
The requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company may limit the extent to which a fund may enter into futures, options on futures, and forward contracts.
Futures Contracts. In purchasing a futures contract, the buyer agrees to purchase a specified underlying instrument at a specified future date. In selling a futures contract, the seller agrees to sell a specified underlying instrument at a specified date. The price at which the purchase and sale will take place is fixed when the buyer and seller enter into the contract. Some currently available futures contracts are based on specific securities, some are based on commodities or commodities indices (for funds that seek commodities exposure), and some are based on indices of securities prices (including foreign indices for funds that seek foreign exposure). Futures on indices and futures not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying instrument. Futures can be held until their delivery dates, or can be closed out by offsetting purchases or sales of futures contracts before then if a liquid market is available. A fund may realize a gain or loss by closing out its futures contracts.
The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in tandem with the value of its underlying instrument. Therefore, purchasing futures contracts will tend to increase a fund's exposure to positive and negative price fluctuations in the underlying instrument, much as if it had purchased the underlying instrument directly. When a fund sells a futures contract, by contrast, the value of its futures position will tend to move in a direction contrary to the market. Selling futures contracts, therefore, will tend to offset both positive and negative market price changes, much as if the underlying instrument had been sold.
The purchaser or seller of a futures contract or an option for a futures contract is not required to deliver or pay for the underlying instrument or the final cash settlement price, as applicable, unless the contract is held until the delivery date. However, both the purchaser and seller are required to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant (FCM), when the contract is entered into. If the value of either party's position declines, that party will be required to make additional "variation margin" payments to settle the change in value on a daily basis. This process of "marking to market" will be reflected in the daily calculation of open positions computed in a fund's NAV. The party that has a gain is entitled to receive all or a portion of this amount. Initial and variation margin payments do not constitute purchasing securities on margin for purposes of a fund's investment limitations. In the event of the bankruptcy or insolvency of an FCM that holds margin on behalf of a fund, the fund may be entitled to return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by the FCM's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the fund. A fund is required to segregate liquid assets equivalent to the fund's outstanding obligations under the contract in excess of the initial margin and variation margin, if any.
Although futures exchanges generally operate similarly in the United States and abroad, foreign futures exchanges may follow trading, settlement, and margin procedures that are different from those for U.S. exchanges. Futures contracts traded outside the United States may involve greater risk of loss than U.S.-traded contracts, including potentially greater risk of losses due to insolvency of a futures broker, exchange member, or other party that may owe initial or variation margin to a fund. Because initial and variation margin payments may be measured in foreign currency, a futures contract traded outside the United States may also involve the risk of foreign currency fluctuation.
There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. Exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for futures contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or other market conditions, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its futures positions could also be impaired. These risks may be heightened for commodity futures contracts, which have historically been subject to greater price volatility than exists for instruments such as stocks and bonds.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded futures contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in futures contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the futures position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Futures prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Futures prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell futures contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's futures positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments. In addition, the price of a commodity futures contract can reflect the storage costs associated with the purchase of the physical commodity.
Options. By purchasing a put option, the purchaser obtains the right (but not the obligation) to sell the option's underlying instrument at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the purchaser pays the current market price for the option (known as the option premium). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific assets or securities, indices of securities or commodities prices, and futures contracts (including commodity futures contracts). The purchaser may terminate its position in a put option by allowing it to expire or by exercising the option. If the option is allowed to expire, the purchaser will lose the entire premium. If the option is exercised, the purchaser completes the sale of the underlying instrument at the strike price. A purchaser may also terminate a put option position by closing it out in the secondary market at its current price, if a liquid secondary market exists.
The buyer of a typical put option can expect to realize a gain if the underlying instrument's price falls substantially. However, if the underlying instrument's price does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer can expect to suffer a loss (limited to the amount of the premium, plus related transaction costs).
The features of call options are essentially the same as those of put options, except that the purchaser of a call option obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. A call buyer typically attempts to participate in potential price increases of the underlying instrument with risk limited to the cost of the option if the underlying instrument's price falls. At the same time, the buyer can expect to suffer a loss if the underlying instrument's price does not rise sufficiently to offset the cost of the option.
The writer of a put or call option takes the opposite side of the transaction from the option's purchaser. In return for receipt of the premium, the writer assumes the obligation to pay or receive the strike price for the option's underlying instrument if the other party to the option chooses to exercise it. The writer may seek to terminate a position in a put option before exercise by closing out the option in the secondary market at its current price. If the secondary market is not liquid for a put option, however, the writer must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes. When writing an option on a futures contract, a fund will be required to make margin payments to an FCM as described above for futures contracts.
If the underlying instrument's price rises, a put writer would generally expect to profit, although its gain would be limited to the amount of the premium it received. If the underlying instrument's price remains the same over time, it is likely that the writer will also profit, because it should be able to close out the option at a lower price. If the underlying instrument's price falls, the put writer would expect to suffer a loss. This loss should be less than the loss from purchasing the underlying instrument directly, however, because the premium received for writing the option should mitigate the effects of the decline.
Writing a call option obligates the writer to sell or deliver the option's underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, upon exercise of the option. The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that writing calls generally is a profitable strategy if prices remain the same or fall. Through receipt of the option premium, a call writer mitigates the effects of a price increase. At the same time, because a call writer must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, even if its current value is greater, a call writer gives up some ability to participate in security price increases.
There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular options contract at any particular time. Options may have relatively low trading volume and liquidity if their strike prices are not close to the underlying instrument's current price. In addition, exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for options contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or otherwise, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its options positions could also be impaired.
Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract size, and strike price, the terms of OTC options (options not traded on exchanges) generally are established through negotiation with the other party to the option contract. While this type of arrangement allows the purchaser or writer greater flexibility to tailor an option to its needs, OTC options generally are less liquid and involve greater credit risk than exchange-traded options, which are backed by the clearing organization of the exchanges where they are traded.
Combined positions involve purchasing and writing options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument would construct a combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract. Another possible combined position would involve writing a call option at one strike price and buying a call option at a lower price, to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
A fund may also buy and sell options on swaps. Options on interest rate swaps are known as swaptions. An option on a swap gives a party the right to enter into a new swap agreement or to extend, shorten, cancel or modify an existing swap contract at a specific date in the future in exchange for a premium.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded options contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in options contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the options position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Options prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Options prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the options and futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how options and futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell options contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's options positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments.
Swap Agreements. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors. Swap agreements are two party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors. Swap agreements can vary in term like other fixed-income investments. Most swap agreements are traded over-the-counter. In a standard "swap" transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments (such as securities, commodities, or indices). The gross returns to be exchanged or swapped between the parties are calculated with respect to a notional amount, which is the predetermined dollar principal of the trade representing the hypothetical underlying quantity upon which payment obligations are computed.
Swap agreements can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of a fund's investments and its share price and, if applicable, its yield. Swap agreements are subject to liquidity risk, meaning that a fund may be unable to sell a swap contract to a third party at a favorable price.
A total return swap is a contract whereby one party agrees to make a series of payments to another party based on the change in the market value of the assets underlying such contract (which can include a security, commodity, index or baskets thereof) during the specified period. In exchange, the other party to the contract agrees to make a series of payments calculated by reference to an interest rate and/or some other agreed-upon amount (including the change in market value of other underlying assets). A fund may use total return swaps to gain exposure to an asset without owning it or taking physical custody of it. For example, a fund investing in total return commodity swaps will receive the price appreciation of a commodity, commodity index or portion thereof in exchange for payment of an agreed-upon fee.
In a credit default swap, the credit default protection buyer makes periodic payments, known as premiums, to the credit default protection seller. In return the credit default protection seller will make a payment to the credit default protection buyer upon the occurrence of a specified credit event. A credit default swap can refer to a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets, each known as the reference entity or underlying asset. A fund may act as either the buyer or the seller of a credit default swap. A fund may buy or sell credit default protection on a basket of issuers or assets, even if a number of the underlying assets referenced in the basket are lower-quality debt securities. In an unhedged credit default swap, a fund buys credit default protection on a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets without owning the underlying asset or debt issued by the reference entity. Credit default swaps involve greater and different risks than investing directly in the referenced asset, because, in addition to market risk, credit default swaps include liquidity, counterparty and operational risk.
Credit default swaps allow a fund to acquire or reduce credit exposure to a particular issuer, asset or basket of assets. If a swap agreement calls for payments by a fund, the fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. If a fund is the credit default protection seller, the fund will experience a loss if a credit event occurs and the credit of the reference entity or underlying asset has deteriorated. If a fund is the credit default protection buyer, the fund will be required to pay premiums to the credit default protection seller.
If the creditworthiness of a fund's swap counterparty declines, the risk that the counterparty may not perform could increase, potentially resulting in a loss to the fund. To limit the counterparty risk involved in swap agreements, a Fidelity fund will enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness.
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<R>If a counterparty to a swap transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in exercising its right to the return of related fund assets under an action against the counterparty.</R>
<R>The trust, on behalf of the Fidelity fund to which this SAI relates, has filed with the National Futures Association a notice claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" (CPO) under the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended, and the rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) promulgated thereunder, with respect to the fund's operation. Accordingly, the trust is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool or a CPO. However, the CFTC has adopted certain rule amendments that significantly affect the continued availability of this exclusion, and may subject advisers to funds to regulation by the CFTC. The scope of application and the effective date of these amendments is still uncertain. As of the date of this SAI, there is no certainty that a fund or its adviser will be able to rely on an exclusion in the future. A fund may determine not to use investment strategies that trigger additional CFTC regulation or may determine to operate subject to CFTC regulation, if applicable. If a fund or its adviser operates subject to CFTC regulation, it may incur additional expenses.</R>
Illiquid Securities cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may be costly to a fund.
Under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, a Fidelity fund's adviser determines the liquidity of the fund's investments and, through reports from the fund's adviser, the Board monitors investments in illiquid securities.
Various factors may be considered in determining the liquidity of a fund's investments, including (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations, (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security).
<R> Increasing Government Debt. The total public debt of the United States and other countries around the globe as a percent of gross domestic product has grown rapidly since the beginning of the 2008 financial downturn. Although high debt levels do not necessarily indicate or cause economic problems, they may create certain systemic risks if sound debt management practices are not implemented.</R>
A high national debt level may increase market pressures to meet government funding needs, which may drive debt cost higher and cause a country to sell additional debt, thereby increasing refinancing risk. A high national debt also raises concerns that a government will not be able to make principal or interest payments when they are due. In the worst case, unsustainable debt levels can decline the valuation of currencies, and can prevent a government from implementing effective counter-cyclical fiscal policy in economic downturns.
<R>On August 5, 2011, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services lowered its long-term sovereign credit rating on the United States one level to "AA+" from "AAA." While Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed the United States' short-term sovereign credit rating as "A-1+," there is no guarantee that Standard & Poor's Ratings Services will not decide to lower this rating in the future. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services stated that its decision was prompted by its view on the rising public debt burden and its perception of greater policymaking uncertainty. The market prices and yields of securities supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government may be adversely affected by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services decisions to downgrade the long-term sovereign credit rating of the United States.</R>
Indexed Securities are instruments whose prices are indexed to the prices of other securities, securities indices, or other financial indicators. Indexed securities typically, but not always, are debt securities or deposits whose values at maturity or coupon rates are determined by reference to a specific instrument, statistic, or measure.
Indexed securities also include commercial paper, certificates of deposit, and other fixed-income securities whose values at maturity or coupon interest rates are determined by reference to the returns of particular stock indices. Indexed securities can be affected by stock prices as well as changes in interest rates and the creditworthiness of their issuers and may not track the indexes as accurately as direct investments in the indexes.
Indexed securities may have principal payments as well as coupon payments that depend on the performance of one or more interest rates. Their coupon rates or principal payments may change by several percentage points for every 1% interest rate change.
Mortgage-indexed securities, for example, could be structured to replicate the performance of mortgage securities and the characteristics of direct ownership.
Inflation-protected securities, for example, can be indexed to a measure of inflation, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Commodity-indexed securities, for example, can be indexed to a commodities index such as the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index Total Return.
Gold-indexed securities typically provide for a maturity value that depends on the price of gold, resulting in a security whose price tends to rise and fall together with gold prices.
Currency-indexed securities typically are short-term to intermediate-term debt securities whose maturity values or interest rates are determined by reference to the values of one or more specified foreign currencies, and may offer higher yields than U.S. dollar-denominated securities. Currency-indexed securities may be positively or negatively indexed; that is, their maturity value may increase when the specified currency value increases, resulting in a security that performs similarly to a foreign-denominated instrument, or their maturity value may decline when foreign currencies increase, resulting in a security whose price characteristics are similar to a put on the underlying currency. Currency-indexed securities may also have prices that depend on the values of a number of different foreign currencies relative to each other.
The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the instrument or measure to which they are indexed, and may also be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying instruments or measures. Indexed securities are also subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's creditworthiness deteriorates. Recent issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. Government agencies.
<R> Insolvency of Issuers, Counterparties, and Intermediaries. Issuers of fund portfolio securities or counterparties to fund transactions that become insolvent or declare bankruptcy can pose special investment risks. In each circumstance, risk of loss, valuation uncertainty, increased illiquidity, and other unpredictable occurrences may negatively impact an investment. Each of these risks may be amplified in foreign markets, where security trading, settlement, and custodial practices can be less developed than those in the U.S. markets, and bankruptcy laws differ from those of the U.S.</R>
<R>As a general matter, if the issuer of a fund portfolio security is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock have priority over the claims of common stock owners. These events can negatively impact the value of the issuer's securities and the results of related proceedings can be unpredictable.</R>
<R>If a counterparty to a fund transaction, such as a swap transaction, a short sale, a borrowing, or other complex transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in its ability to exercise rights to obtain the return of related fund assets or in exercising other rights against the counterparty. In addition, insolvency and liquidation proceedings take time to resolve, which can limit or preclude a fund's ability to terminate a transaction or obtain related assets or collateral in a timely fashion. Uncertainty may also arise upon the insolvency of a securities or commodities intermediary such as a broker-dealer or futures commission merchant with which a fund has pending transactions. If an intermediary becomes insolvent, while securities positions and other holdings may be protected by U.S. or foreign laws, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether these protections are available to specific trades based on the circumstances. Receiving the benefit of these protections can also take time to resolve, which may result in illiquid positions.</R>
Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program. Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a Fidelity fund may lend money to, and borrow money from, other funds advised by Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR) or its affiliates. A Fidelity fund will borrow through the program only when the costs are equal to or lower than the costs of bank loans. A Fidelity fund will lend through the program only when the returns are higher than those available from an investment in repurchase agreements. Interfund loans and borrowings normally extend overnight, but can have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one day's notice. A Fidelity fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional borrowing costs.
Investment-Grade Debt Securities. Investment-grade debt securities include all types of debt instruments that are of medium and high-quality. Investment-grade debt securities include repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. Government securities as well as repurchase agreements collateralized by equity securities, non-investment-grade debt, and all other instruments in which a fund can perfect a security interest, provided the repurchase agreement counterparty has an investment-grade rating. Some investment-grade debt securities may possess speculative characteristics and may be more sensitive to economic changes and to changes in the financial conditions of issuers. An investment-grade rating means the security or issuer is rated investment-grade by a credit rating agency registered as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) with the SEC (for example, Moody's Investors Service, Inc.), or is unrated but considered to be of equivalent quality by a fund's adviser. For purposes of determining the maximum maturity of an investment-grade debt security, an adviser may take into account normal settlement periods.
Investments by Large Shareholders. A fund may experience large redemptions or investments due to transactions in fund shares by large shareholders. While it is impossible to predict the overall effect of these transactions over time, there could be an adverse impact on a fund's performance. In the event of such redemptions or investments, a fund could be required to sell securities or to invest cash at a time when it may not otherwise desire to do so. Such transactions may increase a fund's brokerage and/or other transaction costs. In addition, when investors own a substantial portion of a fund's shares, a large redemption could cause actual expenses to increase, or could result in the fund's current expenses being allocated over a smaller asset base, leading to an increase in the fund's expense ratio. Redemptions of fund shares could also accelerate the realization of taxable capital gains in the fund if sales of securities result in capital gains. The impact of these transactions is likely to be greater when a significant investor purchases, redeems, or owns a substantial portion of the fund's shares. When possible, Fidelity will consider how to minimize these potential adverse effects, and may take such actions as it deems appropriate to address potential adverse effects, including redemption of shares in-kind rather than in cash or carrying out the transactions over a period of time, although there can be no assurance that such actions will be successful.
<R> Loans and Other Direct Debt Instruments. Direct debt instruments are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments involve a risk of loss in case of default or insolvency of the borrower and may offer less legal protection to the purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation, or there may be a requirement that a fund supply additional cash to a borrower on demand. A fund may acquire loans by buying an assignment of all or a portion of the loan from a lender or by purchasing a loan participation from a lender or other purchaser of a participation.</R>
<R>Lenders and purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of interest and repayment of principal. If scheduled interest or principal payments are not made, the value of the instrument may be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured provide more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of failure to make scheduled interest or principal payments. However, there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the borrower's obligation, or that the collateral could be liquidated. Indebtedness of borrowers whose creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks and may be highly speculative. Borrowers that are in bankruptcy or restructuring may never pay off their indebtedness, or may pay only a small fraction of the amount owed. Direct indebtedness of foreign countries also involves a risk that the governmental entities responsible for the repayment of the debt may be unable, or unwilling, to pay interest and repay principal when due.</R>
<R>Direct lending and investments in loans through direct assignment of a financial institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the lender/purchaser could become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of lender liability, a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender. Direct debt instruments may also involve a risk of insolvency of the lending bank or other intermediary. </R>
A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness, the purchaser has direct recourse against the borrower, the purchaser may have to rely on the agent to apply appropriate credit remedies against a borrower. If assets held by the agent for the benefit of a purchaser were determined to be subject to the claims of the agent's general creditors, the purchaser might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or interest.
<R>Direct indebtedness may include letters of credit, revolving credit facilities, or other standby financing commitments that obligate lenders/purchasers to make additional cash payments on demand. These commitments may have the effect of requiring a lender/purchaser to increase its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise have done so, even if the borrower's condition makes it unlikely that the amount will ever be repaid.</R>
For a Fidelity fund that limits the amount of total assets that it will invest in any one issuer or in issuers within the same industry, the fund generally will treat the borrower as the "issuer" of indebtedness held by the fund. In the case of loan participations where a bank or other lending institution serves as financial intermediary between a fund and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the fund the direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC interpretations require a fund, in appropriate circumstances, to treat both the lending bank or other lending institution and the borrower as "issuers" for these purposes. Treating a financial intermediary as an issuer of indebtedness may restrict a fund's ability to invest in indebtedness related to a single financial intermediary, or a group of intermediaries engaged in the same industry, even if the underlying borrowers represent many different companies and industries.
Lower-Quality Debt Securities. Lower-quality debt securities include all types of debt instruments that have poor protection with respect to the payment of interest and repayment of principal, or may be in default. These securities are often considered to be speculative and involve greater risk of loss or price changes due to changes in the issuer's capacity to pay. The market prices of lower-quality debt securities may fluctuate more than those of higher-quality debt securities and may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty, which may follow periods of rising interest rates.
The market for lower-quality debt securities may be thinner and less active than that for higher-quality debt securities, which can adversely affect the prices at which the former are sold. Adverse publicity and changing investor perceptions may affect the liquidity of lower-quality debt securities and the ability of outside pricing services to value lower-quality debt securities.
Because the risk of default is higher for lower-quality debt securities, research and credit analysis are an especially important part of managing securities of this type. Such analysis may focus on relative values based on factors such as interest or dividend coverage, asset coverage, earnings prospects, and the experience and managerial strength of the issuer, in an attempt to identify those issuers of high-yielding securities whose financial condition is adequate to meet future obligations, has improved, or is expected to improve in the future.
A fund may choose, at its expense or in conjunction with others, to pursue litigation or otherwise to exercise its rights as a security holder to seek to protect the interests of security holders if it determines this to be in the best interest of the fund's shareholders.
Precious Metals. Precious metals, such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, at times have been subject to substantial price fluctuations over short periods of time and may be affected by unpredictable monetary and political policies such as currency devaluations or revaluations, economic and social conditions within a country, trade imbalances, or trade or currency restrictions between countries. The prices of gold and other precious metals, however, are less subject to local and company-specific factors than securities of individual companies. As a result, precious metals may be more or less volatile in price than securities of companies engaged in precious metals-related businesses. Investments in precious metals can present concerns such as delivery, storage and maintenance, possible illiquidity, and the unavailability of accurate market valuations. Although precious metals can be purchased in any form, including bullion and coins, a Fidelity fund intends to purchase only those forms of precious metals that are readily marketable and that can be stored in accordance with custody regulations applicable to mutual funds. A fund may incur higher custody and transaction costs for precious metals than for securities. Also, precious metals investments do not pay income.
For a fund to qualify as a regulated investment company under current federal tax law, gains from selling precious metals may not exceed 10% of the fund's gross income for its taxable year. This tax requirement could cause a fund to hold or sell precious metals or securities when it would not otherwise do so.
Preferred Stock represents an equity or ownership 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.
Real Estate Investment Trusts. Equity real estate investment trusts own real estate properties, while mortgage real estate investment trusts make construction, development, and long-term mortgage loans. Their value may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property of the trusts, the creditworthiness of the issuer, property taxes, interest rates, and tax and regulatory requirements, such as those relating to the environment. Both types of trusts are dependent upon management skill, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status of income under the Internal Revenue Code and failing to maintain exemption from the 1940 Act.
<R> Reforms and Government Intervention in the Financial Markets. Economic downturns can trigger various economic, legal, budgetary, tax, and regulatory reforms across the globe. Instability in the financial markets in the wake of the 2008 economic downturn led the U.S. Government and other governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that experienced extreme volatility, and in some cases, a lack of liquidity. Reforms are ongoing and their effects are uncertain. Federal, state, local, foreign, and other governments, their regulatory agencies, or self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which a fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Reforms may also change the way in which a fund is regulated and could limit or preclude a fund's ability to achieve its investment objective or engage in certain strategies. Also, while reforms generally are intended to strengthen markets, systems, and public finances, they could affect fund expenses and the value of fund investments.</R>
<R>The value of a fund's holdings is also generally subject to the risk of future local, national, or global economic disturbances based on unknown weaknesses in the markets in which a fund invests. In the event of such a disturbance, the issuers of securities held by a fund may experience significant declines in the value of their assets and even cease operations, or may receive government assistance accompanied by increased restrictions on their business operations or other government intervention. In addition, it is not certain that the U.S. Government or foreign governments will intervene in response to a future market disturbance and the effect of any such future intervention cannot be predicted.</R>
<R> Repurchase Agreements involve an agreement to purchase a security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price. The resale price reflects the purchase price plus an agreed-upon incremental amount which is unrelated to the coupon rate or maturity of the purchased security. As protection against the risk that the original seller will not fulfill its obligation, the securities are held in a separate account at a bank, marked-to-market daily, and maintained at a value at least equal to the sale price plus the accrued incremental amount. The value of the security purchased may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to purchase the security. In addition, delays or losses could result if the other party to the agreement defaults or becomes insolvent. A fund may be limited in its ability to exercise its right to liquidate assets related to a repurchase agreement with an insolvent counterparty. A Fidelity fund may engage in repurchase agreement transactions with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser.</R>
Restricted Securities are subject to legal restrictions on their sale. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or be costly to a fund. Restricted securities generally can be sold in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (1933 Act), or in a registered public offering. Where registration is required, the holder of a registered security may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expense and a considerable period may elapse between the time it decides to seek registration and the time it may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the holder might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed when it decided to seek registration of the security.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. In a reverse repurchase agreement, a fund sells a security to another party, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that security at an agreed-upon price and time. A Fidelity fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser. Such transactions may increase fluctuations in the market value of a fund's assets and, if applicable, a fund's yield, and may be viewed as a form of leverage.
Securities Lending. Securities lending allows a fund to retain ownership of the securities loaned and, at the same time, earn additional income. The borrower provides the fund with collateral in an amount at least equal to the value of the securities loaned. The fund seeks to maintain the ability to obtain the right to vote or consent on proxy proposals involving material events affecting securities loaned. If the borrower defaults on its obligation to return the securities loaned because of insolvency or other reasons, a fund could experience delays and costs in recovering the securities loaned or in gaining access to the collateral. These delays and costs could be greater for foreign securities. If a fund is not able to recover the securities loaned, the fund may sell the collateral and purchase a replacement investment in the market. The value of the collateral could decrease below the value of the replacement investment by the time the replacement investment is purchased.
<R> Securities of Other Investment Companies, including shares of closed-end investment companies (which include business development companies (BDCs)), unit investment trusts, and open-end investment companies, represent interests in professionally managed portfolios that may invest in any type of instrument. Investing in other investment companies involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, but may involve additional expenses at the investment company-level, such as portfolio management fees and operating expenses. For certain investment companies, such as BDCs, these expenses may be significant. Certain types of investment companies, such as closed-end investment companies, issue a fixed number of shares that trade on a stock exchange or over-the-counter at a premium or a discount to their NAV. Others are continuously offered at NAV, but may also be traded in the secondary market.</R>
<R>The securities of closed-end funds may be leveraged. As a result, a fund may be indirectly exposed to leverage through an investment in such securities. An investment in securities of closed-end funds that use leverage may expose a fund to higher volatility in the market value of such securities and the possibility that the fund's long-term returns on such securities will be diminished.</R>
The extent to which a fund can invest in securities of other investment companies may be limited by federal securities laws.
Short Sales. Short sales involve the market sale of a security a fund has borrowed from a prime broker with which it has a contractual relationship, with the expectation that the security will underperform either the market or the securities that the fund holds long. A fund closes a short sale by purchasing the same security at the current market price and delivering it to the prime broker.
Until a fund closes out a short position, the fund is obligated to pay the prime broker (from which it borrowed the security sold short) interest as well as any dividends that accrue during the period of the loan. While a short position is outstanding, a fund must also pledge a portion of its assets to the prime broker as collateral for the borrowed security. The collateral will be marked to market daily.
Short positions create a risk that a fund will be required to cover them by buying the security at a time when the security has appreciated in value, thus resulting in a loss to the fund. A short position in a security poses more risk than holding the same security long. Because a short position loses value as the security's price increases, the loss on a short sale is theoretically unlimited. The loss on a long position is limited to what a fund originally paid for the security together with any transaction costs. A fund may not always be able to borrow a security the fund seeks to sell short at a particular time or at an acceptable price. As a result, a fund may be unable to fully implement its investment strategy due to a lack of available stocks or for other reasons. It is possible that the market value of the securities a fund holds in long positions will decline at the same time that the market value of the securities the fund has sold short increases, thereby increasing the fund's potential volatility. Because a fund may be required to pay dividends, interest, premiums and other expenses in connection with a short sale, any benefit for the fund resulting from the short sale will be decreased, and the amount of any ultimate gain will be decreased or of any loss will be increased, by the amount of such expenses.
A fund may also enter into short sales against the box. Short sales "against the box" are short sales of securities that a fund owns or has the right to obtain (equivalent in kind or amount to the securities sold short). If a fund enters into a short sale against the box, it will be required to set aside securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short (or securities convertible or exchangeable into such securities) and will be required to hold such securities while the short sale is outstanding. A fund will incur transaction costs, including interest expenses, in connection with opening, maintaining, and closing short sales against the box.
Sources of Liquidity or Credit Support. Issuers may employ various forms of credit and liquidity enhancements, including letters of credit, guarantees, swaps, puts, and demand features, and insurance provided by domestic or foreign entities such as banks and other financial institutions. An adviser and its affiliates may rely on their evaluation of the credit of the issuer or the credit of the liquidity or credit enhancement provider in determining whether to purchase or hold a security supported by such enhancement. In evaluating the credit of a foreign bank or other foreign entities, factors considered may include whether adequate public information about the entity is available and whether the entity may be subject to unfavorable political or economic developments, currency controls, or other government restrictions that might affect its ability to honor its commitment. Changes in the credit quality of the issuer and/or entity providing the enhancement could affect the value of the security or a fund's share price.
Sovereign Debt Obligations are issued or guaranteed by foreign governments or their agencies, including debt of Latin American nations or other developing countries. Sovereign debt may be in the form of conventional securities or other types of debt instruments such as loans or loan participations. Sovereign debt of developing countries may involve a high degree of risk, and may be in default or present the risk of default. Governmental entities responsible for repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal and pay interest when due, and may require renegotiation or rescheduling of debt payments. In addition, prospects for repayment of principal and payment of interest may depend on political as well as economic factors. Although some sovereign debt, such as Brady Bonds, is collateralized by U.S. Government securities, repayment of principal and payment of interest is not guaranteed by the U.S. Government.
Structured Securities (also called "structured notes") are derivative debt securities, the interest rate on or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. The value of the interest rate on and/or the principal of structured securities is determined by reference to changes in the value of a reference instrument ( e.g., a security or other financial instrument, asset, currency, interest rate, commodity, or index) or the relative change in two or more reference instruments. A structured security may be positively, negatively, or both positively and negatively indexed; that is, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument increases. Similarly, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument decreases. Further, the change in the principal amount payable with respect to, or the interest rate of, a structured security may be calculated as a multiple of the percentage change (positive or negative) in the value of the underlying reference instrument(s); therefore, the value of such structured security may be very volatile. Structured securities may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because the investor bears the risk of the reference instrument. Structured securities may also be more volatile, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities or more traditional debt securities. In addition, because structured securities generally are traded over-the-counter, structured securities are subject to the creditworthiness of the counterparty of the structured security, and their values may decline substantially if the counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates.
Temporary Defensive Policies. In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, a fund may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If a fund does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund reserves the right to invest without limitation in preferred stocks and investment-grade debt instruments for temporary, defensive purposes.
Transfer Agent Bank Accounts. Proceeds from shareholder purchases of a Fidelity fund may pass through a series of demand deposit bank accounts before being held at the fund's custodian. Redemption proceeds may pass from the custodian to the shareholder through a similar series of bank accounts.
If a bank account is registered to the transfer agent or an affiliate, who acts as an agent for the fund when opening, closing, and conducting business in the bank account, the transfer agent or an affiliate may invest overnight balances in the account in repurchase agreements. Any balances that are not invested in repurchase agreements remain in the bank account overnight. Any risks associated with such an account are investment risks of the fund. The fund faces the risk of loss of these balances if the bank becomes insolvent.
Warrants. Warrants are instruments which entitle the holder to buy an equity security at a specific price for a specific period of time. Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss.
Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
Zero Coupon Bonds do not make interest payments; instead, they are sold at a discount from their face value and are redeemed at face value when they mature. Because zero coupon bonds do not pay current income, their prices can be more volatile than other types of fixed-income securities when interest rates change. In calculating a fund's dividend, a portion of the difference between a zero coupon bond's purchase price and its face value is considered income.
To the extent that Strategic Advisers grants investment management authority over an allocated portion of the fund's assets to a sub-adviser (see the section entitled "Management Contract"), that sub-adviser is authorized to provide the services described in the respective sub-advisory agreement, and in accordance with the policies described in this section.
Orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities are placed on behalf of the fund by Strategic Advisers (either directly or through its affiliates) or a sub-adviser, pursuant to authority contained in the management contract and the respective sub-advisory agreement.
Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be responsible for the placement of portfolio securities transactions for other investment companies and investment accounts for which it has or its affiliates have investment discretion.
The fund will not incur any commissions or sales charges when it invests in affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it may incur such costs when it invests directly in other types of securities, including ETFs.
Purchases and sales of equity securities on a securities exchange or OTC are effected through brokers who receive compensation for their services. Generally, compensation relating to securities traded on foreign exchanges will be higher than compensation relating to securities traded on U.S. exchanges and may not be subject to negotiation. Compensation may also be paid in connection with principal transactions (in both OTC securities and securities listed on an exchange) and agency OTC transactions executed with an electronic communications network (ECN) or an alternative trading system. Equity securities may be purchased from underwriters at prices that include underwriting fees.
Purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally made with an issuer or a primary market-maker acting as principal. Although there is no stated brokerage commission paid by the fund for any fixed-income security, the price paid by the fund to an underwriter includes the disclosed underwriting fee and prices in secondary trades usually include an undisclosed dealer commission or markup reflecting the spread between the bid and ask prices of the fixed-income security. New issues of equity and fixed-income securities may also be purchased in underwritten fixed price offerings.
The Trustees of the fund periodically review Strategic Advisers' and its affiliates' and each sub-adviser's performance of their respective responsibilities in connection with the placement of portfolio securities transactions on behalf of the fund. The Trustees also review the compensation paid by the fund over representative periods of time to determine if it was reasonable in relation to the benefits to the fund.
Strategic Advisers.
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Strategic Advisers, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, the following: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and characteristics of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for avoiding or lessening market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
The trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Strategic Advisers or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker may be higher than the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Strategic Advisers or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
Benefit to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these brokerage and research products or services with their own resources. To minimize the potential for conflicts of interest, the trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services Strategic Advisers or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates or have no explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.
Strategic Advisers' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Strategic Advisers or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Strategic Advisers or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately, rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) who have entered into arrangements with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with certain brokers, including National Financial Services LLC (NFS), with whom they are under common control, provided Strategic Advisers or its affiliates determine that these affiliates' trade execution abilities and costs are comparable to those of non-affiliated, qualified brokerage firms. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with brokers that use NFS as a clearing agent.
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
<R> Non-U.S. Transactions</R>
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers.
Trade Allocation
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Strategic Advisers to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
ClariVest Asset Management LLC (ClariVest).
ClariVest's principal objective in selecting broker/dealers and entering Client trades is to obtain best execution for Clients' transactions. As such, ClariVest will follow procedures to ensure that it is seeking to receive the best execution available on Client trades as there may be conflicts of interests that on occasion arise in the trading function. ClariVest's full policy regarding portfolio transactions is contained in its Compliance Manual.
Best Execution
<R></R>
<R>It is ClariVest's policy to always seek best execution for Client securities transactions. ClariVest maintains a process for ensuring that (1) it is seeking to execute client transactions under the most favorable terms given the circumstances and (2) ClariVest has made a good faith determination that the commissions paid are reasonable in relation to the value of the services provided. All broker-dealers are unaffiliated with ClariVest. ClariVest considers the full range and quality of the broker-dealer's service in selecting broker-dealers to meet best execution obligations, and may not pay the lowest commission rate available. ClariVest shall evaluate its efforts to seek to obtain best execution on Client trades through:</R>
<R>ClariVest will not enter into any formal "soft dollar commitments/arrangements", written or verbal, explicit or implied, with any broker-dealers. A soft dollar commitment/arrangement is viewed by ClariVest as a commitment, understanding or agreement to pay increased commissions, or direct trades to a broker-dealer, in exchange for the receipt of research. ClariVest may, however, effect transactions for clients with broker-dealers who provide ClariVest with research or brokerage products and services, providing lawful and appropriate assistance to the Firm in the performance of its investment decision-making responsibilities. Research and brokerage products and services received from broker-dealers are supplemental to ClariVest's own research efforts. ClariVest does not separately compensate broker-dealers with soft dollars for such products and services. Portfolio Managers consider the full range and quality of a broker-dealer's services when placing brokerage to ensure that transactions are the most favorable under the circumstances.</R>
<R></R>
Allocation of Trades
ClariVest's allocation procedures seek to allocate investment opportunities among clients in the fairest possible way taking into account all clients' best interests. ClariVest will follow procedures to ensure that allocations do not involve a practice of favoring or discriminating against any client or group of clients. The firm's policy is to allocate all trades (initial as well as position building) on a pro-rata basis across all client accounts, unless outside factors (such as client guidelines) prevent such allocation. ClariVest performs this allocation prior to trading, and securities are subsequently allocated by the end of the trading day.
Allocation of Brokerage
<R>Portfolio Managers seek to allocate trades across a variety of broker-dealers to mitigate the potential negative consequences to ClariVest's ability to obtain best execution where there are personnel or other management changes at ClariVest's broker-dealers. Portfolio Managers may utilize any number of trading venues to execute transactions with a broker-dealer from ClariVest's approved broker-dealer list.</R>
Order Aggregation
<R>Orders for the same security entered on behalf of more than one Client will generally be aggregated (i.e., blocked or bunched) subject to the aggregation being in the best interests of all participating Clients. All Clients participating in each aggregated order shall receive the average price and subject to minimum ticket charges, pay a pro-rata portion of commissions. Orders for the same security may be traded at the same time with different broker-dealers (and possibly obtain different execution) for a variety of reasons, including if the security is being traded differently.</R>
<R> Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc. (MSIM). </R>
<R> Portfolio Transactions</R>
<R>MSIM, as the Fund's sub-adviser, is responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities for its portion of the fund's assets, for broker-dealer selection and for negotiation of commission rates. MSIM is prohibited from directing brokerage transactions on the basis of the referral of clients or the sale of shares of advised investment companies. Purchases and sales of securities on a stock exchange are effected through brokers who charge a commission for their services. In the OTC market, securities may be traded as agency transactions through broker dealers or traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the security usually includes profit to the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price which includes an amount of compensation to the underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount. When securities are purchased or sold directly from or to an issuer, no commissions or discounts are paid.</R>
<R>On occasion, the Fund may purchase certain money market instruments directly from an issuer without payment of a commission or concession. Money market instruments are generally traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the security usually includes a profit to the dealer.</R>
<R>The Fund anticipates that certain of its transactions involving foreign securities will be effected on securities exchanges. Fixed commissions on such transactions are generally higher than negotiated commissions on domestic transactions. There is also generally less government supervision and regulation of foreign securities exchanges and brokers than in the United States.</R>
<R>MSIM serves as investment adviser to a number of clients, including other investment companies. MSIM attempts to equitably allocate purchase and sale transactions among the Fund and other client accounts. To that end, MSIM considers various factors, including respective investment objectives, relative size of portfolio holdings of the same or comparable securities, availability of cash for investment, size of investment commitments generally held and the opinions of the persons responsible for managing the Fund and other client accounts.</R>
<R>MSIM selects the brokers or dealers that will execute the purchases and sales of investment securities for the Fund. MSIM effects transactions with those broker-dealers that it believes provide prompt execution of orders in an effective manner at the most favorable price. MSIM may place portfolio transactions with those brokers and dealers who also furnish research and other services to the Fund and MSIM. Services provided may include certain research services (as described in the following paragraphs), as well as effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance, settlement and custody).</R>
<R>MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers have established commission sharing arrangements under a commission management program (the "Commission Management Program" or "CMP"), pursuant to which execution and research costs or a portion of those costs are decoupled in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. Under the CMP, MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers select approved equity brokers (which include MSIM's affiliates) for execution services and after accumulation of commissions at such brokers, MSIM and/or its affiliates instruct these approved equity brokers to pay for eligible research provided by executing brokers or third-party research providers, which are selected independently by a Research Services Committee of MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers. Generally, MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers will direct the approved equity broker to record research credits based upon a previously agreed-upon allocation and will periodically instruct the approved equity broker to direct specified dollar amounts from that pool to pay for eligible research services provided by third-party research providers and executing brokers. The research credits are pooled among MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers and allocated from this pool. Likewise, the research services obtained under the CMP are shared among MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers.</R>
<R>Selection of approved equity brokers for execution is based on three main criteria: access to liquidity, provision of capital and quality of execution. Under the CMP, each approved equity broker is responsible for the payment of fees for research services and obtains the research services pursuant to written agreements between the approved equity broker and the third-party research provider.</R>
<R>MSIM also effects transactions with brokers which directly pay for research services provided by those brokers in accordance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act. These include equity transactions and may include fixed income transactions effected on an agency basis.</R>
<R>Transactions involving client accounts managed by two or more affiliated investment advisers may be aggregated and executed using the services of broker-dealers that provide third party benefits/research so long as: (i) all client accounts involved in the transaction benefit from one or more of the services offered by such broker-dealer; and (ii) each affiliated investment adviser has approved the use of such broker-dealer and the services provided thereby.</R>
<R>The research services received include those of the nature described above and other services which aid MSIM in fulfilling its investment decision making responsibilities, including (a) furnishing advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities, and the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; and (b) furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy and the performance of accounts. Where a particular item has both research and non-research related uses (such as proxy services where both research services and services relating to the administration of the proxy itself are provided), the Adviser will make a reasonable allocation of the cost of the item between research and non-research uses and will only pay for the portion of the cost allocated to research uses with client brokerage transactions.</R>
<R>MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers make a good faith determination of the value of research services in accordance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act, UK Financial Services Authority Rules and other relevant regulatory requirements. Commissions paid to brokers providing research services may be higher than those charged by brokers not providing such services.</R>
<R>Certain investment professionals and other employees of MSIM are also officers of affiliated investment advisers and may provide investment advisory services to clients of such affiliated investment advisers. MSIM's personnel also provide research and trading support to personnel of certain affiliated investment advisers. Research related costs may be shared by affiliated investment advisers and may benefit the clients of such affiliated investment advisers. Research services that benefit MSIM may be received in connection with commissions generated by clients of its affiliated investment advisers. Similarly, research services received in connection with commissions generated by MSIM's clients may benefit affiliated investment advisers and their clients. Moreover, research services provided by broker-dealers through which MSIM effects transactions for a particular account may be used by MSIM and/or an affiliated investment adviser in servicing its other accounts and not all such research services may be used for the benefit of the particular client, which pays the brokerage commission giving rise to the receipt of such research services.</R>
<R> Affiliated Brokers </R>
<R>Subject to the overriding objective of obtaining the best execution of orders, the Fund may use broker-dealer affiliates of MSIM to effect Portfolio brokerage transactions, including transactions in futures contracts and options on futures contracts, under procedures adopted by the Fund's Board of Trustees. In order to use such affiliates, the commission rates and other remuneration paid to the affiliates must be fair and reasonable in comparison to those of other broker-dealers for comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold during a comparable time period. This standard would allow the affiliated broker or dealer to receive no more than the remuneration which would be expected to be received by an unaffiliated broker.</R>
Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis).
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Pyramis or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Pyramis, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Pyramis or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and character of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Pyramis and/or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for lessening or avoiding market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis and/or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Pyramis and/or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Pyramis or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker is generally the same as the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Pyramis or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Pyramis' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Pyramis or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in their investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Pyramis or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
Benefits to Pyramis. Pyramis' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these products or services with their own resources. However, the trading desks of Pyramis and its affiliates are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services that Pyramis or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Pyramis or its affiliates or might not have an explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.
Pyramis' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Pyramis or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Pyramis or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Pyramis or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Pyramis, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Pyramis or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Pyramis or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Pyramis or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Pyramis or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Pyramis or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Pyramis or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Pyramis or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Pyramis and its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Pyramis' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately ( e.g. , with hard dollars), rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Pyramis' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Pyramis or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) who have entered into arrangements with Pyramis or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
<R>Pyramis or its affiliates may be authorized to place portfolio transactions with Fidelity Capital Markets (FCM), a division of NFS, an affiliated broker-dealer of Pyramis and its affiliates, or other broker-dealers with whom they are under common control, and use CrossStream, an alternative trading system operated by NFS, if they reasonably believe the quality of the transaction is comparable to what it would be with other qualified broker-dealers. With respect to trades that are executed by Pyramis' affiliates, Pyramis and such affiliate seek to ensure that the trade execution obtained is comparable to that of unaffiliated brokers and that the continued use of such affiliate is appropriate. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may place trades with broker-dealers that use NFS as a clearing agent.</R>
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
Non-U.S. Securities Transactions
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers or may engage a third party to do so.
Trade Allocation
Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Pyramis or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Pyramis or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Pyramis to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company (WRIMCO).
One of the duties undertaken by WRIMCO is to arrange the purchase and sale of securities for the portfolio of the Fund. Transactions in securities other than those for which an exchange is the primary market are generally effected with dealers acting as principals or market makers. Brokerage commissions are paid primarily for effecting transactions in securities traded on an exchange and otherwise only if it appears likely that a better price or execution can be obtained. The individuals who manage the Fund may manage other advisory accounts with similar investment objectives. It can be anticipated that the portfolio managers will frequently, yet not always, place concurrent orders for all or most accounts for which the managers have responsibility or WRIMCO and its affiliate, may otherwise combine orders for the Fund with those of other Funds or other accounts for which it has investment discretion, including accounts affiliated with WRIMCO. WRIMCO, at its discretion, may aggregate such orders. Under current written procedures, transactions effected pursuant to such combined orders are averaged as to price and allocated in accordance with the purchase or sale orders actually placed for each fund or advisory account, except where the combined order is not filled completely. In this case, for a transaction not involving an IPO, WRIMCO will ordinarily allocate the transaction pro rata based on the orders placed, subject to certain variances provided for in the written procedures. For a partially filled IPO order, subject to certain variances specified in the written procedures, WRIMCO generally allocates the shares as follows: the IPO shares are initially allocated pro rata among the included funds and/or advisory accounts grouped according to investment objective, based on relative total assets of each group; and the shares are then allocated within each group pro rata based on relative total assets of the included funds and/or advisory accounts.
In all cases, WRIMCO seeks to implement its allocation procedures to achieve a fair and equitable allocation of securities among its funds and other advisory accounts. Sharing in large transactions could affect the price the Fund pays or receives or the amount it buys or sells. As well, a better negotiated commission may be available through combined orders.
To effect the portfolio transactions of the Fund, WRIMCO is authorized to engage broker-dealers (brokers) which, in its best judgment based on all relevant factors, will implement the policy of the Fund to seek best execution (prompt and reliable execution at the best price obtainable) for reasonable and competitive commissions. WRIMCO need not seek competitive commission bidding but is expected to minimize the commissions paid to the extent consistent with the interests and policies of the Fund. Such policies include the selection of brokers which provide execution and/or research services and other services, including pricing or quotation services directly or through others (research and brokerage services) considered by WRIMCO to be useful or desirable for its investment management of the Fund and/or the other funds and accounts for which WRIMCO has investment discretion. Such research and brokerage services are, in general, defined by reference to Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as including (1) advice, either directly or through publications or writings, as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities and the availability of securities and purchasers or sellers; (2) furnishing analyses and reports; or (3) effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance, settlement and custody). Investment discretion is, in general, defined as having authorization to determine what securities shall be purchased or sold for an account.
The commissions paid to brokers that provide such research and/or brokerage services may be higher than the commission another qualified broker would charge for effecting comparable transactions and are permissible if a good faith determination is made by WRIMCO that the commission is reasonable in relation to the research or brokerage services provided. No allocation of brokerage or principal business is made to provide any other benefits to WRIMCO or its affiliates. WRIMCO does not direct Fund brokerage to compensate brokers for the sale of Fund shares.
The investment research provided by a particular broker may be useful only to one or more of the other advisory accounts of WRIMCO, and investment research received for the commissions of those other accounts may be useful both to the Fund and one or more of such other accounts. To the extent that electronic or other products provided by such brokers to assist WRIMCO in making investment management decisions are used for administration or other non-research purposes, a reasonable allocation of the cost of the product attributable to its non-research use is made and this cost is paid by WRIMCO.
Such investment research (which may be supplied by a third party at the request of a broker) includes information on particular companies and industries as well as market, economic or institutional activity areas. It serves to broaden the scope and supplement the research activities of WRIMCO; serves to make available additional views for consideration and comparisons; and enables WRIMCO to obtain market information on the price of securities held in a Fund's portfolio or being considered for purchase.
<R> Winslow Capital Management, LLC (Winslow). </R>
Best Execution. In effecting purchases and sales of portfolio securities for the Fund's account, Winslow will seek the best execution of the Fund's orders. Winslow will consider not only the commission rate, spread or other compensation paid, but the price at which the transaction is executed, bearing in mind that it may be in the Fund's best interest to pay a higher commission, spread or other compensation in order to receive better execution. Winslow may consider other factors, including the broker's integrity, specialized expertise, speed, ability or efficiency, research or other services. Winslow will not consider a broker's promotional or sales efforts on behalf of the Fund as part of the broker selection process for executing Fund portfolio transactions. Winslow may not enter into agreements under which the Fund directs brokerage transactions (or revenue generated from those transactions) to a broker to pay for distribution of Fund shares.
Soft Dollar. Although Winslow selects broker-dealers primarily on the basis of their execution capabilities, the direction of transactions to broker-dealers may also be based on the quality and amount of the research and research-related services which they provide to Winslow and indirectly to its clients. Subject to the criteria of Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and regulatory guidance from the SEC, Winslow may pay a broker a brokerage commission higher than that which another broker might have charged for effecting the same transaction in recognition of the value of the brokerage and research services provided by the broker. In other words, Winslow may use client commissions or "soft dollars" to obtain research or brokerage services that benefit Winslow and its client accounts.
Clients should be aware of the conflicts of interest created by the use and allocations of soft dollar arrangements. Winslow receives a benefit by using soft dollars, because it does not have to produce or pay for the research or services itself. As a practical matter, in some cases Winslow could not, on its own, generate all of the research that broker-dealers provide without materially increasing expenses. This benefit may be seen as creating an incentive to select a broker or dealer to execute client trades based on Winslow's receiving the research or services, rather than on clients' interest in receiving most favorable execution. In addition, soft dollar benefits have the potential to cause an investment adviser to trade frequently to generate soft dollar commissions to pay for these products or services, which may not be in the best interests of clients. Winslow's investment strategy and trading procedures mitigates these potential conflicts. Winslow has adopted policies and procedures concerning soft dollars, which address all aspects of its use of client commissions and require that such use be consistent with Section 28(e), provide lawful and appropriate assistance in the investment decision-making process, and that the value of the research or brokerage service obtained be reasonable in relation to the commissions paid.
Winslow's soft dollar policy is based on the principle that brokerage is the property of the client. With this in mind, Winslow seeks to obtain best execution, minimize transaction costs, and use brokerage to benefit clients when effecting transactions. Winslow believes that it is able to negotiate costs on client transactions which are competitive and consistent with its execution policy. Winslow may use client commissions to pay for research prepared by broker-dealers who execute client transactions ("proprietary research"), research prepared by third parties but for which executing broker-dealers are obligated to pay ("third-party research") and certain other research or brokerage services. These services are of the type described in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are designed to augment Winslow's own internal research and investment strategy capabilities. Winslow's soft dollar policy considers appropriate only those broker provided products or services that primarily directly assist Winslow in its investment decision-making process and not in the management of the firm. Determinations are regularly made that a given service provides lawful and appropriate assistance to the investment decision-making process and that the cost of the service bears a reasonable relationship to the value of the research or service being provided.
Such research or services include a wide variety of written reports on individual companies and industries of particular interest to Winslow, market data, news, independent investment research generally and involving particular industries, general economic conditions, pertinent federal and state legislative developments and changes in accounting practices; direct access by telephone to, or meetings with, leading research analysts, corporate management personnel, industry experts, leading economists and government officials; forensic accounting tools; pricing services; comparative performance evaluation and technical measurement services; availability of economic advice; quotation services; data for portfolio analysis and trading; and services from independent experts on investment matters of particular interest to Winslow. In addition, the foregoing services may comprise the use of or be delivered by computer systems whose software components (including trading and related software) may be provided to Winslow as part of the services. In any case in which the foregoing systems contain features or elements that do not constitute soft-dollar eligible research or services or can be used for both research and non-research purposes, Winslow makes an appropriate allocation of those uses and Winslow itself will pay for that portion of the system that is not soft dollar eligible. A listing of the third-party research products and services currently used by Winslow in its investment decision-making process and additional client specific information, including an annual summary of total commissions generated by the client account and an itemization of soft dollar commissions and client directed commissions, are available upon request.
Because Winslow currently manages client accounts using one investment strategy, Winslow believes that the research products and services obtained with soft dollars benefit all of the accounts which it manages. Because a certain group of Winslow's clients are not available to pay for soft dollar benefits (e.g., managed account program clients), those clients who give Winslow brokerage discretion will support a disproportionate share of Winslow's soft dollar benefits.
Winslow does not enter into agreements with any broker-dealers which obligate Winslow to direct a certain amount of brokerage or commission in return for services. Nor does Winslow "backstop" or otherwise guarantee any broker's financial obligation to a third party for such research and services. However, certain broker-dealers may state in advance the amount of brokerage commissions they require for certain services and the applicable cash equivalent.
Winslow, consistent with its obligation to seek best execution on client transactions, may utilize commissions paid to broker-dealers for NASDAQ agency transactions to obtain certain research and research-related services.
Winslow's Trade Management Oversight Committee ("TMOC"), consisting of representatives from investment management, trading, portfolio administration and compliance, periodically reviews its soft dollar practices by 1) reviewing and approving soft dollar research and brokerage services; 2) approval and tracking of the brokerage budget; 3) evaluation of brokers, and 4) periodic reviews of soft dollar research and brokerage services for continued compliance within the Section 28(e) safe harbor.
Trade Order Aggregation and Allocation. Winslow will frequently aggregate multiple contemporaneous client purchase or sell orders into a block order for execution. Calculation of such an aggregated order is done via Winslow's trading software. The allocation of the order among various accounts participating in the trade is tracked, and the executed order is then allocated according to the original calculated allocation. If the aggregated order is not filled in its entirety, the partially filled order is allocated pro rata based on the original allocation. By aggregating orders of separate clients, Winslow can ordinarily negotiate commissions that are lower than commissions would be if orders were not aggregated. Clients' accounts for which orders are aggregated receive the average share price of such transaction, which could be higher or lower than the actual price that would otherwise be paid by such client absent the aggregation of orders. Any transaction costs incurred in the aggregated transaction will be shared pro rata based on each client's participation in the transaction. Separate documentation relating to the transaction is generated and maintained for each client participating in a bunched trade.
If, subsequent to the placing of the order, the allocation must be changed for certain reasons (for example, a client withdraws cash from an account scheduled to participate in the order), such change in allocation will be recorded in writing and approved by Winslow's Chief Compliance Officer.
Investment Strategy. Winslow invests in companies that have the potential for above-average future earnings growth with management focused on shareholder value. Winslow invests at least 80% of its assets in large capitalization companies having a market capitalization in excess of $4.0 billion at the time of purchase and generally which are improving their financial returns.
Investment Process. Winslow will invest in those companies that Winslow believes will provide an opportunity for achieving superior portfolio returns (i.e., returns in excess of the returns of the average stock mutual fund) over the long term.
When purchasing stocks Winslow looks for companies typically having some or all of the following attributes:
<R>Winslow takes a bottom-up investment approach when selecting investments. This means it bases investment decisions on company specific factors, not general economic conditions. Winslow employs a sell discipline pursuant to which it may sell some or all of its position in a stock when:</R>
Typically Winslow invests substantially all of the Fund's investable assets in domestic securities. However, the Fund is permitted to invest up to 20% of its net assets in foreign securities traded on U.S. exchanges.
Commissions Paid
A fund may pay compensation including both commissions and spreads in connection with the placement of portfolio transactions. The amount of brokerage commissions paid by a fund may change from year to year because of, among other things, changing asset levels, shareholder activity, and/or portfolio turnover.
<R>For the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 50% (annualized). Variations in turnover rate may be due to a fluctuating volume of shareholder purchase and redemption orders, market conditions, and/or changes in Strategic Advisers' investment outlook.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund held securities issued by one or more of its regular brokers or dealers or a parent company of its regular brokers or dealers. The following table shows the aggregate value of the securities of the regular broker or dealer or parent company held by the fund as of the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012.</R>
<R> Fund |
Regular Broker or Dealer |
Aggregate Value of
|
<R>Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. |
$ 125,970</R> |
<R>The following table shows the total amount of brokerage commissions paid by the fund, comprising commissions paid on securities and/or futures transactions, as applicable, for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012. The total amount of brokerage commissions paid is stated as a dollar amount and a percentage of the fund's average net assets.</R>
|
Dollar
|
Percentage of
|
|
<R>2012 A |
|
$ 28,749 |
0.05%</R> |
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R> Broker |
Affiliated With |
Commissions |
Percentage of
|
Percentage of
|
<R>Citigroup Global Markets |
MSIM |
$ 16 |
0.06% |
0.01%</R> |
<R>The fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011 and, therefore, does not have any affiliated brokerage commissions to report for fiscal years ended May 31, 2011 and 2010.</R>
<R>Brokerage commissions may vary significantly from year to year due to a variety of factors, including the types of investments selected by the sub-adviser(s), changes in transaction costs, and market conditions.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid $18,067 in brokerage commissions to firms that may have provided research or brokerage services involving approximately $42,024,123 of transactions.</R>
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. The NAV of the fund is computed by adding the value of the fund's investments, cash, and other assets, subtracting its liabilities, and dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding.
The Board of Trustees has ultimate responsibility for pricing, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers has established the Strategic Advisers Fair Value Committee (Strategic Advisers Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities. The Strategic Advisers Committee may rely on information and recommendations provided by affiliates of Strategic Advisers in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, including the fair valuation of securities.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) held by the fund are valued at their respective NAVs. If an underlying fund's NAV is unavailable, shares of that underlying fund will be fair valued in good faith by the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Generally, other portfolio securities and assets held by the fund, as well as portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity non-money market fund, are valued as follows:
Most equity securities (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued at the official closing price or the last reported sale price or, if no sale has occurred, at the last quoted bid price on the primary market or exchange on which they are traded.
Debt securities and other assets for which market quotations are readily available may be valued at market values in the principal market in which they normally are traded, as furnished by recognized dealers in such securities or assets. Or, debt securities and convertible securities may be valued on the basis of information furnished by a pricing service that uses a valuation matrix which incorporates both dealer-supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Use of pricing services has been approved by the Board of Trustees. A number of pricing services are available, and the fund may use various pricing services or discontinue the use of any pricing service.
Short-term securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less for which market quotations and information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available are valued at amortized cost, which approximates current value.
Futures contracts are valued at the settlement or closing price. Options are valued at their market quotations, if available. Swaps are valued daily using quotations received from independent pricing services or recognized dealers.
Independent brokers or quotation services provide prices of foreign securities in their local currency. Fidelity Service Company, Inc. (FSC) gathers all exchange rates daily at the close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) using the last quoted bid price on the local currency and then translates the value of foreign securities from their local currencies into U.S. dollars. Any changes in the value of forward contracts due to exchange rate fluctuations and days to maturity are included in the calculation of NAV.
The Board of Trustees of the underlying Fidelity funds has ultimate responsibility for pricing portfolio securities and assets held by those funds, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to FMR. FMR has established the FMR Fair Value Committee (FMR Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities.
Other portfolio securities and assets for which market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available or, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, are deemed unreliable will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before a fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, that security will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. In fair valuing a security, the FMR Committee and the Strategic Advisers Committee may consider factors including price movements in futures contracts and ADRs, market and trading trends, the bid/ask quotes of brokers, and off-exchange institutional trading.
Portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity money market fund are valued on the basis of amortized cost. This technique involves initially valuing an instrument at its cost as adjusted for amortization of premium or accretion of discount rather than its current market value. The amortized cost value of an instrument may be higher or lower than the price a money market fund would receive if it sold the instrument.
At such intervals as they deem appropriate, the Trustees of an underlying Fidelity money market fund consider the extent to which NAV calculated using market valuations would deviate from the $1.00 per share calculated using amortized cost valuation. If the Trustees believe that a deviation from a money market fund's amortized cost per share may result in material dilution or other unfair results to shareholders, the Trustees have agreed to take such corrective action, if any, as they deem appropriate to eliminate or reduce, to the extent reasonably practicable, the dilution or unfair results. Such corrective action could include selling portfolio instruments prior to maturity to realize capital gains or losses or to shorten average portfolio maturity; withholding dividends; redeeming shares in kind; establishing NAV by using available market quotations; and such other measures as the Trustees may deem appropriate.
BUYING, SELLING, AND EXCHANGING INFORMATION
The fund may make redemption payments in whole or in part in readily marketable securities or other property pursuant to procedures approved by the Trustees if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund. Such securities or other property will be valued for this purpose as they are valued in computing the fund's NAV. Shareholders that receive securities or other property will realize, upon receipt, a gain or loss for tax purposes, and will incur additional costs and be exposed to market risk prior to and upon the sale of such securities or other property.
The fund, in its discretion, may determine to issue its shares in kind in exchange for securities held by the purchaser having a value, determined in accordance with the fund's policies for valuation of portfolio securities, equal to the purchase price of the fund shares issued. The fund will accept for in-kind purchases only securities or other instruments that are appropriate under its investment objective and policies. In addition, the fund generally will not accept securities of any issuer unless they are liquid, have a readily ascertainable market value, and are not subject to restrictions on resale. All dividends, distributions, and subscription or other rights associated with the securities become the property of the fund, along with the securities. Shares purchased in exchange for securities in kind generally cannot be redeemed for fifteen days following the exchange to allow time for the transfer to settle.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
Dividends. Distributions by the fund to tax-advantaged retirement plan accounts are not taxable currently. For all other accounts, a portion of the fund's income may qualify for the dividends-received deduction available to corporate shareholders, but it is unlikely that all of the fund's income will qualify for the deduction. A portion of the fund's dividends, when distributed to individual shareholders, may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
Capital Gain Distributions. Unless your shares of the fund are held in a tax-advantaged retirement plan, the fund's long-term capital gain distributions, including amounts attributable to an underlying fund's long-term capital gain distributions, are federally taxable to shareholders generally as capital gains.
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the fund had an aggregate capital loss carryforward of approximately $142,192. This loss carryforward, none of which will expire, is available to offset future capital gains. Under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and related regulations, a fund's ability to utilize its capital loss carryforwards in a given year or in total may be limited.</R>
Returns of Capital. If the fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
Foreign Tax Credit or Deduction. Foreign governments may impose withholding taxes on dividends and interest earned by the fund with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. Foreign governments may also impose taxes on other payments or gains with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. As a general matter, if, at the close of its fiscal year, more than 50% of the fund's total assets is invested in securities of foreign issuers, the fund may elect to pass through eligible foreign taxes paid and thereby allow shareholders to take a deduction or, if they meet certain holding period requirements with respect to fund shares, a credit on their individual tax returns. In addition, if at the close of each quarter of its fiscal year at least 50% of the fund's total assets is represented by interests in other regulated investment companies, the same rules will apply to any foreign tax credits that underlying funds pass through to the fund. The amount of foreign taxes paid by the fund will be reduced to the extent that the fund lends securities over the dividend record date. Special rules may apply to the credit for individuals who receive dividends qualifying for the long-term capital gains tax rate.
Tax Status of the Fund. The fund intends to qualify each year as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code so that it will not be liable for federal tax on income and capital gains distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify as a regulated investment company, and avoid being subject to federal income or excise taxes at the fund level, the fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains within each calendar year as well as on a fiscal year basis (if the fiscal year is other than the calendar year), and intends to comply with other tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies.
Other Tax Information. The information above is only a summary of some of the tax consequences generally affecting the fund and its shareholders, and no attempt has been made to discuss individual tax consequences. It is up to you or your tax preparer to determine whether the sale of shares of the fund resulted in a capital gain or loss or other tax consequence to you. In addition to federal income taxes, shareholders may be subject to state and local taxes on fund distributions, and shares may be subject to state and local personal property taxes. Investors should consult their tax advisers to determine whether the fund is suitable to their particular tax situation.
<R>The Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and executive officers of the trust and fund, as applicable, are listed below. The Board of Trustees governs the fund and is responsible for protecting the interests of shareholders. The Trustees are experienced executives who meet periodically throughout the year to oversee the fund's activities, review contractual arrangements with companies that provide services to the fund, oversee management of the risks associated with such activities and contractual arrangements, and review the fund's performance. If the interests of the fund and an underlying Fidelity fund were to diverge, a conflict of interest could arise and affect how the Trustees and Member of the Advisory Board fulfill their fiduciary duties to the affected funds. Strategic Advisers has structured the fund to avoid these potential conflicts, although there may be situations where a conflict of interest is unavoidable. In such instances, Strategic Advisers, the Trustees, and Member of the Advisory Board would take reasonable steps to minimize and, if possible, eliminate the conflict. Each of the Trustees oversees 26 funds advised by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate.</R>
The Trustees hold office without limit in time except that (a) any Trustee may resign; (b) any Trustee may be removed by written instrument, signed by at least two-thirds of the number of Trustees prior to such removal; (c) any Trustee who requests to be retired or who has become incapacitated by illness or injury may be retired by written instrument signed by a majority of the other Trustees; and (d) any Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of shareholders by a two-thirds vote of the outstanding voting securities of the trust. The executive officers and Advisory Board Member hold office without limit in time, except that any officer and Advisory Board Member may resign or may be removed by a vote of a majority of the Trustees at any regular meeting or any special meeting of the Trustees. Except as indicated, each individual has held the office shown or other offices in the same company for the past five years.
Each Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) is referred to herein as an Independent Trustee.
Experience, Skills, Attributes, and Qualifications of the Fund's Trustees. The Governance and Nominating Committee has adopted a statement of policy that describes the experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills that are necessary and desirable for potential Independent Trustee candidates (Statement of Policy). The Board believes that each Trustee satisfied at the time he or she was initially elected or appointed a Trustee, and continues to satisfy, the standards contemplated by the Statement of Policy. The Governance and Nominating Committee may also engage professional search firms to help identify potential Independent Trustee candidates with experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills consistent with the Statement of Policy. Additional criteria based on the composition and skills of the current Independent Trustees, as well as experience or skills that may be appropriate in light of future changes to board composition, business conditions, and regulatory or other developments, may be considered by the professional search firms and the Governance and Nominating Committee. In addition, the Board takes into account the Trustees' commitment and participation in Board and committee meetings, as well as their leadership of standing and ad hoc committees throughout their tenure.
In determining that a particular Trustee was and continues to be qualified to serve as a Trustee, the Board has considered a variety of criteria, none of which, in isolation, was controlling. The Board believes that, collectively, the Trustees have balanced and diverse experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills, which allow the Board to operate effectively in governing the fund and protecting the interests of shareholders. Information about the specific experience, skills, attributes, and qualifications of each Trustee, which in each case led to the Board's conclusion that the Trustee should serve (or continue to serve) as a trustee of the fund, is provided below.
Board Structure and Oversight Function. Roger T. Servison is an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) and currently serves as Chairman. The Trustees have determined that an interested Chairman is appropriate and benefits shareholders because an interested Chairman has a personal and professional stake in the quality and continuity of services provided to the fund. Independent Trustees exercise their informed business judgment to appoint an individual of their choosing to serve as Chairman, regardless of whether the Trustee happens to be independent or a member of management. The Independent Trustees have determined that they can act independently and effectively without having an Independent Trustee serve as Chairman and that a key structural component for assuring that they are in a position to do so is for the Independent Trustees to constitute a substantial majority for the Board. The Independent Trustees also regularly meet in executive session. Ralph F. Cox serves as the lead Independent Trustee and as such (i) acts as a liaison between the Independent Trustees and management with respect to matters important to the Independent Trustees and (ii) with management prepares agendas for Board meetings.
<R>Fidelity funds are overseen by different Boards of Trustees. The fund's Board oversees asset allocation funds as well as the Fidelity enhanced index funds. Other boards oversee Fidelity's investment-grade bond, money market, and asset allocation funds and Fidelity's equity and high income funds. The fund may invest in Fidelity funds overseen by such other Boards. The use of separate Boards, each with its own committee structure, allows the Trustees of each group of Fidelity funds to focus on the unique issues of the funds they oversee, including common research, investment, and operational issues.</R>
<R>The Trustees primarily operate as a full Board, but also operate in committees, to facilitate the timely and efficient consideration of all matters of importance to the Trustees, the fund, and fund shareholders and to facilitate compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and oversight of the fund's activities and associated risks. The Board has charged Strategic Advisers and its affiliates with (i) identifying events or circumstances the occurrence of which could have demonstrably adverse effects on the fund's business and/or reputation; (ii) implementing processes and controls to lessen the possibility that such events or circumstances occur or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur; and (iii) creating and maintaining a system designed to evaluate continuously business and market conditions in order to facilitate the identification and implementation processes described in (i) and (ii) above. Because the day-to-day operations and activities of the fund are carried out by or through Strategic Advisers, its affiliates and other service providers, the fund's exposure to risks is mitigated but not eliminated by the processes overseen by the Trustees. Board oversight of different aspects of the fund's activities is exercised primarily through the full Board, but also through the Audit and Compliance Committee. Appropriate personnel, including but not limited to the fund's Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), FMR's internal auditor, the independent accountants, the fund's Treasurer and portfolio management personnel, make periodic reports to the Board's committees, as appropriate. The responsibilities of each committee, including their oversight responsibilities, are described further under "Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees."</R>
<R> Interested Trustees *:</R>
<R>Correspondence intended for each Trustee who is an interested person may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.</R>
Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience + |
|
<R>Roger T. Servison (66)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Servison is Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Servison serves as President of Strategic New Business Development for Fidelity Investments and serves as a Director of Strategic Advisers. Previously, Mr. Servison oversaw Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company (2005-2006) and Strategic Advisers (2005-2007). Mr. Servison also served as President and a Director of Fidelity Brokerage Services (Japan), LLC (1994-2004). |
<R>Derek L. Young (47)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Mr. Young is Vice President of Fidelity's Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present), President and a Director of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011-present), President of Fidelity Global Asset Allocation (GAA) (2011-present), and Vice Chairman of Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (2011-present). Previously, Mr. Young served as Chief Investment Officer of GAA (2009-2011) and as a portfolio manager. |
<R>* Trustees have been determined to be "Interested Trustees" by virtue of, among other things, their affiliation with the trust or various entities under common control with Strategic Advisers.</R>
<R> + The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.</R>
Independent Trustees :
Correspondence intended for each Independent Trustee (that is, the Trustees other than the Interested Trustees) may be sent to Fidelity Investments, P.O. Box 55235, Boston, Massachusetts 02205-5235.
Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience + |
|
<R>Peter C. Aldrich (68)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Aldrich is a Director of the National Bureau of Economic Research and a Director of the funds of BlackRock Realty Group (2006-present). Previously, Mr. Aldrich served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010), a Managing Member of Poseidon, LLC (foreign private investment, 1998-2004), and Chairman and Managing Member of AEGIS, LLC (foreign private investment, 1997-2004). Mr. Aldrich also served as Faculty Chairman of The Research Council on Global Investment of The Conference Board (business and professional education non-profit, 1999-2004). Mr. Aldrich is a Member of the Boards of Trustees of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. |
<R>Amy Butte Liebowitz (44)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Ms. Butte Liebowitz is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of TILE Financial (financial internet service, 2008-present). Previously, Ms. Butte Liebowitz served as the Chief Financial Officer and member of the Board of Directors of MF Global (broker-dealer, 2006-2008), and Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the New York Stock Exchange (2004-2006). Ms. Butte Liebowitz is a member of the Boards of Directors of Accion International and the New York Women's Forum, as well as a selected participant in the World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader program. |
<R>Ralph F. Cox (79)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Cox is President of RABAR Enterprises (management consulting for the petroleum industry). Mr. Cox is a Director of Abraxas Petroleum (exploration and production). Mr. Cox is a member of the Advisory Boards of the Business and Engineering Schools of Texas A&M University and the Engineering School of University of Texas at Austin. Previously, Mr. Cox served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010) and as an Advisory Director of CH2M Hill Companies (engineering, 1981-2011). Mr. Ralph F. Cox and Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. are not related. |
<R>Karen Kaplan (52)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Ms. Kaplan is President of Hill Holliday (advertising and specialized marketing, 2007-present). Ms. Kaplan is a Director of DSM (dba Delta Dental, Doral, and DentaQuest) (2004-present), Member of the Board of Governors of the Chief Executives' Club of Boston (2010-present), Member of the Board of the Massachusetts Conference for Women (2008-present), and Director of the Executive Committee of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce (2006-present). She is also a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, an action oriented community of the most effective CEOs, heads of state, Nobel Prize winners, and non-governmental leaders in the world. Previously, Ms. Kaplan served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010), President of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2008-2010), Treasurer of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2002-2006), Vice Chair of the Board of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (2003-2010), Director of United Way of Massachusetts Bay (2004-2006), Director of ADVO (direct mail marketing, 2003-2007), and Director of Tweeter Home Entertainment Group (2006-2007). |
+ The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.
Advisory Board Member and Executive Officers :
Correspondence intended for each executive officer and Howard E. Cox, Jr. may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
Name, Age; Principal Occupation |
|
<R>Howard E. Cox, Jr. (68)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Member of the Advisory Board of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II. Mr. Cox is a Member of the Advisory Board of Devonshire Investors (2009-present). Mr. Cox serves as an Advisory Partner of Greylock (venture capital) and a Director of Stryker Corporation (medical products and services). Previously, Mr. Cox served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010) and a Member of the Secretary of Defense's Business Board of Directors (2008-2010). Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. and Mr. Ralph F. Cox are not related. |
<R>Kenneth B. Robins (42)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> President and Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Robins also serves as President and Treasurer of other Fidelity Equity and High Income Funds (2008-present) and Assistant Treasurer of other Fidelity Fixed Income and Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present). Mr. Robins is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). Previously, Mr. Robins served as Deputy Treasurer of the Fidelity funds (2005-2008) and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2006-2008). |
<R>Marc Bryant (46)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010</R> Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of the fund. Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Fidelity Investments. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments, Mr. Bryant served as a Senior Vice President and the Head of Global Retail Legal for AllianceBernstein L.P. (2006-2010), and as the General Counsel for ProFund Advisors LLC (2001-2006). |
<R>Elizabeth Paige Baumann (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Officer of the fund. Ms. Baumann also serves as AML Officer of the Fidelity funds (2012-present) and The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2012-present), Chief AML Officer of FMR LLC (2012-present), and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Ms. Baumann served as Vice President and Deputy Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2007-2012). |
<R>Nicholas E. Steck (48)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Financial Officer of the fund. Mr. Steck serves as Senior Vice President of Fidelity Pricing and Cash Management Services (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. During the period 2002 to 2009, Mr. Steck served as a Compliance Officer of FMR, Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc., FMR LLC, Fidelity Research & Analysis (U.K.) Inc., Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc. |
<R>Laura M. Doherty (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Compliance Officer of the fund. Ms. Doherty also serves as Senior Vice President of the Office of the Chief Compliance Officer (2008-present). Previously, Ms. Doherty served as a Vice President in Fidelity's Corporate Audit department (1998-2008). |
<R>Adrien E. Deberghes (44)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Deberghes also serves as Assistant Treasurer (2010-present) and Deputy Treasurer (2008-present) of other Fidelity funds and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2008-present). Previously, Mr. Deberghes served as Senior Vice President of Mutual Fund Administration at State Street Corporation (2007-2008), Senior Director of Mutual Fund Administration at Investors Bank & Trust (2005-2007), and Director of Finance for Dunkin' Brands (2000-2005). |
<R>Jonathan Davis (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Davis is also Assistant Treasurer of certain Fidelity funds. Mr. Davis is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Mr. Davis served as Vice President and Associate General Counsel of FMR LLC (2003-2010). |
<R>Margaret A. Carey (38)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 </R> Assistant Secretary of the fund. Ms. Carey is also Assistant Secretary of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). |
Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees. The Board of Trustees has established two committees to supplement the work of the Board as a whole. The members of each committee are Independent Trustees.
<R>The Audit and Compliance Committee is composed of Ms. Butte Liebowitz (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Ralph Cox, and Ms. Kaplan. All committee members must be able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including a company's balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. The committee determines whether at least one member of the committee is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined in rules promulgated by the SEC under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The committee normally meets in conjunction with in person meetings of the Board of Trustees, or more frequently as called by the Chair. The committee meets separately periodically with the fund's Treasurer, the fund's Chief Financial Officer, the fund's CCO, personnel responsible for the internal audit function of FMR LLC, and the fund's outside auditors. The committee has direct responsibility for the appointment, compensation, and oversight of the work of the outside auditors employed by the fund for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or related work. The committee assists the Trustees in overseeing and monitoring: (i) the systems of internal accounting and financial controls of the fund and the fund's service providers, (ii) the financial reporting processes of the fund, (iii) the independence, objectivity and qualification of the auditors to the fund, (iv) the annual audits of the fund's financial statements, and (v) the accounting policies and disclosures of the fund. The committee considers and acts upon (i) the provision by any outside auditor of any non-audit services for any fund, and (ii) the provision by any outside auditor of certain non-audit services to fund service providers and their affiliates to the extent that such approval (in the case of this clause (ii)) is required under applicable regulations (Auditor Independence Regulations) of the SEC. In furtherance of the foregoing, the committee has adopted (and may from time to time amend or supplement) and provides oversight of policies and procedures for non-audit engagements by outside auditors of the fund. It is responsible for approving all audit engagement fees and terms for the fund and for resolving disagreements between the fund and any outside auditor regarding the fund's financial reporting, and has sole authority to hire and fire any auditor. Auditors of the fund report directly to the committee. The committee will obtain assurance of independence and objectivity from the outside auditors, including a formal written statement delineating all relationships between the auditor and the fund and any service providers consistent with Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Ethics and Independence Rule 3526, Communication with Audit Committees Concerning Independence. The committee will discuss with the outside auditors any such disclosed relationships and their impact on the auditor's independence and objectivity. The committee will receive reports of compliance with provisions of the Auditor Independence Regulations relating to the hiring of employees or former employees of the outside auditors. It oversees and receives reports on the fund's service providers' internal controls and reviews with management, internal auditors, and outside auditors the adequacy and effectiveness of the fund's and service providers' accounting and financial controls, including: (i) any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting that are reasonably likely to adversely affect the fund's ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial data; (ii) any change in the fund's internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the fund's internal control over financial reporting; and (iii) any fraud, whether material or not, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the fund's or service provider's internal controls over financial reporting. The committee will review with counsel any legal matters that may have a material impact on the fund's financial statements and any material reports or inquiries received from regulators or governmental agencies. The committee reviews at least annually a report from the outside auditor describing (i) any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality control review, peer review, or PCAOB examination of the auditing firm and (ii) any material issues raised by any inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional authorities of the auditing firm since the most recent report and in each case any steps taken to deal with such issues. The committee will oversee and receive reports on the fund's financial reporting process and will receive reports from an outside auditor relating to (i) critical accounting policies and practices used by the fund, (ii) alternative accounting treatments that the auditor has discussed with Strategic Advisers, and (iii) other material written communications between the auditor and Strategic Advisers (as determined by the auditor). The committee will discuss with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors and, if appropriate, internal audit personnel of FMR LLC, their qualitative judgments about the appropriateness and acceptability of accounting principles and financial disclosure practices used or proposed for adoption by the fund. The committee will review with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors, and internal audit personnel of FMR LLC (to the extent relevant) the results of audits of the fund's financial statements. The committee will review periodically the fund's major internal controls exposures and the steps that have been taken to monitor and control such exposures. The committee also oversees the administration and operation of the compliance policies and procedures of the fund and its service providers as required by Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act. The committee is responsible for the review and approval of policies and procedures relating to (i) provisions of the Code of Ethics, (ii) anti-money laundering requirements, (iii) compliance with investment restrictions and limitations, (iv) privacy, (v) recordkeeping, and (vi) other compliance policies and procedures which are not otherwise delegated to another committee of the Board of Trustees or reserved to the Board itself. The committee has responsibility for recommending to the Board the designation of a CCO of the fund. The committee serves as the primary point of contact between the CCO and the Board, it oversees the annual performance review and compensation of the CCO and, if required, makes recommendations to the Board with respect to the removal of the appointed CCO. The committee receives reports on significant correspondence with regulators or governmental agencies, employee complaints or published reports which raise concerns regarding compliance matters, and copies of significant non-routine correspondence with the SEC. The committee receives reports from the CCO including the annual report concerning the fund's compliance policies as required by Rule 38a-1 and quarterly reports in respect of any breaches of fiduciary duty or violations of federal securities laws. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The Governance and Nominating Committee is composed of Mr. Ralph Cox (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, and Mses. Butte Liebowitz and Kaplan. The committee meets as called by the Chair. With respect to fund governance and board administration matters, the committee periodically reviews procedures of the Board of Trustees and its committees (including committee charters) and periodically reviews compensation of Independent Trustees. The committee monitors corporate governance matters and makes recommendations to the Board of Trustees on the frequency and structure of the Board of Trustee meetings and on any other aspect of Board procedures. It reviews the performance of legal counsel employed by the funds and the Independent Trustees. On behalf of the Independent Trustees, the committee will make such findings and determinations as to the independence of counsel for the Independent Trustees as may be necessary or appropriate under applicable regulations or otherwise. The committee is also responsible for Board administrative matters applicable to Independent Trustees, such as expense reimbursement policies and compensation for attendance at meetings, conferences and other events. The committee monitors compliance with, acts as the administrator of, and makes determinations in respect of, the provisions of the code of ethics and any supplemental policies regarding personal securities transactions applicable to the Independent Trustees. The committee monitors the functioning of each Board committee and makes recommendations for any changes, including the creation or elimination of standing or ad hoc Board committees. The committee monitors regulatory and other developments to determine whether to recommend modifications to the committee's responsibilities or other Trustee policies and procedures in light of rule changes, reports concerning "best practices" in corporate governance and other developments in mutual fund governance. The committee recommends that the Board establish such special or ad hoc Board committees as may be desirable or necessary from time to time in order to address ethical, legal, or other matters that may arise. The committee also oversees the annual self-evaluation of the Board of Trustees and establishes procedures to allow it to exercise this oversight function. In conducting this oversight, the committee shall address all matters that it considers relevant to the performance of the Board of Trustees and shall report the results of its evaluation to the Board of Trustees, including any recommended amendments to the principles of governance, and any recommended changes to the fund's or the Board of Trustees' policies, procedures, and structures. The committee reviews periodically the size and composition of the Board of Trustees as a whole and recommends, if necessary, measures to be taken so that the Board of Trustees reflects the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and diversity required for the Board as a whole and contains at least the minimum number of Independent Trustees required by law. The committee makes nominations for the election or appointment of Independent Trustees and for membership on committees. The committee shall have authority to retain and terminate any third-party advisers, including authority to approve fees and other retention terms. Such advisers may include search firms to identify Independent Trustee candidates and board compensation consultants. The committee may conduct or authorize investigations into or studies of matters within the committee's scope of responsibilities, and may retain, at the fund's expense, such independent counsel or other advisers as it deems necessary. The committee will consider nominees to the Board of Trustees recommended by shareholders based upon the criteria applied to candidates presented to the committee by a search firm or other source. Recommendations, along with appropriate background material concerning the candidate that demonstrates his or her ability to serve as an Independent Trustee of the fund, should be submitted to the Chair of the committee at the address maintained for communications with Independent Trustees. If the committee retains a search firm, the Chair will generally forward all such submissions to the search firm for evaluation. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by each Trustee in the fund and in all funds in the aggregate within the same fund family overseen by the Trustee for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011 (or as of March 31, 2012 for Mr. Young, Trustee as of March 1, 2012).</R>
<R>Interested Trustees</R> |
||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Roger T. Servison |
Derek L. Young</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund |
none |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none</R> |
<R>Independent Trustees</R> |
||||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Peter C. Aldrich |
Amy Butte Liebowitz |
Ralph F. Cox |
Karen Kaplan</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund |
none |
none |
none |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none</R> |
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the compensation of each Trustee and Member of the Advisory Board for his or her services for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, or calendar year ended December 31, 2011, as applicable.</R>
<R>Compensation Table 1</R> |
|||||
<R>
AGGREGATE
|
Peter C.
|
Amy Butte
|
Ralph F.
|
Karen
|
</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund + |
$ 122 |
$ 122 |
$ 122 |
$ 122 |
</R> |
<R>
TOTAL COMPENSATION
|
$ 95,000 |
$ 23,750 |
$ 95,000 |
$ 95,000 |
</R> |
<R> 1 Roger T. Servison, Howard E. Cox, Jr., and Derek L. Young are interested persons and are compensated by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate (including FMR).</R>
<R> 2 Effective September 8, 2011, Ms. Butte Liebowitz serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.</R>
+ Estimated for the fund's first full year.
<R> A Reflects compensation received for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011, for 22 funds of two trusts.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and officers of the fund owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the fund's total outstanding shares.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, approximately 99.59% of the fund's total outstanding shares was held by Strategic Advisers and/or another entity or entities of which FMR LLC is the ultimate parent.</R>
<R>A shareholder owning of record or beneficially more than 25% of a fund's outstanding shares may be considered a controlling person. That shareholder's vote could have a more significant effect on matters presented at a shareholders' meeting than votes of other shareholders.</R>
CONTROL OF INVESTMENT ADVISERS
FMR LLC, as successor by merger to FMR Corp., is the ultimate parent company of Strategic Advisers and Pyramis. The voting common shares of FMR LLC are divided into two series. Series B is held predominantly by members of the Edward C. Johnson 3d and Abigail P. Johnson family, directly or through trust and limited liability companies, and is entitled to 49% of the vote on any matter acted upon by the voting common shares. Series A is held predominantly by non-Johnson family member employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates and is entitled to 51% of the vote on any such matter. The Johnson family group and all other Series B shareholders have entered into a shareholders' voting agreement under which all Series B shares will be voted in accordance with the majority vote of Series B shares. Under the 1940 Act, control of a company is presumed where one individual or group of individuals owns more than 25% of the voting securities of that company. Therefore, through their ownership of voting common shares and the execution of the shareholders' voting agreement, members of the Johnson family may be deemed, under the 1940 Act, to form a controlling group with respect to FMR LLC.
At present, the primary business activities of FMR LLC and its subsidiaries are: (i) the provision of investment advisory, management, shareholder, investment information and assistance and certain fiduciary services for individual and institutional investors; (ii) the provision of securities brokerage services; (iii) the management and development of real estate; and (iv) the investment in and operation of a number of emerging businesses.
ClariVest, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 11452 El Camino Real, Suite 250, San Diego, California 92130. ClariVest Management Holdings, LLC owns 55% of ClariVest. ClariVest Holdings-One LLC effectively owns 20% of ClariVest. ClariVest Holdings-Two LLC effectively owns 20% of ClariVest. These two holding companies are wholly owned by Lovell Minnick Equity Partners II LP.
<R>MSIM, a registered investment adviser, has its principal offices at 522 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10036. MSIM is a subsidiary of Morgan Stanley. MSIM, together with its affiliated asset management companies, conducts a worldwide portfolio management business and provides a broad range of portfolio management services to customers in the U.S. and abroad. Morgan Stanley, the parent of MSIM, is a global financial services firm engaged in securities trading and brokerage activities, as well as providing investment banking, research and analysis, financing, and financial advisory services.</R>
<R>Pyramis is a registered investment adviser. FMR LLC is the ultimate parent company of Pyramis. Information regarding the ownership of FMR LLC is disclosed above.</R>
WRIMCO, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 6300 Lamar Avenue, P.O. Box 29217, Overland Park, Kansas 66201-9217. WRIMCO is a subsidiary of Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc., a publicly held company.
<R>Winslow, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 4720 IDS Tower, 80 South Eighth Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402. Winslow has been an investment adviser since 1992 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nuveen WCM Holdings, LLC, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc.</R>
<R>Strategic Advisers, ClariVest, MSIM, Pyramis, WRIMCO, Winslow (the Investment Advisers), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and the fund have adopted codes of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act that set forth employees' fiduciary responsibilities regarding the fund, establish procedures for personal investing, and restrict certain transactions. Employees subject to the codes of ethics, including the Investment Advisers' investment personnel, may invest in securities for their own investment accounts, including securities that may be purchased or held by the fund.</R>
The fund has entered into a management contract with Strategic Advisers, pursuant to which Strategic Advisers furnishes investment advisory and other services.
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
Strategic Advisers has retained ClariVest, MSIM, Pyramis, WRIMCO, and Winslow to serve as sub-advisers for the fund. The sub-advisers do not sponsor the fund.
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
Management and Sub-Advisory Services. Under the terms of its management contract with the fund, Strategic Advisers acts as investment adviser and, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, directs the investments of the fund in accordance with its investment objective, policies and limitations. Strategic Advisers is authorized, in its discretion, to allocate the fund's assets pursuant to its investment strategy. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates provide the fund with all necessary office facilities and personnel for servicing the fund's investments, compensate all officers of the fund and all Trustees who are interested persons of the trust or of Strategic Advisers, and compensate all personnel of the fund or Strategic Advisers performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities.
In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, provide the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the fund. These services include providing facilities for maintaining the fund's organization; supervising relations with custodians, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, underwriters and other persons dealing with the fund; preparing all general shareholder communications and conducting shareholder relations; maintaining the fund's records and the registration of the fund's shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws; developing management and shareholder services for the fund; and furnishing reports, evaluations and analyses on a variety of subjects to the Trustees.
Under its respective sub-advisory agreement, and subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, each sub-adviser directs the investment of its allocated portion of the fund's assets in accordance with the fund's investment objective, policies and limitations.
Management-Related Expenses. In addition to the management fee payable to Strategic Advisers and the fees payable to the transfer agent and pricing and bookkeeping agent, the fund pays all of its expenses that are not assumed by those parties. The fund pays for the typesetting, printing, and mailing of its proxy materials to shareholders, legal expenses, and the fees of the custodian, auditor, and Independent Trustees. The fund's management contract further provides that the fund will pay for typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, notices, and reports to shareholders; however, under the terms of the fund's transfer agent agreement, the transfer agent bears these costs. Other expenses paid by the fund include interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, the fund's proportionate share of insurance premiums and Investment Company Institute dues, and the costs of registering shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws. The fund is also liable for such non-recurring expenses as may arise, including costs of any litigation to which the fund may be a party, and any obligation it may have to indemnify its officers and Trustees with respect to litigation.
Management Fees. For the services of Strategic Advisers under the management contract, the fund pays Strategic Advisers a monthly management fee calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.30% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets; provided, however, that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.00% of the fund's average daily net assets.
<R>The following table shows the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers for the past fiscal year.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, voluntarily reimburse all or a portion of the fund's operating expenses. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid for these expense reimbursements in the amount that expenses fall below the limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Expense reimbursements by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns, and repayment of the reimbursement by the fund will decrease its returns.
<R> Sub-Adviser - ClariVest. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with ClariVest pursuant to which ClariVest may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays ClariVest fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by ClariVest pursuant to a separately negotiated investment mandate (a "Strategy"). The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by ClariVest under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by ClariVest pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - MSIM. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with MSIM pursuant to which MSIM may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays MSIM fees based on the average net assets of the portion of the fund managed by MSIM.</R>
Sub-Adviser - Pyramis. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Pyramis pursuant to which Pyramis may provide investment advisory services for the fund.
<R>Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Pyramis fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Pyramis pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Pyramis under a particular Strategy based on the following rate schedule:</R>
Focused Large Cap Growth |
|||||
0.35% of the first $250 million of assets; |
|||||
0.30% of the next $250 million of assets; |
|||||
0.25% of the next $500 million of assets; and |
|||||
0.20% on any amount in excess of $1.0 billion of assets |
Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Pyramis pursuant to that Strategy.
<R> Sub-Adviser - WRIMCO. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with WRIMCO pursuant to which WRIMCO may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays WRIMCO fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by WRIMCO pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by WRIMCO under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by WRIMCO pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - Winslow. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Winslow pursuant to which Winslow may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Winslow fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Winslow pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Winslow under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Winslow pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R>The following table shows the amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to Pyramis for the past fiscal year.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
<R>The following table shows the aggregate amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to unaffiliated sub-advisers for the past fiscal year.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Strategic Advisers. John A. Stone is an employee of Strategic Advisers, a subsidiary of FMR LLC and an affiliate of FMR. Strategic Advisers is the adviser to the fund.
Mr. Stone is the lead portfolio manager of the fund and receives compensation for his services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of the portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by Strategic Advisers or at the election of the portfolio manager.
The portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The primary components of the portfolio manager's bonus are based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account, and (ii) the investment performance of a broad range of Strategic Advisers funds and accounts, including the fund. Accounts may include model portfolios designed for asset allocation, retirement planning, or tax-sensitive goals. The pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to his tenure on those fund(s) and account(s), and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over his tenure. Each component is calculated separately over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with the portfolio manager's tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a benchmark index and peer group. A subjective component of the bonus is based on the portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of Strategic Advisers.
<R>The portion of the portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the fund is based on the fund's pre-tax investment performance measured against the Russell 1000 ® Growth Index, and the pre-tax investment performance of the fund within the Morningstar ® Large Growth peer group. The portfolio manager may be compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, Strategic Advisers' parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement, and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.</R>
A portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in a fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, the portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. The portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as a portfolio manager must allocate his time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate. The portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Stone as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($53 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Stone was $10,001-$50,000.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - ClariVest. David J. Pavan, Frank Feng, and Ed Wagner serve as co-portfolio managers for ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets. Compensation paid by ClariVest to its portfolio managers has three primary components: (1) a base salary, (2) a discretionary bonus, and (3) for those employees with equity in the firm (including the portfolio managers for the fund), distributions from the LLC. The portfolio managers also receive certain retirement, insurance, and other benefits that are broadly available to all ClariVest employees. The intent of this compensation plan is to achieve a market competitive structure with a high degree of variable compensation through participation in a bonus pool and equity distributions.</R>
ClariVest seeks to compensate portfolio managers in a manner commensurate with their responsibilities, contributions and performance, and that is competitive with other firms within the investment management industry. Salaries, bonuses, and distributions are also influenced by the operating performance of ClariVest.
Bonuses are based on a variety of factors, including overall profitability of the firm as well as individual contribution to the firm. Bonuses are not simply tied to individual product performance. ClariVest believes that payment of bonuses based on short term performance is counterproductive to the environment at ClariVest. All members of the investment team are expected to actively participate in ongoing research, some of which may not primarily benefit the product on which they are the named portfolio manager. Bonuses based on short term individual performance would not incent investment team members to do so. The firm's overall annual cash bonus pool is typically based on a fixed percentage of pre-bonus operating income.
ClariVest believes that equity ownership in the firm (or the potential for such) is both a tool for attracting and retaining employees. Currently, the portfolio managers for the fund are equity owners in the firm. Additionally, it is expected that equity ownership in the firm will broaden to additional employees over time.
It is possible that conflicts of interest may arise in connection with a portfolio manager's management of the fund's investments on the one hand and the investments of other accounts or vehicles for which the portfolio manager is responsible on the other. For example, a portfolio manager may have conflicts of interest in allocating management time, resources and investment opportunities among the fund and the other accounts or vehicles he advises. In addition, due to differences in the investment strategies or restrictions between the fund and the other accounts or vehicles, a portfolio manager may take action with respect to another account or vehicle that differs from the action taken with respect to the fund. In some cases, another account managed by a portfolio manager may compensate the investment adviser based on the performance of the securities held by that account or otherwise provide more revenue to the investment adviser. While these factors may create conflicts of interest for a portfolio manager in the allocation of management time, resources and investment opportunities, the portfolio managers will endeavor to exercise their discretion in a manner that they believe is equitable to all interested persons.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Pavan as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($11 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Pavan was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Feng as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($11 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Feng was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Wagner as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R> |
Registered
|
Other Pooled
|
Other
|
<R>Number of Accounts Managed |
2 |
2 |
4</R> |
<R>Number of Accounts Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees |
none |
none |
1</R> |
<R>Assets Managed (in millions) |
$ 1,276 |
$ 252 |
$ 43</R> |
<R>Assets Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees (in millions) |
none |
none |
$ 17</R> |
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($11 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Wagner was none.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - MSIM. Dennis P. Lynch serves as lead portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets. David S. Cohen, Sam G. Chainani, Alexander T. Norton, Jason C. Yeung and Armistead B. Nash serve as co-portfolio managers for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation Structure. </R>
<R>Portfolio managers receive a combination of base compensation and discretionary compensation, comprising a cash bonus and several deferred compensation programs described below. The methodology used to determine portfolio manager compensation is applied across all funds/accounts managed by the portfolio manager.</R>
<R> Base salary compensation. Generally, portfolio managers receive base salary compensation based on the level of their position with the Adviser.</R>
<R> Discretionary compensation. In addition to base compensation, portfolio managers may receive discretionary compensation. Discretionary compensation can include:</R>
<R>Several factors determine discretionary compensation, which can vary by portfolio management team and circumstances. These factors include:</R>
<R> Conflicts. </R>
<R>Because the portfolio managers may manage assets for other investment companies, pooled investment vehicles, and/or other accounts (including institutional clients, pension plans and certain high net worth individuals), there may be an incentive to favor one client over another resulting in conflicts of interest. For instance, the Sub-Adviser may receive fees from certain accounts that are higher than the fee it receives from the Fund, or it may receive a performance-based fee on certain accounts. In those instances, the portfolio managers may have an incentive to favor the higher and/or performance-based fee accounts over the Fund. In addition, a conflict of interest could exist to the extent the Sub-Adviser has proprietary investments in certain accounts, where portfolio managers have personal investments in certain accounts or when certain accounts are investment options in the Sub-Adviser's employee benefits and/or deferred compensation plans. The portfolio manager may have an incentive to favor these accounts over others. If the Sub-Adviser manages accounts that engage in short sales of securities of the type in which the Fund invests, the Sub-Adviser could be seen as harming the performance of the Fund for the benefit of the accounts engaging in short sales if the short sales cause the market value of the securities to fall. The Sub-Adviser has adopted trade allocation and other policies and procedures that it believes are reasonably designed to address these and other conflicts of interest.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Lynch as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Lynch was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Cohen as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Cohen was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Chainani as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Chainani was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Norton as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Norton was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Yeung as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Yeung was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Nash as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Nash was none.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - Pyramis. Stephen Balter and Christopher Galizio are the portfolio managers of the Pyramis Focused Large Cap Growth strategy and receive compensation for their services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio managers compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of each portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by Pyramis or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
<R>The portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and experience at FMR, Pyramis or its affiliates. The primary components of the portfolio manager's bonus are based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account, and (ii) the investment performance of other Pyramis equity funds and accounts. The pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to the portfolio manager's tenure on those fund(s) and account(s) and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over the portfolio manager's tenure. Each component is calculated separately over the portfolio manager's tenure on those fund(s) and account(s) over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with the portfolio manager's tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to five years for the comparison to a benchmark index, and peer group. A smaller, subjective component of the portfolio manager's bonus is based on the portfolio manager's overall contribution to and leadership within the Pyramis investment platform. The portion of the portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the Pyramis Focused Large Cap Growth strategy is based on the pre-tax investment performance of the strategy measured against the Russell 1000 ® Growth Index, and the pre-tax investment performance of the strategy within the eVestment Alliance Large Cap Growth Equity Universe. The portfolio manager also is compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of Pyramis Global Advisors Holdings Corp, Pyramis' parent company. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of Pyramis and its affiliates.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Balter as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($10 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Balter was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Galizio as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($10 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Galizio was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - WRIMCO. Daniel P. Becker and Philip J. Sanders serve as co-portfolio managers for WRIMCO's portion of the fund's assets. WRIMCO believes that, integral to the retention of investment professionals are: a) a competitive base salary that is commensurate with the individual's level of experience and responsibility; b) an attractive bonus structure linked to investment performance, described below; and c) eligibility for a stock incentive plan in shares of WDR that rewards teamwork. Awards of equity-based compensation typically vest over time, so as to create an incentive to retain key talent; and d) to the extent a portfolio manager also manages institutional separate accounts, including funds for which WRIMCO serves as a sub-adviser, he or she will share in a percentage of the revenues earned, on behalf of such accounts, by WRIMCO.
Portfolio managers can receive significant annual performance-based bonuses. The better the pre-tax performance of the portfolio relative to an appropriate benchmark, the more bonus compensation the manager receives. The primary benchmark is the portfolio manager's percentile ranking against the performance of managers of the same investment style at other firms. Half of a portfolio manager's bonus is based upon a three-year period, and half is based upon a one-year period. For truly exceptional results, bonuses can be several multiples of base salary. In cases where portfolio managers have more than one portfolio to manage, all the portfolios are similar in investment style and all are taken into account in determining bonuses. Thirty percent of annual performance-based bonuses is deferred for a three-year period. During that time, the deferred portion of bonuses is deemed invested in one or more mutual funds managed by WRIMCO (or its affiliate), with a minimum of 50% of the deferred bonus required to be invested in a mutual fund managed by the portfolio manager. In addition to the deferred portion of bonuses being deemed invested in mutual funds managed by WRIMCO (or its affiliate), WDR's 401(k) plan offers mutual funds managed by WRIMCO (or its affiliate) as investment options. No compensation is based upon the amount of the mutual fund assets under management.
Actual or apparent conflicts of interest may arise when a portfolio manager has day-to-day management responsibilities with respect to more than one fund or account, such as the following:
WRIMCO and the Funds have adopted certain compliance procedures, including the Code of Ethics, which are designed to address certain types of conflicts. However, there is no guarantee that such procedures will detect each and every situation in which a conflict arises.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Becker as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($13 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Becker was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Sanders as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($13 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Sanders was none.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - Winslow. Justin H. Kelly, R. Bart Wear, and Clark J. Winslow serve as co-portfolio managers for Winslow's portion of the fund's assets. In an effort to retain key personnel, Winslow has structured compensation plans for portfolio managers and other key personnel that it believes are competitive with other investment management firms. The compensation plan is determined by the Winslow Capital Operating Committee and is designed to align manager compensation with investors' goals by rewarding portfolio managers who meet the long-term objective of consistent, superior investment results, measured by the performance of the product. The portfolio managers have long-term employment agreements and are subject to non-competition/non-solicitation restrictions.</R>
<R>The Operating Committee establishes salaries at competitive levels, verified through industry surveys, to attract and maintain the best professional and administrative personnel. Portfolio manager compensation packages are independent of advisory fees collected on any given client account under management. In addition, an incentive bonus is paid annually to the employees based upon each individual's performance, client results and the profitability of the firm. Finally, employees of Winslow Capital, including the portfolio managers, have received profits interests in the firm which entitle their holders to participate in the firm's growth over time.</R>
A portfolio manager who makes investment decisions with respect to multiple funds and/or other accounts may be presented with one or more of the following potential conflicts:
To address potential conflicts of interest, Winslow has adopted various policies and procedures to provide for equitable treatment of trading activity and to ensure that investment opportunities are allocated in a fair and appropriate manner. In addition, Winslow has adopted a Code of Ethics that recognizes the manager's obligation to treat all of its clients, including the Fund, fairly and equitably. These policies, procedures and the Code of Ethics are designed to restrict the portfolio manager from favoring one client over another. There is no guarantee that the policies, procedures and the Code of Ethics will be successful in every instance, however because Winslow offers only one investment product: Large Cap Growth, and all accounts are managed essentially identically, Winslow does not believe any material conflicts of interest exist between the investment strategy of the Fund and the investment strategy of the other accounts managed by the portfolio managers, nor in allocation of investment opportunities.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Kelly as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($13 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Kelly was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Wear as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($13 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Wear was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Winslow as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund ($13 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Winslow was none.</R>
Proxy Voting - Strategic Advisers.
The following Proxy Voting Guidelines were established by the Board of Trustees of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of the fund, after consultation with Strategic Advisers. (The guidelines are reviewed periodically by Strategic Advisers and its affiliates and by the Independent Trustees of the fund, and, accordingly, are subject to change.)
I. General Principles
A. The funds in the trust generally intend to vote shares of underlying funds using echo voting procedures (that is, in the same proportion as the holders of all other shares of the particular underlying fund).
B. Any proposals not covered by paragraph A above or other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate Strategic Advisers analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review and approval by the General Counsel or Compliance Officer of FMR or the General Counsel of FMR LLC.
Sub-Advisers:
Proxy voting policies and procedures are used by a sub-adviser to determine how to vote proxies relating to the securities held by its allocated portion of the fund's assets. The proxy voting policies and procedures used by the sub-advisers are described below.
Proxy Voting - ClariVest.
It is ClariVest's policy to vote proxies in the interest of maximizing value for ClariVest's Clients. ClariVest's full policy regarding proxy voting is contained in its Compliance Manual.
ClariVest utilizes RiskMetrics Group to vote proxies. As a default, proxies are generally voted by RiskMetrics Group in accordance with RiskMetrics Group recommendations. This default minimizes potential conflicts of interest in proxy voting, as we rely on a third party vendor. However, ClariVest retains ultimate decision making authority with respect to the voting of Client proxies and reserves the right to override RiskMetrics Group recommendations. If there is a vote for which RiskMetrics Group does not provide a recommendation, the Operations Manager, Portfolio Manager(s) and CCO discuss the vote to determine which option is in the interest of maximizing value for ClariVest's Clients.
ClariVest is not required to vote every Client proxy and refraining from voting should not necessarily be construed as a violation of ClariVest's fiduciary obligations. There may be times when refraining from voting is in the Client's best interest, such as when an adviser's analysis of a particular Client proxy reveals that the cost of voting the proxy may exceed the expected benefit to the Client (i.e., casting a vote on a foreign security may require that the adviser engage a translator or travel to a foreign country to vote in person).
<R> Proxy Voting - MSIM.</R>
<R> I. POLICY STATEMENT</R>
<R>Morgan Stanley Investment Management's ("MSIM") policy and procedures for voting proxies ("Policy") with respect to securities held in the accounts of clients applies to those MSIM entities that provide discretionary investment management services and for which an MSIM entity has authority to vote proxies. This Policy is reviewed and updated as necessary to address new and evolving proxy voting issues and standards.</R>
<R>The MSIM entities covered by this Policy currently include the following: Morgan Stanley Investment Advisors Inc., Morgan Stanley AIP GP LP, Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc., Morgan Stanley Investment Management Limited, Morgan Stanley Investment Management Company, Morgan Stanley Asset & Investment Trust Management Co., Limited, Morgan Stanley Investment Management Private Limited and Private Investment Partners Inc. (each an "MSIM Affiliate" and collectively referred to as the "MSIM Affiliates" or as "we" below).</R>
<R>Each MSIM Affiliate will use its best efforts to vote proxies as part of its authority to manage, acquire and dispose of account assets. With respect to the MSIM registered management investment companies ("MSIM Funds"), each MSIM Affiliate will vote proxies under this Policy pursuant to authority granted under its applicable investment advisory agreement or, in the absence of such authority, as authorized by the Board of Directors/Trustees of the MSIM Funds. An MSIM Affiliate will not vote proxies unless the investment management or investment advisory agreement explicitly authorizes the MSIM Affiliate to vote proxies.</R>
<R>MSIM Affiliates will vote proxies in a prudent and diligent manner and in the best interests of clients, including beneficiaries of and participants in a client's benefit plan(s) for which the MSIM Affiliates manage assets, consistent with the objective of maximizing long-term investment returns ("Client Proxy Standard"). In certain situations, a client or its fiduciary may provide an MSIM Affiliate with a proxy voting policy. In these situations, the MSIM Affiliate will comply with the client's policy.</R>
<R>Proxy Research Services - ISS and Glass Lewis (together with other proxy research providers as we may retain from time to time, the "Research Providers") are independent advisers that specialize in providing a variety of fiduciary-level proxy-related services to institutional investment managers, plan sponsors, custodians, consultants, and other institutional investors. The services provided include in-depth research, global issuer analysis, and voting recommendations. While we may review and utilize the recommendations of one or more Research Providers in making proxy voting decisions, we are in no way obligated to follow such recommendations. In addition to research, ISS provides vote execution, reporting, and recordkeeping services.</R>
<R>Voting Proxies for Certain Non-U.S. Companies - Voting proxies of companies located in some jurisdictions may involve several problems that can restrict or prevent the ability to vote such proxies or entail significant costs. These problems include, but are not limited to: (i) proxy statements and ballots being written in a language other than English; (ii) untimely and/or inadequate notice of shareholder meetings; (iii) restrictions on the ability of holders outside the issuer's jurisdiction of organization to exercise votes; (iv) requirements to vote proxies in person; (v) the imposition of restrictions on the sale of the securities for a period of time in proximity to the shareholder meeting; and (vi) requirements to provide local agents with power of attorney to facilitate our voting instructions. As a result, we vote clients' non-U.S. proxies on a best efforts basis only, after weighing the costs and benefits of voting such proxies, consistent with the Client Proxy Standard. ISS has been retained to provide assistance in connection with voting non-U.S. proxies.</R>
<R> II. GENERAL PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES</R>
<R>To promote consistency in voting proxies on behalf of its clients, we follow this Policy (subject to any exception set forth herein). The Policy addresses a broad range of issues, and provides general voting parameters on proposals that arise most frequently. However, details of specific proposals vary, and those details affect particular voting decisions, as do factors specific to a given company. Pursuant to the procedures set forth herein, we may vote in a manner that is not in accordance with the following general guidelines, provided the vote is approved by the Proxy Review Committee (see Section III for description) and is consistent with the Client Proxy Standard. Morgan Stanley AIP GP LP will follow the procedures as described in Appendix A.</R>
<R>We endeavor to integrate governance and proxy voting policy with investment goals, using the vote to encourage portfolio companies to enhance long-term shareholder value and to provide a high standard of transparency such that equity markets can value corporate assets appropriately.</R>
<R>We seek to follow the Client Proxy Standard for each client. At times, this may result in split votes, for example when different clients have varying economic interests in the outcome of a particular voting matter (such as a case in which varied ownership interests in two companies involved in a merger result in different stakes in the outcome). We also may split votes at times based on differing views of portfolio managers.</R>
<R>We may abstain on matters for which disclosure is inadequate.</R>
<R> A. Routine Matters. We generally support routine management proposals. The following are examples of routine management proposals:</R>
<R>We generally support shareholder proposals advocating confidential voting procedures and independent tabulation of voting results.</R>
<R> B. Board of Directors. </R>
<R>1. Election of directors : Votes on board nominees can involve balancing a variety of considerations. In vote decisions, we may take into consideration whether the company has a majority voting policy in place that we believe makes the director vote more meaningful. In the absence of a proxy contest, we generally support the board's nominees for director except as follows:</R>
<R> a. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee if we believe a direct conflict exists between the interests of the nominee and the public shareholders, including failure to meet fiduciary standards of care and/or loyalty. We may oppose directors where we conclude that actions of directors are unlawful, unethical or negligent. We consider opposing individual board members or an entire slate if we believe the board is entrenched and/or dealing inadequately with performance problems; if we believe the board is acting with insufficient independence between the board and management; or if we believe the board has not been sufficiently forthcoming with information on key governance or other material matters.</R>
<R> b. We consider withholding support from or voting against interested directors if the company's board does not meet market standards for director independence, or if otherwise we believe board independence is insufficient. We refer to prevalent market standards as promulgated by a stock exchange or other authority within a given market (e.g., New York Stock Exchange or Nasdaq rules for most U.S. companies, and The Combined Code on Corporate Governance in the United Kingdom). Thus, for an NYSE company with no controlling shareholder, we would expect that at a minimum a majority of directors should be independent as defined by NYSE. Where we view market standards as inadequate, we may withhold votes based on stronger independence standards. Market standards notwithstanding, we generally do not view long board tenure alone as a basis to classify a director as non-independent.</R>
<R> i. At a company with a shareholder or group that controls the company by virtue of a majority economic interest in the company, we have a reduced expectation for board independence, although we believe the presence of independent directors can be helpful, particularly in staffing the audit committee, and at times we may withhold support from or vote against a nominee on the view the board or its committees are not sufficiently independent. In markets where board independence is not the norm (e.g. Japan), however, we consider factors including whether a board of a controlled company includes independent members who can be expected to look out for interests of minority holders.</R>
<R> ii. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee if he or she is affiliated with a major shareholder that has representation on a board disproportionate to its economic interest.</R>
<R> c. Depending on market standards, we consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee who is interested and who is standing for election as a member of the company's compensation/remuneration, nominating/governance or audit committee.</R>
<R> d. We consider withholding support from or voting against nominees if the term for which they are nominated is excessive. We consider this issue on a market-specific basis.</R>
<R> e. We consider withholding support from or voting against nominees if in our view there has been insufficient board renewal (turnover), particularly in the context of extended poor company performance.</R>
<R> f. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee standing for election if the board has not taken action to implement generally accepted governance practices for which there is a "bright line" test. For example, in the context of the U.S. market, failure to eliminate a dead hand or slow hand poison pill would be seen as a basis for opposing one or more incumbent nominees.</R>
<R> g. In markets that encourage designated audit committee financial experts, we consider voting against members of an audit committee if no members are designated as such. We also may not support the audit committee members if the company has faced financial reporting issues and/or does not put the auditor up for ratification by shareholders.</R>
<R> h. We believe investors should have the ability to vote on individual nominees, and may abstain or vote against a slate of nominees where we are not given the opportunity to vote on individual nominees.</R>
<R> i. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee who has failed to attend at least 75% of the nominee's board and board committee meetings within a given year without a reasonable excuse. We also consider opposing nominees if the company does not meet market standards for disclosure on attendance.</R>
<R> j. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee who appears overcommitted, particularly through service on an excessive number of boards. Market expectations are incorporated into this analysis; for U.S. boards, we generally oppose election of a nominee who serves on more than six public company boards (excluding investment companies), although we also may reference National Association of Corporate Directors guidance suggesting that public company CEOs, for example, should serve on no more than two outside boards given level of time commitment required in their primary job.</R>
<R> k. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee where we believe executive remuneration practices are poor, particularly if the company does not offer shareholders a separate "say-on-pay" advisory vote on pay.</R>
<R>2. Discharge of directors' duties : In markets where an annual discharge of directors' responsibility is a routine agenda item, we generally support such discharge. However, we may vote against discharge or abstain from voting where there are serious findings of fraud or other unethical behavior for which the individual bears responsibility. The annual discharge of responsibility represents shareholder approval of disclosed actions taken by the board during the year and may make future shareholder action against the board difficult to pursue.</R>
<R>3. Board independence : We generally support U.S. shareholder proposals requiring that a certain percentage (up to 66%) of the company's board members be independent directors, and promoting all-independent audit, compensation and nominating/governance committees.</R>
<R>4. Board diversity : We consider on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals urging diversity of board membership with respect to gender, race or other factors.</R>
<R>5. Majority voting : We generally support proposals requesting or requiring majority voting policies in election of directors, so long as there is a carve-out for plurality voting in the case of contested elections.</R>
<R> 6. Proxy access : We consider on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals on particular procedures for inclusion of shareholder nominees in company proxy statements.</R>
<R>7. Reimbursement for dissident nominees : We generally support well-crafted U.S. shareholder proposals that would provide for reimbursement of dissident nominees elected to a board, as the cost to shareholders in electing such nominees can be factored into the voting decision on those nominees.</R>
<R>8. Proposals to elect directors more frequently : In the U.S. public company context, we usually support shareholder and management proposals to elect all directors annually (to "declassify" the board), although we make an exception to this policy where we believe that long-term shareholder value may be harmed by this change given particular circumstances at the company at the time of the vote on such proposal. As indicated above, outside the United States we generally support greater accountability to shareholders that comes through more frequent director elections, but recognize that many markets embrace longer term lengths, sometimes for valid reasons given other aspects of the legal context in electing boards.</R>
<R>9. Cumulative voting : We generally support proposals to eliminate cumulative voting in the U.S. market context. (Cumulative voting provides that shareholders may concentrate their votes for one or a handful of candidates, a system that can enable a minority bloc to place representation on a board.) U.S. proposals to establish cumulative voting in the election of directors generally will not be supported.</R>
<R>10. Separation of Chairman and CEO positions : We vote on shareholder proposals to separate the Chairman and CEO positions and/or to appoint an independent Chairman based in part on prevailing practice in particular markets, since the context for such a practice varies. In many non-U.S. markets, we view separation of the roles as a market standard practice, and support division of the roles in that context. In the United States, we consider such proposals on a case-by-case basis, considering, among other things, the existing board leadership structure, company performance, and any evidence of entrenchment or perceived risk that power is overly concentrated in a single individual.</R>
<R>11. Director retirement age and term limits : Proposals setting or recommending director retirement ages or director term limits are voted on a case-by-case basis that includes consideration of company performance, the rate of board renewal, evidence of effective individual director evaluation processes, and any indications of entrenchment.</R>
<R>12. Proposals to limit directors' liability and/or broaden indemnification of officers and directors : Generally, we will support such proposals provided that an individual is eligible only if he or she has not acted in bad faith, with gross negligence or with reckless disregard of their duties.</R>
<R> C. Statutory auditor boards. The statutory auditor board, which is separate from the main board of directors, plays a role in corporate governance in several markets. These boards are elected by shareholders to provide assurance on compliance with legal and accounting standards and the company's articles of association. We generally vote for statutory auditor nominees if they meet independence standards. In markets that require disclosure on attendance by internal statutory auditors, however, we consider voting against nominees for these positions who failed to attend at least 75% of meetings in the previous year. We also consider opposing nominees if the company does not meet market standards for disclosure on attendance. </R>
<R> D. Corporate transactions and proxy fights. We examine proposals relating to mergers, acquisitions and other special corporate transactions (i.e., takeovers, spin-offs, sales of assets, reorganizations, restructurings and recapitalizations) on a case-by-case basis in the interests of each fund or other account. Proposals for mergers or other significant transactions that are friendly and approved by the Research Providers usually are supported if there is no portfolio manager objection. We also analyze proxy contests on a case-by-case basis.</R>
<R> E. Changes in capital structure.</R>
<R>1. We generally support the following:</R>
<R>2. We generally oppose the following (notwithstanding management support):</R>
<R>We consider on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals to increase dividend payout ratios, in light of market practice and perceived market weaknesses, as well as individual company payout history and current circumstances. For example, currently we perceive low payouts to shareholders as a concern at some Japanese companies, but may deem a low payout ratio as appropriate for a growth company making good use of its cash, notwithstanding the broader market concern.</R>
<R> F. Takeover Defenses and Shareholder Rights.</R>
<R>1. Shareholder rights plans : We generally support proposals to require shareholder approval or ratification of shareholder rights plans (poison pills). In voting on rights plans or similar takeover defenses, we consider on a case-by-case basis whether the company has demonstrated a need for the defense in the context of promoting long-term share value; whether provisions of the defense are in line with generally accepted governance principles in the market (and specifically the presence of an adequate qualified offer provision that would exempt offers meeting certain conditions from the pill); and the specific context if the proposal is made in the midst of a takeover bid or contest for control.</R>
<R>2. Supermajority voting requirements : We generally oppose requirements for supermajority votes to amend the charter or bylaws, unless the provisions protect minority shareholders where there is a large shareholder. In line with this view, in the absence of a large shareholder we support reasonable shareholder proposals to limit such supermajority voting requirements.</R>
<R>3. Shareholder rights to call meetings : We consider proposals to enhance shareholder rights to call meetings on a case-by-case basis. At large-cap U.S. companies, we generally support efforts to establish the right of holders of 10% or more of shares to call special meetings, unless the board or state law has set a policy or law establishing such rights at a threshold that we believe to be acceptable.</R>
<R>4. Written consent rights : In the U.S. context, we examine proposals for shareholder written consent rights on a case-by-case basis.</R>
<R>5. Reincorporation : We consider management and shareholder proposals to reincorporate to a different jurisdiction on a case-by-case basis. We oppose such proposals if we believe the main purpose is to take advantage of laws or judicial precedents that reduce shareholder rights.</R>
<R>6. Anti-greenmail provisions : Proposals relating to the adoption of anti-greenmail provisions will be supported, provided that the proposal: (i) defines greenmail; (ii) prohibits buyback offers to large block holders (holders of at least 1% of the outstanding shares and in certain cases, a greater amount) not made to all shareholders or not approved by disinterested shareholders; and (iii) contains no anti-takeover measures or other provisions restricting the rights of shareholders.</R>
<R>7. Bundled proposals : We may consider opposing or abstaining on proposals if disparate issues are "bundled" and presented for a single vote.</R>
<R> G. Auditors. We generally support management proposals for selection or ratification of independent auditors. However, we may consider opposing such proposals with reference to incumbent audit firms if the company has suffered from serious accounting irregularities and we believe rotation of the audit firm is appropriate, or if fees paid to the auditor for non-audit-related services are excessive. Generally, to determine if non-audit fees are excessive, a 50% test will be applied (i.e., non-audit-related fees should be less than 50% of the total fees paid to the auditor). We generally vote against proposals to indemnify auditors.</R>
<R> H. Executive and Director Remuneration.</R>
<R>1. We generally support the following:</R>
<R>2. We generally oppose retirement plans and bonuses for non-executive directors and independent statutory auditors.</R>
<R>3. In the U.S. context, shareholder proposals requiring shareholder approval of all severance agreements will not be supported, but proposals that require shareholder approval for agreements in excess of three times the annual compensation (salary and bonus) generally will be supported. We generally oppose shareholder proposals that would establish arbitrary caps on pay. We consider on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals that seek to limit Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans (SERPs), but support such proposals where we consider SERPs to be excessive.</R>
<R>4. Shareholder proposals advocating stronger and/or particular pay-for-performance models will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, with consideration of the merits of the individual proposal within the context of the particular company and its labor markets, and the company's current and past practices. While we generally support emphasis on long-term components of senior executive pay and strong linkage of pay to performance, we consider factors including whether a proposal may be overly prescriptive, and the impact of the proposal, if implemented as written, on recruitment and retention.</R>
<R>5. We generally support proposals advocating reasonable senior executive and director stock ownership guidelines and holding requirements for shares gained in executive equity compensation programs.</R>
<R>6. We generally support shareholder proposals for reasonable "claw-back" provisions that provide for company recovery of senior executive bonuses to the extent they were based on achieving financial benchmarks that were not actually met in light of subsequent restatements.</R>
<R>7. Management proposals effectively to re-price stock options are considered on a case-by-case basis. Considerations include the company's reasons and justifications for a re-pricing, the company's competitive position, whether senior executives and outside directors are excluded, potential cost to shareholders, whether the re-pricing or share exchange is on a value-for-value basis, and whether vesting requirements are extended.</R>
<R> I. Social, Political and Environmental Issues. Shareholders in the United States and certain other markets submit proposals encouraging changes in company disclosure and practices related to particular corporate social, political and environmental matters. We consider how to vote on the proposals on a case-by-case basis to determine likely impacts on shareholder value. We seek to balance concerns on reputational and other risks that lie behind a proposal against costs of implementation, while considering appropriate shareholder and management prerogatives. We may abstain from voting on proposals that do not have a readily determinable financial impact on shareholder value. We support proposals that if implemented would enhance useful disclosure, but we generally vote against proposals requesting reports that we believe are duplicative, related to matters not material to the business, or that would impose unnecessary or excessive costs. We believe that certain social and environmental shareholder proposals may intrude excessively on management prerogatives, which can lead us to oppose them.</R>
<R> J. Fund of Funds. Certain Funds advised by an MSIM Affiliate invest only in other MSIM Funds. If an underlying fund has a shareholder meeting, in order to avoid any potential conflict of interest, such proposals will be voted in the same proportion as the votes of the other shareholders of the underlying fund, unless otherwise determined by the Proxy Review Committee.</R>
<R> III. ADMINISTRATION OF POLICY</R>
<R>The MSIM Proxy Review Committee (the "Committee") has overall responsibility for the Policy. The Committee, which is appointed by MSIM's Long-Only Executive Committee, consists of investment professionals who represent the different investment disciplines and geographic locations of the firm, and is chaired by the director of the Corporate Governance Team ("CGT"). Because proxy voting is an investment responsibility and impacts shareholder value, and because of their knowledge of companies and markets, portfolio managers and other members of investment staff play a key role in proxy voting, although the Committee has final authority over proxy votes.</R>
<R>The CGT Director is responsible for identifying issues that require Committee deliberation or ratification. The CGT, working with advice of investment teams and the Committee, is responsible for voting on routine items and on matters that can be addressed in line with these Policy guidelines. The CGT has responsibility for voting case-by-case where guidelines and precedent provide adequate guidance.</R>
<R>The Committee will periodically review and have the authority to amend, as necessary, the Policy and establish and direct voting positions consistent with the Client Proxy Standard.</R>
<R>CGT and members of the Committee may take into account Research Providers' recommendations and research as well as any other relevant information they may request or receive, including portfolio manager and/or analyst comments and research, as applicable. Generally, proxies related to securities held in accounts that are managed pursuant to quantitative, index or index-like strategies ("Index Strategies") will be voted in the same manner as those held in actively managed accounts, unless economic interests of the accounts differ. Because accounts managed using Index Strategies are passively managed accounts, research from portfolio managers and/or analysts related to securities held in these accounts may not be available. If the affected securities are held only in accounts that are managed pursuant to Index Strategies, and the proxy relates to a matter that is not described in this Policy, the CGT will consider all available information from the Research Providers, and to the extent that the holdings are significant, from the portfolio managers and/or analysts.</R>
<R> A. Committee Procedures</R>
<R>The Committee meets at least quarterly, and reviews and considers changes to the Policy at least annually. Through meetings and/or written communications, the Committee is responsible for monitoring and ratifying "split votes" (i.e., allowing certain shares of the same issuer that are the subject of the same proxy solicitation and held by one or more MSIM portfolios to be voted differently than other shares) and/or "override voting" (i.e., voting all MSIM portfolio shares in a manner contrary to the Policy). The Committee will review developing issues and approve upcoming votes, as appropriate, for matters as requested by CGT.</R>
<R>The Committee reserves the right to review voting decisions at any time and to make voting decisions as necessary to ensure the independence and integrity of the votes.</R>
<R> B. Material Conflicts of Interest</R>
<R>In addition to the procedures discussed above, if the CGT Director determines that an issue raises a material conflict of interest, the CGT Director may request a special committee to review, and recommend a course of action with respect to, the conflict(s) in question ("Special Committee").</R>
<R>A potential material conflict of interest could exist in the following situations, among others:</R>
<R>1. The issuer soliciting the vote is a client of MSIM or an affiliate of MSIM and the vote is on a matter that materially affects the issuer.</R>
<R>2. The proxy relates to Morgan Stanley common stock or any other security issued by Morgan Stanley or its affiliates except if echo voting is used, as with MSIM Funds, as described herein.</R>
<R>3. Morgan Stanley has a material pecuniary interest in the matter submitted for a vote (e.g., acting as a financial advisor to a party to a merger or acquisition for which Morgan Stanley will be paid a success fee if completed).</R>
<R>If the CGT Director determines that an issue raises a potential material conflict of interest, depending on the facts and circumstances, the issue will be addressed as follows:</R>
<R>1. If the matter relates to a topic that is discussed in this Policy, the proposal will be voted as per the Policy.</R>
<R>2. If the matter is not discussed in this Policy or the Policy indicates that the issue is to be decided case-by-case, the proposal will be voted in a manner consistent with the Research Providers, provided that all the Research Providers consulted have the same recommendation, no portfolio manager objects to that vote, and the vote is consistent with MSIM's Client Proxy Standard.</R>
<R>3. If the Research Providers' recommendations differ, the CGT Director will refer the matter to a Special Committee to vote on the proposal, as appropriate.</R>
<R>Any Special Committee shall be comprised of the CGT Director, and at least two portfolio managers (preferably members of the Committee), as approved by the Committee. The CGT Director may request non-voting participation by MSIM's General Counsel or his/her designee and the Chief Compliance Officer or his/her designee. In addition to the research provided by Research Providers, the Special Committee may request analysis from MSIM Affiliate investment professionals and outside sources to the extent it deems appropriate.</R>
<R> C. Proxy Voting Reporting</R>
<R>The CGT will document in writing all Committee and Special Committee decisions and actions, which documentation will be maintained by the CGT for a period of at least six years. To the extent these decisions relate to a security held by an MSIM Fund, the CGT will report the decisions to each applicable Board of Trustees/Directors of those Funds at each Board's next regularly scheduled Board meeting. The report will contain information concerning decisions made during the most recently ended calendar quarter immediately preceding the Board meeting.</R>
<R>MSIM will promptly provide a copy of this Policy to any client requesting it. MSIM will also, upon client request, promptly provide a report indicating how each proxy was voted with respect to securities held in that client's account.</R>
<R>MSIM's Legal Department is responsible for filing an annual Form N-PX on behalf of each MSIM Fund for which such filing is required, indicating how all proxies were voted with respect to such Fund's holdings.</R>
Proxy Voting - Pyramis.
I. General Principles
A. Voting of shares will be conducted in a manner consistent with the best interests of clients as follows: (i) securities of a portfolio company will generally be voted in a manner consistent with the Guidelines; and (ii) voting will be done without regard to any other Pyramis or Fidelity companies' relationship, business or otherwise, with that portfolio company.
B. <R>FMR Investment Proxy Research votes proxies on behalf of Pyramis' clients. Like other Pyramis employees, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees have a fiduciary duty to never place their own personal interest ahead of the interests of Pyramis's clients and are instructed to avoid actual and apparent conflicts of interest. In the event of a conflict of interest, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees, like other Pyramis employees, will escalate to their managers or the Ethics Office, as appropriate, in accordance with Fidelity's corporate policy on conflicts of interest. A conflict of interest arises when there are factors that may prompt one to question whether a Fidelity and/or Pyramis employee is acting solely on the best interests of Pyramis, Fidelity and their customers. Employees are expected to avoid situations that could present even the appearance of a conflict between their interests and the interests of Pyramis and its customers.</R>
C. Except as set forth herein, Pyramis will generally vote in favor of routine management proposals.
D. Non-routine proposals will generally be voted in accordance with the Guidelines.
E. Non-routine proposals not covered by the Guidelines or involving other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review by an attorney within FMR's General Counsel's office and a member of senior management within FMR Investment Proxy Research. A significant pattern of such proposals or other special circumstances will be referred to Pyramis' Senior Compliance Officer or his designee.
F. Pyramis will vote on shareholder proposals not specifically addressed by the Guidelines based on an evaluation of a proposal's likelihood to enhance the economic returns or profitability of the portfolio company or to maximize shareholder value. Where information is not readily available to analyze the economic impact of the proposal, Pyramis will generally abstain.
G. <R>Many Pyramis accounts invest in voting securities issued by companies that are domiciled outside the United States and are not listed on a U.S. securities exchange. Corporate governance standards, legal or regulatory requirements and disclosure practices in foreign countries can differ from those in the United States. When voting proxies relating to non-U.S. securities, Pyramis will generally evaluate proposals in the context of the Guidelines and where applicable and feasible, take into consideration differing laws, regulations and practices in the relevant foreign market in determining how to vote shares.</R>
H. In certain non-U.S. jurisdictions, shareholders voting shares of a portfolio company may be restricted from trading the shares for a period of time around the shareholder meeting date. Because such trading restrictions can hinder portfolio management and could result in a loss of liquidity for a client, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in circumstances where such restrictions apply. In addition, certain non-U.S. jurisdictions require voting shareholders to disclose current share ownership on a fund-by-fund basis. When such disclosure requirements apply, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in order to safeguard fund holdings information.
I. Where a management-sponsored proposal is inconsistent with the Guidelines, Pyramis may receive a company's commitment to modify the proposal or its practice to conform to the Guidelines, and Pyramis will generally support management based on this commitment. If a company subsequently does not abide by its commitment, Pyramis will generally withhold authority for the election of directors at the next election.
II. Definitions (as used in this document)
A. Anti-Takeover Provision - includes fair price amendments; classified boards; "blank check" preferred stock; Golden Parachutes; supermajority provisions; Poison Pills; restricting the right to call special meetings; and any other provision that eliminates or limits shareholder rights.
B. Golden Parachute - Employment contracts, agreements, or policies that include an excise tax gross-up provision; single trigger for cash incentives; or may result in a lump sum payment of cash and acceleration of equity that may total more than three times annual compensation (salary and bonus) in the event of a termination following a change in control.
C. Greenmail - payment of a premium to repurchase shares from a shareholder seeking to take over a company through a proxy contest or other means.
D. Sunset Provision - a condition in a charter or plan that specifies an expiration date.
E. Permitted Bid Feature - a provision suspending the application of a Poison Pill, by shareholder referendum, in the event a potential acquirer announces a bona fide offer for all outstanding shares.
F. Poison Pill - a strategy employed by a potential take-over/target company to make its stock less attractive to an acquirer. Poison Pills are generally designed to dilute the acquirer's ownership and value in the event of a take-over.
G. Large-Capitalization Company - a company included in the Russell 1000 index.
H. Small-Capitalization Company - a company not included in the Russell 1000 index that is not a Micro-Capitalization Company.
I. Micro-Capitalization Company - a company with a market capitalization under US $300 million.
J. Evergreen Provision - a feature which provides for an automatic increase in the shares available for grant under an equity award plan on a regular basis.
III. Directors
A. Incumbent Directors
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of incumbent and nominee directors except where one or more such directors clearly appear to have failed to exercise reasonable judgment. Pyramis will also generally withhold authority for the election of all directors or directors on responsible committees if:
1. An Anti-Takeover Provision was introduced, an Anti-Takeover Provision was extended, or a new Anti-Takeover Provision was adopted upon the expiration of an existing Anti-Takeover Provision, without shareholder approval except as set forth below.
With respect to Poison Pills, however, Pyramis will consider not withholding authority on the election of directors if all of the following conditions are met when a Poison Pill is introduced, extended, or adopted:
a. The Poison Pill includes a Sunset Provision of less than five years;
b. The Poison Pill includes a Permitted Bid Feature;
c. The Poison Pill is linked to a business strategy that will result in greater value for the shareholders; and
d. Shareholder approval is required to reinstate the Poison Pill upon expiration.
Pyramis will also consider not withholding authority on the election of directors when one or more of the conditions above are not met if a board is willing to strongly consider seeking shareholder ratification of, or adding above conditions noted a. and b. to an existing Poison Pill. In such a case, if the company does not take appropriate action prior to the next annual shareholder meeting, Pyramis will withhold authority on the election of directors.
2. The company refuses, upon request by Pyramis, to amend the Poison Pill to allow Pyramis to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.
3. Within the last year and without shareholder approval, a company's board of directors or compensation committee has repriced outstanding options, exchanged outstanding options for equity, or tendered cash for outstanding options.
4. <R>Executive compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as: (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether the company has admitted to or settled a regulatory proceeding relating to options backdating; (iv) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (v) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (vi) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.</R>
5. To gain Pyramis' support on a proposal, the company made a commitment to modify a proposal or practice to conform to the Guidelines and the company has failed to act on that commitment.
6. The director attended fewer than 75% of the aggregate number of meetings of the board or its committees on which the director served during the company's prior fiscal year, absent extenuating circumstances.
7. The board is not composed of a majority of independent directors.
B. Indemnification
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of charter and by-law amendments expanding the indemnification of directors and/or limiting their liability for breaches of care unless Pyramis is otherwise dissatisfied with the performance of management or the proposal is accompanied by Anti-Takeover Provisions.
C. Independent Chairperson
Pyramis will generally vote against shareholder proposals calling for or recommending the appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson. However, Pyramis will consider voting for such proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson appears likely to further the interests of shareholders and to promote effective oversight of management by the board of directors.
D. Majority Director Elections
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals calling for directors to be elected by an affirmative majority of votes cast in a board election, provided that the proposal allows for plurality voting standard in the case of contested elections (i.e., where there are more nominees than board seats). Pyramis may consider voting against such shareholder proposals where a company's board has adopted an alternative measure, such as a director resignation policy, that provides a meaningful alternative to the majority voting standard and appropriately addresses situations where an incumbent director fails to receive the support of a majority of the votes cast in an uncontested election.
IV. Compensation
A. Executive Compensation
1. Advisory votes on executive compensation
a. Pyramis will generally vote for proposals to ratify executive compensation unless such compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as, among other things, (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance-based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (iv) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (v) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.
b. Pyramis will generally vote against proposals to ratify Golden Parachutes.
2. Frequency of advisory vote on executive compensation
Pyramis will generally support annual advisory votes on executive compensation.
B. Equity Award Plans (including stock options, restricted stock awards, and other stock awards).
Pyramis will generally vote against equity award plans or amendments to authorize additional shares under such plans if:
1. <R>(a) The company's average three year burn rate is greater than 1.5% for a Large-Capitalization Company, 2.5% for a Small-Capitalization Company or 3.5% for a Micro-Capitalization Company; and (b) there were no circumstances specific to the company or the plans that lead Pyramis to conclude that the burn rate is acceptable.</R>
2. In the case of stock option plans, (a) the offering price of options is less than 100% of fair market value on the date of grant, except that the offering price may be as low as 85% of fair market value if the discount is expressly granted in lieu of salary or cash bonus; (b) the plan's terms allow repricing of underwater options; or (c) the board/committee has repriced options outstanding under the plan in the past two years without shareholder approval.
<R></R>
3. <R>The plan includes an Evergreen Provision.</R>
4. <R>The plan provides for the acceleration of vesting of equity awards even though an actual change in control may not occur.</R>
<R></R>
C. Equity Exchanges and Repricing
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a management proposal to exchange, reprice or tender for cash, outstanding options if the proposed exchange, repricing, or tender offer is consistent with the interests of shareholders, taking into account such factors as:
1. Whether the proposal excludes senior management and directors;
2. Whether the exchange or repricing proposal is value neutral to shareholders based upon an acceptable pricing model;
3. The company's relative performance compared to other companies within the relevant industry or industries;
4. Economic and other conditions affecting the relevant industry or industries in which the company competes; and
5. Any other facts or circumstances relevant to determining whether an exchange or repricing proposal is consistent with the interests of shareholders.
D. Employee Stock Purchase Plans
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of employee stock purchase plans if the minimum stock purchase price is equal to or greater than 85% of the stock's fair market value and the plan constitutes a reasonable effort to encourage broad based participation in the company's equity. In the case of non-U.S. company stock purchase plans, Pyramis may permit a lower minimum stock purchase price equal to the prevailing "best practices" in the relevant non-U.S. market, provided that the minimum stock purchase price must be at least 75% of the stock's fair market value.
E. Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs)
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of non-leveraged ESOPs. For leveraged ESOPs, Pyramis may examine the company's state of incorporation, existence of supermajority vote rules in the charter, number of shares authorized for the ESOP, and number of shares held by insiders. Pyramis may also examine where the ESOP shares are purchased and the dilution effect of the purchase. Pyramis will generally vote against leveraged ESOPs if all outstanding loans are due immediately upon change in control.
F. Bonus Plans and Tax Deductibility Proposals
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of cash and stock incentive plans that are submitted for shareholder approval in order to qualify for favorable tax treatment under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, provided that the plan includes well defined and appropriate performance criteria, and with respect to any cash component, that the maximum award per participant is clearly stated and is not unreasonable or excessive.
V. Anti-Takeover Provisions
Pyramis will generally vote against a proposal to adopt or approve the adoption of an Anti-Takeover Provision unless:
A. The Poison Pill includes the following features:
1. A Sunset Provision of no greater than five years;
2. Linked to a business strategy that is expected to result in greater value for the shareholders;
3. Requires shareholder approval to be reinstated upon expiration or if amended;
4. Contains a Permitted Bid Feature; and
5. Allows Pyramis accounts to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.
B. An Anti-Greenmail proposal that does not include other Anti-Takeover Provisions; or
C. It is a fair price amendment that considers a two-year price history or less.
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a proposal to eliminate an Anti-Takeover Provisions unless:
D. In the case of proposals to declassify a board of directors, Pyramis will generally vote against such a proposal if the issuer's Articles of Incorporation or applicable statutes include a provision whereby a majority of directors may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by written consent, or other reasonable procedures, by a majority of shareholders entitled to vote for the election of directors.
E. <R>In the case of shareholder proposals regarding shareholders' right to call special meetings, Pyramis generally will vote against each proposal if the threshold required to call a special meeting is less than 25% of the outstanding stock.</R>
F. <R>In the case of proposals regarding shareholders' right to act by written consent, Pyramis will generally vote against each proposal if it does not include appropriate mechanisms for implementation including, among other things, that at least 25% of the outstanding stock request that the company establish a record date determining which shareholders are entitled to act and that consents be solicited from all shareholders.</R>
VI. Capital Structure/Incorporation
A. Increases in Common Stock
Pyramis will generally vote against a provision to increase a company's common stock if such increase will result in a total number of authorized shares greater than three times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares, including stock options, except in the case of real estate investment trusts, where an increase that will result in a total number of authorized shares up to five times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares is generally acceptable.
B. New Classes of Shares
Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction of new classes of stock with differential voting rights.
C. Cumulative Voting Rights
Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction and in favor of the elimination of cumulative voting rights.
D. Acquisition or Business Combination Statutes
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposed amendments to a company's certificate of incorporation or by-laws that enable the company to opt out of the control shares acquisition or business combination statutes.
E. Incorporation or Reincorporation in Another State or Country
<R>Pyramis will generally vote for management proposals calling for, or recommending that, a portfolio company reincorporate in another state or country if, on balance, the economic and corporate governance factors in the proposed jurisdiction appear reasonably likely to be better aligned with shareholder interests, taking into account the corporate laws of the current and proposed jurisdictions and any changes to the company's current and proposed governing documents. Pyramis will consider supporting such shareholder proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, remaining incorporated in the current jurisdiction appears misaligned with shareholder interests.</R>
VII. Shares of Investment Companies
A. <R>If applicable, when a Pyramis account invests in an underlying Fidelity Fund with public shareholders, an exchange traded fund (ETF), or non-affiliated fund, Pyramis will vote in the same proportion as all other voting shareholders of such underlying fund or class ("echo voting"). Pyramis may choose not to vote if "echo voting" is not operationally feasible.</R>
B. Certain Pyramis accounts may invest in shares of underlying Fidelity Funds, which are held exclusively by Fidelity Funds or accounts managed by FMR or an affiliate. Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals recommended by the underlying funds' Board of Trustees.
VIII. Other
A. Voting Process
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals to adopt confidential voting and independent vote tabulation practices.
B. Regulated Industries
<R>Voting of shares in securities of any regulated industry (e.g. U.S. banking) organization shall be conducted in a manner consistent with conditions that may be specified by the industry's regulator (e.g. the Federal Reserve Board) for a determination under applicable law (e.g. federal banking law) that no client or group of clients has acquired control of such organization.</R>
Proxy Voting - WRIMCO.
The Funds have delegated all proxy voting responsibilities to WRIMCO. WRIMCO has established guidelines that reflect what it believes are desirable principles of corporate governance.
Listed below are several reoccurring issues and WRIMCO's corresponding positions.
Board of Directors Issues:
WRIMCO generally supports proposals requiring that a majority of the board of directors consist of outside, or independent, directors.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals to limit or eliminate liability for monetary damages for violating the duty of care.
WRIMCO generally votes against indemnification proposals that would expand coverage to more serious acts such as negligence, willful or intentional misconduct, derivation of improper personal benefit, absence of good faith, reckless disregard for duty, and unexcused pattern of inattention. The success of a corporation in attracting and retaining qualified directors and officers, in the best interest of shareholders, is partially dependent on its ability to provide some satisfactory level of protection from personal financial risk. WRIMCO will support such protection so long as it does not exceed reasonable standards.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals requiring the provision for cumulative voting in the election of directors as cumulative voting may allow a minority group of shareholders to cause the election of one or more directors.
Corporate Governance Issues:
WRIMCO generally supports proposals to ratify the appointment of independent accountants/auditors unless reasons exist which cause it to vote against the appointment.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals to restrict or prohibit the right of shareholders to call special meetings.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals which include a provision to require a supermajority vote to amend any charter or bylaw provision, or to approve mergers or other significant business combinations.
WRIMCO generally votes for proposals to authorize an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals for the adoption of a Shareholder Rights Plan (sometimes referred to as "Purchase Rights Plan"). It believes that anti-takeover proposals are generally not in the best interest of shareholders. Such a Plan gives the board of directors virtual veto power over acquisition offers which may well offer material benefits to shareholders.
Executive/Employee Issues:
WRIMCO will generally vote for proposals to establish an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as long as the size of the ESOP is reasonably limited.
Political Activity:
WRIMCO will generally vote against proposals relating to corporate political activity or contributions, or requiring the publication of reports on political activity or contributions made by political action committees (PACs) sponsored or supported by the corporation. PAC contributions are generally made with funds contributed voluntarily by employees, and provide positive individual participation in the political process of a democratic society. In addition, Federal and most state laws require full disclosure of political contributions made by PACs. This is public information and available to all interested parties. Requiring reports in newspaper publications results in added expense without commensurate benefit to shareholders.
Conflicts of Interest Between WRIMCO and the Funds:
WRIMCO will use the following three-step process to address conflicts of interest: (1) WRIMCO will attempt to identify any potential conflicts of interest; (2) WRIMCO will then determine if the conflict as identified is material; and (3) WRIMCO will follow established procedures, as described generally below to ensure that its proxy voting decisions are based on the best interests of the Funds and are not the product of a material conflict.
I. Identifying Conflicts of Interest: WRIMCO will evaluate the nature of its relationships to assess which, if any, might place its interests, as well as those of its affiliates, in conflict with those of the Fund's shareholders on a proxy voting matter. WRIMCO will review any potential conflicts that involve the following four general categories to determine if there is a conflict and if so, if the conflict is material:
WRIMCO will designate an individual or committee to review and identify proxies for potential conflicts of interest on an ongoing basis.
II. "Material Conflicts": WRIMCO will review each relationship identified as having a potential conflict based on the individual facts and circumstances. For purposes of this review, WRIMCO will attempt to detect those relationships deemed material based on the reasonable likelihood that they would be viewed as important by the average shareholder.
III. Procedures to Address Material Conflicts: WRIMCO will use the following techniques to vote proxies that have been determined to present a "Material Conflict."
Proxy Voting - Winslow.
Winslow, pursuant to Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, has adopted Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures pursuant to which Winslow has undertaken to vote all proxies or other beneficial interests in an equity security prudently and solely in the best long-term economic interest of its advisory clients and their beneficiaries, considering all relevant factors and without undue influence from individuals or groups who may have an economic interest in the outcome of a proxy vote.
Winslow will vote all proxies appurtenant to shares of corporate stock held by a plan or account with respect to which Winslow serves as investment manager, unless the investment management contract expressly precludes Winslow, as investment manager, from voting such proxy.
Winslow has delegated the authority to vote proxies in accordance with its Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures to Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS). Winslow subscribes to ISS' Implied Consent service feature. As ISS research is completed, ISS' voting agents execute the ballots according to the vote recommendations and consistent with the ISS Standard Proxy Voting Guidelines. Please see the "Guidelines Examples" section for examples of Winslow's guidelines with respect to certain typical proxy votes.
Winslow retains the ability to override any vote if it disagrees with ISS' vote recommendation, and always maintains the option to review and amend votes before they are cast, except in the case of a conflict of interest. When there is an apparent conflict of interest, or the appearance of a conflict of interest, e.g., where Winslow may receive fees from a company for advisory or other services at the same time that Winslow has investments in the stock of that company, Winslow will follow the vote recommendation of ISS. Winslow retains documentation of all amended votes.
Guidelines Examples
The following examples illustrate the Guidelines with respect to certain typical proxy votes. This summary is not an exhaustive list of all the issues that may arise or of all matters addressed in the Guidelines, and whether Winslow supports or opposes a proposal will depend upon the specific facts and circumstances described in the proxy statement and other available information.
Conflicts of Interest. When a proxy presents a conflict of interest, such as when Winslow has actual knowledge of a material business arrangement between a particular proxy issuer or closely affiliated entity and Winslow or an affiliated entity of Winslow, Winslow's proxy voting policies and procedures mandate that Winslow follow an alternative voting procedure rather than voting proxies in its sole discretion. In these cases, Winslow may: (1) cause the proxies to be voted in accordance with the recommendations of an independent service provider; or (2) forward the proxies to the Fund's Board, so that the Board may vote the proxies itself.
Board of Directors. Winslow will vote on director nominees in an uncontested election on a case-by-case basis, examining such factors as the composition of the board and key board committees, attendance at board meetings, corporate governance provisions and takeover activity. Also, Winslow will withhold votes from overboarded CEO directors, defined as serving on more than three boards (including their own). Also, Winslow will withhold votes from directors who sit on more than six public company boards. In a contested election of directors, Winslow will evaluate the nominees based on such factors as the long-term financial performance of the target company relative to its industry; management's track record; background to the proxy contest; qualifications of director nominees (both slates) the likelihood that the proposed objectives and goals can be met; and stock ownership positions. Winslow generally supports proposals to fix the board size or designate a range for the board size. However, Winslow will vote against management ability to alter the size of a specified range without shareholder approval. In addition, Winslow supports proposals to repeal classified boards or elect all directors annually. Winslow also supports proposals seeking that a majority or more of the board be independent. Winslow generally votes against shareholder proposals to impose a mandatory retirement age for outside directors. Winslow will vote against or withhold votes from Compensation Committee members if the company has poor compensation practices.
Anti-takeover Defenses and Voting Related Issues. Winslow generally evaluates advance notice proposals on a case-by-case basis, supporting proposals that allow shareholders to submit proposals as close to the meeting date as reasonably possible and within the broadest window possible. Winslow generally supports shareholder proposals that ask a company to submit its poison pill for shareholder ratification; proposals to allow or make easier shareholder action by written consent; and proposals to lower supermajority vote requirements. Winslow generally votes against proposals to restrict or prohibit shareholder ability to call special shareholder meetings and proposals giving the board exclusive authority to amend the bylaws.
Capital Structure. Generally votes on proposals to increase the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance are determined on a case-by-case basis using a model developed by ISS. Winslow will generally vote for proposals to create a new class of nonvoting or subvoting common stock if it is intended for financing purposes with minimal or no dilution to current shareholders and if it is not designed to preserve the voting power of an insider or significant shareholder. Winslow will generally vote for proposals to approve increases beyond the allowable increase when a company's shares are in danger of being delisted or if a company's ability to continue to operate as a going certain is uncertain. Winslow will generally vote against proposals authorizing the creation of new classes of preferred stock with unspecified voting, conversion, dividend distribution, and other rights, when no shares have been issued or reserved for a specific purpose.
Executive and Director Compensation. Proposals regarding compensation plans are reviewed on a case-by-case basis using a methodology focusing on the transfer of shareholder wealth. Generally, Winslow will support proposals seeking additional information regarding compensation, but will vote against proposals which set absolute levels on compensation or dictate amount or form of compensation.
<R>To view a fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30, visit www.fidelity.com/proxyvotingresults or visit the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.</R>
<R>The fund has entered into a distribution agreement with FDC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. The principal business address of FDC is 100 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917. FDC is a broker-dealer registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. The distribution agreement calls for FDC to use all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of the fund, which are continuously offered at NAV. Promotional and administrative expenses in connection with the offer and sale of shares are paid by Strategic Advisers.</R>
The Trustees have approved a Distribution and Service Plan with respect to shares of the fund (the Plan) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the Rule). The Rule provides in substance that a mutual fund may not engage directly or indirectly in financing any activity that is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund except pursuant to a plan approved on behalf of the fund under the Rule. The Plan, as approved by the Trustees, allows the fund and Strategic Advisers to incur certain expenses that might be considered to constitute indirect payment by the fund of distribution expenses.
Under the Plan, if the payment of management fees by the fund to Strategic Advisers is deemed to be indirect financing by the fund of the distribution of its shares, such payment is authorized by the Plan. The Plan specifically recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. In addition, the Plan provides that Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers or FDC), that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Prior to approving the Plan, the Trustees carefully considered all pertinent factors relating to the implementation of the Plan, and determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit the fund and its shareholders. In particular, the Trustees noted that the Plan does not authorize payments by the fund other than those made to Strategic Advisers under its management contract with the fund. To the extent that the Plan gives Strategic Advisers and FDC greater flexibility in connection with the distribution of shares of the fund, additional sales of shares of the fund or stabilization of cash flows may result. Furthermore, certain shareholder support services may be provided more effectively under the Plan by local entities with whom shareholders have other relationships.
FDC or an affiliate may compensate, or upon direction make payments for certain retirement plan expenses to, intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (including affiliates of FDC). A number of factors are considered in determining whether to pay these additional amounts. Such factors may include, without limitation, the level or type of services provided by the intermediary, the level or expected level of assets or sales of shares, and other factors. In addition to such payments, FDC or an affiliate may offer other incentives such as sponsorship of educational or client seminars relating to current products and issues, payments or reimbursements for travel and related expenses associated with due diligence trips that an intermediary may undertake in order to explore possible business relationships with affiliates of FDC, and/or payments of costs and expenses associated with attendance at seminars, including travel, lodging, entertainment, and meals. Certain of the payments described above may be significant to an intermediary. As permitted by SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority rules and other applicable laws and regulations, FDC or an affiliate may pay or allow other incentives or payments to intermediaries.
The fund's transfer agent or an affiliate may also make payments and reimbursements from its own resources to certain intermediaries (who may be affiliated with the transfer agent) for performing recordkeeping and other services. Please see "Transfer and Service Agent Agreements" in this SAI for more information.
Any of the payments described in this section may represent a premium over payments made by other fund families. Retirement plan sponsors may take these payments into account when deciding whether to include a fund as a plan investment option.
TRANSFER AND SERVICE AGENT AGREEMENTS
The fund has entered into a transfer agent agreement with Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC), an affiliate of Strategic Advisers, which is located at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. Under the terms of the agreement, FIIOC (or an agent, including an affiliate) performs transfer agency services for the fund.
For providing transfer agency services, FIIOC receives an account fee and an asset-based fee with respect to assets managed by one or more sub-advisers and assets invested in non-affiliated ETFs. For retail accounts, these fees are based on fund type. For certain institutional accounts, these fees are based on size of position and fund type. For institutional retirement accounts, these fees are based on account type and fund type. The account fee is billed monthly on a pro rata basis at one-twelfth of the applicable annual rate as of the end of each calendar month. The asset-based fee is calculated and paid monthly on the basis of average daily net assets. For assets invested in underlying Fidelity funds, each underlying Fidelity fund pays its respective transfer agent (either FIIOC or an affiliate of FIIOC) fees based, in part, on the number of positions in and assets of the fund invested in such underlying Fidelity fund.
FIIOC also may collect fees charged in connection with providing certain types of services such as exchanges, closing out fund balances, maintaining fund positions with low balances, checkwriting, wire transactions, and providing historical account research.
FIIOC bears the expense of typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, and all other reports, notices, and statements to existing shareholders, with the exception of proxy statements.
<R>FIIOC or an affiliate may make payments out of its own resources to intermediaries (including affiliates of FIIOC) for recordkeeping services. Payments may also be made, upon direction, for other plan expenses. FIIOC may also pay an affiliate for providing services that otherwise would have been performed by FIIOC.</R>
The fund has entered into a service agent agreement with FSC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers (or an agent, including an affiliate). Under the terms of the agreement, FSC calculates the NAV and dividends for the fund and maintains the fund's portfolio and general accounting records.
For providing pricing and bookkeeping services, FSC receives a monthly fee based on the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month.
The annual rates for pricing and bookkeeping services for the fund are 0.0389% of the first $500 million of average net assets, 0.0275% of average net assets between $500 million and $3.5 billion, 0.0041% of average net assets between $3.5 billion and $25 billion, and 0.0019% of average net assets in excess of $25 billion.
<R>Pricing and bookkeeping fees paid by the fund to FSC for the past fiscal year are shown in the following table.</R>
<R> Fund |
2012</R> |
<R>Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund |
$ 11,206 *</R> |
<R> * From November 16, 2011.</R>
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRUST
<R> Trust Organization. Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund is a fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, an open-end management investment company created under an initial trust instrument dated March 8, 2006. Currently, there are 20 funds offered in the trust: Strategic Advisers Core Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund. The Trustees are permitted to create additional funds in the trust and to create additional classes of the funds.</R>
The assets of the trust received for the issue or sale of shares of each of its funds and all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, subject to the rights of creditors, are allocated to such fund, and constitute the underlying assets of such fund. The underlying assets of each fund in the trust shall be charged with the liabilities and expenses attributable to such fund. Any general expenses of the trust shall be allocated between or among any one or more of the funds.
Shareholder Liability. The trust is a statutory trust organized under Delaware law. Delaware law provides that, except to the extent otherwise provided in the Trust Instrument, shareholders shall be entitled to the same limitations of personal liability extended to stockholders of private corporations for profit organized under the general corporation law of Delaware. The courts of some states, however, may decline to apply Delaware law on this point. The Trust Instrument contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for the debts, liabilities, obligations, and expenses of the trust. The Trust Instrument provides that the trust shall not have any claim against shareholders except for the payment of the purchase price of shares and requires that each agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the trust or the Trustees relating to the trust or to a fund shall include a provision limiting the obligations created thereby to the trust or to one or more funds and its or their assets. The Trust Instrument further provides that shareholders of a fund shall not have a claim on or right to any assets belonging to any other fund.
The Trust Instrument provides for indemnification out of each fund's property of any shareholder or former shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the fund solely by reason of his or her being or having been a shareholder and not because of his or her acts or omissions or for some other reason. The Trust Instrument also provides that each fund shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which Delaware law does not apply, no contractual limitation of liability was in effect, and a fund is unable to meet its obligations. Strategic Advisers believes that, in view of the above, the risk of personal liability to shareholders is extremely remote.
<R> Voting Rights. Each fund's capital consists of shares of beneficial interest. As a shareholder, you are entitled to one vote for each dollar of net asset value you own. The voting rights of shareholders can be changed only by a shareholder vote. Shares may be voted in the aggregate, by fund, and by class.</R>
The shares have no preemptive or conversion rights. Shares are fully paid and nonassessable, except as set forth under the heading "Shareholder Liability" above.
On matters submitted for consideration by shareholders of any underlying fund, the fund will vote its shares in proportion to the vote of all other holders of the same class of shares of that underlying fund.
The trust or a fund or a class may be terminated upon the sale of its assets to, or merger with, another open-end management investment company, series, or class thereof, or upon liquidation and distribution of its assets. The Trustees may reorganize, terminate, merge, or sell all or a portion of the assets of the trust or a fund or a class without prior shareholder approval. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the trust, shareholders of each of its funds are entitled to receive the underlying assets of such fund available for distribution. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of a fund or a class, shareholders of that fund or that class are entitled to receive the underlying assets of the fund or class available for distribution.
Custodians. The Bank of New York Mellon, 1 Wall Street, New York, New York, is custodian of the assets of the fund. The custodian is responsible for the safekeeping of the fund's assets and the appointment of any subcustodian banks and clearing agencies. JPMorgan Chase Bank, headquartered in New York, also may serve as a special purpose custodian of certain assets in connection with repurchase agreement transactions.
Strategic Advisers, its officers and directors, its affiliated companies, Member of the Advisory Board, and Members of the Board of Trustees may, from time to time, conduct transactions with various banks, including banks serving as custodians for certain funds advised by Strategic Advisers. Transactions that have occurred to date include mortgages and personal and general business loans. In the judgment of Strategic Advisers, the terms and conditions of those transactions were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other fund relationships.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 125 High Street, Boston, Massachusetts, independent registered public accounting firm, audits financial statements for the fund and provides other audit, tax, and related services.
The fund views holdings information as sensitive and limits its dissemination. The Board authorized Strategic Advisers, in consultation with FMR, to establish and administer guidelines for the dissemination of fund holdings information, which may be amended at any time without prior notice. FMR's Disclosure Policy Committee (comprising executive officers of FMR) evaluates disclosure policy with the goal of serving the fund's best interests by striking an appropriate balance between providing information about the fund's portfolio and protecting the fund from potentially harmful disclosure. The Board reviews the administration and modification of these guidelines and receives reports from the fund's chief compliance officer periodically.
Other registered investment companies that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be subject to different portfolio holdings disclosure policies, and neither Strategic Advisers nor the Board exercises control over such policies or disclosure. In addition, separate account clients of Strategic Advisers and the sub-advisers have access to their portfolio holdings and are not subject to the fund's portfolio holdings disclosure policies. Some of the funds that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser and some of the separate accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser have investment objectives and strategies that are substantially similar or identical to the fund's and, therefore, potentially substantially similar, and in certain cases nearly identical, portfolio holdings as the fund.
The fund will provide a full list of holdings monthly on www.fidelity.com 30 days after the month-end (excluding high income security holdings, which generally will be presented collectively monthly and included in a list of full holdings 60 days after its fiscal quarter-end).
Unless otherwise indicated, this information will be available on the web site until updated for the next applicable period.
The fund may also from time to time provide or make available to the Board or third parties upon request specific fund level performance attribution information and statistics. Third parties may include fund shareholders or prospective fund shareholders, members of the press, consultants, and ratings and ranking organizations.
<R> The Use of Holdings In Connection With Fund Operations. Material non-public holdings information may be provided as part of the investment activities of the fund to: entities which, by explicit agreement or by virtue of their respective duties to the fund, are required to maintain the confidentiality of the information disclosed; other parties if legally required; or persons Strategic Advisers believes will not misuse the disclosed information. These entities, parties, and persons include, but are not limited to: the fund's trustees; the fund's manager, its sub-advisers, if any, and their affiliates whose access persons are subject to a code of ethics; contractors who are subject to a confidentiality agreement; the fund's auditors; the fund's custodians; proxy voting service providers; financial printers; pricing service vendors; broker-dealers in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or requests for price quotations or bids on one or more securities; counsel to the fund or its Independent Trustees; regulatory authorities; stock exchanges and other listing organizations; parties to litigation; third parties in connection with a bankruptcy proceeding relating to a fund holding; and third parties who have submitted a standing request to a money market fund for daily holdings information. Non-public holdings information may also be provided to an issuer regarding the number or percentage of its shares that are owned by the fund and in connection with redemptions in kind.</R>
<R> Other Uses Of Holdings Information. In addition, the fund may provide material non-public holdings information to (i) third parties that calculate information derived from holdings for use by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, (ii) ratings and rankings organizations, and (iii) an investment adviser, trustee, or their agents to whom holdings are disclosed for due diligence purposes or in anticipation of a merger involving the fund. Each individual request is reviewed by the Disclosure Policy Committee which must find, in its sole discretion that, based on the specific facts and circumstances, the disclosure appears unlikely to be harmful to the fund. Entities receiving this information must have in place control mechanisms to reasonably ensure or otherwise agree that, (a) the holdings information will be kept confidential, (b) no employee shall use the information to effect trading or for their personal benefit, and (c) the nature and type of information that they, in turn, may disclose to third parties is limited. Strategic Advisers relies primarily on the existence of non-disclosure agreements and/or control mechanisms when determining that disclosure is not likely to be harmful to the fund.</R>
At this time, the entities receiving information described in the preceding paragraph are: Factset Research Systems Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day) and Anacomp Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day).
Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, or the fund will not enter into any arrangements with third parties from which they derive consideration for the disclosure of material non-public holdings information. If, in the future, Strategic Advisers desired to make such an arrangement, it would seek prior Board approval and any such arrangements would be disclosed in the fund's SAI.
There can be no assurance that the fund's policies and procedures with respect to disclosure of fund portfolio holdings will prevent the misuse of such information by individuals and firms that receive such information.
<R>The fund's financial statements and financial highlights for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012 and report of the independent registered public accounting firm, are included in the fund's annual report and are incorporated herein by reference. Total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table may differ from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the financial highlights because total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table include any acquired fund fees and expenses, whereas the ratios of expenses in the financial highlights do not. Acquired funds include other investment companies in which the fund has invested, if and to the extent it is permitted to do so. Total annual operating expenses in the prospectus fee table and the financial highlights do not include any expenses associated with investments in certain structured or synthetic products that may rely on the exception from the definition of "investment company" provided by section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act.</R>
Strategic Advisers is a registered service mark of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
Fund /Ticker
Strategic Advisers ® Core Multi-Manager Fund /FLAUX
Prospectus
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
<R> Fund Summary |
Strategic Advisers ® Core Multi-Manager Fund </R> |
|
<R> Fund Basics |
Investment Details </R> |
|
<R> |
Valuing Shares </R> |
|
<R> Shareholder Information |
Additional Information about the Purchase and Sale of Shares </R> |
|
<R> |
Exchanging Shares </R> |
|
<R> |
Features and Policies </R> |
|
<R> |
Dividends and Capital Gain Distributions </R> |
|
<R> |
Tax Consequences </R> |
|
<R> Fund Services |
Fund Management </R> |
|
<R> |
Fund Distribution </R> |
|
<R> Appendix |
Financial Highlights </R> |
Prospectus
Fund:
Strategic Advisers
®
Core Multi-Manager Fund
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The following table describes the fees and expenses that may be incurred when you buy and hold shares of the fund.
Shareholder fees
|
None |
Annual fund operating expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a % of the value of your investment)
<R> Management fee (fluctuates based on the fund's allocation among underlying funds and sub-advisers) B |
0.61% </R> |
<R> Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) fees |
None </R> |
<R> Other expenses |
0.50% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses A |
1.11% </R> |
<R> Fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement B |
0.13% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement A |
0.98% </R> |
<R> A Differs from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the Financial Highlights section of the prospectus because of acquired fund fees and expenses. For the period, acquired fund fees and expenses are less than 0.01% and are included in other expenses. </R>
<R> B Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) has contractually agreed that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.05% of the fund's average daily net assets. In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to reimburse the fund to the extent that total operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, extraordinary expenses, and acquired fund fees and expenses, if any ) , as a percentage of its average net assets, exceed 0.97%. This arrangement will remain in effect through July 31, 2013. Strategic Advisers may not discontinue or modify this arrangement without the approval of the Board of Trustees. </R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
This example helps compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
Let's say, hypothetically, that the annual return for shares of the fund is 5% and that your shareholder fees and the annual operating expenses for shares of the fund are exactly as described in the fee table. This example illustrates the effect of fees and expenses, but is not meant to suggest actual or expected fees and expenses or returns, all of which may vary. For every $10,000 you invested, here's how much you would pay in total expenses if you sell all of your shares at the end of each time period indicated:
<R> 1 year |
$ 100 </R> |
<R> 3 years |
$ 338 </R> |
<R> 5 years |
$ 597 </R> |
<R> 10 years |
$ 1,338 </R> |
<R>The fund will not incur transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells shares of affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it will incur transaction costs when it buys and sells other types of securities (including non-affiliated exchange traded funds) directly (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 annual operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund's performance. For the period from November 16, 2011 to May 31, 2012, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 77% (annualized) of the average value of its portfolio.</R>
Prospectus
<R> Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Strategic Advisers is permitted, subject to the approval of the Board of Trustees, to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement. </R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
In addition, the fund is considered non-diversified and can invest a greater portion of assets in securities of a smaller number of individual issuers than a diversified fund. As a result, changes in the market value of a single investment could cause greater fluctuations in share price than would occur in a more diversified fund.
<R>An investment in the fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. You could lose money by investing in the fund.</R>
Performance history will be available for the fund after the fund has been in operation for one calendar year.
<R>Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. First Eagle Investment Management, LLC (First Eagle), Lazard Asset Management LLC (Lazard), OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (OppenheimerFunds), Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis), and T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. (T. Rowe Price) have been retained to serve as sub-advisers for the fund.</R>
<R>John A. Stone (lead portfolio manager) has managed the fund since November 2011.</R>
<R>Colin Morris (co-manager) has managed First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
<R>Phillip Marriott (co-manager) has managed First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
<R>Andrew Lacey (co-manager), Richard Tutino (co-manager), and Ronald Temple (co-manager) have managed Lazard's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
<R>Manind ("Mani") Govil, CFA, Senior Vice President (lead portfolio manager) and Benjamin Ram (co-portfolio manager) have managed OppenheimerFunds' portion of the fund's assets since December 2011.</R>
<R>Lawrence Rakers (portfolio manager) has managed Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
<R>Anna Dopkin (portfolio manager) has managed T. Rowe Price's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
Shares of the fund generally are available only to: (i) employer-sponsored retirement plans (including profit sharing, 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and similar plans) for which an affiliate of Strategic Advisers provides recordkeeping services; and (ii) Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund accounts held by individuals who currently own shares of the fund originally held in an employer sponsored retirement plan. You may buy or sell shares in various ways:
Prospectus
The price to buy one share of the fund is its net asset value per share (NAV). Your shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after your investment is received in proper form.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV. Your shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after your order is received in proper form.
The fund is open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open.
There is no purchase minimum for fund shares.
Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax and generally will be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, and may also be subject to state or local taxes, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account (in which case you may be taxed later, upon withdrawal of your investment from such account).
The fund, Strategic Advisers, Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and/or their affiliates may pay intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, or service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR, or FDC), for the sale of fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing your intermediary and your investment professional to recommend the fund over another investment. Ask your investment professional or visit your intermediary's web site for more information.
Prospectus
Investment Objective
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies
The fund normally invests primarily in common stocks.
The fund normally invests primarily in securities of companies with large market capitalizations. Although a universal definition of large market capitalization companies does not exist, for purposes of this fund, large market capitalization companies generally are defined as those companies with market capitalizations similar to those of companies included in the S&P 500 Index. A company's market capitalization is based on its current market capitalization or its market capitalization at the time of the fund's investment. The size of the companies in the index changes with market conditions and the composition of the index.
The fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers in addition to securities of domestic issuers.
The fund is not constrained by any particular investment style. At any given time, the fund may tend to buy "growth" stocks or "value" stocks, or a combination of both types.
The fund implements its investment strategies by investing directly in securities through one or more sub-advisers or indirectly in securities through one or more underlying funds, which in turn invest directly in securities.
Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of underlying funds or sub-advisers at any time.
Strategic Advisers pursues a disciplined, benchmark-driven approach to portfolio construction, and monitors and adjusts allocations to underlying funds and sub-advisers as necessary to favor those underlying funds and sub-advisers that Strategic Advisers believes will provide the most favorable outlook for achieving the fund's investment objective.
<R>When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among underlying funds, Strategic Advisers relies on proprietary fundamental and quantitative fund research in its fund selection process. Factors considered when investing in underlying funds include fund performance, a fund manager's experience and investment style, fund company infrastructure, and fund characteristics such as expense ratio, asset size, and portfolio turnover.</R>
<R>The fund may invest in affiliated equity funds ( i.e., Fidelity funds) and non-affiliated equity funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork ® and in non-affiliated ETFs. Underlying funds include both funds managed by FMR (an affiliated company that, together with Strategic Advisers, is part of Fidelity Investments) or an affiliate and funds managed by investment advisers other than Fidelity. Fidelity may receive service fees that typically are at an annual rate of up to 0.40% of a non-affiliated underlying fund's average daily net assets attributable to purchases through Fidelity's FundsNetwork, though such fees may be higher or lower, or may be charged as transaction and/or account fees. In addition, the fund may invest in ETFs in transactions not occurring through Fidelity's FundsNetwork.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
<R>Strategic Advisers may actively adjust the allocation of the fund's assets at any time. For current information on fund holdings, please call 1-800-835-5095 (plan accounts) or 1-800-544-3455 (all other accounts) or visit Fidelity's web site at www.401k.com (plan accounts) or www.fidelity.com (all other accounts). For information on the underlying funds, see the underlying funds' prospectuses. A copy of any underlying Fidelity fund's prospectus is available at www.fidelity.com or www.advisor.fidelity.com. For a copy of any other underlying fund's prospectus, visit the web site of the company that manages or sponsors that underlying fund.</R>
When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers considers a variety of factors including, but not limited to, a sub-adviser's investment approach, the characteristics of a sub-adviser's typical investment portfolio, and a sub-adviser's performance patterns in different market environments.
Common types of investment approaches that a sub-adviser may use in selecting investments for a fund include, but are not limited to, quantitative analysis, fundamental analysis, or a combination of both approaches. Quantitative analysis refers to programmatic models that analyze such factors as growth potential, valuation, liquidity, and investment risk based on data inputs. Fundamental analysis involves a bottom-up assessment of a company's potential for success in light of factors including its financial condition, earnings outlook, strategy, management, industry position, and economic and market conditions.
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
The fund may also use various techniques, such as buying and selling futures contracts, to increase or decrease its exposure to changing security prices or other factors that affect security values. In addition, the fund may have indirect exposure to derivatives through its investments in underlying funds.
<R>Because the fund is considered non-diversified, a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund.</R>
<R> The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment. </R>
Prospectus
Description of Principal Security Types
In addition to investing in underlying funds, the fund may invest directly in the following principal security types:
Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Different types of equity securities provide different voting and dividend rights and priority in the event of the bankruptcy of the issuer. Equity securities include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, and warrants.
Principal Investment Risks
Many factors affect the fund's performance. The fund's share price changes daily based on the performance of the underlying funds and securities in which it invests and on changes in market conditions and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The fund's reaction to these developments will be affected by the types of underlying funds and securities in which the fund invests, the financial condition, industry and economic sector, and geographic location of an issuer, and the fund's level of investment in the securities of that underlying fund or issuer. In addition, because a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund, the fund's performance could be closely tied to that one issuer or underlying fund and could be more volatile than the performance of more diversified funds.
If Strategic Advisers' or a sub-adviser's allocation strategies do not work as intended, the fund may not achieve its objective. The portfolio managers' evaluations and assumptions in selecting underlying funds or individual securities may be incorrect in view of actual market conditions.
When your shares are sold they may be worth more or less than what you paid for them, which means that you could lose money by investing in the fund.
The following factors can significantly affect the fund's performance:
Multiple Sub-Adviser Risk. Because each sub-adviser manages its allocated portion independently from another sub-adviser, it is possible that the sub-advisers' security selection processes may not complement one another. As a result, the fund's aggregate exposure to a particular industry or group of industries, or to a single issuer, could unintentionally be larger or smaller than intended. Because each sub-adviser directs the trading for its own portion of the fund, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisers, the fund may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were managing the entire fund.
<R> Investing in Other Funds. Regulatory restrictions may limit the amount that one fund can invest in another, and in certain cases further limit investments to the extent a fund's shares are already held by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The fund bears all risks of investment strategies employed by the underlying funds. The fund does not control the investments of the underlying funds, which may have different investment objectives and may engage in investment strategies that the fund would not engage in directly. Aggregation of underlying fund holdings may result in indirect concentration of assets in a particular industry or group of industries, or in a single issuer, which may increase volatility.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
<R> Stock Market Volatility. The value of equity securities fluctuates in response to issuer, political, market, and economic developments. Fluctuations can be dramatic over the short as well as long term, and different parts of the market and different types of equity securities can react differently to these developments. For example, large cap stocks can react differently from small cap stocks, "growth" stocks can react differently from "value" stocks, and stocks selected using quantitative or technical analysis can react differently than stocks selected using fundamental analysis. Issuer, political, or economic developments can affect a single issuer, issuers within an industry or economic sector or geographic region, or the market as a whole. Changes in the financial condition of a single issuer can impact the market as a whole. Terrorism and related geo-political risks have led, and may in the future lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on world economies and markets generally.</R>
Foreign Exposure. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations can involve additional risks relating to political, economic, or regulatory conditions in foreign countries. These risks include fluctuations in foreign currencies; withholding or other taxes; trading, settlement, custodial, and other operational risks; and the less stringent investor protection and disclosure standards of some foreign markets. All of these factors can make foreign investments, especially those in emerging markets, more volatile and potentially less liquid than U.S. investments. In addition, foreign markets can perform differently from the U.S. market.
Global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region.
<R> Industry Exposure. Market conditions, interest rates, and economic, regulatory, or financial developments could significantly affect a single industry or a group of related industries, and the securities of companies in that industry or group of industries could react similarly to these or other developments. In addition, from time to time, a small number of companies may represent a large portion of a single industry or a group of related industries as a whole, and these companies can be sensitive to adverse economic, regulatory, or financial developments.</R>
Issuer-Specific Changes. Changes in the financial condition of an issuer or counterparty, changes in specific economic or political conditions that affect a particular type of security or issuer, and changes in general economic or political conditions can increase the risk of default by an issuer or counterparty, which can affect a security's or instrument's value. The value of securities of smaller, less well-known issuers can be more volatile than that of larger issuers.
Prospectus
<R> Investing in ETFs. ETFs may trade in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) at prices below the value of their underlying portfolios and may not be liquid. An ETF that is not actively managed cannot sell poorly performing stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in its index or other benchmark. ETFs that track an index are subject to tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to its index or other benchmark).</R>
Quantitative Investing. The value of securities selected using quantitative analysis can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole or securities selected using only fundamental analysis. The factors used in quantitative analysis and the weight placed on those factors may not be predictive of a security's value. In addition, factors that affect a security's value can change over time and these changes may not be reflected in the quantitative model.
In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
The following policy is fundamental, that is, subject to change only by shareholder approval:
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The fund is open for business each day the NYSE is open.
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. Fidelity normally calculates the fund's NAV as of the close of business of the NYSE, normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The fund's assets normally are valued as of this time for the purpose of computing the fund's NAV.
NAV is not calculated and the fund will not process purchase and redemption requests submitted on days when the fund is not open for business. The time at which shares are priced and until which purchase and redemption orders are accepted may be changed as permitted by the SEC.
To the extent that the fund's assets are traded in other markets on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of the fund's assets may be affected on those days. In addition, trading in some of the fund's assets may not occur on days when the fund is open for business.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) are valued at their respective NAVs. For an explanation of the circumstances under which the underlying funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing, see the underlying funds' prospectuses and statements of additional information (SAIs). The fund's NAV is calculated using the values of the underlying funds in which it invests. Other assets (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued primarily on the basis of market quotations or official closing prices. Certain short-term securities are valued on the basis of amortized cost. If market quotations or official closing prices are not readily available or, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, are deemed unreliable for a security, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before the fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Arbitrage opportunities may exist when trading in a portfolio security or securities is halted and does not resume before a fund calculates its NAV. These arbitrage opportunities may enable short-term traders to dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Securities trading in overseas markets present time zone arbitrage opportunities when events affecting portfolio security values occur after the close of the overseas markets but prior to the close of the U.S. market. Fair valuation of a fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of a fund's NAV by short-term traders.
Although the fund has policies regarding excessive trading, these too may not be effective to prevent short-term NAV arbitrage trading, particularly in regard to omnibus accounts.
Fair value pricing is based on subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value of a security may differ materially from the value that would be realized if the security were sold.
Prospectus
THE FUND IS AVAILABLE ONLY TO CERTAIN EMPLOYER-SPONSORED RETIREMENT PLANS AND FIDELITY BROKERAGE OR MUTUAL FUND ACCOUNTS. PLEASE SEE "FUND SUMMARY - PURCHASE AND SALE OF SHARES" ABOVE FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS.
Fidelity Investments was established in 1946 to manage one of America's first mutual funds. Today, Fidelity is one of the world's largest providers of financial services.
In addition to its mutual fund business, the company operates one of America's leading brokerage firms, Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC. Fidelity is also a leader in providing tax-advantaged retirement plans for individuals investing on their own or through their employer.
Subject to the purchase and sale requirements stated above, you may buy or sell shares of a fund through a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account. If you buy or sell shares of a fund (other than by exchange) through a Fidelity brokerage account, your transactions generally involve your Fidelity brokerage core (a settlement vehicle included as part of your Fidelity brokerage account).
If you do not currently have a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account and would like to invest in a fund, you may need to complete an application. For more information about a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account, please visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com, call 1-800-FIDELITY, or visit a Fidelity Investor Center (call 1-800-544-9797 for the center nearest you).
<R>You may also buy or sell shares of the fund through a retirement account (such as an IRA or an account funded through salary deduction) or an investment professional. Retirement specialists are available at 1-800-544-4774 to answer your questions about Fidelity retirement products. If you buy or sell shares of a fund through a retirement account or an investment professional, the procedures for buying, selling, and exchanging shares of the fund and the account features and policies may differ from those discussed in this prospectus. Fees in addition to those discussed in this prospectus may also apply. For example, you may be charged a transaction fee if you buy or sell shares of the fund through a non-Fidelity broker or other investment professional.</R>
You should include the following information with any order to buy, sell, or exchange shares:
Certain methods of contacting Fidelity, such as by telephone or electronically, may be unavailable or delayed (for example, during periods of unusual market activity). In addition, the level and type of service available may be restricted based on criteria established by Fidelity.
Prospectus
The fund may reject for any reason, or cancel as permitted or required by law, any purchase or exchange, including transactions deemed to represent excessive trading, at any time.
Excessive trading of fund shares can harm shareholders in various ways, including reducing the returns to long-term shareholders by increasing costs to the fund (such as brokerage commissions), disrupting portfolio management strategies, and diluting the value of the shares in cases in which fluctuations in markets are not fully priced into the fund's NAV.
The Board of Trustees has adopted policies designed to discourage excessive trading of fund shares. Excessive trading activity in the fund is measured by the number of roundtrip transactions in a shareholder's account. A roundtrip transaction occurs when a shareholder sells fund shares (including exchanges) within 30 days of the purchase date.
<R>Shareholders with two or more roundtrip transactions in a single fund within a rolling 90-day period will be blocked from making additional purchases or exchange purchases of the fund for 85 days. Shareholders with four or more roundtrip transactions across all Fidelity funds within any rolling 12-month period will be blocked for at least 85 days from additional purchases or exchange purchases across all Fidelity funds. Any roundtrip within 12 months of the expiration of a multi-fund block will initiate another multi-fund block. Repeat offenders may be subject to long-term or permanent blocks on purchase or exchange purchase transactions in any account under the shareholder's control at any time. In addition to enforcing these roundtrip limitations, the fund may in its discretion restrict, reject, or cancel any purchases or exchanges that, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, may be disruptive to the management of the fund or otherwise not be in the fund's interests.</R>
The following transactions are exempt from the fund's excessive trading policy described above: (i) transactions of $1,000 or less, (ii) systematic withdrawal and/or contribution programs, (iii) mandatory retirement distributions, and (iv) transactions initiated by a plan sponsor or sponsors of certain employee benefit plans or other related accounts. In addition, the fund's excessive trading policy does not apply to transactions initiated by the trustee or adviser to a donor-advised charitable gift fund, qualified fund of fund(s), or other strategy funds. A qualified fund of fund(s) is a mutual fund, qualified tuition program, or other strategy fund consisting of qualified plan assets that either applies the fund's excessive trading policies to shareholders at the fund of fund(s) level, or demonstrates that the fund of fund(s) has an investment strategy coupled with policies designed to control frequent trading that are reasonably likely to be effective as determined by the fund's Treasurer.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
Omnibus accounts, in which shares are held in the name of an intermediary on behalf of multiple investors, are a common form of holding shares among retirement plans and financial intermediaries such as brokers, advisers, and third-party administrators. Individual trades in omnibus accounts are often not disclosed to the fund, making it difficult to determine whether a particular shareholder is engaging in excessive trading. Excessive trading in omnibus accounts is likely to go undetected by the fund and may increase costs to the fund and disrupt its portfolio management.
Under policies adopted by the Board of Trustees, intermediaries will be permitted to apply the fund's excessive trading policy (described above), or their own excessive trading policy if approved by Strategic Advisers. In these cases, the fund will typically not request or receive individual account data but will rely on the intermediary to monitor trading activity in good faith in accordance with its or the fund's policies. Reliance on intermediaries increases the risk that excessive trading may go undetected. For other intermediaries, the fund will generally monitor trading activity at the omnibus account level to attempt to identify disruptive trades. The fund may request transaction information, as frequently as daily, from any intermediary at any time, and may apply the fund's policy to transactions that exceed thresholds established by the Board of Trustees. The fund may prohibit purchases of fund shares by an intermediary or by some or all of any intermediary's clients. There is no assurance that Strategic Advisers will request data with sufficient frequency to detect or deter excessive trading in omnibus accounts effectively.
If you purchase or sell fund shares through a financial intermediary, you may wish to contact the intermediary to determine the policies applicable to your account.
For employer-sponsored retirement plans, only participant directed exchanges count toward the roundtrip limits. Employer-sponsored retirement plan participants whose activity triggers a purchase or exchange block will be permitted one trade every calendar quarter. In the event of a block, employer and participant contributions and loan repayments by the participant may still be invested in the fund.
The fund will monitor aggregate trading activity of adviser transactions to attempt to identify excessive trading in qualified wrap programs, as defined below. Excessive trading by an adviser will lead to fund blocks and the wrap program will lose its qualified status. Adviser transactions will not be matched with client-directed transactions unless the wrap program ceases to be a qualified wrap program (but all client-directed transactions will be subject to the fund's excessive trading policy). A qualified wrap program is: (i) a program whose adviser certifies that it has investment discretion over $100 million or more in client assets invested in mutual funds at the time of the certification, (ii) a program in which the adviser directs transactions in the accounts participating in the program in concert with changes in a model portfolio, and (iii) managed by an adviser who agrees to give Strategic Advisers sufficient information to permit Strategic Advisers to identify the individual accounts in the wrap program.
Prospectus
The fund reserves the right at any time to restrict purchases or exchanges or impose conditions that are more restrictive on excessive or disruptive trading than those stated in this prospectus. The fund's Treasurer is authorized to suspend the fund's policies during periods of severe market turbulence or national emergency. The fund reserves the right to modify its policies at any time without prior notice.
The fund does not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions of fund shares by investors, except to the extent permitted by the policies described above.
As described in "Valuing Shares," the fund also uses fair value pricing to help reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders. There is no assurance that the fund's excessive trading policy will be effective, or will successfully detect or deter excessive or disruptive trading.
The price to buy one share of the fund is its NAV. The fund's shares are sold without a sales charge.
Your shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after your investment is received in proper form.
The fund has authorized certain intermediaries to accept orders to buy shares on its behalf. When authorized intermediaries receive an order in proper form, the order is considered as being placed with the fund, and shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after the order is received by the authorized intermediary. Orders by funds of funds for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment manager will be treated as received by the fund at the same time that the corresponding orders are received in proper form by the funds of funds.
There is no minimum balance or purchase minimum for investments through Portfolio Advisory Services, a mutual fund or a qualified tuition program for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment manager, certain Fidelity retirement accounts funded through salary deduction, or fund positions opened with the proceeds of distributions from such retirement accounts or from a Fidelity systematic withdrawal service. In addition, the fund may waive or lower purchase minimums in other circumstances.
The fund may stop offering shares completely or may offer shares only on a limited basis, for a period of time or permanently.
If your payment is not received and collected, your purchase may be canceled and you could be liable for any losses or fees the fund or Fidelity has incurred.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
Certain financial institutions that have entered into sales agreements with FDC may enter confirmed purchase orders on behalf of customers by phone, with payment to follow no later than the time when fund shares are priced on the following business day. If payment is not received by that time, the order will be canceled and the financial institution could be held liable for resulting fees or losses.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, purchase orders may be suspended, restricted, or canceled and the monies may be withheld.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV.
Your shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after your order is received in proper form. Normally, redemptions will be processed by the next business day, but it may take up to seven days to pay the redemption proceeds if making immediate payment would adversely affect the fund.
<R>The fund has authorized certain intermediaries to accept orders to sell shares on its behalf. When authorized intermediaries receive an order in proper form, the order is considered as being placed with the fund, and shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after the order is received by the authorized intermediary. Orders by funds of funds for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment manager will be treated as received by the fund at the same time that the corresponding orders are received in proper form by the funds of funds.</R>
A signature guarantee is designed to protect you and Fidelity from fraud. Fidelity may require that your request be made in writing and include a signature guarantee in certain circumstances, such as:
You should be able to obtain a signature guarantee from a bank, broker (including Fidelity Investor Centers), dealer, credit union (if authorized under state law), securities exchange or association, clearing agency, or savings association. A notary public cannot provide a signature guarantee.
When you place an order to sell shares, note the following:
Prospectus
An exchange involves the redemption of all or a portion of the shares of one fund and the purchase of shares of another fund.
If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, your shares of the fund may be exchanged into shares of any class of a Fidelity fund available through your plan. If you hold your shares of the fund through a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, your shares of the fund may be exchanged into shares of other Fidelity funds.
However, you should note the following policies and restrictions governing exchanges:
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
The fund may terminate or modify exchange privileges in the future.
Other funds may have different exchange restrictions and minimums, and may impose redemption fees of up to 2.00% of the amount exchanged. Check each fund's prospectus for details.
The following features may be available to buy and sell shares of the fund or to move money to and from your account, if you are investing through a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account. Please visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com or call 1-800-544-6666 for more information.
Electronic Funds Transfer: electronic money movement through the Automated Clearing House • To transfer money between a bank account and a Fidelity brokerage account or Fidelity mutual fund account. • You can use electronic funds transfer to: - Make periodic (automatic) purchases of Fidelity fund shares or payments to your Fidelity brokerage account. - Make periodic (automatic) redemptions of Fidelity fund shares or withdrawals from your Fidelity brokerage account. |
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Wire: electronic money movement through the Federal Reserve wire system • To transfer money between a bank account and a Fidelity brokerage account or Fidelity mutual fund account. |
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Automatic Transactions: periodic (automatic) transactions • To directly deposit all or a portion of your compensation from your employer (or the U.S. Government, in the case of Social Security) into a Fidelity brokerage account or Fidelity mutual fund account. • To make contributions from a Fidelity mutual fund account to a Fidelity mutual fund IRA. • To sell shares of a Fidelity money market fund and simultaneously to buy shares of another Fidelity fund in a Fidelity mutual fund account. |
Prospectus
The following policies apply to you as a shareholder.
Statements that Fidelity sends to you include the following:
<R>To reduce expenses, only one copy of most financial reports and prospectuses may be mailed to households, even if more than one person in a household holds shares of the fund. Call Fidelity at 1-800-835-5095 (for employer-sponsored retirement plans) or 1-800-544-8544 (for all other accounts) if you need additional copies of financial reports or prospectuses. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, contact Fidelity in writing at P.O. Box 770001, Cincinnati, Ohio 45277-0002.</R>
Electronic copies of most financial reports and prospectuses are available at Fidelity's web site. To participate in Fidelity's electronic delivery program, call Fidelity or visit Fidelity's web site for more information.
<R>You may initiate many transactions by telephone or electronically. Fidelity will not be responsible for any loss, cost, expense, or other liability resulting from unauthorized transactions if it follows reasonable security procedures designed to verify the identity of the investor. Fidelity will request personalized security codes or other information, and may also record calls. For transactions conducted through the Internet, Fidelity recommends the use of an Internet browser with 128-bit encryption. You should verify the accuracy of your confirmation statements upon receipt and notify Fidelity immediately of any discrepancies in your account activity. If you do not want the ability to sell and exchange by telephone, call Fidelity for instructions. Additional documentation may be required from corporations, associations, and certain fiduciaries.</R>
You may also be asked to provide additional information in order for Fidelity to verify your identity in accordance with requirements under anti-money laundering regulations. Accounts may be restricted and/or closed, and the monies withheld, pending verification of this information or as otherwise required under these and other federal regulations.
If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, Fidelity may deduct a small balance maintenance fee of $12.00 from a fund balance with a value of less than $2,000 in shares. It is expected that fund balances will be valued after November 1 but prior to December 31 of each calendar year. Fund positions opened after September 30 will not be subject to the fee for that calendar year. The fee, which is payable to Fidelity, is designed to offset in part the relatively higher costs of servicing smaller fund positions. This fee will not be deducted from fund positions opened after January 1 of that calendar year if those positions use certain regular investment plans.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
If your fund balance falls below $2,000 worth of shares ($500 for fund balances in Fidelity Simplified Employee Pension-IRA and Keogh accounts, and Non-Fidelity Prototype Retirement accounts) for any reason, including solely due to declines in NAV, and you do not increase your balance, Fidelity may sell all of your shares and send the proceeds to you after providing you with at least 30 days' notice to reestablish the minimum balance. Your shares will be sold at the NAV on the day Fidelity closes your fund position. Certain fund positions are not subject to these balance requirements and will not be closed for failure to maintain a minimum balance.
Fidelity may charge a fee for certain services, such as providing historical account documents.
The fund earns dividends, interest, and other income from its investments, and distributes this income (less expenses) to shareholders as dividends. The fund also realizes capital gains from its investments, and distributes these gains (less any losses) to shareholders as capital gain distributions.
The fund normally pays dividends and capital gain distributions in July and December.
If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, all dividends and capital gains distributions paid will be automatically reinvested. If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, when you open an account, specify on your application how you want to receive your distributions. The following distribution options are available for shares of the fund:
1. Reinvestment Option. Your dividends and capital gain distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the fund. If you do not indicate a choice on your application, you will be assigned this option.
2. Income-Earned Option. Your capital gain distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the fund. Your dividends will be paid in cash.
3. Cash Option. Your dividends and capital gain distributions will be paid in cash.
4. Directed Dividends ® Option. Your dividends will be automatically invested in shares of another identically registered Fidelity fund. Your capital gain distributions will be automatically invested in shares of another identically registered Fidelity fund, automatically reinvested in additional shares of the fund, or paid in cash.
If the distribution option you prefer is not listed on your account application, or if you want to change your current distribution option, visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com or call 1-800-544-6666 for more information.
Prospectus
If you elect to receive distributions paid in cash by check and the U.S. Postal Service does not deliver your checks, your distribution option may be converted to the Reinvestment Option. You will not receive interest on amounts represented by uncashed distribution checks.
If your dividend check(s) remains uncashed for more than six months, your check(s) may be invested in additional shares of the fund at the NAV next calculated on the day of the investment.
As with any investment, your investment in the fund could have tax consequences for you. If you are not investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account, you should consider these tax consequences.
Taxes on distributions. If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, distributions by the fund to tax-advantaged retirement plan accounts are not taxable currently. If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes.
For federal tax purposes, certain of the fund's distributions, including dividends and distributions of short-term capital gains, are taxable to you as ordinary income, while certain of the fund's distributions, including distributions of long-term capital gains, are taxable to you generally as capital gains. A percentage of certain distributions of dividends may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
If Strategic Advisers buys shares on your behalf when a fund has realized but not yet distributed income or capital gains, you will be "buying a dividend" by paying the full price for the shares and then receiving a portion of the price back in the form of a taxable distribution.
Any taxable distributions you receive from the fund will normally be taxable to you when you receive them, regardless of your distribution option.
Taxes on transactions. If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, exchanges within a tax-advantaged retirement plan account will not result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. Please consult your tax advisor regarding the tax treatment of distributions from a tax-advantaged retirement plan account. If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, your redemptions, including exchanges, may result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. A capital gain or loss on your investment in the fund generally is the difference between the cost of your shares and the price you receive when you sell them.
Prospectus
The fund is a mutual fund, an investment that pools shareholders' money and invests it toward a specified goal.
The fund employs a multi-manager and a fund of funds investment structure. Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of sub-advisers or underlying funds.
Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. The address of Strategic Advisers and its affiliates, unless otherwise indicated below, is 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R>As of December 31, 2011, Strategic Advisers had approximately $261.7 billion in discretionary assets under management.</R>
As the manager, Strategic Advisers has overall responsibility for directing the fund's investments and handling its business affairs.
<R> First Eagle , at 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10105, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, First Eagle had approximately $65.8 billion in discretionary assets under management. First Eagle provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Lazard , at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, Lazard had approximately $141.3 billion in discretionary assets under management. Lazard provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> OppenheimerFunds , at Two World Financial Center, 225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor, New York, New York 10281-1008, has been retained to serve as sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, OppenheimerFunds, its divisions and its subsidiaries, had approximately $176.6 billion in assets under management. OppenheimerFunds provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Pyramis , at 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. Pyramis is an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. As of December 31, 2011, Pyramis had approximately $40.2 billion in discretionary assets under management. Pyramis provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> T. Rowe Price , at 100 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, T. Rowe Price had approximately $554.8 billion in assets under management. T. Rowe Price provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R>John A. Stone is lead portfolio manager of the fund, which he has managed since November 2011. He also manages other funds. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments in 2008 as a portfolio manager, Mr. Stone worked as a portfolio manager and a Principal at Mercer Global Investments beginning in 2006.</R>
<R>Phillip Marriott serves as a portfolio manager for First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets. He has assisted in managing First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011. He joined First Eagle as an analyst in April 1996 and was named Associate Portfolio Manager in March 2008. Before joining the Firm, Mr. Marriott was an Associate at Goldman Sachs & Co. where he focused on providing advisory services to financial institutions. He started his career at Citicorp, where he was Credit Officer at the company's Finance/Leasing division.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
<R>Colin Morris serves as a portfolio manager for First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He joined First Eagle in July 1992 as a Senior Vice President. He came to First Eagle from Mabon Securities, where he was a partner responsible for arbitrage investments. Before joining Mabon in 1986, Mr. Morris was an analyst at Mitchell and Associates, a boutique mergers and acquisitions investment company.</R>
<R>Andrew Lacey is a member of the portfolio management team assigned Lazard's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He has worked in investment management for Lazard since 1995 where, as Deputy Chairman, he is responsible for oversight of the firm's U.S. and global strategies, and is a portfolio manager/analyst on various U.S. and global equity portfolio teams.</R>
<R>Ronald Temple is a member of the portfolio management team assigned Lazard's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He joined Lazard in 2001 where he is a portfolio manager/analyst on certain U.S. equity portfolio teams and a Co-Director of Research. Mr. Temple brought ten years of global experience to Lazard, from roles at Deutsche Bank AG, Bank of America NT & SA and Fleet Financial Group in London, New York, Singapore, San Francisco and Boston.</R>
<R>Richard Tutino is a member of the portfolio management team assigned Lazard's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He joined Lazard in 1997 and is a portfolio manager/analyst for U.S. large cap equities. Prior to Lazard, Mr. Tutino was with Dreman Value Management, EF Hutton and Company, Inc., Fahnestock Asset Management and Thorsell Parker Partners.</R>
<R>Manind ("Mani") Govil, CFA, is a Senior Vice President, Head of the Main Street team and a portfolio manager of OppenheimerFunds. Prior to joining OppenheimerFunds in May 2009, Mr. Govil was a portfolio manager with RS Investment Management Co. LLC from October 2006 until March 2009.</R>
<R>Benjamin Ram is a Vice President and portfolio manager of OppenheimerFunds. Prior to joining OppenheimerFunds in May 2009, Mr. Ram was sector manager for financial investments and a co-portfolio manager for mid-cap portfolios with the RS Core Equity Team of RS Investment Management Co. LLC from October 2006 to May 2009.</R>
<R>Lawrence Rakers serves as portfolio manager for Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since November 2011. He is a portfolio manager at Pyramis Global Advisors, a unit of Fidelity. He also manages other Fidelity funds. Since joining Fidelity Investments in 1993, Mr. Rakers has worked as a research analyst and manager.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Anna Dopkin, CFA is chairman of the investment advisory committee for T. Rowe Price's portion of the fund's assets. The committee chairman has day-to-day responsibility for managing the portfolio and works with an oversight team in developing and executing the investment program for T. Rowe Price's portion of the fund's assets.</R>
Ms. Dopkin is a Vice President of T. Rowe Price, the director of Equity Research-North America, and a member of the Equity Steering Committee. Ms. Dopkin is the lead portfolio manager on the Structured Research Strategy team, and chairman of the Capital Opportunity Fund's Investment Advisory Committee. Previously, she managed the Financial Services Fund as well as the Growth & Income Fund. Prior to joining T. Rowe Price as an Equity Research Analyst in 1996, Ms. Dopkin worked at Goldman Sachs for 7 years in the Mortgage Securities Department in New York and London.
The oversight team at T. Rowe Price is responsible for ensuring adherence to portfolio constraints and risk controls along with managing the investment of cash flows.
The SAI provides additional information about the compensation of, any other accounts managed by, and any fund shares held by the portfolio managers.
From time to time a manager, analyst, or other Fidelity employee may express views regarding a particular company, security, industry, or market sector. The views expressed by any such person are the views of only that individual as of the time expressed and do not necessarily represent the views of Fidelity or any other person in the Fidelity organization. Any such views are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and Fidelity disclaims any responsibility to update such views. These views may not be relied on as investment advice and, because investment decisions for a Fidelity fund are based on numerous factors, may not be relied on as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any Fidelity fund.
The fund pays a management fee to Strategic Advisers. The management fee is calculated and paid to Strategic Advisers every month.
The fund's management fee is calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.30% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets. Because the fund's management fee rate may fluctuate, the fund's management fee may be higher or lower in the future. The fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.05% of the fund's average daily net assets.
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
In return for the services of the fund's sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers will pay each of the fund's sub-advisers the fee (as described above) payable to that sub-adviser.
<R>The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the management contract and sub-advisory agreements for the fund is available in the fund's annual report for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, agree to reimburse the fund for, or waive, management fees and other expenses above a specified limit. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid by the fund if expenses fall below the specified limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Reimbursement or waiver arrangements can decrease expenses and boost performance.
<R>As of May 31, 2012, approximately 99.79% of the fund's total outstanding shares were held by Strategic Advisers and/or another entity or entities of which FMR LLC is the ultimate parent.</R>
FDC distributes the fund's shares.
<R>Intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR or FDC), may receive from Strategic Advisers, FMR, FDC, and/or their affiliates compensation for providing recordkeeping and administrative services, as well as other retirement plan expenses, and compensation for services intended to result in the sale of fund shares. These payments are described in more detail in this section and in the SAI.</R>
The fund has adopted a Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) with respect to its shares that recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenues, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other source, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, service-providers, and administrators, that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees of the fund has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Affiliates of Strategic Advisers may receive service fees or distribution fees or both with respect to underlying funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork.
If payments made by Strategic Advisers to FDC or to intermediaries under the Distribution and Service Plan were considered to be paid out of the fund's assets on an ongoing basis, they might increase the cost of your investment and might cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
<R>From time to time, FDC may offer special promotional programs to investors who purchase shares of Fidelity funds. For example, FDC may offer merchandise, discounts, vouchers, or similar items to investors who purchase shares of certain Fidelity funds during certain periods. To determine if you qualify for any such programs, contact Fidelity or visit our web site at www.fidelity.com.</R>
Prospectus
No dealer, sales representative, or any other person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representations, other than those contained in this prospectus and in the related SAI, in connection with the offer contained in this prospectus. If given or made, such other information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by the fund or FDC. This prospectus and the related SAI do not constitute an offer by the fund or by FDC to sell shares of the fund to or to buy shares of the fund from any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer.
Prospectus
<R>The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the financial history of the fund's shares for the period of the fund's operations. Certain information reflects financial results for a single share of the fund. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in shares of the fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the fund's financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the fund's annual report. A free copy of the annual report is available upon request.</R>
<R> |
Period ended
|
<R> Selected Per-Share Data |
</R> |
<R> Net asset value, beginning of period |
$ 10.00 </R> |
<R> Income from Investment Operations |
</R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) D |
.05 </R> |
<R> Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) |
.57 </R> |
<R> Total from investment operations |
.62 </R> |
<R> Distributions from net investment income |
(.01 ) </R> |
<R> Net asset value, end of period |
$ 10.61 </R> |
<R> Total Return B,C |
6.24% </R> |
<R> Ratios to Average Net Assets F |
</R> |
<R> Expenses before reductions |
1.10% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of fee waivers, if any |
.97% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of all reductions |
.97% A </R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) |
.90% A </R> |
<R> Supplemental Data |
</R> |
<R> Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) |
$ 53,266 </R> |
<R> Portfolio turnover rate G |
77% A </R> |
<R> A Annualized </R>
<R> B Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized. </R>
<R> C Total returns would have been lower if certain expenses had not been reduced during the applicable periods shown. </R>
<R> D Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period. </R>
<R> E For the period November 16, 2011 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2012. </R>
<R> F Expense ratios reflect operating expenses of the Fund. Expenses before reductions do not reflect amounts reimbursed by the investment adviser or reductions from brokerage service arrangements or reductions from other expense offset arrangements and do not represent the amount paid by the Fund during periods when reimbursements or reductions occur. Expense ratios before reductions for start-up periods may not be representative of longer term operating periods. Expenses net of fee waivers reflect expenses after reimbursement by the investment adviser but prior to reductions from brokerage service arrangements or other expense offset arrangements. Expenses net of all reductions represent the net expenses paid by the Fund. Fees and expenses of the Underlying Funds are not included in the Fund's annualized ratios. The Fund indirectly bears its proportionate share of the expenses of the Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> G Amounts do not include the portfolio activity of any Underlying Funds. </R>
Prospectus
Notes
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OPENING A NEW ACCOUNT To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT ACT), requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or entity that opens an account. For individual investors opening an account: When you open an account, you will be asked for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow Fidelity to identify you. You may also be asked to provide documents that may help to establish your identity, such as your driver's license. For investors other than individuals: When you open an account, you will be asked for the name of the entity, its principal place of business and taxpayer identification number (TIN) and may be requested to provide information on persons with authority or control over the account such as name, residential address, date of birth and social security number. You may also be asked to provide documents, such as drivers' licenses, articles of incorporation, trust instruments or partnership agreements and other information that will help Fidelity identify the entity. |
<R>You can obtain additional information about the fund. A description of the fund's policies and procedures for disclosing its holdings is available in its SAI and on Fidelity's web sites. The SAI also includes more detailed information about the fund and its investments. The SAI is incorporated herein by reference (legally forms a part of the prospectus). The fund's annual and semi-annual reports also include additional information. The fund's annual report includes a discussion of the fund's holdings and recent market conditions and the fund's investment strategies that affected performance.</R>
<R>For a free copy of any of these documents or to request other information or ask questions about the fund, call 1-800-835-5095 (plan accounts) or 1-800-544-3455 (all other accounts). In addition, you may visit the web site at www.401k.com (plan accounts) or www.fidelity.com (all other accounts) for a free copy of a prospectus, SAI, or annual or semi-annual report or to request other information.</R>
The SAI, the fund's annual and semi-annual reports and other related materials are available from the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) Database on the SEC's web site (http://www.sec.gov). You can obtain copies of this information, after paying a duplicating fee, by sending a request by e-mail to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You can also review and copy information about the fund, including the fund's SAI, at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call 1-202-551-8090 for information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference Room. Investment Company Act of 1940, File Number, 811-21991 |
FDC is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). You may obtain information about SIPC, including the SIPC brochure, by visiting www.sipc.org or calling SIPC at 202-371-8300.
Strategic Advisers and FundsNetwork are registered service marks of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
<R>1.931529.102 MMC-PRO-0712</R>
Strategic Advisers ® Core Multi-Manager Fund (FLAUX)
A Fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
<R>This statement of additional information (SAI) is not a prospectus. Portions of the fund's annual report are incorporated herein. The annual report is supplied with this SAI.</R>
<R>To obtain a free additional copy of the prospectus or SAI, dated July 30, 2012, or an annual report, please call Fidelity at 1-800-835-5095 (plan accounts) or 1-800-544-3455 (all other accounts) or visit the web site at www.401k.com (plan accounts) or www.fidelity.com (all other accounts).</R>
<R>MMC-PTB-0712
1.931533.102</R>
<R> |
PAGE </R> |
<R>Investment Policies and Limitations |
|
<R>Portfolio Transactions |
|
<R>Valuation |
|
<R>Buying, Selling, and Exchanging Information |
|
<R>Distributions and Taxes |
|
<R>Trustees and Officers |
|
<R>Control of Investment Advisers |
|
<R>Management Contract |
|
<R>Proxy Voting Guidelines |
|
<R>Distribution Services |
|
<R>Transfer and Service Agent Agreements |
|
<R>Description of the Trust |
|
<R>Fund Holdings Information |
|
<R>Financial Statements |
|
<R>Appendix |
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS
The following policies and limitations supplement those set forth in the prospectus. Unless otherwise noted, whenever an investment policy or limitation states a maximum percentage of the fund's assets that may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy regarding quality standards, such standard or percentage limitation will be determined immediately after and as a result of the fund's acquisition of such security or other asset. Accordingly, any subsequent change in values, net assets, or other circumstances will not be considered when determining whether the investment complies with the fund's investment policies and limitations.
The fund's fundamental investment policies and limitations cannot be changed without approval by a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act)) of the fund. However, except for the fundamental investment limitations listed below, the investment policies and limitations described in this SAI are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
The following are the fund's fundamental investment limitations set forth in their entirety.
Senior Securities
The fund may not issue senior securities, except in connection with the insurance program established by the fund pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission or as otherwise permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Borrowing
The fund may not borrow money, except that the fund may borrow money for temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging or investment) in an amount not exceeding 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). Any borrowings that come to exceed this amount will be reduced within three days (not including Sundays and holidays) to the extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation.
Underwriting
The fund may not underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 in the disposition of restricted securities or in connection with investments in other investment companies.
Concentration
The fund may not purchase the securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or 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.
<R>For purposes of the fund's concentration limitation discussed above, Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) or an affiliate may analyze the characteristics of a particular issuer and security and assign an industry or sector classification consistent with those characteristics in the event that the third-party classification provider used by Strategic Advisers does not assign a classification.</R>
Real Estate
The fund may not purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from investing in securities or other instruments backed by real estate or securities of companies engaged in the real estate business).
Commodities
The fund may not purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from purchasing or selling options and futures contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities).
Loans
The fund may not lend any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, but this limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities or to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.
The following investment limitations are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
Diversification
In order to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, the fund currently intends to comply with certain diversification limits imposed by Subchapter M.
<R>Subchapter M generally requires the fund to invest no more than 25% of its total assets in securities of any one issuer and to invest at least 50% of its total assets so that (a) no more than 5% of the fund's total assets are invested in securities of any one issuer, and (b) the fund does not hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of that issuer. However, Subchapter M allows unlimited investments in cash, cash items, government securities (as defined in Subchapter M) and securities of other regulated investment companies. These tax requirements are generally applied at the end of each quarter of the fund's taxable year.</R>
Margin Purchases
The fund does not currently intend to purchase securities on margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of transactions, and provided that margin payments in connection with futures contracts and options on futures contracts shall not constitute purchasing securities on margin.
Borrowing
The fund may borrow money only (a) from a bank or from a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) by engaging in reverse repurchase agreements with any party (reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings for purposes of the fundamental borrowing investment limitation).
Illiquid Securities
The fund does not currently intend to purchase any security if, as a result, more than 10% of its net assets would be invested in securities that are deemed to be illiquid because they are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or because they cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued.
For purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation discussed above, if through a change in values, net assets, or other circumstances, the fund were in a position where more than 10% of its net assets were invested in illiquid securities, it would consider appropriate steps to protect liquidity.
To the extent that the fund acquires the shares of an underlying fund in accordance with Section 12(d)(1)(F) of the 1940 Act, the underlying fund is not obligated to redeem its shares in an amount exceeding 1% of its shares outstanding during any period of less than 30 days. Those underlying fund shares will not be treated as illiquid securities for purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation described above to the extent that the fund is able to dispose of such securities by distributing them in kind to redeeming shareholders. (See "Securities of Other Investment Companies" on page (Click Here).)
Loans
The fund does not currently intend to lend assets other than securities to other parties, except by (a) lending money (up to 15% of the fund's net assets) to a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) assuming any unfunded commitments in connection with the acquisition of loans, loan participations, or other forms of debt instruments. (This limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities, to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.)
In addition to the fund's fundamental and non-fundamental investment limitations discussed above:
For the fund's limitations on futures and options transactions, see the section entitled "Futures, Options, and Swaps" on page (Click Here).
Notwithstanding the foregoing investment limitations, the underlying funds in which the fund may invest have adopted certain investment limitations that may be more or less restrictive than those listed above, thereby permitting the fund to engage indirectly in investment strategies that are prohibited under the investment limitations listed above. The investment limitations of each underlying fund are set forth in its registration statement.
In accordance with its investment program as set forth in the prospectus, the fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in any one underlying Fidelity fund. Although the fund does not intend to concentrate its investments in a particular industry, the fund may indirectly concentrate in a particular industry or group of industries through its investments in one or more underlying funds.
The following pages contain more detailed information about types of instruments in which the fund may invest, techniques the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may employ in pursuit of the fund's investment objective, and a summary of related risks. The fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may not buy all of these instruments or use all of these techniques unless it believes that doing so will help the fund achieve its goal. However, the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) is not required to buy any particular instrument or use any particular technique even if to do so might benefit the fund.
Strategic Advisers ® Core Multi-Manager Fund may have exposure to instruments, techniques, and risks either directly or indirectly through an investment in an underlying fund. An underlying fund may invest in the same or other types of instruments and its adviser may employ the same or other types of techniques. Strategic Advisers ® Core Multi-Manager Fund's performance will be affected by the instruments, techniques, and risks associated with an underlying fund, in proportion to the amount of assets that the fund allocates to that underlying fund.
On the following pages in this section titled "Investment Policies and Limitations," and except as otherwise indicated, references to "a fund" or "the fund" may relate to Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund or an underlying fund, and references to "an adviser" or "the adviser" may relate to Strategic Advisers (or its affiliates) or a sub-adviser of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, or an adviser of an underlying fund.
Borrowing. If a fund borrows money, its share price may be subject to greater fluctuation until the borrowing is paid off. If a fund makes additional investments while borrowings are outstanding, this may be considered a form of leverage.
<R> Cash Management. A fund may hold uninvested cash or may invest it in cash equivalents such as money market securities, repurchase agreements, or shares of short-term bond or money market funds, including (for Fidelity funds and other advisory clients only) shares of Fidelity central funds. Generally, these securities offer less potential for gains than other types of securities.</R>
<R> Common Stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock take precedence over the claims of those who own common stock, although related proceedings can take time to resolve and results can be unpredictable.</R>
Convertible Securities are bonds, debentures, notes, or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible security held by a fund is called for redemption or conversion, the fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.
Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield, convertible securities generally sell at prices above their "conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stocks and interest rates. When the underlying common stocks decline in value, convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities. However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the underlying common stocks rise in value, the value of convertible securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time, however, the difference between the market value of convertible securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because convertible securities may also be interest-rate sensitive, their value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk, and are often lower-quality securities.
Debt Securities are used by issuers to borrow money. The issuer usually pays a fixed, variable, or floating rate of interest, and must repay the amount borrowed, usually at the maturity of the security. Some debt securities, such as zero coupon bonds, do not pay interest but are sold at a deep discount from their face values. Debt securities include corporate bonds, government securities, repurchase agreements, and mortgage and other asset-backed securities.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are shares of other investment companies, commodity pools, or other entities that are traded on an exchange. Typically, assets underlying the ETF shares are stocks, though they may also be commodities or other instruments, selected to track a particular index or other benchmark.
Typically, ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark increases. However, in the case of inverse ETFs (also called "short ETFs" or "bear ETFs"), ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark decreases. Inverse ETFs seek to deliver the opposite of the performance of the benchmark they track and are often marketed as a way for investors to profit from, or at least hedge their exposure to, downward moving markets. Investments in inverse ETFs are similar to holding short positions in the underlying benchmark.
<R>ETF shares are redeemable only in large blocks (typically, 50,000 shares) often called "creation units" by persons other than a fund, and are redeemed principally in-kind at each day's next calculated net asset value per share (NAV). ETFs typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by a fund. A fund's purchase of ETFs results in the layering of expenses, such that the fund would indirectly bear a proportionate share of any ETF's operating expenses. Further, while traditional investment companies are continuously offered at NAV, ETFs are traded in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) on an intra-day basis at prices that may be above or below the value of their underlying portfolios.</R>
<R>Some of the risks of investing in an ETF that tracks an index are similar to those of investing in an indexed mutual fund, including tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to the index or other benchmark); and the risk that because an ETF is not actively managed, it cannot sell stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in the index or other benchmark. Other ETF risks include the risk that ETFs may trade in the secondary market at a discount from their NAV and the risk that the ETFs may not be liquid. ETFs also may be leveraged. Leveraged ETFs seek to deliver multiples of the performance of the index or other benchmark they track and use derivatives in an effort to amplify the returns (or decline, in the case of inverse ETFs) of the underlying index or benchmark. While leveraged ETFs may offer the potential for greater return, the potential for loss and the speed at which losses can be realized also are greater. Most leveraged and inverse ETFs "reset" daily, meaning they are designed to achieve their stated objectives on a daily basis. Leveraged and inverse ETFs can deviate substantially from the performance of their underlying benchmark over longer periods of time, particularly in volatile periods.</R>
Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs) are a type of senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt security issued by financial institutions that combines aspects of both bonds and ETFs. An ETN's returns are based on the performance of a market index or other reference asset minus fees and expenses. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are listed on an exchange and traded in the secondary market. However, unlike an ETF, an ETN can be held until the ETN's maturity, at which time the issuer will pay a return linked to the performance of the market index or other reference asset to which the ETN is linked minus certain fees. Unlike regular bonds, ETNs typically do not make periodic interest payments and principal typically is not protected.
<R>ETNs also incur certain expenses not incurred by their applicable index. The market value of an ETN is determined by supply and demand, the current performance of the index or other reference asset, and the credit rating of the ETN issuer. The market value of ETN shares may differ from their intraday indicative value. The value of an ETN may also change due to a change in the issuer's credit rating. As a result, there may be times when an ETN share trades at a premium or discount to its NAV. Some ETNs that use leverage in an effort to amplify the returns of an underlying index or other reference asset can, at times, be relatively illiquid and, thus, they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Leveraged ETNs may offer the potential for greater return, but the potential for loss and speed at which losses can be realized also are greater.</R>
Exposure to Foreign and Emerging Markets. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
Foreign investments involve risks relating to local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments, and may be affected by actions of foreign governments adverse to the interests of U.S. investors. Such actions may include expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on U.S. investment or on the ability to repatriate assets or convert currency into U.S. dollars, or other government intervention. Additionally, governmental issuers of foreign debt securities may be unwilling to pay interest and repay principal when due and may require that the conditions for payment be renegotiated. There is no assurance that a fund's adviser will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their effects. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies and of dividends and interest paid with respect to such securities will fluctuate based on the relative strength of the U.S. dollar.
<R>It is anticipated that in most cases the best available market for foreign securities will be on an exchange or in over-the-counter (OTC) markets located outside of the United States. Foreign stock markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as those in the United States, and securities of some foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. issuers. Foreign security trading, settlement and custodial practices (including those involving securities settlement where fund assets may be released prior to receipt of payment) are often less developed than those in U.S. markets, and may result in increased investment or valuation risk or substantial delays in the event of a failed trade or the insolvency of, or breach of duty by, a foreign broker-dealer, securities depository, or foreign subcustodian. In addition, the costs associated with foreign investments, including withholding taxes, brokerage commissions, and custodial costs, are generally higher than with U.S. investments.</R>
Foreign markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. markets. Foreign issuers are generally not bound by uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements and standards of practice comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. Adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis. In general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States. OTC markets tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain countries, may be totally unregulated. Regulatory enforcement may be influenced by economic or political concerns, and investors may have difficulty enforcing their legal rights in foreign countries.
Some foreign securities impose restrictions on transfer within the United States or to U.S. persons. Although securities subject to such transfer restrictions may be marketable abroad, they may be less liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject to such restrictions.
American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. The underlying shares are held in trust by a custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. However, ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. These risks include foreign exchange risk as well as the political and economic risks of the underlying issuer's country.
The risks of foreign investing may be magnified for investments in emerging markets. Security prices in emerging markets can be significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets, reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets may have relatively unstable governments, may present the risks of nationalization of businesses, restrictions on foreign ownership and prohibitions on the repatriation of assets, and may have less protection of property rights than more developed countries. The economies of countries with emerging markets may be based on only a few industries, may be highly vulnerable to changes in local or global trade conditions, and may suffer from extreme and volatile debt burdens or inflation rates. Local securities markets may trade a small number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of holdings difficult or impossible at times.
<R> Foreign Currency Transactions. A fund may conduct foreign currency transactions on a spot ( i.e., cash) or forward basis ( i.e., by entering into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies). Although foreign exchange dealers generally do not charge a fee for such conversions, they do realize a profit based on the difference between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the counterparty desire to resell that currency to the dealer. Forward contracts are customized transactions that require a specific amount of a currency to be delivered at a specific exchange rate on a specific date or range of dates in the future. Forward contracts are generally traded in an interbank market directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. The parties to a forward contract may agree to offset or terminate the contract before its maturity, or may hold the contract to maturity and complete the contemplated currency exchange.</R>
<R>The following discussion summarizes the principal currency management strategies involving forward contracts that could be used by a fund. A fund may also use swap agreements, indexed securities, and options and futures contracts relating to foreign currencies for the same purposes. Forward contracts not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying currency. All of these instruments and transactions are subject to the risk that the counterparty will default.</R>
A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect a fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the U.S. dollar price of the security. Forward contracts to purchase or sell a foreign currency may also be used by a fund in anticipation of future purchases or sales of securities denominated in foreign currency, even if the specific investments have not yet been selected.
A fund may also use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. For example, if a fund owned securities denominated in pounds sterling, it could enter into a forward contract to sell pounds sterling in return for U.S. dollars to hedge against possible declines in the pound's value. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge," would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations, but would not offset changes in security values caused by other factors. A fund could also hedge the position by selling another currency expected to perform similarly to the pound sterling. This type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S. dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged securities are denominated.
A fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency into another. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased, much as if a fund had sold a security denominated in one currency and purchased an equivalent security denominated in another. A fund may cross-hedge its U.S. dollar exposure in order to achieve a representative weighted mix of the major currencies in its benchmark index and/or to cover an underweight country or region exposure in its portfolio. Cross-hedges protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency, but will cause a fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases.
Successful use of currency management strategies will depend on an adviser's skill in analyzing currency values. Currency management strategies may substantially change a fund's investment exposure to changes in currency exchange rates and could result in losses to a fund if currencies do not perform as an adviser anticipates. For example, if a currency's value rose at a time when a fund had hedged its position by selling that currency in exchange for dollars, the fund would not participate in the currency's appreciation. If a fund hedges currency exposure through proxy hedges, the fund could realize currency losses from both the hedge and the security position if the two currencies do not move in tandem. Similarly, if a fund increases its exposure to a foreign currency and that currency's value declines, the fund will realize a loss. Foreign currency transactions involve the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted and that a fund's hedging strategies will be ineffective. A fund may be required to limit its hedging transactions in foreign currency forwards, futures, and options in order to maintain its classification as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code (Code). Hedging transactions could result in the application of the mark-to-market provisions of the Code, which may cause an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by a fund and could affect whether dividends paid by a fund are classified as capital gains or ordinary income. A fund will cover its exposure to foreign currency transactions with liquid assets in compliance with applicable requirements. There is no assurance that an adviser's use of currency management strategies will be advantageous to a fund or that it will employ currency management strategies at appropriate times.
Options and Futures Relating to Foreign Currencies. Currency futures contracts are similar to forward currency exchange contracts, except that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency futures contracts call for payment or delivery in U.S. dollars. The underlying instrument of a currency option may be a foreign currency, which generally is purchased or delivered in exchange for U.S. dollars, or may be a futures contract. The purchaser of a currency call obtains the right to purchase the underlying currency, and the purchaser of a currency put obtains the right to sell the underlying currency.
The uses and risks of currency options and futures are similar to options and futures relating to securities or indices, as discussed below. A fund may purchase and sell currency futures and may purchase and write currency options to increase or decrease its exposure to different foreign currencies. Currency options may also be purchased or written in conjunction with each other or with currency futures or forward contracts. Currency futures and options values can be expected to correlate with exchange rates, but may not reflect other factors that affect the value of a fund's investments. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a Yen-denominated security from a decline in the Yen, but will not protect a fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of a fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the fund's investments exactly over time.
Foreign Repurchase Agreements. Foreign repurchase agreements involve an agreement to purchase a foreign security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price in either U.S. dollars or foreign currency. Unlike typical U.S. repurchase agreements, foreign repurchase agreements may not be fully collateralized at all times. The value of a security purchased by a fund may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to repurchase the security. In the event of default by the counterparty, a fund may suffer a loss if the value of the security purchased is less than the agreed-upon repurchase price, or if the fund is unable to successfully assert a claim to the collateral under foreign laws. As a result, foreign repurchase agreements may involve higher credit risks than repurchase agreements in U.S. markets, as well as risks associated with currency fluctuations. In addition, as with other emerging market investments, repurchase agreements with counterparties located in emerging markets or relating to emerging markets may involve issuers or counterparties with lower credit ratings than typical U.S. repurchase agreements.
Fund's Rights as an Investor. Fidelity funds do not intend to direct or administer the day-to-day operations of any company. A fund may, however, exercise its rights as a shareholder or lender and may communicate its views on important matters of policy to a company's management, board of directors, and shareholders, and holders of a company's other securities when such matters could have a significant effect on the value of the fund's investment in the company. The activities in which a fund may engage, either individually or in conjunction with others, may include, among others, supporting or opposing proposed changes in a company's corporate structure or business activities; seeking changes in a company's directors or management; seeking changes in a company's direction or policies; seeking the sale or reorganization of the company or a portion of its assets; supporting or opposing third-party takeover efforts; supporting the filing of a bankruptcy petition; or foreclosing on collateral securing a security. This area of corporate activity is increasingly prone to litigation and it is possible that a fund could be involved in lawsuits related to such activities. Such activities will be monitored with a view to mitigating, to the extent possible, the risk of litigation against a fund and the risk of actual liability if a fund is involved in litigation. No guarantee can be made, however, that litigation against a fund will not be undertaken or liabilities incurred. The fund's proxy voting guidelines are included in this SAI.
Futures, Options, and Swaps. The success of any strategy involving futures, options, and swaps depends on an adviser's analysis of many economic and mathematical factors and a fund's return may be higher if it never invested in such instruments. Additionally, some of the contracts discussed below are new instruments without a trading history and there can be no assurance that a market for the instruments will continue to exist. Government legislation or regulation could affect the use of such instruments and could limit a fund's ability to pursue its investment strategies.
Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund will not: (a) sell futures contracts, purchase put options, or write call options if, as a result, more than 25% of the fund's total assets would be hedged with futures and options under normal conditions; (b) purchase futures contracts or write put options if, as a result, the fund's total obligations upon settlement or exercise of purchased futures contracts and written put options would exceed 25% of its total assets under normal conditions; or (c) purchase call options if, as a result, the current value of option premiums for call options purchased by the fund would exceed 5% of the fund's total assets. These limitations do not apply to options attached to or acquired or traded together with their underlying securities, and do not apply to structured notes.
The limitations on the fund's investments in futures contracts, options, and swaps, and the fund's policies regarding futures contracts, options, and swaps may be changed as regulatory agencies permit.
The requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company may limit the extent to which a fund may enter into futures, options on futures, and forward contracts.
Futures Contracts. In purchasing a futures contract, the buyer agrees to purchase a specified underlying instrument at a specified future date. In selling a futures contract, the seller agrees to sell a specified underlying instrument at a specified date. The price at which the purchase and sale will take place is fixed when the buyer and seller enter into the contract. Some currently available futures contracts are based on specific securities, some are based on commodities or commodities indices (for funds that seek commodities exposure), and some are based on indices of securities prices (including foreign indices for funds that seek foreign exposure). Futures on indices and futures not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying instrument. Futures can be held until their delivery dates, or can be closed out by offsetting purchases or sales of futures contracts before then if a liquid market is available. A fund may realize a gain or loss by closing out its futures contracts.
The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in tandem with the value of its underlying instrument. Therefore, purchasing futures contracts will tend to increase a fund's exposure to positive and negative price fluctuations in the underlying instrument, much as if it had purchased the underlying instrument directly. When a fund sells a futures contract, by contrast, the value of its futures position will tend to move in a direction contrary to the market. Selling futures contracts, therefore, will tend to offset both positive and negative market price changes, much as if the underlying instrument had been sold.
The purchaser or seller of a futures contract or an option for a futures contract is not required to deliver or pay for the underlying instrument or the final cash settlement price, as applicable, unless the contract is held until the delivery date. However, both the purchaser and seller are required to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant (FCM), when the contract is entered into. If the value of either party's position declines, that party will be required to make additional "variation margin" payments to settle the change in value on a daily basis. This process of "marking to market" will be reflected in the daily calculation of open positions computed in a fund's NAV. The party that has a gain is entitled to receive all or a portion of this amount. Initial and variation margin payments do not constitute purchasing securities on margin for purposes of a fund's investment limitations. In the event of the bankruptcy or insolvency of an FCM that holds margin on behalf of a fund, the fund may be entitled to return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by the FCM's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the fund. A fund is required to segregate liquid assets equivalent to the fund's outstanding obligations under the contract in excess of the initial margin and variation margin, if any.
Although futures exchanges generally operate similarly in the United States and abroad, foreign futures exchanges may follow trading, settlement, and margin procedures that are different from those for U.S. exchanges. Futures contracts traded outside the United States may involve greater risk of loss than U.S.-traded contracts, including potentially greater risk of losses due to insolvency of a futures broker, exchange member, or other party that may owe initial or variation margin to a fund. Because initial and variation margin payments may be measured in foreign currency, a futures contract traded outside the United States may also involve the risk of foreign currency fluctuation.
There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. Exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for futures contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or other market conditions, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its futures positions could also be impaired. These risks may be heightened for commodity futures contracts, which have historically been subject to greater price volatility than exists for instruments such as stocks and bonds.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded futures contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in futures contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the futures position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Futures prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Futures prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell futures contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's futures positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments. In addition, the price of a commodity futures contract can reflect the storage costs associated with the purchase of the physical commodity.
Options. By purchasing a put option, the purchaser obtains the right (but not the obligation) to sell the option's underlying instrument at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the purchaser pays the current market price for the option (known as the option premium). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific assets or securities, indices of securities or commodities prices, and futures contracts (including commodity futures contracts). The purchaser may terminate its position in a put option by allowing it to expire or by exercising the option. If the option is allowed to expire, the purchaser will lose the entire premium. If the option is exercised, the purchaser completes the sale of the underlying instrument at the strike price. A purchaser may also terminate a put option position by closing it out in the secondary market at its current price, if a liquid secondary market exists.
The buyer of a typical put option can expect to realize a gain if the underlying instrument's price falls substantially. However, if the underlying instrument's price does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer can expect to suffer a loss (limited to the amount of the premium, plus related transaction costs).
The features of call options are essentially the same as those of put options, except that the purchaser of a call option obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. A call buyer typically attempts to participate in potential price increases of the underlying instrument with risk limited to the cost of the option if the underlying instrument's price falls. At the same time, the buyer can expect to suffer a loss if the underlying instrument's price does not rise sufficiently to offset the cost of the option.
The writer of a put or call option takes the opposite side of the transaction from the option's purchaser. In return for receipt of the premium, the writer assumes the obligation to pay or receive the strike price for the option's underlying instrument if the other party to the option chooses to exercise it. The writer may seek to terminate a position in a put option before exercise by closing out the option in the secondary market at its current price. If the secondary market is not liquid for a put option, however, the writer must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes. When writing an option on a futures contract, a fund will be required to make margin payments to an FCM as described above for futures contracts.
If the underlying instrument's price rises, a put writer would generally expect to profit, although its gain would be limited to the amount of the premium it received. If the underlying instrument's price remains the same over time, it is likely that the writer will also profit, because it should be able to close out the option at a lower price. If the underlying instrument's price falls, the put writer would expect to suffer a loss. This loss should be less than the loss from purchasing the underlying instrument directly, however, because the premium received for writing the option should mitigate the effects of the decline.
Writing a call option obligates the writer to sell or deliver the option's underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, upon exercise of the option. The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that writing calls generally is a profitable strategy if prices remain the same or fall. Through receipt of the option premium, a call writer mitigates the effects of a price increase. At the same time, because a call writer must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, even if its current value is greater, a call writer gives up some ability to participate in security price increases.
There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular options contract at any particular time. Options may have relatively low trading volume and liquidity if their strike prices are not close to the underlying instrument's current price. In addition, exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for options contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or otherwise, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its options positions could also be impaired.
Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract size, and strike price, the terms of OTC options (options not traded on exchanges) generally are established through negotiation with the other party to the option contract. While this type of arrangement allows the purchaser or writer greater flexibility to tailor an option to its needs, OTC options generally are less liquid and involve greater credit risk than exchange-traded options, which are backed by the clearing organization of the exchanges where they are traded.
Combined positions involve purchasing and writing options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument would construct a combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract. Another possible combined position would involve writing a call option at one strike price and buying a call option at a lower price, to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
A fund may also buy and sell options on swaps. Options on interest rate swaps are known as swaptions. An option on a swap gives a party the right to enter into a new swap agreement or to extend, shorten, cancel or modify an existing swap contract at a specific date in the future in exchange for a premium.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded options contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in options contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the options position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Options prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Options prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the options and futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how options and futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell options contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's options positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments.
Swap Agreements. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors. Swap agreements are two party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors. Swap agreements can vary in term like other fixed-income investments. Most swap agreements are traded over-the-counter. In a standard "swap" transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments (such as securities, commodities, or indices). The gross returns to be exchanged or swapped between the parties are calculated with respect to a notional amount, which is the predetermined dollar principal of the trade representing the hypothetical underlying quantity upon which payment obligations are computed.
Swap agreements can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of a fund's investments and its share price and, if applicable, its yield. Swap agreements are subject to liquidity risk, meaning that a fund may be unable to sell a swap contract to a third party at a favorable price.
A total return swap is a contract whereby one party agrees to make a series of payments to another party based on the change in the market value of the assets underlying such contract (which can include a security, commodity, index or baskets thereof) during the specified period. In exchange, the other party to the contract agrees to make a series of payments calculated by reference to an interest rate and/or some other agreed-upon amount (including the change in market value of other underlying assets). A fund may use total return swaps to gain exposure to an asset without owning it or taking physical custody of it. For example, a fund investing in total return commodity swaps will receive the price appreciation of a commodity, commodity index or portion thereof in exchange for payment of an agreed-upon fee.
In a credit default swap, the credit default protection buyer makes periodic payments, known as premiums, to the credit default protection seller. In return the credit default protection seller will make a payment to the credit default protection buyer upon the occurrence of a specified credit event. A credit default swap can refer to a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets, each known as the reference entity or underlying asset. A fund may act as either the buyer or the seller of a credit default swap. A fund may buy or sell credit default protection on a basket of issuers or assets, even if a number of the underlying assets referenced in the basket are lower-quality debt securities. In an unhedged credit default swap, a fund buys credit default protection on a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets without owning the underlying asset or debt issued by the reference entity. Credit default swaps involve greater and different risks than investing directly in the referenced asset, because, in addition to market risk, credit default swaps include liquidity, counterparty and operational risk.
Credit default swaps allow a fund to acquire or reduce credit exposure to a particular issuer, asset or basket of assets. If a swap agreement calls for payments by a fund, the fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. If a fund is the credit default protection seller, the fund will experience a loss if a credit event occurs and the credit of the reference entity or underlying asset has deteriorated. If a fund is the credit default protection buyer, the fund will be required to pay premiums to the credit default protection seller.
If the creditworthiness of a fund's swap counterparty declines, the risk that the counterparty may not perform could increase, potentially resulting in a loss to the fund. To limit the counterparty risk involved in swap agreements, a Fidelity fund will enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness.
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<R>If a counterparty to a swap transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in exercising its right to the return of related fund assets under an action against the counterparty.</R>
<R>The trust, on behalf of the Fidelity fund to which this SAI relates, has filed with the National Futures Association a notice claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" (CPO) under the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended, and the rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) promulgated thereunder, with respect to the fund's operation. Accordingly, the trust is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool or a CPO. However, the CFTC has adopted certain rule amendments that significantly affect the continued availability of this exclusion, and may subject advisers to funds to regulation by the CFTC. The scope of application and the effective date of these amendments is still uncertain. As of the date of this SAI, there is no certainty that a fund or its adviser will be able to rely on an exclusion in the future. A fund may determine not to use investment strategies that trigger additional CFTC regulation or may determine to operate subject to CFTC regulation, if applicable. If a fund or its adviser operates subject to CFTC regulation, it may incur additional expenses.</R>
Illiquid Securities cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may be costly to a fund.
Under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, a Fidelity fund's adviser determines the liquidity of the fund's investments and, through reports from the fund's adviser, the Board monitors investments in illiquid securities.
Various factors may be considered in determining the liquidity of a fund's investments, including (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations, (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security).
<R> Increasing Government Debt. The total public debt of the United States and other countries around the globe as a percent of gross domestic product has grown rapidly since the beginning of the 2008 financial downturn. Although high debt levels do not necessarily indicate or cause economic problems, they may create certain systemic risks if sound debt management practices are not implemented.</R>
A high national debt level may increase market pressures to meet government funding needs, which may drive debt cost higher and cause a country to sell additional debt, thereby increasing refinancing risk. A high national debt also raises concerns that a government will not be able to make principal or interest payments when they are due. In the worst case, unsustainable debt levels can decline the valuation of currencies, and can prevent a government from implementing effective counter-cyclical fiscal policy in economic downturns.
<R>On August 5, 2011, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services lowered its long-term sovereign credit rating on the United States one level to "AA+" from "AAA." While Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed the United States' short-term sovereign credit rating as "A-1+," there is no guarantee that Standard & Poor's Ratings Services will not decide to lower this rating in the future. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services stated that its decision was prompted by its view on the rising public debt burden and its perception of greater policymaking uncertainty. The market prices and yields of securities supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government may be adversely affected by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services decisions to downgrade the long-term sovereign credit rating of the United States.</R>
Indexed Securities are instruments whose prices are indexed to the prices of other securities, securities indices, or other financial indicators. Indexed securities typically, but not always, are debt securities or deposits whose values at maturity or coupon rates are determined by reference to a specific instrument, statistic, or measure.
Indexed securities also include commercial paper, certificates of deposit, and other fixed-income securities whose values at maturity or coupon interest rates are determined by reference to the returns of particular stock indices. Indexed securities can be affected by stock prices as well as changes in interest rates and the creditworthiness of their issuers and may not track the indexes as accurately as direct investments in the indexes.
Indexed securities may have principal payments as well as coupon payments that depend on the performance of one or more interest rates. Their coupon rates or principal payments may change by several percentage points for every 1% interest rate change.
Mortgage-indexed securities, for example, could be structured to replicate the performance of mortgage securities and the characteristics of direct ownership.
Inflation-protected securities, for example, can be indexed to a measure of inflation, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
<R>Commodity-indexed securities, for example, can be indexed to a commodities index such as the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index Total Return SM .</R>
Gold-indexed securities typically provide for a maturity value that depends on the price of gold, resulting in a security whose price tends to rise and fall together with gold prices.
Currency-indexed securities typically are short-term to intermediate-term debt securities whose maturity values or interest rates are determined by reference to the values of one or more specified foreign currencies, and may offer higher yields than U.S. dollar-denominated securities. Currency-indexed securities may be positively or negatively indexed; that is, their maturity value may increase when the specified currency value increases, resulting in a security that performs similarly to a foreign-denominated instrument, or their maturity value may decline when foreign currencies increase, resulting in a security whose price characteristics are similar to a put on the underlying currency. Currency-indexed securities may also have prices that depend on the values of a number of different foreign currencies relative to each other.
The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the instrument or measure to which they are indexed, and may also be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying instruments or measures. Indexed securities are also subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's creditworthiness deteriorates. Recent issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. Government agencies.
<R> Insolvency of Issuers, Counterparties, and Intermediaries. Issuers of fund portfolio securities or counterparties to fund transactions that become insolvent or declare bankruptcy can pose special investment risks. In each circumstance, risk of loss, valuation uncertainty, increased illiquidity, and other unpredictable occurrences may negatively impact an investment. Each of these risks may be amplified in foreign markets, where security trading, settlement, and custodial practices can be less developed than those in the U.S. markets, and bankruptcy laws differ from those of the U.S.</R>
<R>As a general matter, if the issuer of a fund portfolio security is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock have priority over the claims of common stock owners. These events can negatively impact the value of the issuer's securities and the results of related proceedings can be unpredictable.</R>
<R>If a counterparty to a fund transaction, such as a swap transaction, a short sale, a borrowing, or other complex transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in its ability to exercise rights to obtain the return of related fund assets or in exercising other rights against the counterparty. In addition, insolvency and liquidation proceedings take time to resolve, which can limit or preclude a fund's ability to terminate a transaction or obtain related assets or collateral in a timely fashion. Uncertainty may also arise upon the insolvency of a securities or commodities intermediary such as a broker-dealer or futures commission merchant with which a fund has pending transactions. If an intermediary becomes insolvent, while securities positions and other holdings may be protected by U.S. or foreign laws, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether these protections are available to specific trades based on the circumstances. Receiving the benefit of these protections can also take time to resolve, which may result in illiquid positions.</R>
Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program. Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a Fidelity fund may lend money to, and borrow money from, other funds advised by Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR) or its affiliates. A Fidelity fund will borrow through the program only when the costs are equal to or lower than the costs of bank loans. A Fidelity fund will lend through the program only when the returns are higher than those available from an investment in repurchase agreements. Interfund loans and borrowings normally extend overnight, but can have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one day's notice. A Fidelity fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional borrowing costs.
Investment-Grade Debt Securities. Investment-grade debt securities include all types of debt instruments that are of medium and high-quality. Investment-grade debt securities include repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. Government securities as well as repurchase agreements collateralized by equity securities, non-investment-grade debt, and all other instruments in which a fund can perfect a security interest, provided the repurchase agreement counterparty has an investment-grade rating. Some investment-grade debt securities may possess speculative characteristics and may be more sensitive to economic changes and to changes in the financial conditions of issuers. An investment-grade rating means the security or issuer is rated investment-grade by a credit rating agency registered as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) with the SEC (for example, Moody's Investors Service, Inc.), or is unrated but considered to be of equivalent quality by a fund's adviser. For purposes of determining the maximum maturity of an investment-grade debt security, an adviser may take into account normal settlement periods.
Investments by Large Shareholders. A fund may experience large redemptions or investments due to transactions in fund shares by large shareholders. While it is impossible to predict the overall effect of these transactions over time, there could be an adverse impact on a fund's performance. In the event of such redemptions or investments, a fund could be required to sell securities or to invest cash at a time when it may not otherwise desire to do so. Such transactions may increase a fund's brokerage and/or other transaction costs. In addition, when investors own a substantial portion of a fund's shares, a large redemption could cause actual expenses to increase, or could result in the fund's current expenses being allocated over a smaller asset base, leading to an increase in the fund's expense ratio. Redemptions of fund shares could also accelerate the realization of taxable capital gains in the fund if sales of securities result in capital gains. The impact of these transactions is likely to be greater when a significant investor purchases, redeems, or owns a substantial portion of the fund's shares. When possible, Fidelity will consider how to minimize these potential adverse effects, and may take such actions as it deems appropriate to address potential adverse effects, including redemption of shares in-kind rather than in cash or carrying out the transactions over a period of time, although there can be no assurance that such actions will be successful.
<R> Loans and Other Direct Debt Instruments. Direct debt instruments are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments involve a risk of loss in case of default or insolvency of the borrower and may offer less legal protection to the purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation, or there may be a requirement that a fund supply additional cash to a borrower on demand. A fund may acquire loans by buying an assignment of all or a portion of the loan from a lender or by purchasing a loan participation from a lender or other purchaser of a participation.</R>
<R>Lenders and purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of interest and repayment of principal. If scheduled interest or principal payments are not made, the value of the instrument may be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured provide more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of failure to make scheduled interest or principal payments. However, there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the borrower's obligation, or that the collateral could be liquidated. Indebtedness of borrowers whose creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks and may be highly speculative. Borrowers that are in bankruptcy or restructuring may never pay off their indebtedness, or may pay only a small fraction of the amount owed. Direct indebtedness of foreign countries also involves a risk that the governmental entities responsible for the repayment of the debt may be unable, or unwilling, to pay interest and repay principal when due.</R>
<R>Direct lending and investments in loans through direct assignment of a financial institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the lender/purchaser could become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of lender liability, a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender. Direct debt instruments may also involve a risk of insolvency of the lending bank or other intermediary. </R>
A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness, the purchaser has direct recourse against the borrower, the purchaser may have to rely on the agent to apply appropriate credit remedies against a borrower. If assets held by the agent for the benefit of a purchaser were determined to be subject to the claims of the agent's general creditors, the purchaser might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or interest.
<R>Direct indebtedness may include letters of credit, revolving credit facilities, or other standby financing commitments that obligate lenders/purchasers to make additional cash payments on demand. These commitments may have the effect of requiring a lender/purchaser to increase its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise have done so, even if the borrower's condition makes it unlikely that the amount will ever be repaid.</R>
For a Fidelity fund that limits the amount of total assets that it will invest in any one issuer or in issuers within the same industry, the fund generally will treat the borrower as the "issuer" of indebtedness held by the fund. In the case of loan participations where a bank or other lending institution serves as financial intermediary between a fund and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the fund the direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC interpretations require a fund, in appropriate circumstances, to treat both the lending bank or other lending institution and the borrower as "issuers" for these purposes. Treating a financial intermediary as an issuer of indebtedness may restrict a fund's ability to invest in indebtedness related to a single financial intermediary, or a group of intermediaries engaged in the same industry, even if the underlying borrowers represent many different companies and industries.
Lower-Quality Debt Securities. Lower-quality debt securities include all types of debt instruments that have poor protection with respect to the payment of interest and repayment of principal, or may be in default. These securities are often considered to be speculative and involve greater risk of loss or price changes due to changes in the issuer's capacity to pay. The market prices of lower-quality debt securities may fluctuate more than those of higher-quality debt securities and may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty, which may follow periods of rising interest rates.
The market for lower-quality debt securities may be thinner and less active than that for higher-quality debt securities, which can adversely affect the prices at which the former are sold. Adverse publicity and changing investor perceptions may affect the liquidity of lower-quality debt securities and the ability of outside pricing services to value lower-quality debt securities.
Because the risk of default is higher for lower-quality debt securities, research and credit analysis are an especially important part of managing securities of this type. Such analysis may focus on relative values based on factors such as interest or dividend coverage, asset coverage, earnings prospects, and the experience and managerial strength of the issuer, in an attempt to identify those issuers of high-yielding securities whose financial condition is adequate to meet future obligations, has improved, or is expected to improve in the future.
A fund may choose, at its expense or in conjunction with others, to pursue litigation or otherwise to exercise its rights as a security holder to seek to protect the interests of security holders if it determines this to be in the best interest of the fund's shareholders.
Precious Metals. Precious metals, such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, at times have been subject to substantial price fluctuations over short periods of time and may be affected by unpredictable monetary and political policies such as currency devaluations or revaluations, economic and social conditions within a country, trade imbalances, or trade or currency restrictions between countries. The prices of gold and other precious metals, however, are less subject to local and company-specific factors than securities of individual companies. As a result, precious metals may be more or less volatile in price than securities of companies engaged in precious metals-related businesses. Investments in precious metals can present concerns such as delivery, storage and maintenance, possible illiquidity, and the unavailability of accurate market valuations. Although precious metals can be purchased in any form, including bullion and coins, a Fidelity fund intends to purchase only those forms of precious metals that are readily marketable and that can be stored in accordance with custody regulations applicable to mutual funds. A fund may incur higher custody and transaction costs for precious metals than for securities. Also, precious metals investments do not pay income.
For a fund to qualify as a regulated investment company under current federal tax law, gains from selling precious metals may not exceed 10% of the fund's gross income for its taxable year. This tax requirement could cause a fund to hold or sell precious metals or securities when it would not otherwise do so.
Preferred Stock represents an equity or ownership 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.
Real Estate Investment Trusts. Equity real estate investment trusts own real estate properties, while mortgage real estate investment trusts make construction, development, and long-term mortgage loans. Their value may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property of the trusts, the creditworthiness of the issuer, property taxes, interest rates, and tax and regulatory requirements, such as those relating to the environment. Both types of trusts are dependent upon management skill, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status of income under the Internal Revenue Code and failing to maintain exemption from the 1940 Act.
<R> Reforms and Government Intervention in the Financial Markets. Economic downturns can trigger various economic, legal, budgetary, tax, and regulatory reforms across the globe. Instability in the financial markets in the wake of the 2008 economic downturn led the U.S. Government and other governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that experienced extreme volatility, and in some cases, a lack of liquidity. Reforms are ongoing and their effects are uncertain. Federal, state, local, foreign, and other governments, their regulatory agencies, or self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which a fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Reforms may also change the way in which a fund is regulated and could limit or preclude a fund's ability to achieve its investment objective or engage in certain strategies. Also, while reforms generally are intended to strengthen markets, systems, and public finances, they could affect fund expenses and the value of fund investments.</R>
<R>The value of a fund's holdings is also generally subject to the risk of future local, national, or global economic disturbances based on unknown weaknesses in the markets in which a fund invests. In the event of such a disturbance, the issuers of securities held by a fund may experience significant declines in the value of their assets and even cease operations, or may receive government assistance accompanied by increased restrictions on their business operations or other government intervention. In addition, it is not certain that the U.S. Government or foreign governments will intervene in response to a future market disturbance and the effect of any such future intervention cannot be predicted.</R>
<R> Repurchase Agreements involve an agreement to purchase a security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price. The resale price reflects the purchase price plus an agreed-upon incremental amount which is unrelated to the coupon rate or maturity of the purchased security. As protection against the risk that the original seller will not fulfill its obligation, the securities are held in a separate account at a bank, marked-to-market daily, and maintained at a value at least equal to the sale price plus the accrued incremental amount. The value of the security purchased may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to purchase the security. In addition, delays or losses could result if the other party to the agreement defaults or becomes insolvent. A fund may be limited in its ability to exercise its right to liquidate assets related to a repurchase agreement with an insolvent counterparty. A Fidelity fund may engage in repurchase agreement transactions with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser.</R>
Restricted Securities are subject to legal restrictions on their sale. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or be costly to a fund. Restricted securities generally can be sold in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (1933 Act), or in a registered public offering. Where registration is required, the holder of a registered security may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expense and a considerable period may elapse between the time it decides to seek registration and the time it may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the holder might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed when it decided to seek registration of the security.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. In a reverse repurchase agreement, a fund sells a security to another party, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that security at an agreed-upon price and time. A Fidelity fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser. Such transactions may increase fluctuations in the market value of a fund's assets and, if applicable, a fund's yield, and may be viewed as a form of leverage.
Securities Lending. Securities lending allows a fund to retain ownership of the securities loaned and, at the same time, earn additional income. The borrower provides the fund with collateral in an amount at least equal to the value of the securities loaned. The fund seeks to maintain the ability to obtain the right to vote or consent on proxy proposals involving material events affecting securities loaned. If the borrower defaults on its obligation to return the securities loaned because of insolvency or other reasons, a fund could experience delays and costs in recovering the securities loaned or in gaining access to the collateral. These delays and costs could be greater for foreign securities. If a fund is not able to recover the securities loaned, the fund may sell the collateral and purchase a replacement investment in the market. The value of the collateral could decrease below the value of the replacement investment by the time the replacement investment is purchased.
<R> Securities of Other Investment Companies, including shares of closed-end investment companies (which include business development companies (BDCs)), unit investment trusts, and open-end investment companies, represent interests in professionally managed portfolios that may invest in any type of instrument. Investing in other investment companies involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, but may involve additional expenses at the investment company-level, such as portfolio management fees and operating expenses. For certain investment companies, such as BDCs, these expenses may be significant. Certain types of investment companies, such as closed-end investment companies, issue a fixed number of shares that trade on a stock exchange or over-the-counter at a premium or a discount to their NAV. Others are continuously offered at NAV, but may also be traded in the secondary market.</R>
<R>The securities of closed-end funds may be leveraged. As a result, a fund may be indirectly exposed to leverage through an investment in such securities. An investment in securities of closed-end funds that use leverage may expose a fund to higher volatility in the market value of such securities and the possibility that the fund's long-term returns on such securities will be diminished.</R>
The extent to which a fund can invest in securities of other investment companies may be limited by federal securities laws.
Short Sales. Short sales involve the market sale of a security a fund has borrowed from a prime broker with which it has a contractual relationship, with the expectation that the security will underperform either the market or the securities that the fund holds long. A fund closes a short sale by purchasing the same security at the current market price and delivering it to the prime broker.
Until a fund closes out a short position, the fund is obligated to pay the prime broker (from which it borrowed the security sold short) interest as well as any dividends that accrue during the period of the loan. While a short position is outstanding, a fund must also pledge a portion of its assets to the prime broker as collateral for the borrowed security. The collateral will be marked to market daily.
Short positions create a risk that a fund will be required to cover them by buying the security at a time when the security has appreciated in value, thus resulting in a loss to the fund. A short position in a security poses more risk than holding the same security long. Because a short position loses value as the security's price increases, the loss on a short sale is theoretically unlimited. The loss on a long position is limited to what a fund originally paid for the security together with any transaction costs. A fund may not always be able to borrow a security the fund seeks to sell short at a particular time or at an acceptable price. As a result, a fund may be unable to fully implement its investment strategy due to a lack of available stocks or for other reasons. It is possible that the market value of the securities a fund holds in long positions will decline at the same time that the market value of the securities the fund has sold short increases, thereby increasing the fund's potential volatility. Because a fund may be required to pay dividends, interest, premiums and other expenses in connection with a short sale, any benefit for the fund resulting from the short sale will be decreased, and the amount of any ultimate gain will be decreased or of any loss will be increased, by the amount of such expenses.
A fund may also enter into short sales against the box. Short sales "against the box" are short sales of securities that a fund owns or has the right to obtain (equivalent in kind or amount to the securities sold short). If a fund enters into a short sale against the box, it will be required to set aside securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short (or securities convertible or exchangeable into such securities) and will be required to hold such securities while the short sale is outstanding. A fund will incur transaction costs, including interest expenses, in connection with opening, maintaining, and closing short sales against the box.
Sources of Liquidity or Credit Support. Issuers may employ various forms of credit and liquidity enhancements, including letters of credit, guarantees, swaps, puts, and demand features, and insurance provided by domestic or foreign entities such as banks and other financial institutions. An adviser and its affiliates may rely on their evaluation of the credit of the issuer or the credit of the liquidity or credit enhancement provider in determining whether to purchase or hold a security supported by such enhancement. In evaluating the credit of a foreign bank or other foreign entities, factors considered may include whether adequate public information about the entity is available and whether the entity may be subject to unfavorable political or economic developments, currency controls, or other government restrictions that might affect its ability to honor its commitment. Changes in the credit quality of the issuer and/or entity providing the enhancement could affect the value of the security or a fund's share price.
Sovereign Debt Obligations are issued or guaranteed by foreign governments or their agencies, including debt of Latin American nations or other developing countries. Sovereign debt may be in the form of conventional securities or other types of debt instruments such as loans or loan participations. Sovereign debt of developing countries may involve a high degree of risk, and may be in default or present the risk of default. Governmental entities responsible for repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal and pay interest when due, and may require renegotiation or rescheduling of debt payments. In addition, prospects for repayment of principal and payment of interest may depend on political as well as economic factors. Although some sovereign debt, such as Brady Bonds, is collateralized by U.S. Government securities, repayment of principal and payment of interest is not guaranteed by the U.S. Government.
<R> Structured Securities (also called "structured notes") are derivative debt securities, the interest rate on or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. The value of the interest rate on and/or the principal of structured securities is determined by reference to changes in the value of a reference instrument ( e.g., a security or other financial instrument, asset, currency, interest rate, commodity, or index) or the relative change in two or more reference instruments. A structured security may be positively, negatively, or both positively and negatively indexed; that is, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument increases. Similarly, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument decreases. Further, the change in the principal amount payable with respect to, or the interest rate of, a structured security may be calculated as a multiple of the percentage change (positive or negative) in the value of the underlying reference instrument(s); therefore, the value of such structured security may be very volatile. Structured securities may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because the investor bears the risk of the reference instrument. Structured securities may also be more volatile, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities or more traditional debt securities. In addition, because structured securities generally are traded over-the-counter, structured securities are subject to the creditworthiness of the counterparty of the structured security, and their values may decline substantially if the counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates.</R>
Temporary Defensive Policies. In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, a fund may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If a fund does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund reserves the right to invest without limitation in preferred stocks and investment-grade debt instruments for temporary, defensive purposes.
Transfer Agent Bank Accounts. Proceeds from shareholder purchases of a Fidelity fund may pass through a series of demand deposit bank accounts before being held at the fund's custodian. Redemption proceeds may pass from the custodian to the shareholder through a similar series of bank accounts.
If a bank account is registered to the transfer agent or an affiliate, who acts as an agent for the fund when opening, closing, and conducting business in the bank account, the transfer agent or an affiliate may invest overnight balances in the account in repurchase agreements. Any balances that are not invested in repurchase agreements remain in the bank account overnight. Any risks associated with such an account are investment risks of the fund. The fund faces the risk of loss of these balances if the bank becomes insolvent.
Warrants. Warrants are instruments which entitle the holder to buy an equity security at a specific price for a specific period of time. Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss.
Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
Zero Coupon Bonds do not make interest payments; instead, they are sold at a discount from their face value and are redeemed at face value when they mature. Because zero coupon bonds do not pay current income, their prices can be more volatile than other types of fixed-income securities when interest rates change. In calculating a fund's dividend, a portion of the difference between a zero coupon bond's purchase price and its face value is considered income.
To the extent that Strategic Advisers grants investment management authority over an allocated portion of the fund's assets to a sub-adviser (see the section entitled "Management Contract"), that sub-adviser is authorized to provide the services described in the respective sub-advisory agreement, and in accordance with the policies described in this section.
Orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities are placed on behalf of the fund by Strategic Advisers (either directly or through its affiliates) or a sub-adviser, pursuant to authority contained in the management contract and the respective sub-advisory agreement.
Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be responsible for the placement of portfolio securities transactions for other investment companies and investment accounts for which it has or its affiliates have investment discretion.
The fund will not incur any commissions or sales charges when it invests in affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it may incur such costs when it invests directly in other types of securities, including ETFs.
Purchases and sales of equity securities on a securities exchange or OTC are effected through brokers who receive compensation for their services. Generally, compensation relating to securities traded on foreign exchanges will be higher than compensation relating to securities traded on U.S. exchanges and may not be subject to negotiation. Compensation may also be paid in connection with principal transactions (in both OTC securities and securities listed on an exchange) and agency OTC transactions executed with an electronic communications network (ECN) or an alternative trading system. Equity securities may be purchased from underwriters at prices that include underwriting fees.
Purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally made with an issuer or a primary market-maker acting as principal. Although there is no stated brokerage commission paid by the fund for any fixed-income security, the price paid by the fund to an underwriter includes the disclosed underwriting fee and prices in secondary trades usually include an undisclosed dealer commission or markup reflecting the spread between the bid and ask prices of the fixed-income security. New issues of equity and fixed-income securities may also be purchased in underwritten fixed price offerings.
The Trustees of the fund periodically review Strategic Advisers' and its affiliates' and each sub-adviser's performance of their respective responsibilities in connection with the placement of portfolio securities transactions on behalf of the fund. The Trustees also review the compensation paid by the fund over representative periods of time to determine if it was reasonable in relation to the benefits to the fund.
Strategic Advisers.
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Strategic Advisers, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, the following: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and characteristics of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for avoiding or lessening market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
The trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Strategic Advisers or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker may be higher than the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Strategic Advisers or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
Benefit to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these brokerage and research products or services with their own resources. To minimize the potential for conflicts of interest, the trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services Strategic Advisers or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates or have no explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.
Strategic Advisers' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Strategic Advisers or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Strategic Advisers or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately, rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) who have entered into arrangements with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with certain brokers, including National Financial Services LLC (NFS), with whom they are under common control, provided Strategic Advisers or its affiliates determine that these affiliates' trade execution abilities and costs are comparable to those of non-affiliated, qualified brokerage firms. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with brokers that use NFS as a clearing agent.
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
<R> Non-U.S. Transactions</R>
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers.
Trade Allocation
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Strategic Advisers to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
First Eagle Investment Management, LLC (First Eagle).
First Eagle is responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities, futures and options on securities, on indices and on futures for the fund, the selection of brokers, dealers and futures commission merchants to effect those transactions and the negotiations of brokerage commissions, if any, for its portion of the fund. Broker-dealers and futures commission merchants may receive brokerage commissions on fund portfolio transactions, including options and the purchase and sale of underlying securities or futures positions upon the exercise of options. Orders may be directed to any broker or futures commission merchant including, to the extent and in the manner permitted by applicable law. A substantial number of brokers through whom First Eagle executes agency orders provide proprietary research on general economic trends or particular companies. Selected brokers provide third-party research and brokerage services, that is, services obtained by the broker from a third party that the broker then provides to First Eagle including "commission sharing arrangements." First Eagle may obtain quote and other market data information in this manner. Certain brokers may also invite investment personnel of First Eagle to attend investment conferences sponsored by such brokers.
Brokerage commissions generally are negotiated in the case of U.S. securities transactions, but in the case of foreign securities transactions may be fixed and may be higher than prevailing U.S. rates. Commission rates are established pursuant to negotiations with the executing parties based on the quantity and quality of the execution services. Equity securities traded in over-the-counter market and bonds, including convertible bonds, are generally traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the security usually includes a profit to the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price which includes an amount of compensation to the underwriters, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount. On occasion, certain money market instruments and U.S. government agency securities may be purchased directly from the issuer, in which case no commissions or discounts are paid. First Eagle will consider the research and investment services provided by brokers, dealers or futures commission merchants who effect or are parties to portfolio transactions the fund, First Eagle or First Eagle's other clients. Such research and investment services include those which brokerage houses customarily provide to institutional investors such as statistical and economic data and research reports on particular companies and industries. In general, research and brokerage services obtained from brokers are used by First Eagle in connection with all of its investment activities, and some of such services obtained in connection with the execution of transactions for the fund may be used in managing other investment accounts. Conversely, brokers, dealers or futures commission merchants furnishing such services may be selected for the execution of transactions of such other accounts, whose aggregate assets are far larger than the fund's, and the services furnished by such brokers, dealers or futures commission merchants may be used by First Eagle in providing investment management for the fund. Commission rates are established pursuant to negotiations with the broker, dealer or futures commission merchant based on the quality and quantity of execution services provided by the executing party in light of generally prevailing rates. In addition, First Eagle may pay higher commissions on brokerage transactions for the fund to brokers in order to secure the research and investment services.
Lazard Asset Management, LLC (Lazard).
Lazard is primarily responsible for the investment decisions and the placing of portfolio transactions for its portion of the fund. In arranging for the fund's securities transactions, Lazard is primarily concerned with seeking best execution, which is considered to be the most favorable combination of price and quantity that can be traded at a point in time given, among other factors, the liquidity, market conditions, and required urgency of execution. In choosing broker-dealers, Lazard considers all relevant factors, including but not limited to: the ability of a broker-dealer to provide a prompt and efficient agency execution; the ability and willingness of a broker-dealer to facilitate the transactions by acting as principal and going at risk for its own accounts; the ability of a broker-dealer to provide accurate and timely settlement of the transaction; Lazard's knowledge of the negotiated commission rates currently available and other current transactions costs; the clearance and settlement capabilities of the broker; Lazard's knowledge of the financial condition of the broker or dealer selected; and any other matter relevant to the selection of a broker-dealer.
In the over-the-counter market, securities are generally traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the security usually includes a profit to the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price that includes an amount of compensation to the underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount.
Purchase and sale orders for securities held by the fund may be combined with those for other accounts in the interest of the most favorable net results for all. In some cases, this policy may adversely affect the price paid or received by an account, or the size of the position obtained or liquidated. When Lazard determines that a particular security should be bought for or sold by more than one client, Lazard undertakes to allocate those transactions between the participants equitably.
<R> OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (OppenheimerFunds). </R>
<R>One of OppenheimerFunds' duties under the investment sub-advisory agreement is to arrange the portfolio transactions for its portion of the fund. The sub-advisory agreement contains provisions relating to the employment of broker-dealers for that purpose. The sub-advisory agreement authorizes OppenheimerFunds to employ broker-dealers, including "affiliated brokers," as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act, that OppenheimerFunds believes, in its best judgment based on all relevant factors, will implement the policy of the fund to obtain the "best execution" of the fund's portfolio transactions. "Best execution" means executing trades in a manner such that the total costs or proceeds are the most favorable under the circumstances. Some of the circumstances that may influence this decision are: cost (brokerage commission or dealer spread), size of order, difficulty of order, and the firm's ability to provide prompt and reliable execution.</R>
<R>OppenheimerFunds need not seek competitive commission bidding. However, OppenheimerFunds is expected to be aware of the current rates of eligible brokers and to minimize the commissions paid to the extent consistent with the interests and policies of the fund as established by its board of directors. The fund is not required to pay the lowest available commission. Under the sub-advisory agreement, in choosing brokers to execute portfolio transactions for the fund, OppenheimerFunds may select brokers (other than affiliates) that provide both brokerage and research services to the fund. The commissions paid to those brokers may be higher than another qualified broker would charge, if OppenheimerFunds makes a good faith determination that the commission is fair and reasonable in relation to the services provided.</R>
<R>The sub-advisory agreement permits OppenheimerFunds to allocate brokerage for research services in compliance with Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The research services provided by a particular broker may be useful both to the fund and to one or more of the other funds or accounts advised by OppenheimerFunds or its affiliates. Investment research may be supplied to OppenheimerFunds by a broker through which trades are placed or by a third party at the instance of the broker.</R>
<R>Investment research services include information and analysis on particular companies and industries as well as market or economic trends and portfolio strategy, market quotations for portfolio evaluations, analytical software and similar products and services. If a research service also assists OppenheimerFunds in a non-research capacity (such as bookkeeping or other administrative functions), then only the percentage or component that provides assistance to OppenheimerFunds in the investment decision making process may be paid in commission dollars. The research services provided by brokers broaden the scope and supplement the research activities of OppenheimerFunds. That research provides additional views and comparisons for consideration, and helps OppenheimerFunds to obtain market information for the valuation of securities that are either held in the fund's portfolio or are being considered for purchase.</R>
<R>OppenheimerFunds' portfolio traders allocate brokerage based upon recommendations from the portfolio managers, together with the portfolio traders' judgment as to the execution capability of the broker or dealer. In certain instances, portfolio managers may directly place trades and allocate brokerage. In either case, OppenheimerFunds' executive officers supervise the allocation of brokerage.</R>
<R>Transactions in securities other than those for which an exchange is the primary market are generally done with principals or market makers. In transactions on foreign exchanges, the fund may be required to pay fixed brokerage commissions and therefore would not have the benefit of negotiated commissions that are available in U.S. markets. Brokerage commissions are paid primarily for transactions in listed securities or for certain fixed-income agency transactions executed in the secondary market. Otherwise, brokerage commissions are paid only if it appears likely that a better price or execution can be obtained by doing so. In an option transaction, the fund ordinarily uses the same broker for the purchase or sale of the option and any transaction in the securities to which the option relates.</R>
<R>Other funds and accounts advised by OppenheimerFunds may have investment policies similar to those of the fund. Those other funds and accounts may purchase or sell the same securities as the fund at the same time as the fund, which could affect the supply and price of the securities. When possible, OppenheimerFunds tries to combine concurrent orders to purchase or sell the same security by more than one of the funds and accounts managed by OppenheimerFunds or its affiliates. If two or more accounts advised by OppenheimerFunds purchase the same security on the same day from the same dealer, the transactions under those combined orders are averaged as to price and allocated in accordance with the purchase or sale orders actually placed for each account.</R>
Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis).
<R> The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers</R>
<R>Pyramis or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Pyramis, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Pyramis or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and character of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Pyramis and/or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for lessening or avoiding market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.</R>
<R>In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis and/or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Pyramis and/or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Pyramis or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker is generally the same as the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.</R>
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Pyramis or its affiliates.
<R> Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Pyramis' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise. </R>
<R> Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).</R>
<R> Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Pyramis or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in their investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Pyramis or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").</R>
<R> Benefits to Pyramis. Pyramis' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these products or services with their own resources. However, the trading desks of Pyramis and its affiliates are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services that Pyramis or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Pyramis or its affiliates or might not have an explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.</R>
<R> Pyramis' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Pyramis or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Pyramis or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Pyramis or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Pyramis, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Pyramis or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Pyramis or its affiliates.</R>
<R> Research Contracts. Pyramis or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Pyramis or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Pyramis or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Pyramis or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Pyramis or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Pyramis and its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Pyramis' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately ( e.g., with hard dollars), rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Pyramis' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.</R>
<R> Commission Recapture</R>
<R>Pyramis or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) who have entered into arrangements with Pyramis or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.</R>
<R> Affiliated Transactions</R>
<R>Pyramis or its affiliates may be authorized to place portfolio transactions with Fidelity Capital Markets (FCM), a division of NFS, an affiliated broker-dealer of Pyramis and its affiliates, or other broker-dealers with whom they are under common control, and use CrossStream, an alternative trading system operated by NFS, if they reasonably believe the quality of the transaction is comparable to what it would be with other qualified broker-dealers. With respect to trades that are executed by Pyramis' affiliates, Pyramis and such affiliate seek to ensure that the trade execution obtained is comparable to that of unaffiliated brokers and that the continued use of such affiliate is appropriate. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may place trades with broker-dealers that use NFS as a clearing agent.</R>
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
<R> Non-U.S. Securities Transactions</R>
<R>To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers or may engage a third party to do so.</R>
<R> Trade Allocation</R>
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Pyramis or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Pyramis or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
<R>When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Pyramis to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.</R>
T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. (T. Rowe Price).
Investment or Brokerage Discretion
Decisions with respect to the selection, purchase, and sale of portfolio securities on behalf of an allocated portion of the fund's assets (the sub-fund) are made by T. Rowe Price. T. Rowe Price is responsible for implementing the decisions for the sub-fund, including, where applicable, the negotiation of commissions, the allocation of portfolio brokerage and principal business, and the use of affiliates to assist in routing orders for execution.
How Broker-Dealers Are Selected
In purchasing and selling equity securities, T. Rowe Price seeks to obtain best execution at favorable prices through responsible broker-dealers and, in the case of agency transactions, at competitive commission rates. However, under certain conditions, higher brokerage commissions may be paid to broker-dealers providing brokerage and research services. In selecting broker-dealers to execute the sub-fund's portfolio transactions, consideration is given to such factors as the price of the security, the rate of the commission, the size and difficulty of the order, the reliability, integrity, general execution, and operational capabilities of competing broker-dealers, their expertise in particular markets, and brokerage and research services provided by them. It is not the policy of T. Rowe Price to seek the lowest available commission rate where it is believed that a broker-dealer charging a higher commission rate would offer greater reliability or provide better price or more efficient execution.
In general, we utilize a broad spectrum of execution venues. These include traditional stock exchanges, electronic communication networks, alternative trading systems, algorithmic solutions, crossing networks, and other alternative pools of liquidity. In selecting from among these options, T. Rowe Price generally seeks to select the broker-dealers or system it believes to be actively and effectively trading the security being purchased or sold.
Evaluating the Overall Reasonableness of Brokerage Commissions Paid
On a continuing basis, T. Rowe Price seeks to determine what levels of commission rates are reasonable in the marketplace for transactions executed on behalf of clients. In evaluating the reasonableness of commission rates, T. Rowe Price considers factors such as: (a) rates quoted by broker-dealers; (b) the size of a particular transaction, in terms of the number of shares, dollar amount, and number of clients involved; (c) the complexity of a particular transaction in terms of both execution and settlement; (d) the level and type of business conducted with a particular firm over a period of time; (e) the extent to which the broker-dealer has capital at risk in the transaction; (f) historical commission rates; and (g) rates paid by other institutional investors based on available public information.
Commissions Paid to Broker-Dealers for Research
<R>T. Rowe Price receives a wide range of research services from broker-dealers. These services include information on the economy, industries, groups of securities, individual companies, statistics, accounting and tax law interpretations, political developments, legal developments affecting portfolio securities, technical market action, pricing and appraisal services, performance analysis, credit analysis, risk measurement analysis, and analysis of corporate responsibility issues. The research incorporates both domestic and international perspectives. Research services are received primarily in the form of written reports, e-mails, computer-generated services, telephone contacts, and personal meetings with security analysts, corporate and industry executives, and other persons. In addition, research may include the provision of access to unaffiliated individuals with expertise in various industries, businesses, or other related areas. T. Rowe Price receives (including receipt by accessing certain electronic platforms) complimentary and customary fixed income research from various broker-dealers, including broker-dealers with whom fixed income transactions are carried out in accordance with T. Rowe Price's best execution obligations. Such research, however, is not contingent upon specific trades with the providing broker-dealer. Such services may also be provided through meetings arranged with corporate management, industry spokespersons, economists, academicians, and government representatives. Some research may be incorporated into firm-wide systems or communications.</R>
Certain broker-dealers that provide quality brokerage and execution services also furnish proprietary research services to T. Rowe Price. Proprietary research may also include research provided by an affiliate of the broker-dealer. With regard to the payment of brokerage commissions and receipt of proprietary research, T. Rowe Price has adopted brokerage allocation policies which embody the concepts of Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act which permits an investment adviser to cause its accounts or clients to pay a higher commission to a broker-dealer that furnishes research services than what might be charged by another broker-dealer that does not furnish research services (or that furnishes brokerage and research services deemed to be of lesser value). The adviser must determine in good faith that the commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the research services (and any brokerage services) provided. The determination may be viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the adviser with respect to the accounts over which it exercises investment discretion. As a result, research may not necessarily benefit all accounts paying commissions to such broker-dealers.
T. Rowe Price has a policy of not allocating brokerage business in return for products or services other than brokerage or research services, as described in Section 28(e).
Independent third-party research is an important component of the investment process and may be paid for directly by T. Rowe Price, obtained through commission sharing arrangements ("CSAs"), or acquired through "step-out" transactions. T. Rowe Price may obtain third-party research from broker-dealers or nonbroker-dealers by entering into CSAs. Under a CSA, the executing broker-dealer agrees that part of the commissions it earns on certain equity trades for T. Rowe Price will be allocated to one or more research providers, as directed by T. Rowe Price as payment for research. The use of CSAs allows T. Rowe Price to direct broker-dealers to pool commissions that are generated from orders executed at that broker-dealer (for equity transactions on behalf of the T. Rowe Price Funds and other client accounts), and then periodically direct the broker-dealer to pay third party research providers for research. All such uses of CSAs by T. Rowe Price are subject to applicable law and their best execution obligations.
Allocation of Brokerage Commissions
T. Rowe Price has a policy of not pre-committing a specific amount of business to any broker-dealer over any specific time period. Historically, brokerage placement has been determined, as appropriate, by the needs of a specific transaction such as market-making, availability of a buyer or seller of a particular security, or specialized execution skills. T. Rowe Price may choose to allocate brokerage among several broker-dealers that are able to meet the needs of the transaction. Each quarter, T. Rowe Price assesses the contributions of the equity brokerage and research services provided by broker-dealers and creates a ranking of broker-dealers in response to these assessments. Portfolio managers, research analysts, and the trading department each evaluate the brokerage, execution, and research services they receive from broker-dealers and make judgments as to the quality of such services. Actual business received by a particular firm may not directly reflect its ranking in the voting process. It may be less than the suggested target but can, and often does, exceed the suggestions because the total business is allocated on the basis of all the considerations described above. Allocation of brokerage business is monitored on a periodic basis by the Equity and Fixed Income Brokerage and Trading Control Committees. In no event is a broker-dealer excluded from receiving business from T. Rowe Price because it has not been identified as providing research services. Discount or execution only brokers, as well as ECNs, are used where deemed appropriate.
Trade Allocation Policies
T. Rowe Price has developed written trade allocation guidelines for its trading desks. Generally, when the amount of securities available in a public offering or the secondary markets is insufficient to satisfy the volume or price requirements for the participating client portfolios, the guidelines require a pro-rata allocation based upon the relative sizes of the participating client portfolios or the relative sizes of the participating client orders, depending upon the market involved. In allocating trades made on a combined basis, the trading desks seek to achieve the same net unit price of the securities for each participating client. Because a pro-rata allocation may not always adequately accommodate all facts and circumstances, the guidelines provide for exceptions to allocate trades on an adjusted basis. For example, adjustments may be made: (i) to eliminate de minimis positions; (ii) to give priority to accounts with specialized investment policies and objectives; and (iii) to reallocate in light of a participating portfolio's characteristics (e.g., available cash, industry or issuer concentration, duration, credit exposure). With respect to any private placement transactions, conditions imposed by the issuer may limit availability of allocations to client accounts.
Miscellaneous
It is the policy of T. Rowe Price not to favor one client over another in making recommendations or in placing orders. T. Rowe Price frequently follows the practice of grouping orders of various clients for execution. Clients should be aware, however, that the grouping of their orders with other clients' orders may sometimes result in a more favorable price and at other times may result in a less favorable price than if the client orders had not been grouped. Where an aggregate order is executed in a series of transactions at various prices on a given day, each participating client's proportionate share of such order will reflect the average price paid or received with respect to the total order.
Commissions Paid
A fund may pay compensation including both commissions and spreads in connection with the placement of portfolio transactions. The amount of brokerage commissions paid by a fund may change from year to year because of, among other things, changing asset levels, shareholder activity, and/or portfolio turnover.
<R>For the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 77% (annualized). Variations in turnover rate may be due to a fluctuating volume of shareholder purchase and redemption orders, market conditions, and/or changes in Strategic Advisers' investment outlook.</R>
<R>During the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012, the fund held securities issued by one or more of its regular brokers or dealers or a parent company of its regular brokers or dealers. The following table shows the aggregate value of the securities of the regular broker or dealer or parent company held by the fund as of the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012.</R>
<R>The following table shows the total amount of brokerage commissions paid by the fund, comprising commissions paid on securities and/or futures transactions, as applicable, for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012. The total amount of brokerage commissions paid is stated as a dollar amount and a percentage of the fund's average net assets.</R>
<R>Fiscal Year
|
|
Dollar
|
Percentage of
|
<R>2012 A |
|
$ 34,474 |
0.06%</R> |
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R>During the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid $24,226 in brokerage commissions to firms that may have provided research or brokerage services involving approximately $61,308,685 of transactions.</R>
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. The NAV of the fund is computed by adding the value of the fund's investments, cash, and other assets, subtracting its liabilities, and dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding.
The Board of Trustees has ultimate responsibility for pricing, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers has established the Strategic Advisers Fair Value Committee (Strategic Advisers Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities. The Strategic Advisers Committee may rely on information and recommendations provided by affiliates of Strategic Advisers in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, including the fair valuation of securities.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) held by the fund are valued at their respective NAVs. If an underlying fund's NAV is unavailable, shares of that underlying fund will be fair valued in good faith by the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Generally, other portfolio securities and assets held by the fund, as well as portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity non-money market fund, are valued as follows:
Most equity securities (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued at the official closing price or the last reported sale price or, if no sale has occurred, at the last quoted bid price on the primary market or exchange on which they are traded.
Debt securities and other assets for which market quotations are readily available may be valued at market values in the principal market in which they normally are traded, as furnished by recognized dealers in such securities or assets. Or, debt securities and convertible securities may be valued on the basis of information furnished by a pricing service that uses a valuation matrix which incorporates both dealer-supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Use of pricing services has been approved by the Board of Trustees. A number of pricing services are available, and the fund may use various pricing services or discontinue the use of any pricing service.
Short-term securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less for which market quotations and information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available are valued at amortized cost, which approximates current value.
Futures contracts are valued at the settlement or closing price. Options are valued at their market quotations, if available. Swaps are valued daily using quotations received from independent pricing services or recognized dealers.
Independent brokers or quotation services provide prices of foreign securities in their local currency. Fidelity Service Company, Inc. (FSC) gathers all exchange rates daily at the close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) using the last quoted bid price on the local currency and then translates the value of foreign securities from their local currencies into U.S. dollars. Any changes in the value of forward contracts due to exchange rate fluctuations and days to maturity are included in the calculation of NAV.
The Board of Trustees of the underlying Fidelity funds has ultimate responsibility for pricing portfolio securities and assets held by those funds, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to FMR. FMR has established the FMR Fair Value Committee (FMR Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities.
Other portfolio securities and assets for which market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available or, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, are deemed unreliable will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before a fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, that security will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. In fair valuing a security, the FMR Committee and the Strategic Advisers Committee may consider factors including price movements in futures contracts and ADRs, market and trading trends, the bid/ask quotes of brokers, and off-exchange institutional trading.
Portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity money market fund are valued on the basis of amortized cost. This technique involves initially valuing an instrument at its cost as adjusted for amortization of premium or accretion of discount rather than its current market value. The amortized cost value of an instrument may be higher or lower than the price a money market fund would receive if it sold the instrument.
At such intervals as they deem appropriate, the Trustees of an underlying Fidelity money market fund consider the extent to which NAV calculated using market valuations would deviate from the $1.00 per share calculated using amortized cost valuation. If the Trustees believe that a deviation from a money market fund's amortized cost per share may result in material dilution or other unfair results to shareholders, the Trustees have agreed to take such corrective action, if any, as they deem appropriate to eliminate or reduce, to the extent reasonably practicable, the dilution or unfair results. Such corrective action could include selling portfolio instruments prior to maturity to realize capital gains or losses or to shorten average portfolio maturity; withholding dividends; redeeming shares in kind; establishing NAV by using available market quotations; and such other measures as the Trustees may deem appropriate.
BUYING, SELLING, AND EXCHANGING INFORMATION
The fund may make redemption payments in whole or in part in readily marketable securities or other property pursuant to procedures approved by the Trustees if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund. Such securities or other property will be valued for this purpose as they are valued in computing the fund's NAV. Shareholders that receive securities or other property will realize, upon receipt, a gain or loss for tax purposes, and will incur additional costs and be exposed to market risk prior to and upon the sale of such securities or other property.
The fund, in its discretion, may determine to issue its shares in kind in exchange for securities held by the purchaser having a value, determined in accordance with the fund's policies for valuation of portfolio securities, equal to the purchase price of the fund shares issued. The fund will accept for in-kind purchases only securities or other instruments that are appropriate under its investment objective and policies. In addition, the fund generally will not accept securities of any issuer unless they are liquid, have a readily ascertainable market value, and are not subject to restrictions on resale. All dividends, distributions, and subscription or other rights associated with the securities become the property of the fund, along with the securities. Shares purchased in exchange for securities in kind generally cannot be redeemed for fifteen days following the exchange to allow time for the transfer to settle.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
<R> Dividends. Distributions by the fund to tax-advantaged retirement plan accounts are not taxable currently. For all other accounts, a portion of the fund's income may qualify for the dividends-received deduction available to corporate shareholders, but it is unlikely that all of the fund's income will qualify for the deduction. A portion of the fund's dividends, when distributed to individual shareholders, may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).</R>
Capital Gain Distributions. Unless your shares of the fund are held in a tax-advantaged retirement plan, the fund's long-term capital gain distributions, including amounts attributable to an underlying fund's long-term capital gain distributions, are federally taxable to shareholders generally as capital gains.
Returns of Capital. If the fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
Foreign Tax Credit or Deduction. Foreign governments may impose withholding taxes on dividends and interest earned by the fund with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. Foreign governments may also impose taxes on other payments or gains with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. As a general matter, if, at the close of its fiscal year, more than 50% of the fund's total assets is invested in securities of foreign issuers, the fund may elect to pass through eligible foreign taxes paid and thereby allow shareholders to take a deduction or, if they meet certain holding period requirements with respect to fund shares, a credit on their individual tax returns. In addition, if at the close of each quarter of its fiscal year at least 50% of the fund's total assets is represented by interests in other regulated investment companies, the same rules will apply to any foreign tax credits that underlying funds pass through to the fund. The amount of foreign taxes paid by the fund will be reduced to the extent that the fund lends securities over the dividend record date. Special rules may apply to the credit for individuals who receive dividends qualifying for the long-term capital gains tax rate.
Tax Status of the Fund. The fund intends to qualify each year as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code so that it will not be liable for federal tax on income and capital gains distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify as a regulated investment company, and avoid being subject to federal income or excise taxes at the fund level, the fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains within each calendar year as well as on a fiscal year basis (if the fiscal year is other than the calendar year), and intends to comply with other tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies.
Other Tax Information. The information above is only a summary of some of the tax consequences generally affecting the fund and its shareholders, and no attempt has been made to discuss individual tax consequences. It is up to you or your tax preparer to determine whether the sale of shares of the fund resulted in a capital gain or loss or other tax consequence to you. In addition to federal income taxes, shareholders may be subject to state and local taxes on fund distributions, and shares may be subject to state and local personal property taxes. Investors should consult their tax advisers to determine whether the fund is suitable to their particular tax situation.
<R>The Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and executive officers of the trust and fund, as applicable, are listed below. The Board of Trustees governs the fund and is responsible for protecting the interests of shareholders. The Trustees are experienced executives who meet periodically throughout the year to oversee the fund's activities, review contractual arrangements with companies that provide services to the fund, oversee management of the risks associated with such activities and contractual arrangements, and review the fund's performance. If the interests of the fund and an underlying Fidelity fund were to diverge, a conflict of interest could arise and affect how the Trustees and Member of the Advisory Board fulfill their fiduciary duties to the affected funds. Strategic Advisers has structured the fund to avoid these potential conflicts, although there may be situations where a conflict of interest is unavoidable. In such instances, Strategic Advisers, the Trustees, and Member of the Advisory Board would take reasonable steps to minimize and, if possible, eliminate the conflict. Each of the Trustees oversees 26 funds advised by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate.</R>
The Trustees hold office without limit in time except that (a) any Trustee may resign; (b) any Trustee may be removed by written instrument, signed by at least two-thirds of the number of Trustees prior to such removal; (c) any Trustee who requests to be retired or who has become incapacitated by illness or injury may be retired by written instrument signed by a majority of the other Trustees; and (d) any Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of shareholders by a two-thirds vote of the outstanding voting securities of the trust. The executive officers and Advisory Board Member hold office without limit in time, except that any officer and Advisory Board Member may resign or may be removed by a vote of a majority of the Trustees at any regular meeting or any special meeting of the Trustees. Except as indicated, each individual has held the office shown or other offices in the same company for the past five years.
Each Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) is referred to herein as an Independent Trustee.
Experience, Skills, Attributes, and Qualifications of the Fund's Trustees. The Governance and Nominating Committee has adopted a statement of policy that describes the experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills that are necessary and desirable for potential Independent Trustee candidates (Statement of Policy). The Board believes that each Trustee satisfied at the time he or she was initially elected or appointed a Trustee, and continues to satisfy, the standards contemplated by the Statement of Policy. The Governance and Nominating Committee may also engage professional search firms to help identify potential Independent Trustee candidates with experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills consistent with the Statement of Policy. Additional criteria based on the composition and skills of the current Independent Trustees, as well as experience or skills that may be appropriate in light of future changes to board composition, business conditions, and regulatory or other developments, may be considered by the professional search firms and the Governance and Nominating Committee. In addition, the Board takes into account the Trustees' commitment and participation in Board and committee meetings, as well as their leadership of standing and ad hoc committees throughout their tenure.
In determining that a particular Trustee was and continues to be qualified to serve as a Trustee, the Board has considered a variety of criteria, none of which, in isolation, was controlling. The Board believes that, collectively, the Trustees have balanced and diverse experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills, which allow the Board to operate effectively in governing the fund and protecting the interests of shareholders. Information about the specific experience, skills, attributes, and qualifications of each Trustee, which in each case led to the Board's conclusion that the Trustee should serve (or continue to serve) as a trustee of the fund, is provided below.
Board Structure and Oversight Function. Roger T. Servison is an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) and currently serves as Chairman. The Trustees have determined that an interested Chairman is appropriate and benefits shareholders because an interested Chairman has a personal and professional stake in the quality and continuity of services provided to the fund. Independent Trustees exercise their informed business judgment to appoint an individual of their choosing to serve as Chairman, regardless of whether the Trustee happens to be independent or a member of management. The Independent Trustees have determined that they can act independently and effectively without having an Independent Trustee serve as Chairman and that a key structural component for assuring that they are in a position to do so is for the Independent Trustees to constitute a substantial majority for the Board. The Independent Trustees also regularly meet in executive session. Ralph F. Cox serves as the lead Independent Trustee and as such (i) acts as a liaison between the Independent Trustees and management with respect to matters important to the Independent Trustees and (ii) with management prepares agendas for Board meetings.
<R>Fidelity funds are overseen by different Boards of Trustees. The fund's Board oversees asset allocation funds as well as the Fidelity enhanced index funds. Other boards oversee Fidelity's investment-grade bond, money market, and asset allocation funds and Fidelity's equity and high income funds. The fund may invest in Fidelity funds overseen by such other Boards. The use of separate Boards, each with its own committee structure, allows the Trustees of each group of Fidelity funds to focus on the unique issues of the funds they oversee, including common research, investment, and operational issues.</R>
<R>The Trustees primarily operate as a full Board, but also operate in committees, to facilitate the timely and efficient consideration of all matters of importance to the Trustees, the fund, and fund shareholders and to facilitate compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and oversight of the fund's activities and associated risks. The Board has charged Strategic Advisers and its affiliates with (i) identifying events or circumstances the occurrence of which could have demonstrably adverse effects on the fund's business and/or reputation; (ii) implementing processes and controls to lessen the possibility that such events or circumstances occur or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur; and (iii) creating and maintaining a system designed to evaluate continuously business and market conditions in order to facilitate the identification and implementation processes described in (i) and (ii) above. Because the day-to-day operations and activities of the fund are carried out by or through Strategic Advisers, its affiliates and other service providers, the fund's exposure to risks is mitigated but not eliminated by the processes overseen by the Trustees. Board oversight of different aspects of the fund's activities is exercised primarily through the full Board, but also through the Audit and Compliance Committee. Appropriate personnel, including but not limited to the fund's Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), FMR's internal auditor, the independent accountants, the fund's Treasurer and portfolio management personnel, make periodic reports to the Board's committees, as appropriate. The responsibilities of each committee, including their oversight responsibilities, are described further under "Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees."</R>
<R> Interested Trustees *:</R>
<R>Correspondence intended for each Trustee who is an interested person may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.</R>
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience +</R> |
|
<R>Roger T. Servison (66)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Servison is Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Servison serves as President of Strategic New Business Development for Fidelity Investments and serves as a Director of Strategic Advisers. Previously, Mr. Servison oversaw Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company (2005-2006) and Strategic Advisers (2005-2007). Mr. Servison also served as President and a Director of Fidelity Brokerage Services (Japan), LLC (1994-2004). |
<R>Derek L. Young (47)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Mr. Young is Vice President of Fidelity's Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present), President and a Director of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011-present), President of Fidelity Global Asset Allocation (GAA) (2011-present), and Vice Chairman of Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (2011-present). Previously, Mr. Young served as Chief Investment Officer of GAA (2009-2011) and as a portfolio manager. |
<R>* Trustees have been determined to be "Interested Trustees" by virtue of, among other things, their affiliation with the trust or various entities under common control with Strategic Advisers.</R>
<R> + The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.</R>
<R> Independent Trustees :</R>
<R>Correspondence intended for each Independent Trustee (that is, the Trustees other than the Interested Trustees) may be sent to Fidelity Investments, P.O. Box 55235, Boston, Massachusetts 02205-5235.</R>
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience +</R> |
|
<R>Peter C. Aldrich (68)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Aldrich is a Director of the National Bureau of Economic Research and a Director of the funds of BlackRock Realty Group (2006-present). Previously, Mr. Aldrich served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010), a Managing Member of Poseidon, LLC (foreign private investment, 1998-2004), and Chairman and Managing Member of AEGIS, LLC (foreign private investment, 1997-2004). Mr. Aldrich also served as Faculty Chairman of The Research Council on Global Investment of The Conference Board (business and professional education non-profit, 1999-2004). Mr. Aldrich is a Member of the Boards of Trustees of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. |
<R>Amy Butte Liebowitz (44)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Ms. Butte Liebowitz is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of TILE Financial (financial internet service, 2008-present). Previously, Ms. Butte Liebowitz served as the Chief Financial Officer and member of the Board of Directors of MF Global (broker-dealer, 2006-2008), and Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the New York Stock Exchange (2004-2006). Ms. Butte Liebowitz is a member of the Boards of Directors of Accion International and the New York Women's Forum, as well as a selected participant in the World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader program. |
<R>Ralph F. Cox (79)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Cox is President of RABAR Enterprises (management consulting for the petroleum industry). Mr. Cox is a Director of Abraxas Petroleum (exploration and production). Mr. Cox is a member of the Advisory Boards of the Business and Engineering Schools of Texas A&M University and the Engineering School of University of Texas at Austin. Previously, Mr. Cox served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010) and as an Advisory Director of CH2M Hill Companies (engineering, 1981-2011). Mr. Ralph F. Cox and Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. are not related. |
<R>Karen Kaplan (52)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Ms. Kaplan is President of Hill Holliday (advertising and specialized marketing, 2007-present). Ms. Kaplan is a Director of DSM (dba Delta Dental, Doral, and DentaQuest) (2004-present), Member of the Board of Governors of the Chief Executives' Club of Boston (2010-present), Member of the Board of the Massachusetts Conference for Women (2008-present), and Director of the Executive Committee of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce (2006-present). She is also a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, an action oriented community of the most effective CEOs, heads of state, Nobel Prize winners, and non-governmental leaders in the world. Previously, Ms. Kaplan served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010), President of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2008-2010), Treasurer of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2002-2006), Vice Chair of the Board of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (2003-2010), Director of United Way of Massachusetts Bay (2004-2006), Director of ADVO (direct mail marketing, 2003-2007), and Director of Tweeter Home Entertainment Group (2006-2007). |
<R> + The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.</R>
<R> Advisory Board Member and Executive Officers :</R>
<R>Correspondence intended for each executive officer and Howard E. Cox, Jr. may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.</R>
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupation</R> |
|
<R>Howard E. Cox, Jr. (68)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Member of the Advisory Board of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II. Mr. Cox is a Member of the Advisory Board of Devonshire Investors (2009-present). Mr. Cox serves as an Advisory Partner of Greylock (venture capital) and a Director of Stryker Corporation (medical products and services). Previously, Mr. Cox served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010) and a Member of the Secretary of Defense's Business Board of Directors (2008-2010). Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. and Mr. Ralph F. Cox are not related. |
<R>Kenneth B. Robins (42)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> President and Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Robins also serves as President and Treasurer of other Fidelity Equity and High Income Funds (2008-present) and Assistant Treasurer of other Fidelity Fixed Income and Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present). Mr. Robins is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). Previously, Mr. Robins served as Deputy Treasurer of the Fidelity funds (2005-2008) and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2006-2008). |
<R>Marc Bryant (46)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010</R> Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of the fund. Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Fidelity Investments. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments, Mr. Bryant served as a Senior Vice President and the Head of Global Retail Legal for AllianceBernstein L.P. (2006-2010), and as the General Counsel for ProFund Advisors LLC (2001-2006). |
<R>Elizabeth Paige Baumann (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Officer of the fund. Ms. Baumann also serves as AML Officer of the Fidelity funds (2012-present) and The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2012-present), Chief AML Officer of FMR LLC (2012-present), and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Ms. Baumann served as Vice President and Deputy Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2007-2012). |
<R>Nicholas E. Steck (48)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Financial Officer of the fund. Mr. Steck serves as Senior Vice President of Fidelity Pricing and Cash Management Services (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. During the period 2002 to 2009, Mr. Steck served as a Compliance Officer of FMR, Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc., FMR LLC, Fidelity Research & Analysis (U.K.) Inc., Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc. |
<R>Laura M. Doherty (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Compliance Officer of the fund. Ms. Doherty also serves as Senior Vice President of the Office of the Chief Compliance Officer (2008-present). Previously, Ms. Doherty served as a Vice President in Fidelity's Corporate Audit department (1998-2008). |
<R>Adrien E. Deberghes (44)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Deberghes also serves as Assistant Treasurer (2010-present) and Deputy Treasurer (2008-present) of other Fidelity funds and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2008-present). Previously, Mr. Deberghes served as Senior Vice President of Mutual Fund Administration at State Street Corporation (2007-2008), Senior Director of Mutual Fund Administration at Investors Bank & Trust (2005-2007), and Director of Finance for Dunkin' Brands (2000-2005). |
<R>Jonathan Davis (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Davis is also Assistant Treasurer of certain Fidelity funds. Mr. Davis is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Mr. Davis served as Vice President and Associate General Counsel of FMR LLC (2003-2010). |
<R>Margaret A. Carey (38)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 </R> Assistant Secretary of the fund. Ms. Carey is also Assistant Secretary of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). |
<R> Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees. The Board of Trustees has established two committees to supplement the work of the Board as a whole. The members of each committee are Independent Trustees.</R>
<R>The Audit and Compliance Committee is composed of Ms. Butte Liebowitz (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Ralph Cox, and Ms. Kaplan. All committee members must be able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including a company's balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. The committee determines whether at least one member of the committee is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined in rules promulgated by the SEC under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The committee normally meets in conjunction with in person meetings of the Board of Trustees, or more frequently as called by the Chair. The committee meets separately periodically with the fund's Treasurer, the fund's Chief Financial Officer, the fund's CCO, personnel responsible for the internal audit function of FMR LLC, and the fund's outside auditors. The committee has direct responsibility for the appointment, compensation, and oversight of the work of the outside auditors employed by the fund for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or related work. The committee assists the Trustees in overseeing and monitoring: (i) the systems of internal accounting and financial controls of the fund and the fund's service providers, (ii) the financial reporting processes of the fund, (iii) the independence, objectivity and qualification of the auditors to the fund, (iv) the annual audits of the fund's financial statements, and (v) the accounting policies and disclosures of the fund. The committee considers and acts upon (i) the provision by any outside auditor of any non-audit services for any fund, and (ii) the provision by any outside auditor of certain non-audit services to fund service providers and their affiliates to the extent that such approval (in the case of this clause (ii)) is required under applicable regulations (Auditor Independence Regulations) of the SEC. In furtherance of the foregoing, the committee has adopted (and may from time to time amend or supplement) and provides oversight of policies and procedures for non-audit engagements by outside auditors of the fund. It is responsible for approving all audit engagement fees and terms for the fund and for resolving disagreements between the fund and any outside auditor regarding the fund's financial reporting, and has sole authority to hire and fire any auditor. Auditors of the fund report directly to the committee. The committee will obtain assurance of independence and objectivity from the outside auditors, including a formal written statement delineating all relationships between the auditor and the fund and any service providers consistent with Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Ethics and Independence Rule 3526, Communication with Audit Committees Concerning Independence. The committee will discuss with the outside auditors any such disclosed relationships and their impact on the auditor's independence and objectivity. The committee will receive reports of compliance with provisions of the Auditor Independence Regulations relating to the hiring of employees or former employees of the outside auditors. It oversees and receives reports on the fund's service providers' internal controls and reviews with management, internal auditors, and outside auditors the adequacy and effectiveness of the fund's and service providers' accounting and financial controls, including: (i) any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting that are reasonably likely to adversely affect the fund's ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial data; (ii) any change in the fund's internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the fund's internal control over financial reporting; and (iii) any fraud, whether material or not, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the fund's or service provider's internal controls over financial reporting. The committee will review with counsel any legal matters that may have a material impact on the fund's financial statements and any material reports or inquiries received from regulators or governmental agencies. The committee reviews at least annually a report from the outside auditor describing (i) any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality control review, peer review, or PCAOB examination of the auditing firm and (ii) any material issues raised by any inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional authorities of the auditing firm since the most recent report and in each case any steps taken to deal with such issues. The committee will oversee and receive reports on the fund's financial reporting process and will receive reports from an outside auditor relating to (i) critical accounting policies and practices used by the fund, (ii) alternative accounting treatments that the auditor has discussed with Strategic Advisers, and (iii) other material written communications between the auditor and Strategic Advisers (as determined by the auditor). The committee will discuss with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors and, if appropriate, internal audit personnel of FMR LLC, their qualitative judgments about the appropriateness and acceptability of accounting principles and financial disclosure practices used or proposed for adoption by the fund. The committee will review with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors, and internal audit personnel of FMR LLC (to the extent relevant) the results of audits of the fund's financial statements. The committee will review periodically the fund's major internal controls exposures and the steps that have been taken to monitor and control such exposures. The committee also oversees the administration and operation of the compliance policies and procedures of the fund and its service providers as required by Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act. The committee is responsible for the review and approval of policies and procedures relating to (i) provisions of the Code of Ethics, (ii) anti-money laundering requirements, (iii) compliance with investment restrictions and limitations, (iv) privacy, (v) recordkeeping, and (vi) other compliance policies and procedures which are not otherwise delegated to another committee of the Board of Trustees or reserved to the Board itself. The committee has responsibility for recommending to the Board the designation of a CCO of the fund. The committee serves as the primary point of contact between the CCO and the Board, it oversees the annual performance review and compensation of the CCO and, if required, makes recommendations to the Board with respect to the removal of the appointed CCO. The committee receives reports on significant correspondence with regulators or governmental agencies, employee complaints or published reports which raise concerns regarding compliance matters, and copies of significant non-routine correspondence with the SEC. The committee receives reports from the CCO including the annual report concerning the fund's compliance policies as required by Rule 38a-1 and quarterly reports in respect of any breaches of fiduciary duty or violations of federal securities laws. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The Governance and Nominating Committee is composed of Mr. Ralph Cox (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, and Mses. Butte Liebowitz and Kaplan. The committee meets as called by the Chair. With respect to fund governance and board administration matters, the committee periodically reviews procedures of the Board of Trustees and its committees (including committee charters) and periodically reviews compensation of Independent Trustees. The committee monitors corporate governance matters and makes recommendations to the Board of Trustees on the frequency and structure of the Board of Trustee meetings and on any other aspect of Board procedures. It reviews the performance of legal counsel employed by the funds and the Independent Trustees. On behalf of the Independent Trustees, the committee will make such findings and determinations as to the independence of counsel for the Independent Trustees as may be necessary or appropriate under applicable regulations or otherwise. The committee is also responsible for Board administrative matters applicable to Independent Trustees, such as expense reimbursement policies and compensation for attendance at meetings, conferences and other events. The committee monitors compliance with, acts as the administrator of, and makes determinations in respect of, the provisions of the code of ethics and any supplemental policies regarding personal securities transactions applicable to the Independent Trustees. The committee monitors the functioning of each Board committee and makes recommendations for any changes, including the creation or elimination of standing or ad hoc Board committees. The committee monitors regulatory and other developments to determine whether to recommend modifications to the committee's responsibilities or other Trustee policies and procedures in light of rule changes, reports concerning "best practices" in corporate governance and other developments in mutual fund governance. The committee recommends that the Board establish such special or ad hoc Board committees as may be desirable or necessary from time to time in order to address ethical, legal, or other matters that may arise. The committee also oversees the annual self-evaluation of the Board of Trustees and establishes procedures to allow it to exercise this oversight function. In conducting this oversight, the committee shall address all matters that it considers relevant to the performance of the Board of Trustees and shall report the results of its evaluation to the Board of Trustees, including any recommended amendments to the principles of governance, and any recommended changes to the fund's or the Board of Trustees' policies, procedures, and structures. The committee reviews periodically the size and composition of the Board of Trustees as a whole and recommends, if necessary, measures to be taken so that the Board of Trustees reflects the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and diversity required for the Board as a whole and contains at least the minimum number of Independent Trustees required by law. The committee makes nominations for the election or appointment of Independent Trustees and for membership on committees. The committee shall have authority to retain and terminate any third-party advisers, including authority to approve fees and other retention terms. Such advisers may include search firms to identify Independent Trustee candidates and board compensation consultants. The committee may conduct or authorize investigations into or studies of matters within the committee's scope of responsibilities, and may retain, at the fund's expense, such independent counsel or other advisers as it deems necessary. The committee will consider nominees to the Board of Trustees recommended by shareholders based upon the criteria applied to candidates presented to the committee by a search firm or other source. Recommendations, along with appropriate background material concerning the candidate that demonstrates his or her ability to serve as an Independent Trustee of the fund, should be submitted to the Chair of the committee at the address maintained for communications with Independent Trustees. If the committee retains a search firm, the Chair will generally forward all such submissions to the search firm for evaluation. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by each Trustee in the fund and in all funds in the aggregate within the same fund family overseen by the Trustee for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011 (or as of March 31, 2012 for Mr. Young, Trustee as of March 1, 2012).</R>
<R>Interested Trustees</R> |
||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Roger T. Servison |
Derek L. Young</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund |
none |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none</R> |
<R>Independent Trustees</R> |
||||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Peter C. Aldrich |
Amy Butte Liebowitz |
Ralph F. Cox |
Karen Kaplan</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund |
none |
none |
none |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none</R> |
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the compensation of each Trustee and Member of the Advisory Board for his or her services for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, or calendar year ended December 31, 2011, as applicable.</R>
<R>Compensation Table 1</R> |
|||||
<R>
AGGREGATE
|
Peter C.
|
Amy Butte
|
Ralph F.
|
Karen
|
</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund + |
$ 124 |
$ 124 |
$ 124 |
$ 124 |
</R> |
<R>
TOTAL COMPENSATION
|
$ 95,000 |
$ 23,750 |
$ 95,000 |
$ 95,000 |
</R> |
<R> 1 Roger T. Servison, Howard E. Cox, Jr., and Derek L. Young are interested persons and are compensated by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate (including FMR).</R>
<R> 2 Effective September 8, 2011, Ms. Butte Liebowitz serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.</R>
<R> + Estimated for the fund's first full year.</R>
<R> A Reflects compensation received for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011, for 22 funds of two trusts.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and officers of the fund owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the fund's total outstanding shares.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the following owned of record and/or beneficially 5% or more (up to and including 25%) of the fund's outstanding shares:</R>
<R> Fund Name |
Owner Name |
City |
State |
Ownership %</R> |
<R>Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund |
FIMM LLC |
Boston |
MA |
99.79%</R> |
<R>As of May 31, 2012, approximately 99.79% of the fund's total outstanding shares was held by Strategic Advisers and/or another entity or entities of which FMR LLC is the ultimate parent.</R>
<R>A shareholder owning of record or beneficially more than 25% of a fund's outstanding shares may be considered a controlling person. That shareholder's vote could have a more significant effect on matters presented at a shareholders' meeting than votes of other shareholders.</R>
CONTROL OF INVESTMENT ADVISERS
FMR LLC, as successor by merger to FMR Corp., is the ultimate parent company of Strategic Advisers and Pyramis. The voting common shares of FMR LLC are divided into two series. Series B is held predominantly by members of the Edward C. Johnson 3d and Abigail P. Johnson family, directly or through trust and limited liability companies, and is entitled to 49% of the vote on any matter acted upon by the voting common shares. Series A is held predominantly by non-Johnson family member employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates and is entitled to 51% of the vote on any such matter. The Johnson family group and all other Series B shareholders have entered into a shareholders' voting agreement under which all Series B shares will be voted in accordance with the majority vote of Series B shares. Under the 1940 Act, control of a company is presumed where one individual or group of individuals owns more than 25% of the voting securities of that company. Therefore, through their ownership of voting common shares and the execution of the shareholders' voting agreement, members of the Johnson family may be deemed, under the 1940 Act, to form a controlling group with respect to FMR LLC.
At present, the primary business activities of FMR LLC and its subsidiaries are: (i) the provision of investment advisory, management, shareholder, investment information and assistance and certain fiduciary services for individual and institutional investors; (ii) the provision of securities brokerage services; (iii) the management and development of real estate; and (iv) the investment in and operation of a number of emerging businesses.
First Eagle is a subsidiary of Arnhold and S. Bleichroeder Holdings, Inc., a privately owned Delaware holding company. First Eagle's primary offices are located 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10105.
Lazard is a Delaware limited liability company registered with the SEC. It is a subsidiary of Lazard Frères & Co. LLC (LF&Co.), a New York limited liability company with one member, Lazard Group LLC, a Delaware limited liability company. Interests of Lazard Group LLC are held by Lazard Ltd., which is a Bermuda corporation with shares that are publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "LAZ." These interests are held by public stockholders as well as by current and former Managing Directors of Lazard Group LLC. Lazard Asset Management LLC is owned by LF&Co.
<R>OppenheimerFunds is wholly owned by Oppenheimer Acquisition Corp., a holding company primarily owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, a global, diversified insurance and financial services company.</R>
<R>Pyramis is a registered investment adviser. FMR LLC is the ultimate parent company of Pyramis. Information regarding the ownership of FMR LLC is disclosed above.</R>
T. Rowe Price Group, Inc., a publicly-traded (NASDAQ: TROW) financial services holding company, owns 100% of the stock of T. Rowe Price and all of its subsidiaries.
<R>Strategic Advisers, First Eagle, Lazard, OppenheimerFunds, Pyramis, T. Rowe Price (the Investment Advisers), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and the fund have adopted codes of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act that set forth employees' fiduciary responsibilities regarding the fund, establish procedures for personal investing, and restrict certain transactions. Employees subject to the codes of ethics, including the Investment Advisers' investment personnel, may invest in securities for their own investment accounts, including securities that may be purchased or held by the fund.</R>
The fund has entered into a management contract with Strategic Advisers, pursuant to which Strategic Advisers furnishes investment advisory and other services.
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
<R>Strategic Advisers has retained First Eagle, Lazard, OppenheimerFunds, Pyramis, and T. Rowe Price to serve as sub-advisers for the fund. The sub-advisers do not sponsor the fund.</R>
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
Management and Sub-Advisory Services. Under the terms of its management contract with the fund, Strategic Advisers acts as investment adviser and, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, directs the investments of the fund in accordance with its investment objective, policies and limitations. Strategic Advisers is authorized, in its discretion, to allocate the fund's assets pursuant to its investment strategy. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates provide the fund with all necessary office facilities and personnel for servicing the fund's investments, compensate all officers of the fund and all Trustees who are interested persons of the trust or of Strategic Advisers, and compensate all personnel of the fund or Strategic Advisers performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities.
In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, provide the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the fund. These services include providing facilities for maintaining the fund's organization; supervising relations with custodians, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, underwriters and other persons dealing with the fund; preparing all general shareholder communications and conducting shareholder relations; maintaining the fund's records and the registration of the fund's shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws; developing management and shareholder services for the fund; and furnishing reports, evaluations and analyses on a variety of subjects to the Trustees.
Under its respective sub-advisory agreement, and subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, each sub-adviser directs the investment of its allocated portion of the fund's assets in accordance with the fund's investment objective, policies and limitations.
Management-Related Expenses. In addition to the management fee payable to Strategic Advisers and the fees payable to the transfer agent and pricing and bookkeeping agent, the fund pays all of its expenses that are not assumed by those parties. The fund pays for the typesetting, printing, and mailing of its proxy materials to shareholders, legal expenses, and the fees of the custodian, auditor, and Independent Trustees. The fund's management contract further provides that the fund will pay for typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, notices, and reports to shareholders; however, under the terms of the fund's transfer agent agreement, the transfer agent bears these costs. Other expenses paid by the fund include interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, the fund's proportionate share of insurance premiums and Investment Company Institute dues, and the costs of registering shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws. The fund is also liable for such non-recurring expenses as may arise, including costs of any litigation to which the fund may be a party, and any obligation it may have to indemnify its officers and Trustees with respect to litigation.
Management Fees. For the services of Strategic Advisers under the management contract, the fund pays Strategic Advisers a monthly management fee calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.30% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets; provided, however, that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.05% of the fund's average daily net assets.
<R>The following table shows the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers for the past fiscal year.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, voluntarily reimburse all or a portion of the fund's operating expenses. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid for these expense reimbursements in the amount that expenses fall below the limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Expense reimbursements by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns, and repayment of the reimbursement by the fund will decrease its returns.
<R> Sub-Adviser - First Eagle. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with First Eagle pursuant to which First Eagle may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays First Eagle fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by First Eagle pursuant to a separately negotiated investment mandates (a "Strategy"). The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by First Eagle under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by First Eagle pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - Lazard. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Lazard pursuant to which Lazard may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Lazard fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Lazard pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Lazard under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Lazard pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - OppenheimerFunds. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with OppenheimerFunds pursuant to which OppenheimerFunds may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays OppenheimerFunds fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by OppenheimerFunds pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by OppenheimerFunds under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by OppenheimerFunds pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
Sub-Adviser - Pyramis. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Pyramis pursuant to which Pyramis may provide investment advisory services for the fund.
<R>Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Pyramis fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Pyramis pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Pyramis under a particular Strategy based on the following rate schedule:</R>
<R> Dividend Growth:</R> |
|||||
<R>0.45% of the first $250 million in assets;</R> |
|||||
<R>0.35% of the next $500 million in assets; and</R> |
|||||
<R>0.30% on any amount in excess of $750 million in assets</R> |
Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Pyramis pursuant to that Strategy.
<R> Sub-Adviser - T. Rowe Price. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with T. Rowe Price pursuant to which T. Rowe Price may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays T. Rowe Price fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by T. Rowe Price pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by T. Rowe Price under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by T. Rowe Price pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R>The following table shows the amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to Pyramis for the past fiscal year.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
<R>The following table shows the aggregate amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to unaffiliated sub-advisers for the past fiscal year.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Strategic Advisers.
John A. Stone is an employee of Strategic Advisers, a subsidiary of FMR LLC and an affiliate of FMR. Strategic Advisers is the adviser to the fund.
<R>Mr. Stone is the lead portfolio manager of the fund and receives compensation for his services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of the portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by Strategic Advisers or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
The portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The primary components of the portfolio manager's bonus are based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account, and (ii) the investment performance of a broad range of Strategic Advisers funds and accounts, including the fund. Accounts may include model portfolios designed for asset allocation, retirement planning, or tax-sensitive goals. The pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to his tenure on those fund(s) and account(s), and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over his tenure. Each component is calculated separately over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with the portfolio manager's tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a benchmark index and peer group. A subjective component of the bonus is based on the portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of Strategic Advisers.
<R>The portion of the portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the fund is based on the fund's pre-tax investment performance measured against the S&P 500 Index, and the pre-tax investment performance of the fund within the Morningstar Large Blend peer group. The portfolio manager may be compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, Strategic Advisers' parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement, and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.</R>
The portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in a fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, the portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. The portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as a portfolio manager must allocate his time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate. The portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Stone as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($53 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Stone was $10,001 - $50,000.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - First Eagle.
Colin Morris and Phillip Marriott are portfolio managers for First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets and they receive compensation for their services. Messrs. Morris and Marriott serve as portfolio managers to certain clients and private investment funds that may utilize an investment program that is substantially similar to that of the fund, including proprietary and related accounts. First Eagle and its affiliates may give advice or take action with respect to the other clients that differs from the advice given with respect to the fund. At times, a portfolio manager may determine that an investment opportunity may be appropriate for only some of the funds and/or accounts for which he or she exercises investment responsibility, or may decide that certain of the funds and/or accounts should take differing positions with respect to a particular security. In these cases, the portfolio manager may place separate transactions for one or more funds or accounts which may affect the market price of the security or the execution of the transaction, or both, to the detriment or benefit of one or more other funds and/or accounts. In addition, First Eagle and its affiliates currently serve, and may in the future serve, as investment adviser to other registered investment companies, private investment funds or accounts (including proprietary accounts), some of which provide for incentive compensation (such as performance fees). Consequently, First Eagle's and its affiliates' investment management activities may present conflicts between the interests of the Fund and those of First Eagle and its affiliates and potentially among the interests of various accounts managed by the Adviser and/or its affiliates. Although First Eagle and its affiliates have adopted allocation procedures intended to provide for equitable treatment of all accounts over time, it is possible that circumstances may arise requiring case-by-case treatment and that each client account will not necessarily participate in the same transaction. The allocation procedures generally contemplate similar treatment for like accounts, with exceptions for various special considerations, including priority allocations based on an account's investment guidelines and restrictions, tax position, cash management requirements, concentration tolerance or minimum investment size policies.
Conflicts also may be presented by Messrs. Morris and Marriott's portfolio manager compensation arrangements. Messrs. Morris and Marriott's compensation, respectively, consists of salary, a performance bonus and participation in a company-funded retirement plan, with the performance bonus representing an important portion of total compensation. The bonus is based on, among other things, assets and revenue attributable to accounts managed by Mr. Morris and Mr. Marriott, respectively. Additionally, Messrs. Morris and Marriott each received profit interests in First Eagle, which make each of them eligible, subject to customary vesting arrangements and other conditions, for a share of the profits of First Eagle. Profits for this purpose are calculated firm-wide and therefore relate to investment products and business lines beyond those managed by Messrs. Morris and Marriott.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Morris as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($7 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Morris was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Marriott as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($7 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Marriott was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Lazard.
<R>Andrew Lacey, Richard Tutino, and Ronald Temple are members of the portfolio management team assigned Lazard's portion of the fund's assets and they receive compensation for their services. Lazard compensates portfolio managers by a competitive salary and bonus structure, which is determined both quantitatively and qualitatively. Salary and bonus are paid in cash, stock and restricted interests in funds managed by Lazard or its affiliates. Portfolio managers are compensated on the performance of the aggregate group of portfolios managed by them rather than for a specific fund or account. Various factors are considered in the determination of a portfolio manager's compensation. All of the portfolios managed by a portfolio manager are comprehensively evaluated to determine his or her positive and consistent performance contribution over time. Further factors include the amount of assets in the portfolios as well as qualitative aspects that reinforce Lazard's investment philosophy such as leadership, teamwork, and commitment.</R>
Total compensation is not fixed, but rather is based on the following factors: (1) maintenance of current knowledge and opinions on companies owned in the portfolio; (2) generation and development of new investment ideas, including the quality of security analysis and identification of appreciation catalysts; (3) ability and willingness to develop and share ideas on a team basis; and (4) the performance results of the portfolios managed by the investment team.
<R>Variable bonus is based on the portfolio manager's quantitative performance as measured by his or her ability to make investment decisions that contribute to the pre-tax absolute and relative returns of the accounts managed by them, by comparison of each account to a predetermined benchmark, over the current fiscal year and the longer-term performance (3-, 5-, or 10-year, if applicable) of such account, as well as performance of the account relative to peers. In addition, the portfolio manager's bonus can be influenced by subjective measurement of the manager's ability to help others make investment decisions.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Lacey as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($5 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Lacey was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Tutino as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($5 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Tutino was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Temple as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($5 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Temple was none.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - OppenheimerFunds. </R>
<R>Manind ("Mani") Govil and Benjamin Ram are employed and compensated by OppenheimerFunds, not the fund. Under OppenheimerFunds' compensation program for its portfolio managers and portfolio analysts, compensation is based primarily on the relative investment performance results of the funds or accounts they manage, rather than on the financial success of OppenheimerFunds. This is intended to align the interests of the portfolio managers and analysts with the success of the funds and accounts of their shareholders. OppenheimerFunds' compensation structure is designed to attract and retain highly qualified investment management professionals and to reward individual and team contributions toward creating shareholder value. The portfolio managers' compensation consisted of three elements: a base salary, an annual bonus (comprised of both a formulaic performance component and a discretionary component) and eligibility to participate in long-term awards. Long-term award grants may consist of appreciation rights in regard to the common stock of OppenheimerFunds' holding company parent, restricted shares of such common stock, as well as deferred notional investments in the Oppenheimer Fund(s) managed by the Portfolio Manager.</R>
<R>A portfolio manager's compensation is not directly based on the total value of assets they manage; however, higher total compensation potential is likely to align with greater assets under management. The compensation structure is intended to be internally and externally equitable and serve to reduce potential conflict of interest arising from a portfolio manager's responsibilities managing different funds or accounts. The base pay component of each portfolio manager is reviewed regularly to ensure that it reflects the performance of the individual, is commensurate with the requirements of the particular portfolio, reflects any specific competence or specialty of the individual manager, and is competitive with other comparable positions. The formulaic performance component of the annual bonus is measured against the one, three and five year performance of the fund(s) relative to an appropriate Lipper or Morningstar peer group category selected by senior management of OppenheimerFunds. The compensation structure is weighted towards long-term performance of the funds which best aligns the interests of the portfolio manager and the shareholder. Below median performance in all three periods results in an extremely low, and in some cases no, performance based bonus. The annual discretionary bonus is determined by senior management of OppenheimerFunds and is based on a number of factors, including, management quality (such as style consistency, risk management, sector coverage, team leadership and coaching), contributions to marketing efforts and organizational development.</R>
<R>The compensation structure of other funds and accounts managed by a portfolio manager is generally the same as the compensation structure described above. A portfolio manager's compensation with regard to other portfolios may be based on the performance of those portfolios compared to a peer group category that may be different from those described below.</R>
<R>The Lipper and Morningstar peer group categories with respect to the fund are Large-Cap Core Funds and Large Blend, respectively.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Govil as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($4 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R> 1 Does not include personal accounts of the portfolio managers and their families, which are subject to the Code of Ethics.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Govil was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Ram as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($4 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R> 1 Does not include personal accounts of the portfolio managers and their families, which are subject to the Code of Ethics.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Ram was none.</R>
<R> Conflicts Statement. The portfolio managers may also manage other funds and accounts. At different times, the portfolio managers may manage other funds or accounts with investment objectives and strategies similar to those of the portion of the fund sub-advised by OppenheimerFunds, or they may manage funds or accounts with different investment objectives and strategies. At times, those responsibilities could potentially conflict with the interests of the fund. That may occur whether the investment objectives and strategies of the other funds and accounts are the same as, or different from, the investment objectives and strategies of the portion of the fund sub-advised by OppenheimerFunds. For example, the portfolio managers may need to allocate investment opportunities between the fund and another fund or account having similar objectives or strategies, or they may need to execute transactions for another fund or account that could have a negative impact on the value of securities held by the portion of the fund sub-advised by OppenheimerFunds. Not all funds and accounts advised by OppenheimerFunds have the same management fee. If the management fee structure of another fund or account is more advantageous to OppenheimerFunds than the fee structure of the fund, OppenheimerFunds could have an incentive to favor the other fund or account. However, OppenheimerFunds' compliance procedures and Code of Ethics recognize its obligation to treat all of its clients, including the fund, fairly and equitably, and are designed to preclude the portfolio managers from favoring one client over another. It is possible, of course, that those compliance procedures and the Code of Ethics may not always be adequate to do so.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Pyramis.
<R>Lawrence Rakers is a portfolio manager for Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund and receives compensation for his services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of the portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by FMR or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
<R>The portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at FMR or its affiliates. The primary components of the portfolio manager's bonus are based on the pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account. The pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) is weighted according to his tenure on those fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) and the average asset size of those fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) over his tenure. Each component is calculated separately over the portfolio manager's tenure on those fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with his tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to five years for the comparison to a benchmark index and rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a peer group. A smaller, subjective component of the portfolio manager's bonus is based on the portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of FMR. The portion of the portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the portion of the Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund's assets that he manages is based on the fund's pre-tax investment performance measured against the S&P 500 ® Index, and the fund's pre-tax investment performance (based on the performance of the fund's retail class) within the Morningstar ® Large Blend Category. The portfolio manager also is compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, FMR Co.'s parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement, and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.</R>
The portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in the fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, the portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. The portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as the portfolio manager must allocate his time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by FMR Co. or an affiliate. The portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Rakers as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($4 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Rakers was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - T. Rowe Price.
T. Rowe Price portfolio manager compensation consists primarily of a base salary, a cash bonus, and an equity incentive that usually comes in the form of a stock option grant. Occasionally, portfolio managers will also have the opportunity to participate in venture capital partnerships. Compensation is variable and is determined based on the following factors.
<R>Investment performance over 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year periods is the most important input. The weightings for these time periods are generally balanced and are applied consistently across similar strategies. T. Rowe Price evaluates performance in absolute, relative, and risk-adjusted terms. Relative performance and risk-adjusted performance are determined with reference to the broad-based index (e.g., S&P 500) and the Lipper index (e.g., Large-Cap Growth) set forth in the total returns table in a fund's prospectus, although other benchmarks may be used as well. Investment results are also measured against comparably managed funds of competitive investment management firms. The selection of comparable funds is approved by the applicable investment steering committee and are the same as those presented to the directors of the T. Rowe Price Funds in their regular review of fund performance. Performance is primarily measured on a pretax basis though tax efficiency is considered and is especially important for a tax-efficient fund.</R>
Compensation is viewed with a long-term time horizon. The more consistent a manager's performance over time, the higher the compensation opportunity. The increase or decrease in a fund's assets due to the purchase or sale of fund shares is not considered a material factor. In reviewing relative performance for fixed-income funds, a fund's expense ratio is usually taken into account. Contribution to our overall investment process is an important consideration as well. Sharing ideas with other portfolio managers, working effectively with and mentoring our younger analysts, and being good corporate citizens are important components of our long-term success and are highly valued.
All employees of T. Rowe Price, including portfolio managers, participate in a 401(k) plan sponsored by T. Rowe Price Group. In addition, all employees are eligible to purchase T. Rowe Price common stock through an employee stock purchase plan that features a limited corporate matching contribution. Eligibility for and participation in these plans is on the same basis as for all employees. Finally, all vice presidents of T. Rowe Price Group, including all portfolio managers, receive supplemental medical/hospital reimbursement benefits.
This compensation structure is used for all portfolios managed by the portfolio manager.
Conflicts of Interests
Portfolio managers at T. Rowe Price typically manage multiple accounts. These accounts may include, among others, mutual funds, separate accounts (assets managed on behalf of institutions such as pension funds, colleges and universities, foundations), offshore funds and commingled trust accounts. Portfolio managers make investment decisions for each portfolio based on the investment objectives, policies, practices, and other relevant investment considerations that the managers believe are applicable to that portfolio. Consequently, portfolio managers may purchase (or sell) securities for one portfolio and not another portfolio. T. Rowe Price has adopted brokerage and trade allocation policies and procedures which they believe are reasonably designed to address any potential conflicts associated with managing multiple accounts for multiple clients.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Ms. Dopkin as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund ($32 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Ms. Dopkin was none.</R>
Proxy Voting - Strategic Advisers.
The following Proxy Voting Guidelines were established by the Board of Trustees of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of the fund, after consultation with Strategic Advisers. (The guidelines are reviewed periodically by Strategic Advisers and its affiliates and by the Independent Trustees of the fund, and, accordingly, are subject to change.)
I. General Principles
A. The funds in the trust generally intend to vote shares of underlying funds using echo voting procedures (that is, in the same proportion as the holders of all other shares of the particular underlying fund).
B. Any proposals not covered by paragraph A above or other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate Strategic Advisers analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review and approval by the General Counsel or Compliance Officer of FMR or the General Counsel of FMR LLC.
Sub-Advisers:
Proxy voting policies and procedures are used by a sub-adviser to determine how to vote proxies relating to the securities held by its allocated portion of the fund's assets. The proxy voting policies and procedures used by the sub-advisers are described below.
Proxy Voting - First Eagle.
First Eagle has adopted policies and procedures (the "Policies") regarding the voting of proxies. It is the policy of First Eagle to vote client proxies in a manner that serves the best interest of the client. The Policies provide for procedures that address conflicts of interest between First Eagle and a client with respect to voting proxies. With regard to First Eagle this may involve review of a proposed vote by compliance personnel. First Eagle may abstain from voting from time to time when it determines that the costs associated with voting a proxy outweigh the benefits derived from exercising the right to vote. First Eagle relies on Institutional Shareholder Services, Inc. ("Proxy Provider"), a third party proxy voting service, for recommendations as to voting on particular issues and for technical assistance in tracking proxy votes and in transmitting voting instructions to the relevant corporate issuer or its proxy tabulation agents. There may be instances where First Eagle determines to vote a proxy in a manner other than the manner recommended by its proxy voting service provider. General information about ISS voting recommendations is available on its website at http://www.issgovernance.com.
Proxy Voting - Lazard.
To avoid conflicts of interest, Lazard votes proxies where a material conflict has been deemed to exist in accordance with specific proxy voting guidelines regarding various standard proxy proposals ("Approved Guidelines") or, if the Approved Guideline is to vote case-by-case, in accordance with the recommendation of an independent source.
Lazard also may determine not to vote proxies in respect of securities of any issuer if it determines that it would be in the client's overall best interests not to vote. The Voting Guidelines address how it will vote proxies on particular types of matters such as the election for directors, adoption of option plans and anti-takeover proposals. For example, Lazard generally will:
<R> Proxy Voting - OppenheimerFunds.</R>
<R> Portfolio Proxy Voting. OppenheimerFunds has adopted Portfolio Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures, which include Proxy Voting Guidelines, under which the Fund votes proxies relating to securities held by the Fund ("portfolio proxies"). OppenheimerFunds generally undertakes to vote portfolio proxies with a view to enhancing the value of the company's stock held by the Funds. OppenheimerFunds has retained an independent, third party proxy voting agent to vote portfolio proxies in accordance with the OppenheimerFunds' Proxy Voting Guidelines and to maintain records of such portfolio proxy voting. The OppenheimerFunds' internal Proxy Voting Committee is responsible for monitoring the third party proxy voting agent.</R>
<R>The Portfolio Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures include provisions to address conflicts of interest that may arise between the fund and OppenheimerFunds or OppenheimerFunds' affiliates or business relationships. Such a conflict of interest may arise, for example, where OppenheimerFunds or an affiliate of OppenheimerFunds manages or administers the assets of a pension plan or other investment account of the portfolio company soliciting the proxy or seeks to serve in that capacity. OppenheimerFunds and its affiliates generally seek to avoid such material conflicts of interest by maintaining separate investment decision making processes to prevent the sharing of business objectives with respect to proposed or actual actions regarding portfolio proxy voting decisions. Additionally, OppenheimerFunds employs the following procedures, as long as OppenheimerFunds determines that the course of action is consistent with the best interests of the fund and its shareholders:</R>
<R>If none of the previous procedures provides an appropriate voting recommendation, the Proxy Voting Committee may: (i) determine how to vote on the proposal; (ii) recommend that OppenheimerFunds retain an independent fiduciary to advise OppenheimerFunds on how to vote the proposal; or (iii) determine that voting on the particular proposal is impracticable and/or is outweighed by the cost of voting and direct OppenheimerFunds to abstain from voting.</R>
<R>The Proxy Voting Guidelines' provisions with respect to certain routine and non-routine proxy proposals are summarized below:</R>
Proxy Voting - Pyramis.
I. General Principles
A. Voting of shares will be conducted in a manner consistent with the best interests of clients as follows: (i) securities of a portfolio company will generally be voted in a manner consistent with the Guidelines; and (ii) voting will be done without regard to any other Pyramis or Fidelity companies' relationship, business or otherwise, with that portfolio company.
B. <R>FMR Investment Proxy Research votes proxies on behalf of Pyramis' clients. Like other Pyramis employees, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees have a fiduciary duty to never place their own personal interest ahead of the interests of Pyramis's clients and are instructed to avoid actual and apparent conflicts of interest. In the event of a conflict of interest, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees, like other Pyramis employees, will escalate to their managers or the Ethics Office, as appropriate, in accordance with Fidelity's corporate policy on conflicts of interest. A conflict of interest arises when there are factors that may prompt one to question whether a Fidelity and/or Pyramis employee is acting solely on the best interests of Pyramis, Fidelity and their customers. Employees are expected to avoid situations that could present even the appearance of a conflict between their interests and the interests of Pyramis and its customers.</R>
C. Except as set forth herein, Pyramis will generally vote in favor of routine management proposals.
D. Non-routine proposals will generally be voted in accordance with the Guidelines.
E. Non-routine proposals not covered by the Guidelines or involving other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review by an attorney within FMR's General Counsel's office and a member of senior management within FMR Investment Proxy Research. A significant pattern of such proposals or other special circumstances will be referred to Pyramis' Senior Compliance Officer or his designee.
F. Pyramis will vote on shareholder proposals not specifically addressed by the Guidelines based on an evaluation of a proposal's likelihood to enhance the economic returns or profitability of the portfolio company or to maximize shareholder value. Where information is not readily available to analyze the economic impact of the proposal, Pyramis will generally abstain.
G. <R>Many Pyramis accounts invest in voting securities issued by companies that are domiciled outside the United States and are not listed on a U.S. securities exchange. Corporate governance standards, legal or regulatory requirements and disclosure practices in foreign countries can differ from those in the United States. When voting proxies relating to non-U.S. securities, Pyramis will generally evaluate proposals in the context of the Guidelines and where applicable and feasible, take into consideration differing laws, regulations and practices in the relevant foreign market in determining how to vote shares.</R>
H. In certain non-U.S. jurisdictions, shareholders voting shares of a portfolio company may be restricted from trading the shares for a period of time around the shareholder meeting date. Because such trading restrictions can hinder portfolio management and could result in a loss of liquidity for a client, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in circumstances where such restrictions apply. In addition, certain non-U.S. jurisdictions require voting shareholders to disclose current share ownership on a fund-by-fund basis. When such disclosure requirements apply, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in order to safeguard fund holdings information.
I. Where a management-sponsored proposal is inconsistent with the Guidelines, Pyramis may receive a company's commitment to modify the proposal or its practice to conform to the Guidelines, and Pyramis will generally support management based on this commitment. If a company subsequently does not abide by its commitment, Pyramis will generally withhold authority for the election of directors at the next election.
II. Definitions (as used in this document)
A. Anti-Takeover Provision - includes fair price amendments; classified boards; "blank check" preferred stock; Golden Parachutes; supermajority provisions; Poison Pills; restricting the right to call special meetings; and any other provision that eliminates or limits shareholder rights.
B. Golden Parachute - Employment contracts, agreements, or policies that include an excise tax gross-up provision; single trigger for cash incentives; or may result in a lump sum payment of cash and acceleration of equity that may total more than three times annual compensation (salary and bonus) in the event of a termination following a change in control.
C. Greenmail - payment of a premium to repurchase shares from a shareholder seeking to take over a company through a proxy contest or other means.
D. Sunset Provision - a condition in a charter or plan that specifies an expiration date.
E. Permitted Bid Feature - a provision suspending the application of a Poison Pill, by shareholder referendum, in the event a potential acquirer announces a bona fide offer for all outstanding shares.
F. Poison Pill - a strategy employed by a potential take-over/target company to make its stock less attractive to an acquirer. Poison Pills are generally designed to dilute the acquirer's ownership and value in the event of a take-over.
G. Large-Capitalization Company - a company included in the Russell 1000 ® index.
H. Small-Capitalization Company - a company not included in the Russell 1000 ® index that is not a Micro-Capitalization Company.
I. Micro-Capitalization Company - a company with a market capitalization under US $300 million.
J. Evergreen Provision - a feature which provides for an automatic increase in the shares available for grant under an equity award plan on a regular basis.
III. Directors
A. Incumbent Directors
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of incumbent and nominee directors except where one or more such directors clearly appear to have failed to exercise reasonable judgment. Pyramis will also generally withhold authority for the election of all directors or directors on responsible committees if:
1. An Anti-Takeover Provision was introduced, an Anti-Takeover Provision was extended, or a new Anti-Takeover Provision was adopted upon the expiration of an existing Anti-Takeover Provision, without shareholder approval except as set forth below.
With respect to Poison Pills, however, Pyramis will consider not withholding authority on the election of directors if all of the following conditions are met when a Poison Pill is introduced, extended, or adopted:
a. The Poison Pill includes a Sunset Provision of less than five years;
b. The Poison Pill includes a Permitted Bid Feature;
c. The Poison Pill is linked to a business strategy that will result in greater value for the shareholders; and
d. Shareholder approval is required to reinstate the Poison Pill upon expiration.
Pyramis will also consider not withholding authority on the election of directors when one or more of the conditions above are not met if a board is willing to strongly consider seeking shareholder ratification of, or adding above conditions noted a. and b. to an existing Poison Pill. In such a case, if the company does not take appropriate action prior to the next annual shareholder meeting, Pyramis will withhold authority on the election of directors.
2. The company refuses, upon request by Pyramis, to amend the Poison Pill to allow Pyramis to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.
3. Within the last year and without shareholder approval, a company's board of directors or compensation committee has repriced outstanding options, exchanged outstanding options for equity, or tendered cash for outstanding options.
4. <R>Executive compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as: (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether the company has admitted to or settled a regulatory proceeding relating to options backdating; (iv) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (v) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (vi) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.</R>
5. To gain Pyramis' support on a proposal, the company made a commitment to modify a proposal or practice to conform to the Guidelines and the company has failed to act on that commitment.
6. The director attended fewer than 75% of the aggregate number of meetings of the board or its committees on which the director served during the company's prior fiscal year, absent extenuating circumstances.
7. The board is not composed of a majority of independent directors.
B. Indemnification
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of charter and by-law amendments expanding the indemnification of directors and/or limiting their liability for breaches of care unless Pyramis is otherwise dissatisfied with the performance of management or the proposal is accompanied by Anti-Takeover Provisions.
C. Independent Chairperson
Pyramis will generally vote against shareholder proposals calling for or recommending the appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson. However, Pyramis will consider voting for such proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson appears likely to further the interests of shareholders and to promote effective oversight of management by the board of directors.
D. Majority Director Elections
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals calling for directors to be elected by an affirmative majority of votes cast in a board election, provided that the proposal allows for plurality voting standard in the case of contested elections (i.e., where there are more nominees than board seats). Pyramis may consider voting against such shareholder proposals where a company's board has adopted an alternative measure, such as a director resignation policy, that provides a meaningful alternative to the majority voting standard and appropriately addresses situations where an incumbent director fails to receive the support of a majority of the votes cast in an uncontested election.
IV. Compensation
A. Executive Compensation
1. Advisory votes on executive compensation
<R>a. Pyramis will generally vote for proposals to ratify executive compensation unless such compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as, among other things, (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance-based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (iv) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (v) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.</R>
b. Pyramis will generally vote against proposals to ratify Golden Parachutes.
2. Frequency of advisory vote on executive compensation
Pyramis will generally support annual advisory votes on executive compensation.
B. Equity Award Plans (including stock options, restricted stock awards, and other stock awards).
Pyramis will generally vote against equity award plans or amendments to authorize additional shares under such plans if:
1. <R>(a) The company's average three year burn rate is greater than 1.5% for a Large-Capitalization Company, 2.5% for a Small-Capitalization Company or 3.5% for a Micro-Capitalization Company; and (b) there were no circumstances specific to the company or the plans that lead Pyramis to conclude that the burn rate is acceptable.</R>
2. In the case of stock option plans, (a) the offering price of options is less than 100% of fair market value on the date of grant, except that the offering price may be as low as 85% of fair market value if the discount is expressly granted in lieu of salary or cash bonus; (b) the plan's terms allow repricing of underwater options; or (c) the board/committee has repriced options outstanding under the plan in the past two years without shareholder approval.
3. <R>The plan includes an Evergreen Provision.</R>
4. <R>The plan provides for the acceleration of vesting of equity awards even though an actual change in control may not occur.</R>
C. Equity Exchanges and Repricing
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a management proposal to exchange, reprice or tender for cash, outstanding options if the proposed exchange, repricing, or tender offer is consistent with the interests of shareholders, taking into account such factors as:</R>
1. Whether the proposal excludes senior management and directors;
2. Whether the exchange or repricing proposal is value neutral to shareholders based upon an acceptable pricing model;
3. The company's relative performance compared to other companies within the relevant industry or industries;
4. Economic and other conditions affecting the relevant industry or industries in which the company competes; and
5. Any other facts or circumstances relevant to determining whether an exchange or repricing proposal is consistent with the interests of shareholders.
D. Employee Stock Purchase Plans
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of employee stock purchase plans if the minimum stock purchase price is equal to or greater than 85% of the stock's fair market value and the plan constitutes a reasonable effort to encourage broad based participation in the company's equity. In the case of non-U.S. company stock purchase plans, Pyramis may permit a lower minimum stock purchase price equal to the prevailing "best practices" in the relevant non-U.S. market, provided that the minimum stock purchase price must be at least 75% of the stock's fair market value.
E. Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs)
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of non-leveraged ESOPs. For leveraged ESOPs, Pyramis may examine the company's state of incorporation, existence of supermajority vote rules in the charter, number of shares authorized for the ESOP, and number of shares held by insiders. Pyramis may also examine where the ESOP shares are purchased and the dilution effect of the purchase. Pyramis will generally vote against leveraged ESOPs if all outstanding loans are due immediately upon change in control.
F. Bonus Plans and Tax Deductibility Proposals
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of cash and stock incentive plans that are submitted for shareholder approval in order to qualify for favorable tax treatment under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, provided that the plan includes well defined and appropriate performance criteria, and with respect to any cash component, that the maximum award per participant is clearly stated and is not unreasonable or excessive.
V. Anti-Takeover Provisions
Pyramis will generally vote against a proposal to adopt or approve the adoption of an Anti-Takeover Provision unless:
A. The Poison Pill includes the following features:
1. A Sunset Provision of no greater than five years;
2. Linked to a business strategy that is expected to result in greater value for the shareholders;
3. Requires shareholder approval to be reinstated upon expiration or if amended;
4. Contains a Permitted Bid Feature; and
5. Allows Pyramis accounts to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.
B. An Anti-Greenmail proposal that does not include other Anti-Takeover Provisions; or
C. It is a fair price amendment that considers a two-year price history or less.
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a proposal to eliminate an Anti-Takeover Provisions unless:
D. In the case of proposals to declassify a board of directors, Pyramis will generally vote against such a proposal if the issuer's Articles of Incorporation or applicable statutes include a provision whereby a majority of directors may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by written consent, or other reasonable procedures, by a majority of shareholders entitled to vote for the election of directors.
E. <R>In the case of shareholder proposals regarding shareholders' right to call special meetings, Pyramis generally will vote against each proposal if the threshold required to call a special meeting is less than 25% of the outstanding stock.</R>
F. <R>In the case of proposals regarding shareholders' right to act by written consent, Pyramis will generally vote against each proposal if it does not include appropriate mechanisms for implementation including, among other things, that at least 25% of the outstanding stock request that the company establish a record date determining which shareholders are entitled to act and that consents be solicited from all shareholders.</R>
VI. Capital Structure/Incorporation
A. Increases in Common Stock
Pyramis will generally vote against a provision to increase a company's common stock if such increase will result in a total number of authorized shares greater than three times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares, including stock options, except in the case of real estate investment trusts, where an increase that will result in a total number of authorized shares up to five times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares is generally acceptable.
B. New Classes of Shares
Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction of new classes of stock with differential voting rights.
C. Cumulative Voting Rights
Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction and in favor of the elimination of cumulative voting rights.
D. Acquisition or Business Combination Statutes
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposed amendments to a company's certificate of incorporation or by-laws that enable the company to opt out of the control shares acquisition or business combination statutes.
E. Incorporation or Reincorporation in Another State or Country
<R>Pyramis will generally vote for management proposals calling for, or recommending that, a portfolio company reincorporate in another state or country if, on balance, the economic and corporate governance factors in the proposed jurisdiction appear reasonably likely to be better aligned with shareholder interests, taking into account the corporate laws of the current and proposed jurisdictions and any changes to the company's current and proposed governing documents. Pyramis will consider supporting such shareholder proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, remaining incorporated in the current jurisdiction appears misaligned with shareholder interests.</R>
VII. Shares of Investment Companies
A. <R>If applicable, when a Pyramis account invests in an underlying Fidelity Fund with public shareholders, an exchange traded fund (ETF), or non-affiliated fund, Pyramis will vote in the same proportion as all other voting shareholders of such underlying fund or class ("echo voting"). Pyramis may choose not to vote if "echo voting" is not operationally feasible.</R>
B. Certain Pyramis accounts may invest in shares of underlying Fidelity Funds, which are held exclusively by Fidelity Funds or accounts managed by FMR or an affiliate. Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals recommended by the underlying funds' Board of Trustees.
VIII. Other
A. Voting Process
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals to adopt confidential voting and independent vote tabulation practices.
B. Regulated Industries
<R>Voting of shares in securities of any regulated industry (e.g. U.S. banking) organization shall be conducted in a manner consistent with conditions that may be specified by the industry's regulator (e.g. the Federal Reserve Board) for a determination under applicable law (e.g. federal banking law) that no client or group of clients has acquired control of such organization.</R>
Proxy Voting - T. Rowe Price.
RESPONSIBILITY TO VOTE PROXIES
T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., T. Rowe Price International Ltd, T. Rowe Price Hong Kong Limited, T. Rowe Price Singapore Private Ltd and T. Rowe Price (Canada), Inc. ("T. Rowe Price") recognize and adhere to the principle that one of the privileges of owning stock in a company is the right to vote in the election of the company's directors and on matters affecting certain important aspects of the company's structure and operations that are submitted to shareholder vote. As an investment adviser with a fiduciary responsibility to its clients, T. Rowe Price analyzes the proxy statements of issuers whose stock is owned by the U.S.-registered investment companies which it sponsors and serves as investment adviser ("T. Rowe Price Funds") and by institutional and private counsel clients who have requested that T. Rowe Price be involved in the proxy process. T. Rowe Price has assumed the responsibility for voting proxies on behalf of the T. Rowe Price Funds and certain counsel clients who have delegated such responsibility to T. Rowe Price. In addition, T. Rowe Price makes recommendations regarding proxy voting to counsel clients who have not delegated the voting responsibility but who have requested voting advice. T. Rowe Price reserves the right to decline to vote proxies in accordance with client-specific voting guidelines.
T. Rowe Price has adopted these Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures ("Policies and Procedures") for the purpose of establishing formal policies and procedures for performing and documenting its fiduciary duty with regard to the voting of client proxies.
Fiduciary Considerations. It is the policy of T. Rowe Price that decisions with respect to proxy issues will be made in light of the anticipated impact of the issue on the desirability of investing in the portfolio company from the viewpoint of the particular client or Price Fund. Proxies are voted solely in the interests of the client, Price Fund shareholders or, where employee benefit plan assets are involved, in the interests of plan participants and beneficiaries. Our intent has always been to vote proxies, where possible to do so, in a manner consistent with our fiduciary obligations and responsibilities. Practicalities and costs involved with international investing may make it impossible at times, and at other times disadvantageous, to vote proxies in every instance.
Other Considerations. One of the primary factors T. Rowe Price considers when determining the desirability of investing in a particular company is the quality and depth of its management. We recognize that a company's management is entrusted with the day-to-day operations of the company, as well as its long-term direction and strategic planning, subject to the oversight of the company's board of directors. Accordingly, our proxy voting guidelines are not intended to substitute our judgment for management's with respect to the company's day-to-day operations. Rather, our voting guidelines are designed to promote accountability of a company's management and board of directors to its shareholders; to align the interests of management with those of shareholders; and, to encourage companies to adopt best practices in terms of their corporate governance. In addition to our voting guidelines, we rely on a company's disclosures, its board's recommendations, a company's track record, country-specific best practices codes, our research providers and, most importantly, our investment professionals' views, in making voting decisions.
ADMINISTRATION OF POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Proxy Committee. T. Rowe Price's Proxy Committee ("Proxy Committee") is responsible for establishing positions with respect to corporate governance and other proxy issues, including those involving corporate social responsibility issues. The Proxy Committee also reviews questions and responds to inquiries from clients and mutual fund shareholders pertaining to proxy issues. While the Proxy Committee sets voting guidelines and serves as a resource for T. Rowe Price portfolio management, it does not have proxy voting authority for any Price Fund or counsel client. Rather, this responsibility is held by the Chairperson of the Fund's Investment Advisory Committee or counsel client's portfolio manager.
Proxy Services Group. The Proxy Services Group is responsible for administering the proxy voting process as set forth in the Policies and Procedures.
Proxy Administrator. The Proxy Services Group will assign a Proxy Administrator who will be responsible for ensuring that all meeting notices are reviewed and important proxy matters are communicated to the portfolio managers for consideration.
<R> Global Corporate Governance Analyst. Our Global Corporate Governance Analyst is responsible for reviewing the proxy agendas for all upcoming meetings and making company-specific recommendations to our global industry analysts and portfolio managers with regard to the voting decisions in their portfolios. </R>
<R> HOW PROXIES ARE REVIEWED, PROCESSED AND VOTED</R>
<R>In order to facilitate the proxy voting process, T. Rowe Price has retained ISS, as an expert in the proxy voting and corporate governance area. ISS specializes in providing a variety of fiduciary-level proxy advisory and voting services. These services include voting recommendations as well as vote execution, reporting, auditing and consulting assistance for the handling of proxy voting responsibility. In order to reflect T. Rowe Price's issue-by-issue voting guidelines as approved each year by the Proxy Committee, ISS maintains and implements a custom voting policy for the Price Funds and other client accounts.</R>
<R> Meeting Notification</R>
<R>T. Rowe Price utilizes ISS's voting agent services to notify us of upcoming shareholder meetings for portfolio companies held in client accounts and to transmit votes to the various custodian banks of our clients. ISS tracks and reconciles T. Rowe Price holdings against incoming proxy ballots. If ballots do not arrive on time, ISS procures them from the appropriate custodian or proxy distribution agent. Meeting and record date information is updated daily, and transmitted to T. Rowe Price through Proxy Exchange, ISS's web-based application.</R>
<R> Vote Determination</R>
<R>Each day, ISS delivers into T. Rowe Price's proprietary proxy research platform a comprehensive summary of upcoming meetings, proxy proposals, publications discussing key proxy voting issues, and custom vote recommendations to assist us with proxy research and processing. The final authority and responsibility for proxy voting decisions remains with T. Rowe Price. Decisions with respect to proxy matters are made primarily in light of the anticipated impact of the issue on the desirability of investing in the company from the perspective of our clients.</R>
Portfolio managers may decide to vote their proxies consistent with T. Rowe Price's policies as set by the Proxy Committee and instruct our Proxy Administrator to vote all proxies accordingly. Alternatively, portfolio managers may request to review the vote recommendations and sign off on all proxies before the votes are cast, or they may choose only to sign off on those votes cast against management. The portfolio managers are also given the option of reviewing and determining the votes on all proxies without utilizing the vote guidelines of the Proxy Committee. In all cases, the portfolio managers may elect to receive current reports summarizing all proxy votes in their client accounts. Portfolio managers who vote their proxies inconsistent with T. Rowe Price guidelines are required to document the rationale for their votes. The Proxy Administrator is responsible for maintaining this documentation and assuring that it adequately reflects the basis for any vote which is cast contrary to T. Rowe Price guidelines.
T. Rowe Price Voting Policies
Specific voting guidelines have been adopted by the Proxy Committee for all regularly occurring categories of management and shareholder proposals. A detailed set of voting guidelines is available on the T. Rowe Price web site, www.troweprice.com. The following is a summary of our guidelines on the most significant proxy voting topics:
<R> Election of Directors - T. Rowe Price generally supports slates with a majority of independent directors. Outside the U.S., we expect companies to adhere to the minimum independence standard established by regional corporate governance codes. T. Rowe Price votes against outside directors who do not meet certain criteria relating to their independence but who serve on key board committees. We vote against directors who are unable to dedicate sufficient time to their board duties due to their commitments to other boards. We may vote against certain directors who have served on company boards where we believe there has been a gross failure in governance or oversight. We may also vote against compensation committee members who approve excessive executive compensation arrangements. We support efforts to elect all board members annually because boards with staggered terms lessen directors' accountability to shareholders and act as deterrents to takeover proposals. To strengthen boards' accountability, T. Rowe Price supports proposals calling for a majority vote threshold for the election of directors.</R>
Anti-takeover, Capital Structure and Corporate Governance Issues - T. Rowe Price generally opposes anti-takeover measures since they adversely impact shareholder rights and limit the ability of shareholders to act on potential value-enhancing transactions. Such anti-takeover mechanisms include classified boards, supermajority voting requirements, dual share classes, and poison pills. We also oppose proposals that give management a "blank check" to create new classes of stock with disparate rights and privileges. When voting on capital structure proposals, T. Rowe Price will consider the dilutive impact to shareholders and the effect on shareholder rights. We generally support shareholder proposals that call for the separation of the Chairman and CEO positions unless there are sufficient governance safeguards already in place.
<R> Executive Compensation Issues - T. Rowe Price's goal is to assure that a company's equity-based compensation plan is aligned with shareholders' long-term interests. We evaluate plans on a case-by-case basis, using a proprietary, scorecard-based approach that employs a number of factors, including dilution to shareholders, problematic plan features, burn rate, and the equity compensation mix. Plans that are constructed to effectively and fairly align executives' and shareholders' incentives generally earn our approval. Conversely, we oppose compensation packages that provide what we view as excessive awards to few senior executives, contain the potential for excessive dilution relative to the company's peers, or rely on an inappropriate mix of options and full-value awards. We also may oppose equity plans at any company where we deem the overall compensation practices to be problematic. We generally oppose efforts to reprice options in the event of a decline in value of the underlying stock unless such plans appropriately balance shareholder and employee interests. For companies with particularly egregious pay practices such as excessive severance packages, executive perks, and bonuses that are not adequately linked to performance, we may vote against compensation committee members. We analyze management proposals requesting ratification of a company's executive compensation practices ("Say-on-Pay" proposals) on a case-by-case basis, using a proprietary scorecard-based approach that assesses the long-term linkage between executive compensation and company performance as well as the presence of objectionable structural features in compensation plans. With respect to the frequency in which companies should seek advisory votes on compensation, we believe shareholders should be offered the opportunity to vote annually. </R>
<R> Mergers and Acquisitions - T. Rowe Price considers takeover offers, mergers, and other extraordinary corporate transactions on a case-by-case basis to determine if they are beneficial to shareholders' current and future earnings stream and to ensure that our Price Funds and clients are receiving fair consideration for their securities. We generally oppose proposals for the ratification of executive severance packages ("Say on Golden Parachute" proposals) in conjunction with merger transactions because we believe these arrangements are, by and large, unnecessary, and they reduce the alignment of executives' incentives with shareholders' interests.</R>
<R> Corporate Social Responsibility Issues - Vote recommendations for corporate responsibility issues are generated by the Global Corporate Governance Analyst using ISS's proxy research. T. Rowe Price generally votes with a company's management on social, environmental and corporate responsibility issues unless the issue has substantial investment implications for the company's business or operations which have not been adequately addressed by management. T. Rowe Price supports well-targeted shareholder proposals on environmental and other public policy issues that are particularly relevant to a company's businesses.</R>
<R> Global Portfolio Companies - ISS applies a two-tier approach to determining and applying global proxy voting policies. The first tier establishes baseline policy guidelines for the most fundamental issues, which span the corporate governance spectrum without regard to a company's domicile. The second tier takes into account various idiosyncrasies of different countries, making allowances for standard market practices, as long as they do not violate the fundamental goals of good corporate governance. The goal is to enhance shareholder value through effective use of the shareholder franchise, recognizing that application of policies developed for U.S. corporate governance issues are not appropriate for all markets. The Proxy Committee has reviewed ISS's general global policies and has developed international proxy voting guidelines which in most instances are consistent with ISS recommendations.</R>
Index and Passively Managed Accounts - Proxy voting for index and other passively-managed portfolios is administered by the Proxy Services Group using T. Rowe Price's policies as set by the Proxy Committee. If a portfolio company is held in both an actively managed account and an index account, the index account will default to the vote as determined by the actively managed proxy voting process.
Divided Votes - In situations where a decision is made which is contrary to the policies established by the Proxy Committee, or differs from the vote for any other client or T. Rowe Price Fund, the Proxy Services Group advises the portfolio managers involved of the divided vote. The persons representing opposing views may wish to confer to discuss their positions. In such instances, it is the normal practice for the portfolio manager to document the reasons for the vote if it is against T. Rowe Price policy. The Proxy Administrator is responsible for assuring that adequate documentation is maintained to reflect the basis for any vote which is cast in opposition to T. Rowe Price policy.
Shareblocking - Shareblocking is the practice in certain foreign countries of "freezing" shares for trading purposes in order to vote proxies relating to those shares. In markets where shareblocking applies, the custodian or sub-custodian automatically freezes shares prior to a shareholder meeting once a proxy has been voted. Shareblocking typically takes place between one and fifteen (15) days before the shareholder meeting, depending on the market. In markets where shareblocking applies, there is a potential for a pending trade to fail if trade settlement takes place during the blocking period. T. Rowe Price's policy is generally to abstain from voting shares in shareblocking countries unless the matter has compelling economic consequences that outweigh the loss of liquidity in the blocked shares.
Securities on Loan - The T. Rowe Price Funds and our institutional clients may participate in securities lending programs to generate income. Generally, the voting rights pass with the securities on loan; however, lending agreements give the lender the right to terminate the loan and pull back the loaned shares provided sufficient notice is given to the custodian bank in advance of the voting deadline. T. Rowe Price's policy is generally not to vote securities on loan unless the portfolio manager has knowledge of a material voting event that could affect the value of the loaned securities. In this event, the portfolio manager has the discretion to instruct the Proxy Administrator to pull back the loaned securities in order to cast a vote at an upcoming shareholder meeting.
Monitoring and Resolving Conflicts of Interest
The Proxy Committee is also responsible for monitoring and resolving possible material conflicts between the interests of T. Rowe Price and those of its clients with respect to proxy voting. We have adopted safeguards to ensure that our proxy voting is not influenced by interests other than those of our fund shareholders. While membership on the Proxy Committee is diverse, it does not include individuals whose primary duties relate to client relationship management, marketing, or sales. Since T. Rowe Price's voting guidelines are pre-determined by the Proxy Committee, application of the guidelines by fund portfolio managers to vote fund proxies should in most instances adequately address any possible conflicts of interest. However, the Proxy Committee reviews all proxy votes that are inconsistent with T. Rowe Price guidelines to determine whether the portfolio manager's voting rationale appears reasonable. The Proxy Committee also assesses whether any business or other relationships between T. Rowe Price and a portfolio company could have influenced an inconsistent vote on that company's proxy. Issues raising possible conflicts of interest are referred to designated members of the Proxy Committee for immediate resolution prior to the time T. Rowe Price casts its vote. With respect to personal conflicts of interest, T. Rowe Price's Code of Ethics and Conduct requires all employees to avoid placing themselves in a "compromising position" in which their interests may conflict with those of our clients and restricts their ability to engage in certain outside business activities. Portfolio managers or Proxy Committee members with a personal conflict of interest regarding a particular proxy vote must recuse themselves and not participate in the voting decisions with respect to that proxy.
Specific Conflict of Interest Situations - Voting of T. Rowe Price Group, Inc. common stock (sym: TROW) by certain T. Rowe Price Index Funds will be done in all instances in accordance with T. Rowe Price policy, and votes inconsistent with policy will not be permitted. In addition, T. Rowe Price has voting authority for proxies of the holdings of certain T. Rowe Price funds that invest in other T. Rowe Price funds. In cases where the underlying fund of a T. Rowe Price fund-of-funds holds a proxy vote, T. Rowe Price will mirror vote the fund shares held by the fund-of-funds in the same proportion as the votes cast by the shareholders of the underlying funds.
REPORTING AND RECORD RETENTION
Vote Summary Reports will be generated for each client that requests T. Rowe Price to furnish proxy voting records. The report specifies the portfolio companies, meeting dates, proxy proposals, and votes which have been cast for the client during the period and the position taken with respect to each issue. Reports normally cover quarterly or annual periods and are provided to clients upon request.
T. Rowe Price retains proxy solicitation materials, memoranda regarding votes cast in opposition to the position of a company's management, and documentation on shares voted differently. In addition, any document which is material to a proxy voting decision such as the T. Rowe Price voting guidelines, Proxy Committee meeting materials, and other internal research relating to voting decisions will be kept. All proxy voting materials and supporting documentation are retained for six years (except for proxy statements available on the SEC's EDGAR database).
To view a fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30, if applicable, visit www.fidelity.com/proxyvotingresults or visit the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.
<R>The fund has entered into a distribution agreement with FDC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. The principal business address of FDC is 100 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917. FDC is a broker-dealer registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. The distribution agreement calls for FDC to use all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of the fund, which are continuously offered at NAV. Promotional and administrative expenses in connection with the offer and sale of shares are paid by Strategic Advisers.</R>
The Trustees have approved a Distribution and Service Plan with respect to shares of the fund (the Plan) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the Rule). The Rule provides in substance that a mutual fund may not engage directly or indirectly in financing any activity that is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund except pursuant to a plan approved on behalf of the fund under the Rule. The Plan, as approved by the Trustees, allows the fund and Strategic Advisers to incur certain expenses that might be considered to constitute indirect payment by the fund of distribution expenses.
Under the Plan, if the payment of management fees by the fund to Strategic Advisers is deemed to be indirect financing by the fund of the distribution of its shares, such payment is authorized by the Plan. The Plan specifically recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. In addition, the Plan provides that Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers or FDC), that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Prior to approving the Plan, the Trustees carefully considered all pertinent factors relating to the implementation of the Plan, and determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit the fund and its shareholders. In particular, the Trustees noted that the Plan does not authorize payments by the fund other than those made to Strategic Advisers under its management contract with the fund. To the extent that the Plan gives Strategic Advisers and FDC greater flexibility in connection with the distribution of shares of the fund, additional sales of shares of the fund or stabilization of cash flows may result. Furthermore, certain shareholder support services may be provided more effectively under the Plan by local entities with whom shareholders have other relationships.
FDC or an affiliate may compensate, or upon direction make payments for certain retirement plan expenses to, intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (including affiliates of FDC). A number of factors are considered in determining whether to pay these additional amounts. Such factors may include, without limitation, the level or type of services provided by the intermediary, the level or expected level of assets or sales of shares, and other factors. In addition to such payments, FDC or an affiliate may offer other incentives such as sponsorship of educational or client seminars relating to current products and issues, payments or reimbursements for travel and related expenses associated with due diligence trips that an intermediary may undertake in order to explore possible business relationships with affiliates of FDC, and/or payments of costs and expenses associated with attendance at seminars, including travel, lodging, entertainment, and meals. Certain of the payments described above may be significant to an intermediary. As permitted by SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority rules and other applicable laws and regulations, FDC or an affiliate may pay or allow other incentives or payments to intermediaries.
The fund's transfer agent or an affiliate may also make payments and reimbursements from its own resources to certain intermediaries (who may be affiliated with the transfer agent) for performing recordkeeping and other services. Please see "Transfer and Service Agent Agreements" in this SAI for more information.
Any of the payments described in this section may represent a premium over payments made by other fund families. Retirement plan sponsors may take these payments into account when deciding whether to include a fund as a plan investment option.
TRANSFER AND SERVICE AGENT AGREEMENTS
The fund has entered into a transfer agent agreement with Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC), an affiliate of Strategic Advisers, which is located at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. Under the terms of the agreement, FIIOC (or an agent, including an affiliate) performs transfer agency services for the fund.
For providing transfer agency services, FIIOC receives an account fee and an asset-based fee with respect to assets managed by one or more sub-advisers and assets invested in non-affiliated ETFs. For retail accounts, these fees are based on fund type. For certain institutional accounts, these fees are based on size of position and fund type. For institutional retirement accounts, these fees are based on account type and fund type. The account fee is billed monthly on a pro rata basis at one-twelfth of the applicable annual rate as of the end of each calendar month. The asset-based fee is calculated and paid monthly on the basis of average daily net assets. For assets invested in underlying Fidelity funds, each underlying Fidelity fund pays its respective transfer agent (either FIIOC or an affiliate of FIIOC) fees based, in part, on the number of positions in and assets of the fund invested in such underlying Fidelity fund.
FIIOC also may collect fees charged in connection with providing certain types of services such as exchanges, closing out fund balances, maintaining fund positions with low balances, checkwriting, wire transactions, and providing historical account research.
FIIOC bears the expense of typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, and all other reports, notices, and statements to existing shareholders, with the exception of proxy statements.
<R>FIIOC or an affiliate may make payments out of its own resources to intermediaries (including affiliates of FIIOC) for recordkeeping services. Payments may also be made, upon direction, for other plan expenses. FIIOC may also pay an affiliate for providing services that otherwise would have been performed by FIIOC.</R>
The fund has entered into a service agent agreement with FSC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers (or an agent, including an affiliate). Under the terms of the agreement, FSC calculates the NAV and dividends for the fund and maintains the fund's portfolio and general accounting records.
For providing pricing and bookkeeping services, FSC receives a monthly fee based on the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month.
The annual rates for pricing and bookkeeping services for the fund are 0.0389% of the first $500 million of average net assets, 0.0275% of average net assets between $500 million and $3.5 billion, 0.0041% of average net assets between $3.5 billion and $25 billion, and 0.0019% of average net assets in excess of $25 billion.
<R>Pricing and bookkeeping fees paid by the fund to FSC for the past fiscal year are shown in the following table.</R>
<R> Fund |
2012</R> |
<R>Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund |
$ 11,318*</R> |
<R>* From November 16, 2011.</R>
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRUST
<R> Trust Organization. Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund is a fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, an open-end management investment company created under an initial trust instrument dated March 8, 2006. Currently, there are 20 funds offered in the trust: Strategic Advisers Core Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund. The Trustees are permitted to create additional funds in the trust and to create additional classes of the fund.</R>
The assets of the trust received for the issue or sale of shares of each of its funds and all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, subject to the rights of creditors, are allocated to such fund, and constitute the underlying assets of such fund. The underlying assets of each fund in the trust shall be charged with the liabilities and expenses attributable to such fund. Any general expenses of the trust shall be allocated between or among any one or more of the funds.
Shareholder Liability. The trust is a statutory trust organized under Delaware law. Delaware law provides that, except to the extent otherwise provided in the Trust Instrument, shareholders shall be entitled to the same limitations of personal liability extended to stockholders of private corporations for profit organized under the general corporation law of Delaware. The courts of some states, however, may decline to apply Delaware law on this point. The Trust Instrument contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for the debts, liabilities, obligations, and expenses of the trust. The Trust Instrument provides that the trust shall not have any claim against shareholders except for the payment of the purchase price of shares and requires that each agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the trust or the Trustees relating to the trust or to a fund shall include a provision limiting the obligations created thereby to the trust or to one or more funds and its or their assets. The Trust Instrument further provides that shareholders of a fund shall not have a claim on or right to any assets belonging to any other fund.
The Trust Instrument provides for indemnification out of each fund's property of any shareholder or former shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the fund solely by reason of his or her being or having been a shareholder and not because of his or her acts or omissions or for some other reason. The Trust Instrument also provides that each fund shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which Delaware law does not apply, no contractual limitation of liability was in effect, and a fund is unable to meet its obligations. Strategic Advisers believes that, in view of the above, the risk of personal liability to shareholders is extremely remote.
<R> Voting Rights. Each fund's capital consists of shares of beneficial interest. As a shareholder, you are entitled to one vote for each dollar of net asset value you own. The voting rights of shareholders can be changed only by a shareholder vote. Shares may be voted in the aggregate, by fund, and by class.</R>
The shares have no preemptive or conversion rights. Shares are fully paid and nonassessable, except as set forth under the heading "Shareholder Liability" above.
On matters submitted for consideration by shareholders of any underlying fund, the fund will vote its shares in proportion to the vote of all other holders of the same class of shares of that underlying fund.
The trust or a fund or a class may be terminated upon the sale of its assets to, or merger with, another open-end management investment company, series, or class thereof, or upon liquidation and distribution of its assets. The Trustees may reorganize, terminate, merge, or sell all or a portion of the assets of the trust or a fund or a class without prior shareholder approval. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the trust, shareholders of each of its funds are entitled to receive the underlying assets of such fund available for distribution. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of a fund or a class, shareholders of that fund or that class are entitled to receive the underlying assets of the fund or class available for distribution.
Custodians. The Bank of New York Mellon, 1 Wall Street, New York, New York, is custodian of the assets of the fund. The custodian is responsible for the safekeeping of the fund's assets and the appointment of any subcustodian banks and clearing agencies. JPMorgan Chase Bank, headquartered in New York, also may serve as a special purpose custodian of certain assets in connection with repurchase agreement transactions.
Strategic Advisers, its officers and directors, its affiliated companies, Member of the Advisory Board, and Members of the Board of Trustees may, from time to time, conduct transactions with various banks, including banks serving as custodians for certain funds advised by Strategic Advisers. Transactions that have occurred to date include mortgages and personal and general business loans. In the judgment of Strategic Advisers, the terms and conditions of those transactions were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other fund relationships.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 125 High Street, Boston, Massachusetts, independent registered public accounting firm, audits financial statements for the fund and provides other audit, tax, and related services.
The fund views holdings information as sensitive and limits its dissemination. The Board authorized Strategic Advisers, in consultation with FMR, to establish and administer guidelines for the dissemination of fund holdings information, which may be amended at any time without prior notice. FMR's Disclosure Policy Committee (comprising executive officers of FMR) evaluates disclosure policy with the goal of serving the fund's best interests by striking an appropriate balance between providing information about the fund's portfolio and protecting the fund from potentially harmful disclosure. The Board reviews the administration and modification of these guidelines and receives reports from the fund's chief compliance officer periodically.
Other registered investment companies that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be subject to different portfolio holdings disclosure policies, and neither Strategic Advisers nor the Board exercises control over such policies or disclosure. In addition, separate account clients of Strategic Advisers and the sub-advisers have access to their portfolio holdings and are not subject to the fund's portfolio holdings disclosure policies. Some of the funds that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser and some of the separate accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser have investment objectives and strategies that are substantially similar or identical to the fund's and, therefore, potentially substantially similar, and in certain cases nearly identical, portfolio holdings as the fund.
The fund will provide a full list of holdings monthly on www.fidelity.com 30 days after the month-end (excluding high income security holdings, which generally will be presented collectively monthly and included in a list of full holdings 60 days after its fiscal quarter-end).
Unless otherwise indicated, this information will be available on the web site until updated for the next applicable period.
The fund may also from time to time provide or make available to the Board or third parties upon request specific fund level performance attribution information and statistics. Third parties may include fund shareholders or prospective fund shareholders, members of the press, consultants, and ratings and ranking organizations.
<R> The Use of Holdings In Connection With Fund Operations. Material non-public holdings information may be provided as part of the investment activities of the fund to: entities which, by explicit agreement or by virtue of their respective duties to the fund, are required to maintain the confidentiality of the information disclosed; other parties if legally required; or persons Strategic Advisers believes will not misuse the disclosed information. These entities, parties, and persons include, but are not limited to: the fund's trustees; the fund's manager, its sub-advisers, if any, and their affiliates whose access persons are subject to a code of ethics; contractors who are subject to a confidentiality agreement; the fund's auditors; the fund's custodians; proxy voting service providers; financial printers; pricing service vendors; broker-dealers in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or requests for price quotations or bids on one or more securities; counsel to the fund or its Independent Trustees; regulatory authorities; stock exchanges and other listing organizations; parties to litigation; third parties in connection with a bankruptcy proceeding relating to a fund holding; and third parties who have submitted a standing request to a money market fund for daily holdings information. Non-public holdings information may also be provided to an issuer regarding the number or percentage of its shares that are owned by the fund and in connection with redemptions in kind.</R>
<R> Other Uses Of Holdings Information. In addition, the fund may provide material non-public holdings information to (i) third parties that calculate information derived from holdings for use by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, (ii) ratings and rankings organizations, and (iii) an investment adviser, trustee, or their agents to whom holdings are disclosed for due diligence purposes or in anticipation of a merger involving the fund. Each individual request is reviewed by the Disclosure Policy Committee which must find, in its sole discretion that, based on the specific facts and circumstances, the disclosure appears unlikely to be harmful to the fund. Entities receiving this information must have in place control mechanisms to reasonably ensure or otherwise agree that, (a) the holdings information will be kept confidential, (b) no employee shall use the information to effect trading or for their personal benefit, and (c) the nature and type of information that they, in turn, may disclose to third parties is limited. Strategic Advisers relies primarily on the existence of non-disclosure agreements and/or control mechanisms when determining that disclosure is not likely to be harmful to the fund.</R>
At this time, the entities receiving information described in the preceding paragraph are: Factset Research Systems Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day) and Anacomp Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day).
Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, or the fund will not enter into any arrangements with third parties from which they derive consideration for the disclosure of material non-public holdings information. If, in the future, Strategic Advisers desired to make such an arrangement, it would seek prior Board approval and any such arrangements would be disclosed in the fund's SAI.
There can be no assurance that the fund's policies and procedures with respect to disclosure of fund portfolio holdings will prevent the misuse of such information by individuals and firms that receive such information.
<R>The fund's financial statements and financial highlights for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012, and report of the independent registered public accounting firm, are included in the fund's annual report and are incorporated herein by reference. Total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table may differ from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the financial highlights because total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table include any acquired fund fees and expenses, whereas the ratios of expenses in the financial highlights do not. Acquired funds include other investment companies in which the fund has invested, if and to the extent it is permitted to do so. Total annual operating expenses in the prospectus fee table and the financial highlights do not include any expenses associated with investments in certain structured or synthetic products that may rely on the exception from the definition of "investment company" provided by section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act.</R>
Strategic Advisers is a registered service mark of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
Fund /Ticker
Strategic Advisers ® Growth Fund /FSGFX
Offered exclusively to certain clients of Strategic Advisers, Inc. - not available for sale to the general public
Prospectus
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
Fund Summary |
Strategic Advisers ® Growth Fund |
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Fund Basics |
Investment Details |
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Valuing Shares |
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Shareholder Information |
Additional Information about the Purchase and Sale of Shares |
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Dividends and Capital Gain Distributions |
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Tax Consequences |
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Fund Services |
Fund Management |
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Fund Distribution |
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Appendix |
Financial Highlights |
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<R> |
Additional Information about the Index </R> |
Prospectus
Fund:
Strategic Advisers
®
Growth Fund
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The following table describes the fees and expenses that may be incurred when you buy and hold shares of the fund.
Shareholder fees
|
None |
Annual fund operating expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a % of the value of your investment)
<R> Management fee (fluctuates based on the fund's allocation among underlying funds and sub-advisers) B |
0.45% </R> |
<R> Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) fees |
None </R> |
<R> Other expenses |
0.17% </R> |
<R> Acquired fund fees and expenses (fees and expenses of underlying funds) |
0.19% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses A |
0.81% </R> |
<R> Fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement B |
0.25% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement A |
0.56% </R> |
<R> A Differs from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the Financial Highlights section of the prospectus because of acquired fund fees and expenses. </R>
<R> B Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) has contractually agreed that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 0.95% of the fund's average daily net assets. In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets. This arrangement will remain in effect through September 30, 2014. Strategic Advisers may not discontinue or modify this arrangement without the approval of the Board of Trustees. </R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
This example helps compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
Let's say, hypothetically, that the annual return for shares of the fund is 5% and that your shareholder fees and the annual operating expenses for shares of the fund are exactly as described in the fee table. This example illustrates the effect of fees and expenses, but is not meant to suggest actual or expected fees and expenses or returns, all of which may vary. For every $10,000 you invested, here's how much you would pay in total expenses if you sell all of your shares at the end of each time period indicated:
<R> 1 year |
$ 57 </R> |
<R> 3 years |
$ 198 </R> |
<R> 5 years |
$ 390 </R> |
<R> 10 years |
$ 945 </R> |
<R>The fund will not incur transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells shares of affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it will incur transaction costs when it buys and sells other types of securities (including non-affiliated exchange traded funds) directly (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 annual operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 49% of the average value of its portfolio.</R>
Prospectus
Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) is permitted, subject to the approval of the Board of Trustees, to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement.
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
In addition, the fund is considered non-diversified and can invest a greater portion of assets in securities of a smaller number of individual issuers than a diversified fund. As a result, changes in the market value of a single investment could cause greater fluctuations in share price than would occur in a more diversified fund.
<R>An investment in the fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. You could lose money by investing in the fund.</R>
<R>The following information is intended to help you understand the risks of investing in the fund. The information illustrates the performance of the fund's shares over the past year and compares the performance of the fund's shares to the performance of a securities market index over various periods of time. The index description appears in the Additional Information about the Index section of the prospectus. Past performance (before and after taxes) is not an indication of future performance.</R>
<R>Visit www.fidelity.com for updated return information.</R>
Prospectus
<R> Calendar Year |
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2011 </R> |
<R> |
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-0.42% </R> |
<R>
</R>
<R> During the period shown in the chart: |
Returns |
Quarter ended </R> |
<R> Highest Quarter Return |
9.95% |
December 31, 2011 </R> |
<R> Lowest Quarter Return |
-15.45% |
September 30, 2011 </R> |
<R> Year-to-Date Return |
8.30% |
June 30, 2012 </R> |
<R>After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates, but do not reflect the impact of state or local taxes. Actual after-tax returns may differ depending on your individual circumstances. The after-tax returns shown are not relevant if you hold your shares in a retirement account or in another tax-deferred arrangement. Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares may be higher than other returns for the same period due to a tax benefit of realizing a capital loss upon the sale of fund shares.</R>
<R>
For the periods ended
|
Past 1
|
Life of
|
<R> Strategic Advisers Growth Fund |
|
</R> |
<R> Return Before Taxes |
-0.42% |
10.09% </R> |
<R> Return After Taxes on Distributions |
-0.75% |
9.83% </R> |
<R> Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares |
-0.06% |
8.54% </R> |
<R>
Russell 1000
®
Growth Index
|
2.64% |
12.98% </R> |
A From June 2, 2010.
<R>Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. ClariVest Asset Management LLC (ClariVest), Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc. (MSIM), Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis), Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company (WRIMCO), and Winslow Capital Management, LLC (Winslow) have been retained to serve as sub-advisers for the fund.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
<R></R>
<R>John A. Stone (lead portfolio manager) has managed the fund since June 2010.</R>
<R>Vincent Zelenko (co-manager) has managed the fund since January 2012.</R>
David J. Pavan (co-manager) and Frank Feng (co-manager) have managed ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets since June 2010.
<R>Ed Wagner (co-manager) has managed ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets since February 2012.</R>
<R>Dennis P. Lynch (lead manager), David S. Cohen (co-manager), Sam G. Chainani (co-manager), Alexander T. Norton (co-manager), Jason C. Yeung (co-manager), and Armistead B. Nash (co-manager) have managed MSIM's portion of the fund's assets since December 2011.</R>
Stephen Balter (co-manager) and Christopher Galizio (co-manager) have managed Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets since June 2010.
Daniel P. Becker (co-manager) and Philip J. Sanders (co-manager) have managed WRIMCO's portion of the fund's assets since June 2010.
Justin H. Kelly (co-manager), R. Bart Wear (co-manager), and Clark J. Winslow (co-manager) have managed Winslow's portion of the fund's assets since June 2010.
The fund is not available for sale to the general public.
<R>The price to buy one share of the fund is its net asset value per share (NAV). Shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.</R>
<R>The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV. Shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.</R>
The fund is open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open.
The fund has no minimum investment requirement.
Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax and generally will be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, and may also be subject to state or local taxes, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account (in which case you may be taxed later, upon withdrawal of your investment from such account).
The fund, Strategic Advisers, Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and/or their affiliates may pay intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, or service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR, or FDC), for the sale of fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing your intermediary and your investment professional to recommend the fund over another investment. Ask your investment professional or visit your intermediary's web site for more information.
Prospectus
Investment Objective
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies
The fund normally invests primarily in common stocks.
The fund invests in companies that are believed to have above-average growth potential. Growth may be measured by factors such as earnings or revenue.
Companies with high growth potential tend to be companies with higher than average price/earnings (P/E) or price/book (P/B) ratios. Companies with strong growth potential often have new products, technologies, distribution channels, or other opportunities, or have a strong industry or market position. The stocks of these companies are often called "growth" stocks.
The fund normally invests primarily in securities of companies with large market capitalizations. Although a universal definition of large market capitalization companies does not exist, for purposes of this fund, large market capitalization companies generally are defined as those companies with market capitalizations similar to those of companies included in the Russell 1000 Growth Index. A company's market capitalization is based on its current market capitalization or its market capitalization at the time of the fund's investment. The size of the companies in the index changes with market conditions and the composition of the index.
The fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers in addition to securities of domestic issuers.
The fund implements its investment strategies by investing directly in securities through one or more sub-advisers or indirectly in securities through one or more underlying funds, which in turn invest directly in securities.
Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of underlying funds or sub-advisers at any time.
Strategic Advisers pursues a disciplined, benchmark-driven approach to portfolio construction, and monitors and adjusts allocations to underlying funds and sub-advisers as necessary to favor those underlying funds and sub-advisers that Strategic Advisers believes will provide the most favorable outlook for achieving the fund's investment objective.
When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among underlying funds, Strategic Advisers relies on proprietary fundamental and quantitative fund research in its fund selection process. Factors considered when investing in underlying funds include fund performance, a fund manager's experience and investment style, fund company infrastructure, and fund characteristics such as expense ratio, asset size, and portfolio turnover.
<R>The fund may invest in affiliated funds ( i.e., Fidelity funds) and non-affiliated funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork ® and in non-affiliated ETFs. Underlying funds include both funds managed by FMR (an affiliated company that, together with Strategic Advisers, is part of Fidelity Investments) or an affiliate and funds managed by investment advisers other than Fidelity. Fidelity may receive service fees that typically are at an annual rate of up to 0.40% of a non-affiliated underlying fund's average daily net assets attributable to purchases through Fidelity's FundsNetwork, though such fees may be higher or lower, or may be charged as transaction and/or account fees. In addition, the fund may invest in ETFs in transactions not occurring through Fidelity's FundsNetwork.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Strategic Advisers may actively adjust the allocation of the fund's assets at any time. For current information on fund holdings, please call 1-800-544-3455 or visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com. For information on the underlying funds, see the underlying funds' prospectuses. A copy of any underlying Fidelity fund's prospectus is available at www.fidelity.com or www.advisor.fidelity.com. For a copy of any other underlying fund's prospectus, visit the web site of the company that manages or sponsors that underlying fund.</R>
When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers considers a variety of factors including, but not limited to, a sub-adviser's investment approach, the characteristics of a sub-adviser's typical investment portfolio, and a sub-adviser's performance patterns in different market environments.
Common types of investment approaches that a sub-adviser may use in selecting investments for a fund include, but are not limited to, quantitative analysis, fundamental analysis, or a combination of both approaches. Quantitative analysis refers to programmatic models that analyze such factors as growth potential, valuation, liquidity, and investment risk based on data inputs. Fundamental analysis involves a bottom-up assessment of a company's potential for success in light of factors including its financial condition, earnings outlook, strategy, management, industry position, and economic and market conditions.
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
The fund may also use various techniques, such as buying and selling futures contracts, to increase or decrease its exposure to changing security prices or other factors that affect security values. In addition, the fund may have indirect exposure to derivatives through its investments in underlying funds.
<R>Because the fund is considered non-diversified, a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund.</R>
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Description of Principal Security Types
In addition to investing in underlying funds, the fund may invest directly in the following principal security types:
Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Different types of equity securities provide different voting and dividend rights and priority in the event of the bankruptcy of the issuer. Equity securities include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, and warrants.
Principal Investment Risks
<R>Many factors affect the fund's performance. The fund's share price changes daily based on the performance of the underlying funds and securities in which it invests and on changes in market conditions and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The fund's reaction to these developments will be affected by the types of underlying funds and securities in which the fund invests, the financial condition, industry and economic sector, and geographic location of an issuer, and the fund's level of investment in the securities of that underlying fund or issuer. In addition, because a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund, the fund's performance could be closely tied to that one issuer or underlying fund and could be more volatile than the performance of more diversified funds.</R>
If Strategic Advisers' or a sub-adviser's allocation strategies do not work as intended, the fund may not achieve its objective. The portfolio managers' evaluations and assumptions in selecting underlying funds or individual securities may be incorrect in view of actual market conditions.
When your shares are sold they may be worth more or less than what you paid for them, which means that you could lose money by investing in the fund.
The following factors can significantly affect the fund's performance:
Multiple Sub-Adviser Risk. Because each sub-adviser manages its allocated portion independently from another sub-adviser, it is possible that the sub-advisers' security selection processes may not complement one another. As a result, the fund's aggregate exposure to a particular industry or group of industries, or to a single issuer, could unintentionally be larger or smaller than intended. Because each sub-adviser directs the trading for its own portion of the fund, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisers, the fund may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were managing the entire fund.
Prospectus
Investing in Other Funds. Regulatory restrictions may limit the amount that one fund can invest in another, and in certain cases further limit investments to the extent a fund's shares are already held by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The fund bears all risks of investment strategies employed by the underlying funds. The fund does not control the investments of the underlying funds, which may have different investment objectives and may engage in investment strategies that the fund would not engage in directly. Aggregation of underlying fund holdings may result in indirect concentration of assets in a particular industry or group of industries, or in a single issuer, which may increase volatility.
<R> Stock Market Volatility. The value of equity securities fluctuates in response to issuer, political, market, and economic developments. Fluctuations can be dramatic over the short as well as long term, and different parts of the market and different types of equity securities can react differently to these developments. For example, large cap stocks can react differently from small cap stocks, "growth" stocks can react differently from "value" stocks, and stocks selected using quantitative or technical analysis can react differently than stocks selected using fundamental analysis. Issuer, political, or economic developments can affect a single issuer, issuers within an industry or economic sector or geographic region, or the market as a whole. Changes in the financial condition of a single issuer can impact the market as a whole. Terrorism and related geo-political risks have led, and may in the future lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on world economies and markets generally.</R>
Foreign Exposure. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations can involve additional risks relating to political, economic, or regulatory conditions in foreign countries. These risks include fluctuations in foreign currencies; withholding or other taxes; trading, settlement, custodial, and other operational risks; and the less stringent investor protection and disclosure standards of some foreign markets. All of these factors can make foreign investments, especially those in emerging markets, more volatile and potentially less liquid than U.S. investments. In addition, foreign markets can perform differently from the U.S. market.
<R>Global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region.</R>
Industry Exposure. Market conditions, interest rates, and economic, regulatory, or financial developments could significantly affect a single industry or a group of related industries, and the securities of companies in that industry or group of industries could react similarly to these or other developments. In addition, from time to time, a small number of companies may represent a large portion of a single industry or a group of related industries as a whole, and these companies can be sensitive to adverse economic, regulatory, or financial developments.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Issuer-Specific Changes. Changes in the financial condition of an issuer or counterparty, changes in specific economic or political conditions that affect a particular type of security or issuer, and changes in general economic or political conditions can increase the risk of default by an issuer or counterparty, which can affect a security's or instrument's value. The value of securities of smaller, less well-known issuers can be more volatile than that of larger issuers.
<R> Investing in ETFs. ETFs may trade in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) at prices below the value of their underlying portfolios and may not be liquid. An ETF that is not actively managed cannot sell poorly performing stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in its index or other benchmark. ETFs that track an index are subject to tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to its index or other benchmark).</R>
"Growth" Investing. "Growth" stocks can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole and other types of stocks. "Growth" stocks tend to be more expensive relative to their earnings or assets compared to other types of stocks. As a result, "growth" stocks tend to be sensitive to changes in their earnings and more volatile than other types of stocks.
Quantitative Investing. The value of securities selected using quantitative analysis can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole or securities selected using only fundamental analysis. The factors used in quantitative analysis and the weight placed on those factors may not be predictive of a security's value. In addition, factors that affect a security's value can change over time and these changes may not be reflected in the quantitative model.
In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
The following policy is fundamental, that is, subject to change only by shareholder approval:
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The fund is open for business each day the NYSE is open.
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. Fidelity normally calculates the fund's NAV as of the close of business of the NYSE, normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The fund's assets normally are valued as of this time for the purpose of computing the fund's NAV.
Prospectus
NAV is not calculated and the fund will not process purchase and redemption requests submitted on days when the fund is not open for business. The time at which shares are priced and until which purchase and redemption orders are accepted may be changed as permitted by the SEC.
To the extent that the fund's assets are traded in other markets on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of the fund's assets may be affected on those days. In addition, trading in some of the fund's assets may not occur on days when the fund is open for business.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) are valued at their respective NAVs. For an explanation of the circumstances under which the underlying funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing, see the underlying funds' prospectuses and statements of additional information (SAIs). The fund's NAV is calculated using the values of the underlying funds in which it invests. Other assets (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued primarily on the basis of market quotations or official closing prices. Certain short-term securities are valued on the basis of amortized cost. If market quotations or official closing prices are not readily available or, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, are deemed unreliable for a security, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before the fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Arbitrage opportunities may exist when trading in a portfolio security or securities is halted and does not resume before a fund calculates its NAV. These arbitrage opportunities may enable short-term traders to dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Securities trading in overseas markets present time zone arbitrage opportunities when events affecting portfolio security values occur after the close of the overseas markets but prior to the close of the U.S. market. Fair valuation of a fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of a fund's NAV by short-term traders.
Fair value pricing is based on subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value of a security may differ materially from the value that would be realized if the security were sold.
Prospectus
THE FUND IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR SALE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
Shares of the fund can be purchased only through certain discretionary investment programs offered by Strategic Advisers. If you are not currently a Strategic Advisers client, please call 1-800-544-3455 (9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday) for more information. Strategic Advisers charges fees for its discretionary investment programs. For more information on these fees, please refer to the "Buying and Selling Information" section of the SAI.
The fund may reject for any reason, or cancel as permitted or required by law, any purchase orders.
Excessive trading of fund shares can harm shareholders in various ways, including reducing the returns to long-term shareholders by increasing costs to the fund (such as brokerage commissions), disrupting portfolio management strategies, and diluting the value of the shares in cases in which fluctuations in markets are not fully priced into the fund's NAV.
Because investments in the fund can be made only by Strategic Advisers on behalf of its clients, the potential for excessive or short-term disruptive purchases and sales is reduced. Accordingly, the Board of Trustees has not adopted policies and procedures designed to discourage excessive trading of fund shares and the fund accommodates frequent trading.
The fund has no exchange privilege with any other fund. The fund does not place a limit on purchases or sales of fund shares by Strategic Advisers. The fund reserves the right, but does not have the obligation, to reject any purchase transaction at any time. In addition, the fund reserves the right to impose restrictions on disruptive, excessive, or short-term trading.
The price to buy one share of the fund is its NAV. The fund's shares are sold without a sales charge.
Shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.
Provided the fund receives an order to buy shares in proper form before the close of business, the fund may place an order to buy shares of an underlying Fidelity fund after the close of business, pursuant to a pre-determined allocation, and receive that day's NAV.
The fund may stop offering shares completely or may offer shares only on a limited basis, for a period of time or permanently.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, purchase orders may be suspended, restricted, or canceled and the monies may be withheld.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV.
Shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form. Normally, redemptions will be processed by the next business day, but it may take up to seven days to pay the redemption proceeds if making immediate payment would adversely affect the fund.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
Provided the fund receives an order to sell shares in proper form before the close of business, the fund may place an order to sell shares of an underlying Fidelity fund after the close of business, pursuant to a pre-determined allocation, and receive that day's NAV.
Redemptions may be suspended or payment dates postponed when the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or holidays), when trading on the NYSE is restricted, or as permitted by the SEC.
Redemption proceeds may be paid in underlying fund shares, securities, or other property rather than in cash if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund.
When you terminate your relationship with Strategic Advisers, your shares may be sold at the NAV next calculated, in which case Strategic Advisers would send the redemption proceeds to you.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, redemption requests may be suspended, restricted, canceled, or processed and the proceeds may be withheld.
The fund earns dividends, interest, and other income from its investments, and distributes this income (less expenses) to shareholders as dividends. The fund also realizes capital gains from its investments, and distributes these gains (less any losses) to shareholders as capital gain distributions.
The fund normally pays dividends and capital gain distributions in July and December.
Dividends and capital gain distributions may be reinvested in additional shares of the fund or paid in cash.
As with any investment, your investment in the fund could have tax consequences for you. If you are not investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account, you should consider these tax consequences.
Taxes on distributions. Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes.
For federal tax purposes, certain of the fund's distributions, including dividends and distributions of short-term capital gains, are taxable to you as ordinary income, while certain of the fund's distributions, including distributions of long-term capital gains, are taxable to you generally as capital gains. A percentage of certain distributions of dividends may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
If Strategic Advisers buys shares on your behalf when a fund has realized but not yet distributed income or capital gains, you will be "buying a dividend" by paying the full price for the shares and then receiving a portion of the price back in the form of a taxable distribution.
Prospectus
Any taxable distributions you receive from the fund will normally be taxable to you when you receive them, regardless of your distribution option.
Taxes on transactions. Your redemptions may result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. A capital gain or loss on your investment in the fund generally is the difference between the cost of your shares and the price you receive when you sell them.
Prospectus
The fund is a mutual fund, an investment that pools shareholders' money and invests it toward a specified goal.
The fund employs a multi-manager and a fund of funds investment structure. Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of sub-advisers or underlying funds.
Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. The address of Strategic Advisers and its affiliates, unless otherwise indicated below, is 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R>As of December 31, 2011, Strategic Advisers had approximately $261.7 billion in discretionary assets under management.</R>
As the manager, Strategic Advisers has overall responsibility for directing the fund's investments and handling its business affairs.
<R> ClariVest , at 11452 El Camino Real, Suite 250, San Diego, California 92130, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, ClariVest had approximately $2.9 billion in discretionary assets under management. ClariVest provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> MSIM , at 522 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10032, has been retained to serve as sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, MSIM had approximately $303.7 billion in discretionary assets under management. MSIM provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Pyramis , at 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. Pyramis is an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. As of December 31, 2011, Pyramis had approximately $40.2 billion in discretionary assets under management. Pyramis provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> WRIMCO , at 6300 Lamar Avenue, P.O. Box 29217, Overland Park, Kansas 66201-9217, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, WRIMCO had approximately $43.2 billion in discretionary assets under management. WRIMCO provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Winslow , at 4720 IDS Tower, 80 South Eighth Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, Winslow had approximately $31.3 billion in discretionary assets under management. Winslow provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
Strategic Advisers
<R></R>
<R>John A. Stone is lead portfolio manager of the fund, which he has managed since June 2010. He also manages other funds. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments in 2008 as a portfolio manager, Mr. Stone worked as a portfolio manager and a Principal at Mercer Global Investments beginning in 2006.</R>
<R>Vincent Zelenko is co-manager of the fund, which he has managed since January 2012. Since joining Fidelity Investments in June 2005 as part of Strategic Advisers, Mr. Zelenko has worked as a research analyst and portfolio manager.</R>
Prospectus
<R>David J. Pavan, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since June 2010. He is a founder and owner of ClariVest Asset Management LLC and portfolio manager with primary responsibility for the US large-cap growth investment strategy. Prior to forming ClariVest in March 2006, Mr. Pavan was the portfolio manager for the Systematic US large-cap growth strategies at Nicholas-Applegate Capital Management, and was a member of the Systematic investment team that managed over $5 billion in assets at the firm. Previously, he served as a quantitative analyst at Putnam Investments. Prior to this, Mr. Pavan was a partner at Genus Capital Management, where he worked as an equity analyst. Mr. Pavan holds a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from the University of Waterloo, an MBA from Queen's University, and a Masters in Computational Finance from Carnegie Mellon University. Mr. Pavan has nineteen years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Frank Feng, Ph.D., serves as co-portfolio manager for ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since June 2010. He is a founder and owner of ClariVest Asset Management LLC and portfolio manager with primary responsibility for the US large-cap core strategy. Prior to forming ClariVest in March 2006, Mr. Feng was the portfolio manager for the Systematic US large-cap core strategy and served as a member of the Systematic investment team that managed over $5 billion in assets at Nicholas-Applegate Capital Management. Before joining Nicholas-Applegate, Mr. Feng served as a senior quantitative analyst with Thomson Financial/Vestek Systems and as a credit analyst with Providian Financial. He received a BA from Jiaotong University, Xian, China, an MBA from The University of International Business & Economics, Beijing, China, and a PhD in finance from Georgia State University. Mr. Feng has fifteen years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Ed Wagner serves as co-portfolio manager for ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since February 2012. He joined ClariVest in December 2007 as a portfolio manager with responsibility for US small-cap and mid-cap investment strategies, and transitioned to mid-cap and large-cap strategies in 2012. Prior to joining ClariVest, Ed was a business analyst at Advent Software where he was responsible for fixed income and derivatives functionality for Geneva, Advent's hedge fund accounting product. Before joining Advent, Ed was an investment analyst for US small cap strategies and served as a member of the Systematic investment team at Nicholas-Applegate Capital Management. Before joining Nicholas-Applegate, Ed was an Assistant Product Manager and Junior Quantitative Analyst for Vestek Systems. Ed holds a Bachelor's degree in Economics from the University of California, San Diego, and an MBA from the Australian Graduate School of Management. Ed has eighteen years of investment experience.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
<R>Dennis P. Lynch serves as lead manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Lynch, Managing Director, is the head of growth investing for MSIM. Prior to joining the firm, he worked as a sell side analyst for JP Morgan Securities. Mr. Lynch received a B.A. in Political Science from Hamilton College, and an M.B.A. in Finance, with honors, from Columbia University. Mr. Lynch joined MSIM in 1998, and has 17 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>David S. Cohen serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Cohen, Managing Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 1999. Mr. Cohen is an investor on the team. Prior to joining the firm, he was a senior fund accountant at Alliance Capital. Previously, he was a fund accountant at Natwest and Wall Street Trust. Mr. Cohen received a B.S. in Management, summa cum laude, from Pace University. Mr. Cohen joined MSIM in 1993, and has 23 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Sam G. Chainani, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Chainani, Managing Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 2000. Sam is an investor on the team. He received a B.S. in Management with a concentration in Finance from Binghamton University. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Mr. Chainani joined MSIM in 1996, and has 15 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Alexander T. Norton serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Norton, Executive Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 2000. Alex is an investor on MSIM's Growth Team. Prior to joining the firm, he was an associate in Equity Derivative Sales and later an associate in Equity Research at Donaldson Lufkin & Jenrette. Previously, he was a Bond Broker with Cantor Fitzgerald. Alex received a B.A. in History from the University of Pennsylvania, and an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School in Finance. Mr. Norton joined MSIM in 2000, and has 16 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Jason C. Yeung, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Yeung, Managing Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 2004. Jason is an investor on the team. Prior to joining the firm, he was a senior research analyst at Ramius Capital Group. Previously, he was an equity research analyst at Deutsche Bank. Mr. Yeung received a B.A. in International Relations, Phi Beta Kappa, from Johns Hopkins University and an M.Phil. from the University of Cambridge in International Relations. He holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation. Mr. Yeung joined MSIM in 2002, and has 14 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Armistead B. Nash serves as co-portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2011. Mr. Nash, Executive Director, joined MSIM's Growth Team in 2004. Mr. Nash is an investor on the team. Prior to joining the firm, he was an associate in investment product development at BlackRock Financial Management. Previously, he was a research analyst in high yield research at KEA Capital. Mr. Nash received a B.A. from the University of Virginia in History, and an M.B.A. from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business in Business Administration. Mr. Nash joined MSIM in 2002, and has 11 years of investment experience.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Stephen Balter, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since June 2010. He is a portfolio manager at Pyramis Global Advisors, a unit of Fidelity. In this role, Mr. Balter serves as portfolio manager of large capitalization growth assets. Prior to joining Pyramis in February 2007, Mr. Balter was co-chair of Growth Investing at Pioneer Investments in Boston and co-managed Pioneer Growth Shares and Pioneer Fundamental Growth. Prior to joining Pioneer, Mr. Balter was portfolio manager at 2100 Capital Group, a subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, where he managed the 2100 Capital Group Discovery Fund, a US equity market neutral hedge fund. Prior to joining 2100 Capital Group, Mr. Balter spent four years at Putnam Investments as senior vice president and was co-manager of the Putnam Utilities Growth and Income Fund as well as sector team leader for Telecommunications research. Prior to working at Putnam, Mr. Balter spent four years at Pioneer on both the emerging markets and domestic equity research teams covering various industries including telecommunications, consumer, industrials, and technology. Mr. Balter has more than 15 years of experience in the investment industry. Mr. Balter earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Wesleyan University and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the Olin School of Business at Babson College.</R>
Christopher Galizio, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since June 2010. He is a portfolio manager at Pyramis Global Advisors, a unit of Fidelity. In this role, Mr. Galizio serves as portfolio manager of large capitalization growth assets. Prior to joining Pyramis in February 2007, Mr. Galizio was both a portfolio manager and analyst during a 13-year tenure at Pioneer Investments. From 2004 to 2006, Mr. Galizio was co-head of growth investing and co-managed Pioneer Growth Shares and Pioneer Fundamental Growth. From 2001 to 2004, Mr. Galizio was the head of global technology research and managed the Pioneer Global Technology Fund. During his career at Pioneer, Mr. Galizio covered a number of US equity sectors including technology, energy, and industrials. Prior to joining Pioneer's domestic equity research staff, Mr. Galizio was an international equity analyst for Pioneer, covering Japan and emerging markets. He has more than 17 years of investment industry experience. Mr. Galizio earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Government from Wesleyan University and a Master's degree in Business Administration from the University of Illinois.
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
Daniel P. Becker, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for WRIMCO's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since June 2010. He is a Senior Vice President and portfolio manager of Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company. Mr. Becker graduated from the University of Wisconsin at Madison in 1987 with a B.S. in mathematical economics. He earned an MS with an emphasis in finance, investments, and banking from the University of Wisconsin Graduate School of Business in 1989. Mr. Becker was previously affiliated with the State of Wisconsin Investment Board as a research technician from June 1988 through February 1989 and as an investment analyst beginning in February 1989. Mr. Becker joined WRIMCO in October 1989.
Philip J. Sanders, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for WRIMCO's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since June 2010. He is a Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer, and portfolio manager of Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company. Mr. Sanders received his BA in economics in 1980 from the University of Michigan. He earned an MBA from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte in 1986. Mr. Sanders was previously affiliated with Banc of America Capital Management from 1988 to 1998. Mr. Sanders served as lead portfolio manager of Banc of America's large cap growth style with assets of approximately $2 billion in mutual fund and individually managed institutional accounts. Mr. Sanders joined Waddell & Reed in August 1998.
Justin H. Kelly, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for Winslow's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since June 2010. He is a Senior Managing Director and portfolio manager/analyst of Winslow Capital Management and has been with the firm since 1999. Previously, Mr. Kelly was a Vice President and co-head of the Technology Research Team at Investment Advisers, Inc. in Minneapolis from 1997 to 1999. For the four years prior, he was an investment banker in New York City for Prudential Securities and then Salomon Brothers. Mr. Kelly graduated Summa Cum Laude from Babson College in 1993 with a B.S. in Finance/Investments. He is also a Chartered Financial Analyst.
R. Bart Wear, CFA, serves as co-portfolio manager for Winslow's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since June 2010. He is a Senior Managing Director and portfolio manager/analyst of Winslow Capital Management and has been with the firm since 1997. Previously, Mr. Wear was a Principal and equity manager at Baird Capital Management in Milwaukee, Wisconsin from 1996 to 1997. For the thirteen years prior, he served as a Senior Vice President/Senior Portfolio Manager and Director of Research at Firstar Investment Research and Management Company. Mr. Wear graduated with honors from Arizona State University in 1982 with a B.S. in Finance. He is also a Chartered Financial Analyst.
Prospectus
Clark J. Winslow serves as co-portfolio manager for Winslow's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since June 2010. He founded Winslow Capital Management in 1992 and is the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer. From 1987 to 1992 Mr. Winslow served as a Senior Vice President at Alliance Capital Management managing institutional assets. From 1980 to 1987 he served as a Managing Director at J.W. Bristol & Co. in New York. Mr. Winslow started in portfolio management at MacKay-Shields Financial in 1975. He began his investment career at Baker, Weeks & Co. as an institutional research analyst from 1966 to 1975 covering technology. Mr. Winslow earned a B.A. from Yale University in 1962 and an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School in 1965.
The SAI provides additional information about the compensation of, any other accounts managed by, and any fund shares held by the portfolio managers.
From time to time a manager, analyst, or other Fidelity employee may express views regarding a particular company, security, industry, or market sector. The views expressed by any such person are the views of only that individual as of the time expressed and do not necessarily represent the views of Fidelity or any other person in the Fidelity organization. Any such views are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and Fidelity disclaims any responsibility to update such views. These views may not be relied on as investment advice and, because investment decisions for a Fidelity fund are based on numerous factors, may not be relied on as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any Fidelity fund.
The fund pays a management fee to Strategic Advisers. The management fee is calculated and paid to Strategic Advisers every month.
The fund's management fee is calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets. Because the fund's management fee rate may fluctuate, the fund's management fee may be higher or lower in the future. The fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 0.95% of the fund's average daily net assets.
<R>Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets through September 30, 2014.</R>
<R>For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid a management fee of 0.20% of the fund's average net assets, after waiver and/or reimbursement.</R>
In return for the services of the fund's sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers will pay each of the fund's sub-advisers the fee (as described above) payable to that sub-adviser.
<R>The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the management contract and sub-advisory agreements with ClariVest, Pyramis, WRIMCO, and Winslow for the fund is available in the fund's semi-annual report for the fiscal period ended November 30, 2011. The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the sub-advisory agreement with MSIM for the fund is available in the fund's annual report for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, agree to reimburse the fund for, or waive, management fees and other expenses above a specified limit. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid by the fund if expenses fall below the specified limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Reimbursement or waiver arrangements can decrease expenses and boost performance.
FDC distributes the fund's shares.
The fund has adopted a Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) with respect to its shares that recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenues, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other source, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, service-providers, and administrators, that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees of the fund has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Affiliates of Strategic Advisers may receive service fees or distribution fees or both with respect to underlying funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork.
If payments made by Strategic Advisers to FDC or to intermediaries under the Distribution and Service Plan were considered to be paid out of the fund's assets on an ongoing basis, they might increase the cost of your investment and might cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
No dealer, sales representative, or any other person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representations, other than those contained in this prospectus and in the related SAI, in connection with the offer contained in this prospectus. If given or made, such other information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by the fund or FDC. This prospectus and the related SAI do not constitute an offer by the fund or by FDC to sell shares of the fund to or to buy shares of the fund from any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer.
Prospectus
The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the financial history of the fund's shares for the period of the fund's operations. Certain information reflects financial results for a single share of the fund. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in shares of the fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the fund's financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the fund's annual report. A free copy of the annual report is available upon request.
<R> Years ended May 31, |
2012 |
2011 E </R> |
<R> Selected Per-Share Data |
|
</R> |
<R> Net asset value, beginning of period |
$ 12.67 |
$ 10.00 </R> |
<R> Income from Investment Operations |
|
</R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) D |
.07 |
.07 </R> |
<R> Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) |
(.43 ) |
2.63 </R> |
<R> Total from investment operations |
(.36 ) |
2.70 </R> |
<R> Distributions from net investment income |
(.07) |
(.03) </R> |
<R> Distributions from net realized gain |
(.11 ) |
- </R> |
<R> Total distributions |
(.18 ) |
(.03 ) </R> |
<R> Net asset value, end of period |
$ 12.13 |
$ 12.67 </R> |
<R> Total Return B,C |
(2.83)% |
27.03% </R> |
<R> Ratios to Average Net Assets F |
|
</R> |
<R> Expenses before reductions |
.62% |
.70% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of fee waivers, if any |
.36% |
.45% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of all reductions |
.36% |
.45% A </R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) |
.61% |
.60% A </R> |
<R> Supplemental Data |
|
</R> |
<R> Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) |
$ 7,507,409 |
$ 6,800,471 </R> |
<R> Portfolio turnover rate G |
49% H |
47% A </R> |
<R> A Annualized </R>
<R> B Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized. </R>
<R> C Total returns would have been lower if certain expenses had not been reduced during the applicable periods shown. </R>
<R> D Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period. </R>
<R> E For the period June 2, 2010 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2011. </R>
<R> F Expense ratios reflect operating expenses of the Fund. Expenses before reductions do not reflect amounts reimbursed by the investment adviser or reductions from brokerage service arrangements or reductions from other expense offset arrangements and do not represent the amount paid by the Fund during periods when reimbursements or reductions occur. Expense ratios before reductions for start-up periods may not be representative of longer term operating periods. Expenses net of fee waivers reflect expenses after reimbursement by the investment adviser but prior to reductions from brokerage service arrangements or other expense offset arrangements. Expenses net of all reductions represent the net expenses paid by the Fund. Fees and expenses of the Underlying Funds are not included in the Fund's annualized ratios. The Fund indirectly bears its proportionate share of the expenses of the Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> G Amounts do not include the portfolio activity of any Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> H Portfolio turnover rate excludes securities received or delivered in-kind. </R>
Prospectus
<R> Russell 1000 Growth Index is a market capitalization-weighted index designed to measure the performance of the large-cap growth segment of the U.S. equity market. It includes those Russell 1000 Index companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth rates.</R>
Prospectus
Notes
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OPENING A NEW ACCOUNT To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT ACT), requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or entity that opens an account. For individual investors opening an account: When you open an account, you will be asked for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow Fidelity to identify you. You may also be asked to provide documents that may help to establish your identity, such as your driver's license. For investors other than individuals: When you open an account, you will be asked for the name of the entity, its principal place of business and taxpayer identification number (TIN) and may be requested to provide information on persons with authority or control over the account such as name, residential address, date of birth and social security number. You may also be asked to provide documents, such as drivers' licenses, articles of incorporation, trust instruments or partnership agreements and other information that will help Fidelity identify the entity. |
You can obtain additional information about the fund. A description of the fund's policies and procedures for disclosing its holdings is available in its SAI and on Fidelity's web sites. The SAI also includes more detailed information about the fund and its investments. The SAI is incorporated herein by reference (legally forms a part of the prospectus). The fund's annual and semi-annual reports also include additional information. The fund's annual report includes a discussion of the fund's holdings and recent market conditions and the fund's investment strategies that affected performance.
For a free copy of any of these documents or to request other information or ask questions about the fund, call 1-800-544-3455. In addition, you may visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com for a free copy of a prospectus, SAI, or annual or semi-annual report or to request other information.
The SAI, the fund's annual and semi-annual reports and other related materials are available from the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) Database on the SEC's web site (http://www.sec.gov). You can obtain copies of this information, after paying a duplicating fee, by sending a request by e-mail to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You can also review and copy information about the fund, including the fund's SAI, at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call 1-202-551-8090 for information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference Room. Investment Company Act of 1940, File Number, 811-21991 |
FDC is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). You may obtain information about SIPC, including the SIPC brochure, by visiting www.sipc.org or calling SIPC at 202-371-8300.
Strategic Advisers and FundsNetwork are registered service marks of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
<R>1.907409.103 SGF-PRO-0712</R>
Strategic Advisers ® Growth Fund (FSGFX)
A Fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
Offered exclusively to certain clients of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) - not available for sale to the general public.
This statement of additional information (SAI) is not a prospectus. Portions of the fund's annual report are incorporated herein. The annual report is supplied with this SAI.
<R>To obtain a free additional copy of the prospectus or SAI, dated July 30, 2012, or an annual report, please call Fidelity at 1-800-544-3455 or visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com.</R>
<R>SGF-PTB-0712
1.907410.103</R>
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PAGE |
Investment Policies and Limitations |
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Portfolio Transactions |
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Valuation |
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Buying and Selling Information |
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Distributions and Taxes |
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Trustees and Officers |
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Control of Investment Advisers |
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Management Contract |
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Proxy Voting Guidelines |
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Distribution Services |
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Transfer and Service Agent Agreements |
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Description of the Trust |
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<R>Fund Holdings Information |
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<R>Financial Statements |
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Appendix |
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS
The following policies and limitations supplement those set forth in the prospectus. Unless otherwise noted, whenever an investment policy or limitation states a maximum percentage of the fund's assets that may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy regarding quality standards, such standard or percentage limitation will be determined immediately after and as a result of the fund's acquisition of such security or other asset. Accordingly, any subsequent change in values, net assets, or other circumstances will not be considered when determining whether the investment complies with the fund's investment policies and limitations.
The fund's fundamental investment policies and limitations cannot be changed without approval by a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act)) of the fund. However, except for the fundamental investment limitations listed below, the investment policies and limitations described in this SAI are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
The following are the fund's fundamental investment limitations set forth in their entirety.
Senior Securities
The fund may not issue senior securities, except in connection with the insurance program established by the fund pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission or as otherwise permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Borrowing
The fund may not borrow money, except that the fund may borrow money for temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging or investment) in an amount not exceeding 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). Any borrowings that come to exceed this amount will be reduced within three days (not including Sundays and holidays) to the extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation.
Underwriting
The fund may not underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 in the disposition of restricted securities or in connection with investments in other investment companies.
Concentration
The fund may not purchase the securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or 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.
<R>For purposes of the fund's concentration limitation discussed above, Strategic Advisers or an affiliate may analyze the characteristics of a particular issuer and security and assign an industry or sector classification consistent with those characteristics in the event that the third-party classification provider used by Strategic Advisers does not assign a classification.</R>
Real Estate
The fund may not purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from investing in securities or other instruments backed by real estate or securities of companies engaged in the real estate business).
Commodities
The fund may not purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from purchasing or selling options and futures contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities).
Loans
The fund may not lend any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, but this limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities or to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.
The following investment limitations are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
Diversification
In order to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, the fund currently intends to comply with certain diversification limits imposed by Subchapter M.
<R>Subchapter M generally requires the fund to invest no more than 25% of its total assets in securities of any one issuer and to invest at least 50% of its total assets so that (a) no more than 5% of the fund's total assets are invested in securities of any one issuer, and (b) the fund does not hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of that issuer. However, Subchapter M allows unlimited investments in cash, cash items, government securities (as defined in Subchapter M) and securities of other regulated investment companies. These tax requirements are generally applied at the end of each quarter of the fund's taxable year.</R>
Short Sales
The fund does not currently intend to sell securities short, unless it owns or has the right to obtain securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short, and provided that transactions in futures contracts and options are not deemed to constitute selling securities short.
Margin Purchases
The fund does not currently intend to purchase securities on margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of transactions, and provided that margin payments in connection with futures contracts and options on futures contracts shall not constitute purchasing securities on margin.
Borrowing
The fund may borrow money only (a) from a bank or from a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) by engaging in reverse repurchase agreements with any party (reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings for purposes of the fundamental borrowing investment limitation).
Illiquid Securities
The fund does not currently intend to purchase any security if, as a result, more than 10% of its net assets would be invested in securities that are deemed to be illiquid because they are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or because they cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued.
For purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation discussed above, if through a change in values, net assets, or other circumstances, the fund were in a position where more than 10% of its net assets were invested in illiquid securities, it would consider appropriate steps to protect liquidity.
To the extent that the fund acquires the shares of an underlying fund in accordance with Section 12(d)(1)(F) of the 1940 Act, the underlying fund is not obligated to redeem its shares in an amount exceeding 1% of its shares outstanding during any period of less than 30 days. Those underlying fund shares will not be treated as illiquid securities for purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation described above to the extent that the fund is able to dispose of such securities by distributing them in kind to redeeming shareholders. (See "Securities of Other Investment Companies" on page (Click Here).)
Loans
The fund does not currently intend to lend assets other than securities to other parties, except by (a) lending money (up to 15% of the fund's net assets) to a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) assuming any unfunded commitments in connection with the acquisition of loans, loan participations, or other forms of debt instruments. (This limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities, to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.)
In addition to the fund's fundamental and non-fundamental investment limitations discussed above:
For the fund's limitations on futures and options transactions, see the section entitled "Futures, Options, and Swaps" on page (Click Here).
Notwithstanding the foregoing investment limitations, the underlying funds in which the fund may invest have adopted certain investment limitations that may be more or less restrictive than those listed above, thereby permitting the fund to engage indirectly in investment strategies that are prohibited under the investment limitations listed above. The investment limitations of each underlying fund are set forth in its registration statement.
<R>In accordance with its investment program as set forth in the prospectus, the fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in any one underlying Fidelity fund. Although the fund does not intend to concentrate its investments in a particular industry, the fund may indirectly concentrate in a particular industry or group of industries through its investments in one or more underlying funds.</R>
The following pages contain more detailed information about types of instruments in which the fund may invest, techniques the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may employ in pursuit of the fund's investment objective, and a summary of related risks. The fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may not buy all of these instruments or use all of these techniques unless it believes that doing so will help the fund achieve its goal. However, the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) is not required to buy any particular instrument or use any particular technique even if to do so might benefit the fund.
<R>Strategic Advisers ® Growth Fund may have exposure to instruments, techniques, and risks either directly or indirectly through an investment in an underlying fund. An underlying fund may invest in the same or other types of instruments and its adviser may employ the same or other types of techniques. Strategic Advisers ® Growth Fund's performance will be affected by the instruments, techniques, and risks associated with an underlying fund, in proportion to the amount of assets that the fund allocates to that underlying fund.</R>
On the following pages in this section titled "Investment Policies and Limitations," and except as otherwise indicated, references to "a fund" or "the fund" may relate to Strategic Advisers Growth Fund or an underlying fund, and references to "an adviser" or "the adviser" may relate to Strategic Advisers (or its affiliates) or a sub-adviser of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, or an adviser of an underlying fund.
Borrowing. If a fund borrows money, its share price may be subject to greater fluctuation until the borrowing is paid off. If a fund makes additional investments while borrowings are outstanding, this may be considered a form of leverage.
<R> Cash Management. A fund may hold uninvested cash or may invest it in cash equivalents such as money market securities, repurchase agreements, or shares of short-term bond or money market funds, including (for Fidelity funds and other advisory clients only) shares of Fidelity central funds. Generally, these securities offer less potential for gains than other types of securities.</R>
<R> Common Stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock take precedence over the claims of those who own common stock, although related proceedings can take time to resolve and results can be unpredictable.</R>
Convertible Securities are bonds, debentures, notes, or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible security held by a fund is called for redemption or conversion, the fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.
Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield, convertible securities generally sell at prices above their "conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stocks and interest rates. When the underlying common stocks decline in value, convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities. However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the underlying common stocks rise in value, the value of convertible securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time, however, the difference between the market value of convertible securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because convertible securities may also be interest-rate sensitive, their value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk, and are often lower-quality securities.
Debt Securities are used by issuers to borrow money. The issuer usually pays a fixed, variable, or floating rate of interest, and must repay the amount borrowed, usually at the maturity of the security. Some debt securities, such as zero coupon bonds, do not pay interest but are sold at a deep discount from their face values. Debt securities include corporate bonds, government securities, repurchase agreements, and mortgage and other asset-backed securities.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are shares of other investment companies, commodity pools, or other entities that are traded on an exchange. Typically, assets underlying the ETF shares are stocks, though they may also be commodities or other instruments, selected to track a particular index or other benchmark.
Typically, ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark increases. However, in the case of inverse ETFs (also called "short ETFs" or "bear ETFs"), ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark decreases. Inverse ETFs seek to deliver the opposite of the performance of the benchmark they track and are often marketed as a way for investors to profit from, or at least hedge their exposure to, downward moving markets. Investments in inverse ETFs are similar to holding short positions in the underlying benchmark.
ETF shares are redeemable only in large blocks (typically, 50,000 shares) often called "creation units" by persons other than a fund, and are redeemed principally in-kind at each day's next calculated net asset value per share (NAV). ETFs typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by a fund. A fund's purchase of ETFs results in the layering of expenses, such that the fund would indirectly bear a proportionate share of any ETF's operating expenses. Further, while traditional investment companies are continuously offered at NAV, ETFs are traded in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) on an intra-day basis at prices that may be above or below the value of their underlying portfolios.
<R>Some of the risks of investing in an ETF that tracks an index are similar to those of investing in an indexed mutual fund, including tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to the index or other benchmark); and the risk that because an ETF is not actively managed, it cannot sell stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in the index or other benchmark. Other ETF risks include the risk that ETFs may trade in the secondary market at a discount from their NAV and the risk that the ETFs may not be liquid. ETFs also may be leveraged. Leveraged ETFs seek to deliver multiples of the performance of the index or other benchmark they track and use derivatives in an effort to amplify the returns (or decline, in the case of inverse ETFs) of the underlying index or benchmark. While leveraged ETFs may offer the potential for greater return, the potential for loss and the speed at which losses can be realized also are greater. Most leveraged and inverse ETFs "reset" daily, meaning they are designed to achieve their stated objectives on a daily basis. Leveraged and inverse ETFs can deviate substantially from the performance of their underlying benchmark over longer periods of time, particularly in volatile periods.</R>
Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs) are a type of senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt security issued by financial institutions that combines aspects of both bonds and ETFs. An ETN's returns are based on the performance of a market index or other reference asset minus fees and expenses. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are listed on an exchange and traded in the secondary market. However, unlike an ETF, an ETN can be held until the ETN's maturity, at which time the issuer will pay a return linked to the performance of the market index or other reference asset to which the ETN is linked minus certain fees. Unlike regular bonds, ETNs typically do not make periodic interest payments and principal typically is not protected.
<R>ETNs also incur certain expenses not incurred by their applicable index. The market value of an ETN is determined by supply and demand, the current performance of the index or other reference asset, and the credit rating of the ETN issuer. The market value of ETN shares may differ from their intraday indicative value. The value of an ETN may also change due to a change in the issuer's credit rating. As a result, there may be times when an ETN share trades at a premium or discount to its NAV. Some ETNs that use leverage in an effort to amplify the returns of an underlying index or other reference asset can, at times, be relatively illiquid and, thus, they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Leveraged ETNs may offer the potential for greater return, but the potential for loss and speed at which losses can be realized also are greater.</R>
Exposure to Foreign and Emerging Markets. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
Foreign investments involve risks relating to local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments, and may be affected by actions of foreign governments adverse to the interests of U.S. investors. Such actions may include expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on U.S. investment or on the ability to repatriate assets or convert currency into U.S. dollars, or other government intervention. Additionally, governmental issuers of foreign debt securities may be unwilling to pay interest and repay principal when due and may require that the conditions for payment be renegotiated. There is no assurance that a fund's adviser will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their effects. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies and of dividends and interest paid with respect to such securities will fluctuate based on the relative strength of the U.S. dollar.
<R>It is anticipated that in most cases the best available market for foreign securities will be on an exchange or in over-the-counter (OTC) markets located outside of the United States. Foreign stock markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as those in the United States, and securities of some foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. issuers. Foreign security trading, settlement and custodial practices (including those involving securities settlement where fund assets may be released prior to receipt of payment) are often less developed than those in U.S. markets, and may result in increased investment or valuation risk or substantial delays in the event of a failed trade or the insolvency of, or breach of duty by, a foreign broker-dealer, securities depository, or foreign subcustodian. In addition, the costs associated with foreign investments, including withholding taxes, brokerage commissions, and custodial costs, are generally higher than with U.S. investments.</R>
Foreign markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. markets. Foreign issuers are generally not bound by uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements and standards of practice comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. Adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis. In general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States. OTC markets tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain countries, may be totally unregulated. Regulatory enforcement may be influenced by economic or political concerns, and investors may have difficulty enforcing their legal rights in foreign countries.
Some foreign securities impose restrictions on transfer within the United States or to U.S. persons. Although securities subject to such transfer restrictions may be marketable abroad, they may be less liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject to such restrictions.
American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. The underlying shares are held in trust by a custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. However, ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. These risks include foreign exchange risk as well as the political and economic risks of the underlying issuer's country.
The risks of foreign investing may be magnified for investments in emerging markets. Security prices in emerging markets can be significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets, reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets may have relatively unstable governments, may present the risks of nationalization of businesses, restrictions on foreign ownership and prohibitions on the repatriation of assets, and may have less protection of property rights than more developed countries. The economies of countries with emerging markets may be based on only a few industries, may be highly vulnerable to changes in local or global trade conditions, and may suffer from extreme and volatile debt burdens or inflation rates. Local securities markets may trade a small number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of holdings difficult or impossible at times.
Foreign Currency Transactions. A fund may conduct foreign currency transactions on a spot ( i.e., cash) or forward basis ( i.e., by entering into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies). Although foreign exchange dealers generally do not charge a fee for such conversions, they do realize a profit based on the difference between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the counterparty desire to resell that currency to the dealer. Forward contracts are customized transactions that require a specific amount of a currency to be delivered at a specific exchange rate on a specific date or range of dates in the future. Forward contracts are generally traded in an interbank market directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. The parties to a forward contract may agree to offset or terminate the contract before its maturity, or may hold the contract to maturity and complete the contemplated currency exchange.
<R>The following discussion summarizes the principal currency management strategies involving forward contracts that could be used by a fund. A fund may also use swap agreements, indexed securities, and options and futures contracts relating to foreign currencies for the same purposes. Forward contracts not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying currency. All of these instruments and transactions are subject to the risk that the counterparty will default.</R>
A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect a fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the U.S. dollar price of the security. Forward contracts to purchase or sell a foreign currency may also be used by a fund in anticipation of future purchases or sales of securities denominated in foreign currency, even if the specific investments have not yet been selected.
A fund may also use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. For example, if a fund owned securities denominated in pounds sterling, it could enter into a forward contract to sell pounds sterling in return for U.S. dollars to hedge against possible declines in the pound's value. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge," would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations, but would not offset changes in security values caused by other factors. A fund could also hedge the position by selling another currency expected to perform similarly to the pound sterling. This type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S. dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged securities are denominated.
A fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency into another. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased, much as if a fund had sold a security denominated in one currency and purchased an equivalent security denominated in another. A fund may cross-hedge its U.S. dollar exposure in order to achieve a representative weighted mix of the major currencies in its benchmark index and/or to cover an underweight country or region exposure in its portfolio. Cross-hedges protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency, but will cause a fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases.
<R>Successful use of currency management strategies will depend on an adviser's skill in analyzing currency values. Currency management strategies may substantially change a fund's investment exposure to changes in currency exchange rates and could result in losses to a fund if currencies do not perform as an adviser anticipates. For example, if a currency's value rose at a time when a fund had hedged its position by selling that currency in exchange for dollars, the fund would not participate in the currency's appreciation. If a fund hedges currency exposure through proxy hedges, the fund could realize currency losses from both the hedge and the security position if the two currencies do not move in tandem. Similarly, if a fund increases its exposure to a foreign currency and that currency's value declines, the fund will realize a loss. Foreign currency transactions involve the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted and that a fund's hedging strategies will be ineffective. A fund may be required to limit its hedging transactions in foreign currency forwards, futures, and options in order to maintain its classification as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code (Code). Hedging transactions could result in the application of the mark-to-market provisions of the Code, which may cause an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by a fund and could affect whether dividends paid by a fund are classified as capital gains or ordinary income. A fund will cover its exposure to foreign currency transactions with liquid assets in compliance with applicable requirements. There is no assurance that an adviser's use of currency management strategies will be advantageous to a fund or that it will employ currency management strategies at appropriate times.</R>
Options and Futures Relating to Foreign Currencies. Currency futures contracts are similar to forward currency exchange contracts, except that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency futures contracts call for payment or delivery in U.S. dollars. The underlying instrument of a currency option may be a foreign currency, which generally is purchased or delivered in exchange for U.S. dollars, or may be a futures contract. The purchaser of a currency call obtains the right to purchase the underlying currency, and the purchaser of a currency put obtains the right to sell the underlying currency.
The uses and risks of currency options and futures are similar to options and futures relating to securities or indices, as discussed below. A fund may purchase and sell currency futures and may purchase and write currency options to increase or decrease its exposure to different foreign currencies. Currency options may also be purchased or written in conjunction with each other or with currency futures or forward contracts. Currency futures and options values can be expected to correlate with exchange rates, but may not reflect other factors that affect the value of a fund's investments. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a Yen-denominated security from a decline in the Yen, but will not protect a fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of a fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the fund's investments exactly over time.
Foreign Repurchase Agreements. Foreign repurchase agreements involve an agreement to purchase a foreign security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price in either U.S. dollars or foreign currency. Unlike typical U.S. repurchase agreements, foreign repurchase agreements may not be fully collateralized at all times. The value of a security purchased by a fund may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to repurchase the security. In the event of default by the counterparty, a fund may suffer a loss if the value of the security purchased is less than the agreed-upon repurchase price, or if the fund is unable to successfully assert a claim to the collateral under foreign laws. As a result, foreign repurchase agreements may involve higher credit risks than repurchase agreements in U.S. markets, as well as risks associated with currency fluctuations. In addition, as with other emerging market investments, repurchase agreements with counterparties located in emerging markets or relating to emerging markets may involve issuers or counterparties with lower credit ratings than typical U.S. repurchase agreements.
Fund's Rights as an Investor. Fidelity funds do not intend to direct or administer the day-to-day operations of any company. A fund may, however, exercise its rights as a shareholder or lender and may communicate its views on important matters of policy to a company's management, board of directors, and shareholders, and holders of a company's other securities when such matters could have a significant effect on the value of the fund's investment in the company. The activities in which a fund may engage, either individually or in conjunction with others, may include, among others, supporting or opposing proposed changes in a company's corporate structure or business activities; seeking changes in a company's directors or management; seeking changes in a company's direction or policies; seeking the sale or reorganization of the company or a portion of its assets; supporting or opposing third-party takeover efforts; supporting the filing of a bankruptcy petition; or foreclosing on collateral securing a security. This area of corporate activity is increasingly prone to litigation and it is possible that a fund could be involved in lawsuits related to such activities. Such activities will be monitored with a view to mitigating, to the extent possible, the risk of litigation against a fund and the risk of actual liability if a fund is involved in litigation. No guarantee can be made, however, that litigation against a fund will not be undertaken or liabilities incurred. The fund's proxy voting guidelines are included in this SAI.
Futures, Options, and Swaps. The success of any strategy involving futures, options, and swaps depends on an adviser's analysis of many economic and mathematical factors and a fund's return may be higher if it never invested in such instruments. Additionally, some of the contracts discussed below are new instruments without a trading history and there can be no assurance that a market for the instruments will continue to exist. Government legislation or regulation could affect the use of such instruments and could limit a fund's ability to pursue its investment strategies.
<R>Strategic Advisers Growth Fund will not: (a) sell futures contracts, purchase put options, or write call options if, as a result, more than 25% of the fund's total assets would be hedged with futures and options under normal conditions; (b) purchase futures contracts or write put options if, as a result, the fund's total obligations upon settlement or exercise of purchased futures contracts and written put options would exceed 25% of its total assets under normal conditions; or (c) purchase call options if, as a result, the current value of option premiums for call options purchased by the fund would exceed 5% of the fund's total assets. These limitations do not apply to options attached to or acquired or traded together with their underlying securities, and do not apply to structured notes.</R>
<R>The limitations on the fund's investments in futures contracts, options, and swaps, and the fund's policies regarding futures contracts, options, and swaps may be changed as regulatory agencies permit.</R>
<R>The requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company may limit the extent to which a fund may enter into futures, options on futures, and forward contracts.</R>
<R> Futures Contracts. In purchasing a futures contract, the buyer agrees to purchase a specified underlying instrument at a specified future date. In selling a futures contract, the seller agrees to sell a specified underlying instrument at a specified date. The price at which the purchase and sale will take place is fixed when the buyer and seller enter into the contract. Some currently available futures contracts are based on specific securities, some are based on commodities or commodities indices (for funds that seek commodities exposure), and some are based on indices of securities prices (including foreign indices for funds that seek foreign exposure). Futures on indices and futures not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying instrument. Futures can be held until their delivery dates, or can be closed out by offsetting purchases or sales of futures contracts before then if a liquid market is available. A fund may realize a gain or loss by closing out its futures contracts.</R>
The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in tandem with the value of its underlying instrument. Therefore, purchasing futures contracts will tend to increase a fund's exposure to positive and negative price fluctuations in the underlying instrument, much as if it had purchased the underlying instrument directly. When a fund sells a futures contract, by contrast, the value of its futures position will tend to move in a direction contrary to the market. Selling futures contracts, therefore, will tend to offset both positive and negative market price changes, much as if the underlying instrument had been sold.
The purchaser or seller of a futures contract or an option for a futures contract is not required to deliver or pay for the underlying instrument or the final cash settlement price, as applicable, unless the contract is held until the delivery date. However, both the purchaser and seller are required to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant (FCM), when the contract is entered into. If the value of either party's position declines, that party will be required to make additional "variation margin" payments to settle the change in value on a daily basis. This process of "marking to market" will be reflected in the daily calculation of open positions computed in a fund's NAV. The party that has a gain is entitled to receive all or a portion of this amount. Initial and variation margin payments do not constitute purchasing securities on margin for purposes of a fund's investment limitations. In the event of the bankruptcy or insolvency of an FCM that holds margin on behalf of a fund, the fund may be entitled to return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by the FCM's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the fund. A fund is required to segregate liquid assets equivalent to the fund's outstanding obligations under the contract in excess of the initial margin and variation margin, if any.
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<R>Although futures exchanges generally operate similarly in the United States and abroad, foreign futures exchanges may follow trading, settlement, and margin procedures that are different from those for U.S. exchanges. Futures contracts traded outside the United States may involve greater risk of loss than U.S.-traded contracts, including potentially greater risk of losses due to insolvency of a futures broker, exchange member, or other party that may owe initial or variation margin to a fund. Because initial and variation margin payments may be measured in foreign currency, a futures contract traded outside the United States may also involve the risk of foreign currency fluctuation.</R>
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There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. Exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for futures contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or other market conditions, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its futures positions could also be impaired. These risks may be heightened for commodity futures contracts, which have historically been subject to greater price volatility than exists for instruments such as stocks and bonds.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded futures contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in futures contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the futures position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Futures prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Futures prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell futures contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's futures positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments. In addition, the price of a commodity futures contract can reflect the storage costs associated with the purchase of the physical commodity.
Options. By purchasing a put option, the purchaser obtains the right (but not the obligation) to sell the option's underlying instrument at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the purchaser pays the current market price for the option (known as the option premium). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific assets or securities, indices of securities or commodities prices, and futures contracts (including commodity futures contracts). The purchaser may terminate its position in a put option by allowing it to expire or by exercising the option. If the option is allowed to expire, the purchaser will lose the entire premium. If the option is exercised, the purchaser completes the sale of the underlying instrument at the strike price. A purchaser may also terminate a put option position by closing it out in the secondary market at its current price, if a liquid secondary market exists.
The buyer of a typical put option can expect to realize a gain if the underlying instrument's price falls substantially. However, if the underlying instrument's price does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer can expect to suffer a loss (limited to the amount of the premium, plus related transaction costs).
The features of call options are essentially the same as those of put options, except that the purchaser of a call option obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. A call buyer typically attempts to participate in potential price increases of the underlying instrument with risk limited to the cost of the option if the underlying instrument's price falls. At the same time, the buyer can expect to suffer a loss if the underlying instrument's price does not rise sufficiently to offset the cost of the option.
The writer of a put or call option takes the opposite side of the transaction from the option's purchaser. In return for receipt of the premium, the writer assumes the obligation to pay or receive the strike price for the option's underlying instrument if the other party to the option chooses to exercise it. The writer may seek to terminate a position in a put option before exercise by closing out the option in the secondary market at its current price. If the secondary market is not liquid for a put option, however, the writer must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes. When writing an option on a futures contract, a fund will be required to make margin payments to an FCM as described above for futures contracts.
If the underlying instrument's price rises, a put writer would generally expect to profit, although its gain would be limited to the amount of the premium it received. If the underlying instrument's price remains the same over time, it is likely that the writer will also profit, because it should be able to close out the option at a lower price. If the underlying instrument's price falls, the put writer would expect to suffer a loss. This loss should be less than the loss from purchasing the underlying instrument directly, however, because the premium received for writing the option should mitigate the effects of the decline.
Writing a call option obligates the writer to sell or deliver the option's underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, upon exercise of the option. The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that writing calls generally is a profitable strategy if prices remain the same or fall. Through receipt of the option premium, a call writer mitigates the effects of a price increase. At the same time, because a call writer must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, even if its current value is greater, a call writer gives up some ability to participate in security price increases.
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There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular options contract at any particular time. Options may have relatively low trading volume and liquidity if their strike prices are not close to the underlying instrument's current price. In addition, exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for options contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or otherwise, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its options positions could also be impaired.
Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract size, and strike price, the terms of OTC options (options not traded on exchanges) generally are established through negotiation with the other party to the option contract. While this type of arrangement allows the purchaser or writer greater flexibility to tailor an option to its needs, OTC options generally are less liquid and involve greater credit risk than exchange-traded options, which are backed by the clearing organization of the exchanges where they are traded.
Combined positions involve purchasing and writing options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument would construct a combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract. Another possible combined position would involve writing a call option at one strike price and buying a call option at a lower price, to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
A fund may also buy and sell options on swaps. Options on interest rate swaps are known as swaptions. An option on a swap gives a party the right to enter into a new swap agreement or to extend, shorten, cancel or modify an existing swap contract at a specific date in the future in exchange for a premium.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded options contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in options contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the options position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Options prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Options prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the options and futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how options and futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell options contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's options positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments.
Swap Agreements. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors. Swap agreements are two party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors. Swap agreements can vary in term like other fixed-income investments. Most swap agreements are traded over-the-counter. In a standard "swap" transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments (such as securities, commodities, or indices). The gross returns to be exchanged or swapped between the parties are calculated with respect to a notional amount, which is the predetermined dollar principal of the trade representing the hypothetical underlying quantity upon which payment obligations are computed.
Swap agreements can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of a fund's investments and its share price and, if applicable, its yield. Swap agreements are subject to liquidity risk, meaning that a fund may be unable to sell a swap contract to a third party at a favorable price.
A total return swap is a contract whereby one party agrees to make a series of payments to another party based on the change in the market value of the assets underlying such contract (which can include a security, commodity, index or baskets thereof) during the specified period. In exchange, the other party to the contract agrees to make a series of payments calculated by reference to an interest rate and/or some other agreed-upon amount (including the change in market value of other underlying assets). A fund may use total return swaps to gain exposure to an asset without owning it or taking physical custody of it. For example, a fund investing in total return commodity swaps will receive the price appreciation of a commodity, commodity index or portion thereof in exchange for payment of an agreed-upon fee.
In a credit default swap, the credit default protection buyer makes periodic payments, known as premiums, to the credit default protection seller. In return the credit default protection seller will make a payment to the credit default protection buyer upon the occurrence of a specified credit event. A credit default swap can refer to a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets, each known as the reference entity or underlying asset. A fund may act as either the buyer or the seller of a credit default swap. A fund may buy or sell credit default protection on a basket of issuers or assets, even if a number of the underlying assets referenced in the basket are lower-quality debt securities. In an unhedged credit default swap, a fund buys credit default protection on a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets without owning the underlying asset or debt issued by the reference entity. Credit default swaps involve greater and different risks than investing directly in the referenced asset, because, in addition to market risk, credit default swaps include liquidity, counterparty and operational risk.
Credit default swaps allow a fund to acquire or reduce credit exposure to a particular issuer, asset or basket of assets. If a swap agreement calls for payments by a fund, the fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. If a fund is the credit default protection seller, the fund will experience a loss if a credit event occurs and the credit of the reference entity or underlying asset has deteriorated. If a fund is the credit default protection buyer, the fund will be required to pay premiums to the credit default protection seller.
If the creditworthiness of a fund's swap counterparty declines, the risk that the counterparty may not perform could increase, potentially resulting in a loss to the fund. To limit the counterparty risk involved in swap agreements, a Fidelity fund will enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness.
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<R>If a counterparty to a swap transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in exercising its right to the return of related fund assets under an action against the counterparty.</R>
<R>The trust, on behalf of the Fidelity fund to which this SAI relates, has filed with the National Futures Association a notice claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" (CPO) under the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended, and the rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) promulgated thereunder, with respect to the fund's operation. Accordingly, the trust is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool or a CPO. However, the CFTC has adopted certain rule amendments that significantly affect the continued availability of this exclusion, and may subject advisers to funds to regulation by the CFTC. The scope of application and the effective date of these amendments is still uncertain. As of the date of this SAI, there is no certainty that a fund or its adviser will be able to rely on an exclusion in the future. A fund may determine not to use investment strategies that trigger additional CFTC regulation or may determine to operate subject to CFTC regulation, if applicable. If a fund or its adviser operates subject to CFTC regulation, it may incur additional expenses.</R>
Illiquid Securities cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may be costly to a fund.
<R>Under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, a Fidelity fund's adviser determines the liquidity of the fund's investments and, through reports from the fund's adviser, the Board monitors investments in illiquid securities.</R>
<R>Various factors may be considered in determining the liquidity of a fund's investments, including (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations, (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security).</R>
<R> Increasing Government Debt. The total public debt of the United States and other countries around the globe as a percent of gross domestic product has grown rapidly since the beginning of the 2008 financial downturn. Although high debt levels do not necessarily indicate or cause economic problems, they may create certain systemic risks if sound debt management practices are not implemented.</R>
<R>A high national debt level may increase market pressures to meet government funding needs, which may drive debt cost higher and cause a country to sell additional debt, thereby increasing refinancing risk. A high national debt also raises concerns that a government will not be able to make principal or interest payments when they are due. In the worst case, unsustainable debt levels can decline the valuation of currencies, and can prevent a government from implementing effective counter-cyclical fiscal policy in economic downturns.</R>
<R>On August 5, 2011, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services lowered its long-term sovereign credit rating on the United States one level to "AA+" from "AAA." While Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed the United States' short-term sovereign credit rating as "A-1+," there is no guarantee that Standard & Poor's Ratings Services will not decide to lower this rating in the future. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services stated that its decision was prompted by its view on the rising public debt burden and its perception of greater policymaking uncertainty. The market prices and yields of securities supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government may be adversely affected by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services decisions to downgrade the long-term sovereign credit rating of the United States.</R>
<R> Indexed Securities are instruments whose prices are indexed to the prices of other securities, securities indices, or other financial indicators. Indexed securities typically, but not always, are debt securities or deposits whose values at maturity or coupon rates are determined by reference to a specific instrument, statistic, or measure.</R>
<R>Indexed securities also include commercial paper, certificates of deposit, and other fixed-income securities whose values at maturity or coupon interest rates are determined by reference to the returns of particular stock indices. Indexed securities can be affected by stock prices as well as changes in interest rates and the creditworthiness of their issuers and may not track the indexes as accurately as direct investments in the indexes.</R>
<R>Indexed securities may have principal payments as well as coupon payments that depend on the performance of one or more interest rates. Their coupon rates or principal payments may change by several percentage points for every 1% interest rate change. </R>
<R>Mortgage-indexed securities, for example, could be structured to replicate the performance of mortgage securities and the characteristics of direct ownership.</R>
<R>Inflation-protected securities, for example, can be indexed to a measure of inflation, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI).</R>
<R>Commodity-indexed securities, for example, can be indexed to a commodities index such as the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index Total Return.</R>
<R>Gold-indexed securities typically provide for a maturity value that depends on the price of gold, resulting in a security whose price tends to rise and fall together with gold prices.</R>
Currency-indexed securities typically are short-term to intermediate-term debt securities whose maturity values or interest rates are determined by reference to the values of one or more specified foreign currencies, and may offer higher yields than U.S. dollar-denominated securities. Currency-indexed securities may be positively or negatively indexed; that is, their maturity value may increase when the specified currency value increases, resulting in a security that performs similarly to a foreign-denominated instrument, or their maturity value may decline when foreign currencies increase, resulting in a security whose price characteristics are similar to a put on the underlying currency. Currency-indexed securities may also have prices that depend on the values of a number of different foreign currencies relative to each other.
<R>The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the instrument or measure to which they are indexed, and may also be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying instruments or measures. Indexed securities are also subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's creditworthiness deteriorates. Recent issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. Government agencies.</R>
<R> Insolvency of Issuers, Counterparties, and Intermediaries. Issuers of fund portfolio securities or counterparties to fund transactions that become insolvent or declare bankruptcy can pose special investment risks. In each circumstance, risk of loss, valuation uncertainty, increased illiquidity, and other unpredictable occurrences may negatively impact an investment. Each of these risks may be amplified in foreign markets, where security trading, settlement, and custodial practices can be less developed than those in the U.S. markets, and bankruptcy laws differ from those of the U.S.</R>
<R>As a general matter, if the issuer of a fund portfolio security is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock have priority over the claims of common stock owners. These events can negatively impact the value of the issuer's securities and the results of related proceedings can be unpredictable.</R>
<R>If a counterparty to a fund transaction, such as a swap transaction, a short sale, a borrowing, or other complex transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in its ability to exercise rights to obtain the return of related fund assets or in exercising other rights against the counterparty. In addition, insolvency and liquidation proceedings take time to resolve, which can limit or preclude a fund's ability to terminate a transaction or obtain related assets or collateral in a timely fashion. Uncertainty may also arise upon the insolvency of a securities or commodities intermediary such as a broker-dealer or futures commission merchant with which a fund has pending transactions. If an intermediary becomes insolvent, while securities positions and other holdings may be protected by U.S. or foreign laws, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether these protections are available to specific trades based on the circumstances. Receiving the benefit of these protections can also take time to resolve, which may result in illiquid positions.</R>
<R> Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program. Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a Fidelity fund may lend money to, and borrow money from, other funds advised by Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR) or its affiliates. A Fidelity fund will borrow through the program only when the costs are equal to or lower than the costs of bank loans. A Fidelity fund will lend through the program only when the returns are higher than those available from an investment in repurchase agreements. Interfund loans and borrowings normally extend overnight, but can have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one day's notice. A Fidelity fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional borrowing costs.</R>
Investment-Grade Debt Securities. Investment-grade debt securities include all types of debt instruments that are of medium and high-quality. Investment-grade debt securities include repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. Government securities as well as repurchase agreements collateralized by equity securities, non-investment-grade debt, and all other instruments in which a fund can perfect a security interest, provided the repurchase agreement counterparty has an investment-grade rating. Some investment-grade debt securities may possess speculative characteristics and may be more sensitive to economic changes and to changes in the financial conditions of issuers. An investment-grade rating means the security or issuer is rated investment-grade by a credit rating agency registered as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) with the SEC (for example, Moody's Investors Service, Inc.), or is unrated but considered to be of equivalent quality by a fund's adviser. For purposes of determining the maximum maturity of an investment-grade debt security, an adviser may take into account normal settlement periods.
<R> Investments by Large Shareholders. A fund may experience large redemptions or investments due to transactions in fund shares by large shareholders. While it is impossible to predict the overall effect of these transactions over time, there could be an adverse impact on a fund's performance. In the event of such redemptions or investments, a fund could be required to sell securities or to invest cash at a time when it may not otherwise desire to do so. Such transactions may increase a fund's brokerage and/or other transaction costs. In addition, when investors own a substantial portion of a fund's shares, a large redemption could cause actual expenses to increase, or could result in the fund's current expenses being allocated over a smaller asset base, leading to an increase in the fund's expense ratio. Redemptions of fund shares could also accelerate the realization of taxable capital gains in the fund if sales of securities result in capital gains. The impact of these transactions is likely to be greater when a significant investor purchases, redeems, or owns a substantial portion of the fund's shares. When possible, Fidelity will consider how to minimize these potential adverse effects, and may take such actions as it deems appropriate to address potential adverse effects, including redemption of shares in-kind rather than in cash or carrying out the transactions over a period of time, although there can be no assurance that such actions will be successful.</R>
<R> Loans and Other Direct Debt Instruments. Direct debt instruments are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments involve a risk of loss in case of default or insolvency of the borrower and may offer less legal protection to the purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation, or there may be a requirement that a fund supply additional cash to a borrower on demand. A fund may acquire loans by buying an assignment of all or a portion of the loan from a lender or by purchasing a loan participation from a lender or other purchaser of a participation.</R>
<R>Lenders and purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of interest and repayment of principal. If scheduled interest or principal payments are not made, the value of the instrument may be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured provide more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of failure to make scheduled interest or principal payments. However, there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the borrower's obligation, or that the collateral could be liquidated. Indebtedness of borrowers whose creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks and may be highly speculative. Borrowers that are in bankruptcy or restructuring may never pay off their indebtedness, or may pay only a small fraction of the amount owed. Direct indebtedness of foreign countries also involves a risk that the governmental entities responsible for the repayment of the debt may be unable, or unwilling, to pay interest and repay principal when due.</R>
<R>Direct lending and investments in loans through direct assignment of a financial institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the lender/purchaser could become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of lender liability, a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender. Direct debt instruments may also involve a risk of insolvency of the lending bank or other intermediary. </R>
A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness, the purchaser has direct recourse against the borrower, the purchaser may have to rely on the agent to apply appropriate credit remedies against a borrower. If assets held by the agent for the benefit of a purchaser were determined to be subject to the claims of the agent's general creditors, the purchaser might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or interest.
<R>Direct indebtedness may include letters of credit, revolving credit facilities, or other standby financing commitments that obligate lenders/purchasers to make additional cash payments on demand. These commitments may have the effect of requiring a lender/purchaser to increase its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise have done so, even if the borrower's condition makes it unlikely that the amount will ever be repaid.</R>
<R>For a Fidelity fund that limits the amount of total assets that it will invest in any one issuer or in issuers within the same industry, the fund generally will treat the borrower as the "issuer" of indebtedness held by the fund. In the case of loan participations where a bank or other lending institution serves as financial intermediary between a fund and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the fund the direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC interpretations require a fund, in appropriate circumstances, to treat both the lending bank or other lending institution and the borrower as "issuers" for these purposes. Treating a financial intermediary as an issuer of indebtedness may restrict a fund's ability to invest in indebtedness related to a single financial intermediary, or a group of intermediaries engaged in the same industry, even if the underlying borrowers represent many different companies and industries.</R>
Lower-Quality Debt Securities. Lower-quality debt securities include all types of debt instruments that have poor protection with respect to the payment of interest and repayment of principal, or may be in default. These securities are often considered to be speculative and involve greater risk of loss or price changes due to changes in the issuer's capacity to pay. The market prices of lower-quality debt securities may fluctuate more than those of higher-quality debt securities and may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty, which may follow periods of rising interest rates.
The market for lower-quality debt securities may be thinner and less active than that for higher-quality debt securities, which can adversely affect the prices at which the former are sold. Adverse publicity and changing investor perceptions may affect the liquidity of lower-quality debt securities and the ability of outside pricing services to value lower-quality debt securities.
Because the risk of default is higher for lower-quality debt securities, research and credit analysis are an especially important part of managing securities of this type. Such analysis may focus on relative values based on factors such as interest or dividend coverage, asset coverage, earnings prospects, and the experience and managerial strength of the issuer, in an attempt to identify those issuers of high-yielding securities whose financial condition is adequate to meet future obligations, has improved, or is expected to improve in the future.
A fund may choose, at its expense or in conjunction with others, to pursue litigation or otherwise to exercise its rights as a security holder to seek to protect the interests of security holders if it determines this to be in the best interest of the fund's shareholders.
Precious Metals. Precious metals, such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, at times have been subject to substantial price fluctuations over short periods of time and may be affected by unpredictable monetary and political policies such as currency devaluations or revaluations, economic and social conditions within a country, trade imbalances, or trade or currency restrictions between countries. The prices of gold and other precious metals, however, are less subject to local and company-specific factors than securities of individual companies. As a result, precious metals may be more or less volatile in price than securities of companies engaged in precious metals-related businesses. Investments in precious metals can present concerns such as delivery, storage and maintenance, possible illiquidity, and the unavailability of accurate market valuations. Although precious metals can be purchased in any form, including bullion and coins, a Fidelity fund intends to purchase only those forms of precious metals that are readily marketable and that can be stored in accordance with custody regulations applicable to mutual funds. A fund may incur higher custody and transaction costs for precious metals than for securities. Also, precious metals investments do not pay income.
For a fund to qualify as a regulated investment company under current federal tax law, gains from selling precious metals may not exceed 10% of the fund's gross income for its taxable year. This tax requirement could cause a fund to hold or sell precious metals or securities when it would not otherwise do so.
Preferred Stock represents an equity or ownership 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.
Real Estate Investment Trusts. Equity real estate investment trusts own real estate properties, while mortgage real estate investment trusts make construction, development, and long-term mortgage loans. Their value may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property of the trusts, the creditworthiness of the issuer, property taxes, interest rates, and tax and regulatory requirements, such as those relating to the environment. Both types of trusts are dependent upon management skill, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status of income under the Internal Revenue Code and failing to maintain exemption from the 1940 Act.
<R> Reforms and Government Intervention in the Financial Markets. Economic downturns can trigger various economic, legal, budgetary, tax, and regulatory reforms across the globe. Instability in the financial markets in the wake of the 2008 economic downturn led the U.S. Government and other governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that experienced extreme volatility, and in some cases, a lack of liquidity. Reforms are ongoing and their effects are uncertain. Federal, state, local, foreign, and other governments, their regulatory agencies, or self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which a fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Reforms may also change the way in which a fund is regulated and could limit or preclude a fund's ability to achieve its investment objective or engage in certain strategies. Also, while reforms generally are intended to strengthen markets, systems, and public finances, they could affect fund expenses and the value of fund investments.</R>
<R>The value of a fund's holdings is also generally subject to the risk of future local, national, or global economic disturbances based on unknown weaknesses in the markets in which a fund invests. In the event of such a disturbance, the issuers of securities held by a fund may experience significant declines in the value of their assets and even cease operations, or may receive government assistance accompanied by increased restrictions on their business operations or other government intervention. In addition, it is not certain that the U.S. Government or foreign governments will intervene in response to a future market disturbance and the effect of any such future intervention cannot be predicted.</R>
<R> Repurchase Agreements involve an agreement to purchase a security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price. The resale price reflects the purchase price plus an agreed-upon incremental amount which is unrelated to the coupon rate or maturity of the purchased security. As protection against the risk that the original seller will not fulfill its obligation, the securities are held in a separate account at a bank, marked-to-market daily, and maintained at a value at least equal to the sale price plus the accrued incremental amount. The value of the security purchased may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to purchase the security. In addition, delays or losses could result if the other party to the agreement defaults or becomes insolvent. A fund may be limited in its ability to exercise its right to liquidate assets related to a repurchase agreement with an insolvent counterparty. A Fidelity fund may engage in repurchase agreement transactions with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser.</R>
Restricted Securities are subject to legal restrictions on their sale. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or be costly to a fund. Restricted securities generally can be sold in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (1933 Act), or in a registered public offering. Where registration is required, the holder of a registered security may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expense and a considerable period may elapse between the time it decides to seek registration and the time it may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the holder might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed when it decided to seek registration of the security.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. In a reverse repurchase agreement, a fund sells a security to another party, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that security at an agreed-upon price and time. A Fidelity fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser. Such transactions may increase fluctuations in the market value of a fund's assets and, if applicable, a fund's yield, and may be viewed as a form of leverage.
<R> Securities Lending. Securities lending allows a fund to retain ownership of the securities loaned and, at the same time, earn additional income. The borrower provides the fund with collateral in an amount at least equal to the value of the securities loaned. The fund seeks to maintain the ability to obtain the right to vote or consent on proxy proposals involving material events affecting securities loaned. If the borrower defaults on its obligation to return the securities loaned because of insolvency or other reasons, a fund could experience delays and costs in recovering the securities loaned or in gaining access to the collateral. These delays and costs could be greater for foreign securities. If a fund is not able to recover the securities loaned, the fund may sell the collateral and purchase a replacement investment in the market. The value of the collateral could decrease below the value of the replacement investment by the time the replacement investment is purchased.</R>
<R> Securities of Other Investment Companies, including shares of closed-end investment companies (which include business development companies (BDCs)), unit investment trusts, and open-end investment companies, represent interests in professionally managed portfolios that may invest in any type of instrument. Investing in other investment companies involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, but may involve additional expenses at the investment company-level, such as portfolio management fees and operating expenses. For certain investment companies, such as BDCs, these expenses may be significant. Certain types of investment companies, such as closed-end investment companies, issue a fixed number of shares that trade on a stock exchange or over-the-counter at a premium or a discount to their NAV. Others are continuously offered at NAV, but may also be traded in the secondary market.</R>
<R>The securities of closed-end funds may be leveraged. As a result, a fund may be indirectly exposed to leverage through an investment in such securities. An investment in securities of closed-end funds that use leverage may expose a fund to higher volatility in the market value of such securities and the possibility that the fund's long-term returns on such securities will be diminished.</R>
The extent to which a fund can invest in securities of other investment companies may be limited by federal securities laws.
Short Sales. Short sales involve the market sale of a security a fund has borrowed from a prime broker with which it has a contractual relationship, with the expectation that the security will underperform either the market or the securities that the fund holds long. A fund closes a short sale by purchasing the same security at the current market price and delivering it to the prime broker.
Until a fund closes out a short position, the fund is obligated to pay the prime broker (from which it borrowed the security sold short) interest as well as any dividends that accrue during the period of the loan. While a short position is outstanding, a fund must also pledge a portion of its assets to the prime broker as collateral for the borrowed security. The collateral will be marked to market daily.
<R>Short positions create a risk that a fund will be required to cover them by buying the security at a time when the security has appreciated in value, thus resulting in a loss to the fund. A short position in a security poses more risk than holding the same security long. Because a short position loses value as the security's price increases, the loss on a short sale is theoretically unlimited. The loss on a long position is limited to what a fund originally paid for the security together with any transaction costs. A fund may not always be able to borrow a security the fund seeks to sell short at a particular time or at an acceptable price. As a result, a fund may be unable to fully implement its investment strategy due to a lack of available stocks or for other reasons. It is possible that the market value of the securities a fund holds in long positions will decline at the same time that the market value of the securities the fund has sold short increases, thereby increasing the fund's potential volatility. Because a fund may be required to pay dividends, interest, premiums and other expenses in connection with a short sale, any benefit for the fund resulting from the short sale will be decreased, and the amount of any ultimate gain will be decreased or of any loss will be increased, by the amount of such expenses.</R>
A fund may also enter into short sales against the box. Short sales "against the box" are short sales of securities that a fund owns or has the right to obtain (equivalent in kind or amount to the securities sold short). If a fund enters into a short sale against the box, it will be required to set aside securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short (or securities convertible or exchangeable into such securities) and will be required to hold such securities while the short sale is outstanding. A fund will incur transaction costs, including interest expenses, in connection with opening, maintaining, and closing short sales against the box.
Sources of Liquidity or Credit Support. Issuers may employ various forms of credit and liquidity enhancements, including letters of credit, guarantees, swaps, puts, and demand features, and insurance provided by domestic or foreign entities such as banks and other financial institutions. An adviser and its affiliates may rely on their evaluation of the credit of the issuer or the credit of the liquidity or credit enhancement provider in determining whether to purchase or hold a security supported by such enhancement. In evaluating the credit of a foreign bank or other foreign entities, factors considered may include whether adequate public information about the entity is available and whether the entity may be subject to unfavorable political or economic developments, currency controls, or other government restrictions that might affect its ability to honor its commitment. Changes in the credit quality of the issuer and/or entity providing the enhancement could affect the value of the security or a fund's share price.
Sovereign Debt Obligations are issued or guaranteed by foreign governments or their agencies, including debt of Latin American nations or other developing countries. Sovereign debt may be in the form of conventional securities or other types of debt instruments such as loans or loan participations. Sovereign debt of developing countries may involve a high degree of risk, and may be in default or present the risk of default. Governmental entities responsible for repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal and pay interest when due, and may require renegotiation or rescheduling of debt payments. In addition, prospects for repayment of principal and payment of interest may depend on political as well as economic factors. Although some sovereign debt, such as Brady Bonds, is collateralized by U.S. Government securities, repayment of principal and payment of interest is not guaranteed by the U.S. Government.
Structured Securities (also called "structured notes") are derivative debt securities, the interest rate on or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. The value of the interest rate on and/or the principal of structured securities is determined by reference to changes in the value of a reference instrument ( e.g., a security or other financial instrument, asset, currency, interest rate, commodity, or index) or the relative change in two or more reference instruments. A structured security may be positively, negatively, or both positively and negatively indexed; that is, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument increases. Similarly, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument decreases. Further, the change in the principal amount payable with respect to, or the interest rate of, a structured security may be calculated as a multiple of the percentage change (positive or negative) in the value of the underlying reference instrument(s); therefore, the value of such structured security may be very volatile. Structured securities may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because the investor bears the risk of the reference instrument. Structured securities may also be more volatile, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities or more traditional debt securities. In addition, because structured securities generally are traded over-the-counter, structured securities are subject to the creditworthiness of the counterparty of the structured security, and their values may decline substantially if the counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates.
<R> Temporary Defensive Policies. In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, a fund may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If a fund does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.</R>
Strategic Advisers Growth Fund reserves the right to invest without limitation in preferred stocks and investment-grade debt instruments for temporary, defensive purposes.
<R> Transfer Agent Bank Accounts. Proceeds from shareholder purchases of a Fidelity fund may pass through a series of demand deposit bank accounts before being held at the fund's custodian. Redemption proceeds may pass from the custodian to the shareholder through a similar series of bank accounts.</R>
<R>If a bank account is registered to the transfer agent or an affiliate, who acts as an agent for the fund when opening, closing, and conducting business in the bank account, the transfer agent or an affiliate may invest overnight balances in the account in repurchase agreements. Any balances that are not invested in repurchase agreements remain in the bank account overnight. Any risks associated with such an account are investment risks of the fund. The fund faces the risk of loss of these balances if the bank becomes insolvent.</R>
Warrants. Warrants are instruments which entitle the holder to buy an equity security at a specific price for a specific period of time. Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss.
Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
Zero Coupon Bonds do not make interest payments; instead, they are sold at a discount from their face value and are redeemed at face value when they mature. Because zero coupon bonds do not pay current income, their prices can be more volatile than other types of fixed-income securities when interest rates change. In calculating a fund's dividend, a portion of the difference between a zero coupon bond's purchase price and its face value is considered income.
To the extent that Strategic Advisers grants investment management authority over an allocated portion of the fund's assets to a sub-adviser (see the section entitled "Management Contract"), that sub-adviser is authorized to provide the services described in the respective sub-advisory agreement, and in accordance with the policies described in this section.
Orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities are placed on behalf of the fund by Strategic Advisers (either directly or through its affiliates) or a sub-adviser, pursuant to authority contained in the management contract and the respective sub-advisory agreement.
Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be responsible for the placement of portfolio securities transactions for other investment companies and investment accounts for which it has or its affiliates have investment discretion.
The fund will not incur any commissions or sales charges when it invests in affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it may incur such costs when it invests directly in other types of securities, including ETFs.
Purchases and sales of equity securities on a securities exchange or OTC are effected through brokers who receive compensation for their services. Generally, compensation relating to securities traded on foreign exchanges will be higher than compensation relating to securities traded on U.S. exchanges and may not be subject to negotiation. Compensation may also be paid in connection with principal transactions (in both OTC securities and securities listed on an exchange) and agency OTC transactions executed with an electronic communications network (ECN) or an alternative trading system. Equity securities may be purchased from underwriters at prices that include underwriting fees.
Purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally made with an issuer or a primary market-maker acting as principal. Although there is no stated brokerage commission paid by the fund for any fixed-income security, the price paid by the fund to an underwriter includes the disclosed underwriting fee and prices in secondary trades usually include an undisclosed dealer commission or markup reflecting the spread between the bid and ask prices of the fixed-income security. New issues of equity and fixed-income securities may also be purchased in underwritten fixed price offerings.
The Trustees of the fund periodically review Strategic Advisers' and its affiliates' and each sub-adviser's performance of their respective responsibilities in connection with the placement of portfolio securities transactions on behalf of the fund. The Trustees also review the compensation paid by the fund over representative periods of time to determine if it was reasonable in relation to the benefits to the fund.
Strategic Advisers.
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Strategic Advisers, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, the following: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and characteristics of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for avoiding or lessening market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
The trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Strategic Advisers or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker may be higher than the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Strategic Advisers or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
Benefit to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these brokerage and research products or services with their own resources. To minimize the potential for conflicts of interest, the trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services Strategic Advisers or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates or have no explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.
Strategic Advisers' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Strategic Advisers or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Strategic Advisers or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately, rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) who have entered into arrangements with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with certain brokers, including National Financial Services LLC (NFS), with whom they are under common control, provided Strategic Advisers or its affiliates determine that these affiliates' trade execution abilities and costs are comparable to those of non-affiliated, qualified brokerage firms. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with brokers that use NFS as a clearing agent.
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
<R> Non-U.S. Transactions</R>
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers.
Trade Allocation
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Strategic Advisers to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
ClariVest Asset Management LLC (ClariVest).
ClariVest's principal objective in selecting broker/dealers and entering Client trades is to obtain best execution for Clients' transactions. As such, ClariVest will follow procedures to ensure that it is seeking to receive the best execution available on Client trades as there may be conflicts of interests that on occasion arise in the trading function. ClariVest's full policy regarding portfolio transactions is contained in its Compliance Manual.
<R> Best Execution</R>
<R>It is ClariVest's policy to always seek best execution for Client securities transactions. ClariVest maintains a process for ensuring that (1) it is seeking to execute client transactions under the most favorable terms given the circumstances and (2) ClariVest has made a good faith determination that the commissions paid are reasonable in relation to the value of the services provided. All broker-dealers are unaffiliated with ClariVest. ClariVest considers the full range and quality of the broker-dealer's service in selecting broker-dealers to meet best execution obligations, and may not pay the lowest commission rate available. ClariVest shall evaluate its efforts to seek to obtain best execution on Client trades through:</R>
<R>ClariVest will not enter into any formal "soft dollar commitments/arrangements", written or verbal, explicit or implied, with any broker-dealers. A soft dollar commitment/arrangement is viewed by ClariVest as a commitment, understanding or agreement to pay increased commissions, or direct trades to a broker-dealer, in exchange for the receipt of research. ClariVest may, however, effect transactions for clients with broker-dealers who provide ClariVest with research or brokerage products and services, providing lawful and appropriate assistance to the Firm in the performance of its investment decision-making responsibilities. Research and brokerage products and services received from broker-dealers are supplemental to ClariVest's own research efforts. ClariVest does not separately compensate broker-dealers with soft dollars for such products and services. Portfolio Managers consider the full range and quality of a broker-dealer's services when placing brokerage to ensure that transactions are the most favorable under the circumstances.</R>
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Allocation of Trades
ClariVest's allocation procedures seek to allocate investment opportunities among clients in the fairest possible way taking into account all clients' best interests. ClariVest will follow procedures to ensure that allocations do not involve a practice of favoring or discriminating against any client or group of clients. The firm's policy is to allocate all trades (initial as well as position building) on a pro-rata basis across all client accounts, unless outside factors (such as client guidelines) prevent such allocation. ClariVest performs this allocation prior to trading, and securities are subsequently allocated by the end of the trading day.
Allocation of Brokerage
<R>Portfolio Managers seek to allocate trades across a variety of broker-dealers to mitigate the potential negative consequences to ClariVest's ability to obtain best execution where there are personnel or other management changes at ClariVest's broker-dealers. Portfolio Managers may utilize any number of trading venues to execute transactions with a broker-dealer from ClariVest's approved broker-dealer list.</R>
Order Aggregation
<R>Orders for the same security entered on behalf of more than one Client will generally be aggregated (i.e., blocked or bunched) subject to the aggregation being in the best interests of all participating Clients. All Clients participating in each aggregated order shall receive the average price and subject to minimum ticket charges, pay a pro-rata portion of commissions. Orders for the same security may be traded at the same time with different broker-dealers (and possibly obtain different execution) for a variety of reasons, including if the security is being traded differently.</R>
<R> Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc. (MSIM). </R>
<R> Portfolio Transactions</R>
<R>MSIM, as the Fund's sub-adviser, is responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities for its portion of the fund's assets, for broker-dealer selection and for negotiation of commission rates. MSIM is prohibited from directing brokerage transactions on the basis of the referral of clients or the sale of shares of advised investment companies. Purchases and sales of securities on a stock exchange are effected through brokers who charge a commission for their services. In the OTC market, securities may be traded as agency transactions through broker dealers or traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the security usually includes profit to the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price which includes an amount of compensation to the underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount. When securities are purchased or sold directly from or to an issuer, no commissions or discounts are paid.</R>
<R>On occasion, the Fund may purchase certain money market instruments directly from an issuer without payment of a commission or concession. Money market instruments are generally traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the security usually includes a profit to the dealer.</R>
<R>The Fund anticipates that certain of its transactions involving foreign securities will be effected on securities exchanges. Fixed commissions on such transactions are generally higher than negotiated commissions on domestic transactions. There is also generally less government supervision and regulation of foreign securities exchanges and brokers than in the United States.</R>
<R>MSIM serves as investment adviser to a number of clients, including other investment companies. MSIM attempts to equitably allocate purchase and sale transactions among the Fund and other client accounts. To that end, MSIM considers various factors, including respective investment objectives, relative size of portfolio holdings of the same or comparable securities, availability of cash for investment, size of investment commitments generally held and the opinions of the persons responsible for managing the Fund and other client accounts.</R>
<R>MSIM selects the brokers or dealers that will execute the purchases and sales of investment securities for the Fund. MSIM effects transactions with those broker-dealers that it believes provide prompt execution of orders in an effective manner at the most favorable price. MSIM may place portfolio transactions with those brokers and dealers who also furnish research and other services to the Fund and MSIM. Services provided may include certain research services (as described in the following paragraphs), as well as effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance, settlement and custody).</R>
<R>MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers have established commission sharing arrangements under a commission management program (the "Commission Management Program" or "CMP"), pursuant to which execution and research costs or a portion of those costs are decoupled in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations. Under the CMP, MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers select approved equity brokers (which include MSIM's affiliates) for execution services and after accumulation of commissions at such brokers, MSIM and/or its affiliates instruct these approved equity brokers to pay for eligible research provided by executing brokers or third-party research providers, which are selected independently by a Research Services Committee of MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers. Generally, MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers will direct the approved equity broker to record research credits based upon a previously agreed-upon allocation and will periodically instruct the approved equity broker to direct specified dollar amounts from that pool to pay for eligible research services provided by third-party research providers and executing brokers. The research credits are pooled among MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers and allocated from this pool. Likewise, the research services obtained under the CMP are shared among MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers.</R>
<R>Selection of approved equity brokers for execution is based on three main criteria: access to liquidity, provision of capital and quality of execution. Under the CMP, each approved equity broker is responsible for the payment of fees for research services and obtains the research services pursuant to written agreements between the approved equity broker and the third-party research provider.</R>
<R>MSIM also effects transactions with brokers which directly pay for research services provided by those brokers in accordance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act. These include equity transactions and may include fixed income transactions effected on an agency basis.</R>
<R>Transactions involving client accounts managed by two or more affiliated investment advisers may be aggregated and executed using the services of broker-dealers that provide third party benefits/research so long as: (i) all client accounts involved in the transaction benefit from one or more of the services offered by such broker-dealer; and (ii) each affiliated investment adviser has approved the use of such broker-dealer and the services provided thereby.</R>
<R>The research services received include those of the nature described above and other services which aid MSIM in fulfilling its investment decision making responsibilities, including (a) furnishing advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities, and the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; and (b) furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy and the performance of accounts. Where a particular item has both research and non-research related uses (such as proxy services where both research services and services relating to the administration of the proxy itself are provided), the Adviser will make a reasonable allocation of the cost of the item between research and non-research uses and will only pay for the portion of the cost allocated to research uses with client brokerage transactions.</R>
<R>MSIM and its affiliated investment advisers make a good faith determination of the value of research services in accordance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act, UK Financial Services Authority Rules and other relevant regulatory requirements. Commissions paid to brokers providing research services may be higher than those charged by brokers not providing such services.</R>
<R>Certain investment professionals and other employees of MSIM are also officers of affiliated investment advisers and may provide investment advisory services to clients of such affiliated investment advisers. MSIM's personnel also provide research and trading support to personnel of certain affiliated investment advisers. Research related costs may be shared by affiliated investment advisers and may benefit the clients of such affiliated investment advisers. Research services that benefit MSIM may be received in connection with commissions generated by clients of its affiliated investment advisers. Similarly, research services received in connection with commissions generated by MSIM's clients may benefit affiliated investment advisers and their clients. Moreover, research services provided by broker-dealers through which MSIM effects transactions for a particular account may be used by MSIM and/or an affiliated investment adviser in servicing its other accounts and not all such research services may be used for the benefit of the particular client, which pays the brokerage commission giving rise to the receipt of such research services.</R>
<R> Affiliated Brokers </R>
<R>Subject to the overriding objective of obtaining the best execution of orders, the Fund may use broker-dealer affiliates of MSIM to effect Portfolio brokerage transactions, including transactions in futures contracts and options on futures contracts, under procedures adopted by the Fund's Board of Trustees. In order to use such affiliates, the commission rates and other remuneration paid to the affiliates must be fair and reasonable in comparison to those of other broker-dealers for comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold during a comparable time period. This standard would allow the affiliated broker or dealer to receive no more than the remuneration which would be expected to be received by an unaffiliated broker.</R>
Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis).
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Pyramis or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Pyramis, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Pyramis or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and character of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Pyramis and/or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for lessening or avoiding market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis and/or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Pyramis and/or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Pyramis or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker is generally the same as the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Pyramis or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Pyramis' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Pyramis or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in their investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Pyramis or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
<R> Benefits to Pyramis. Pyramis' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these products or services with their own resources. However, the trading desks of Pyramis and its affiliates are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services that Pyramis or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Pyramis or its affiliates or might not have an explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.</R>
Pyramis' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Pyramis or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Pyramis or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Pyramis or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Pyramis, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Pyramis or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Pyramis or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Pyramis or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Pyramis or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Pyramis or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Pyramis or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Pyramis or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Pyramis and its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Pyramis' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately ( e.g., with hard dollars), rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Pyramis' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Pyramis or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) who have entered into arrangements with Pyramis or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
<R>Pyramis or its affiliates may be authorized to place portfolio transactions with Fidelity Capital Markets (FCM), a division of NFS, an affiliated broker-dealer of Pyramis and its affiliates, or other broker-dealers with whom they are under common control, and use CrossStream, an alternative trading system operated by NFS, if they reasonably believe the quality of the transaction is comparable to what it would be with other qualified broker-dealers. With respect to trades that are executed by Pyramis' affiliates, Pyramis and such affiliate seek to ensure that the trade execution obtained is comparable to that of unaffiliated brokers and that the continued use of such affiliate is appropriate. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may place trades with broker-dealers that use NFS as a clearing agent.</R>
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
Non-U.S. Securities Transactions
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers or may engage a third party to do so.
<R> Trade Allocation</R>
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Pyramis or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Pyramis or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Pyramis to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company (WRIMCO).
<R>One of the duties undertaken by WRIMCO is to arrange the purchase and sale of securities for the portfolio of the Fund. Transactions in securities other than those for which an exchange is the primary market are generally effected with dealers acting as principals or market makers. Brokerage commissions are paid primarily for effecting transactions in securities traded on an exchange and otherwise only if it appears likely that a better price or execution can be obtained. The individuals who manage the Fund may manage other advisory accounts with similar investment objectives. It can be anticipated that the portfolio managers will frequently, yet not always, place concurrent orders for all or most accounts for which the managers have responsibility or WRIMCO and its affiliate, may otherwise combine orders for the Fund with those of other Funds or other accounts for which it has investment discretion, including accounts affiliated with WRIMCO. WRIMCO, at its discretion, may aggregate such orders. Under current written procedures, transactions effected pursuant to such combined orders are averaged as to price and allocated in accordance with the purchase or sale orders actually placed for each fund or advisory account, except where the combined order is not filled completely. In this case, for a transaction not involving an IPO, WRIMCO will ordinarily allocate the transaction pro rata based on the orders placed, subject to certain variances provided for in the written procedures. For a partially filled IPO order, subject to certain variances specified in the written procedures, WRIMCO generally allocates the shares as follows: the IPO shares are initially allocated pro rata among the included funds and/or advisory accounts grouped according to investment objective, based on relative total assets of each group; and the shares are then allocated within each group pro rata based on relative total assets of the included funds and/or advisory accounts.</R>
In all cases, WRIMCO seeks to implement its allocation procedures to achieve a fair and equitable allocation of securities among its funds and other advisory accounts. Sharing in large transactions could affect the price the Fund pays or receives or the amount it buys or sells. As well, a better negotiated commission may be available through combined orders.
To effect the portfolio transactions of the Fund, WRIMCO is authorized to engage broker-dealers (brokers) which, in its best judgment based on all relevant factors, will implement the policy of the Fund to seek best execution (prompt and reliable execution at the best price obtainable) for reasonable and competitive commissions. WRIMCO need not seek competitive commission bidding but is expected to minimize the commissions paid to the extent consistent with the interests and policies of the Fund. Such policies include the selection of brokers which provide execution and/or research services and other services, including pricing or quotation services directly or through others (research and brokerage services) considered by WRIMCO to be useful or desirable for its investment management of the Fund and/or the other funds and accounts for which WRIMCO has investment discretion. Such research and brokerage services are, in general, defined by reference to Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as including (1) advice, either directly or through publications or writings, as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities and the availability of securities and purchasers or sellers; (2) furnishing analyses and reports; or (3) effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto (such as clearance, settlement and custody). Investment discretion is, in general, defined as having authorization to determine what securities shall be purchased or sold for an account.
The commissions paid to brokers that provide such research and/or brokerage services may be higher than the commission another qualified broker would charge for effecting comparable transactions and are permissible if a good faith determination is made by WRIMCO that the commission is reasonable in relation to the research or brokerage services provided. No allocation of brokerage or principal business is made to provide any other benefits to WRIMCO or its affiliates. WRIMCO does not direct Fund brokerage to compensate brokers for the sale of Fund shares.
The investment research provided by a particular broker may be useful only to one or more of the other advisory accounts of WRIMCO, and investment research received for the commissions of those other accounts may be useful both to the Fund and one or more of such other accounts. To the extent that electronic or other products provided by such brokers to assist WRIMCO in making investment management decisions are used for administration or other non-research purposes, a reasonable allocation of the cost of the product attributable to its non-research use is made and this cost is paid by WRIMCO.
Such investment research (which may be supplied by a third party at the request of a broker) includes information on particular companies and industries as well as market, economic or institutional activity areas. It serves to broaden the scope and supplement the research activities of WRIMCO; serves to make available additional views for consideration and comparisons; and enables WRIMCO to obtain market information on the price of securities held in a Fund's portfolio or being considered for purchase.
<R> Winslow Capital Management, LLC (Winslow). </R>
Best Execution. In effecting purchases and sales of portfolio securities for the Fund's account, Winslow will seek the best execution of the Fund's orders. Winslow will consider not only the commission rate, spread or other compensation paid, but the price at which the transaction is executed, bearing in mind that it may be in the Fund's best interest to pay a higher commission, spread or other compensation in order to receive better execution. Winslow may consider other factors, including the broker's integrity, specialized expertise, speed, ability or efficiency, research or other services. Winslow will not consider a broker's promotional or sales efforts on behalf of the Fund as part of the broker selection process for executing Fund portfolio transactions. Winslow may not enter into agreements under which the Fund directs brokerage transactions (or revenue generated from those transactions) to a broker to pay for distribution of Fund shares.
Soft Dollar. Although Winslow selects broker-dealers primarily on the basis of their execution capabilities, the direction of transactions to broker-dealers may also be based on the quality and amount of the research and research-related services which they provide to Winslow and indirectly to its clients. Subject to the criteria of Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and regulatory guidance from the SEC, Winslow may pay a broker a brokerage commission higher than that which another broker might have charged for effecting the same transaction in recognition of the value of the brokerage and research services provided by the broker. In other words, Winslow may use client commissions or "soft dollars" to obtain research or brokerage services that benefit Winslow and its client accounts.
Clients should be aware of the conflicts of interest created by the use and allocations of soft dollar arrangements. Winslow receives a benefit by using soft dollars, because it does not have to produce or pay for the research or services itself. As a practical matter, in some cases Winslow could not, on its own, generate all of the research that broker-dealers provide without materially increasing expenses. This benefit may be seen as creating an incentive to select a broker or dealer to execute client trades based on Winslow's receiving the research or services, rather than on clients' interest in receiving most favorable execution. In addition, soft dollar benefits have the potential to cause an investment adviser to trade frequently to generate soft dollar commissions to pay for these products or services, which may not be in the best interests of clients. Winslow's investment strategy and trading procedures mitigates these potential conflicts. Winslow has adopted policies and procedures concerning soft dollars, which address all aspects of its use of client commissions and require that such use be consistent with Section 28(e), provide lawful and appropriate assistance in the investment decision-making process, and that the value of the research or brokerage service obtained be reasonable in relation to the commissions paid.
Winslow's soft dollar policy is based on the principle that brokerage is the property of the client. With this in mind, Winslow seeks to obtain best execution, minimize transaction costs, and use brokerage to benefit clients when effecting transactions. Winslow believes that it is able to negotiate costs on client transactions which are competitive and consistent with its execution policy. Winslow may use client commissions to pay for research prepared by broker-dealers who execute client transactions ("proprietary research"), research prepared by third parties but for which executing broker-dealers are obligated to pay ("third-party research") and certain other research or brokerage services. These services are of the type described in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are designed to augment Winslow's own internal research and investment strategy capabilities. Winslow's soft dollar policy considers appropriate only those broker provided products or services that primarily directly assist Winslow in its investment decision-making process and not in the management of the firm. Determinations are regularly made that a given service provides lawful and appropriate assistance to the investment decision-making process and that the cost of the service bears a reasonable relationship to the value of the research or service being provided.
Such research or services include a wide variety of written reports on individual companies and industries of particular interest to Winslow, market data, news, independent investment research generally and involving particular industries, general economic conditions, pertinent federal and state legislative developments and changes in accounting practices; direct access by telephone to, or meetings with, leading research analysts, corporate management personnel, industry experts, leading economists and government officials; forensic accounting tools; pricing services; comparative performance evaluation and technical measurement services; availability of economic advice; quotation services; data for portfolio analysis and trading; and services from independent experts on investment matters of particular interest to Winslow. In addition, the foregoing services may comprise the use of or be delivered by computer systems whose software components (including trading and related software) may be provided to Winslow as part of the services. In any case in which the foregoing systems contain features or elements that do not constitute soft-dollar eligible research or services or can be used for both research and non-research purposes, Winslow makes an appropriate allocation of those uses and Winslow itself will pay for that portion of the system that is not soft dollar eligible. A listing of the third-party research products and services currently used by Winslow in its investment decision-making process and additional client specific information, including an annual summary of total commissions generated by the client account and an itemization of soft dollar commissions and client directed commissions, are available upon request.
Because Winslow currently manages client accounts using one investment strategy, Winslow believes that the research products and services obtained with soft dollars benefit all of the accounts which it manages. Because a certain group of Winslow's clients are not available to pay for soft dollar benefits (e.g., managed account program clients), those clients who give Winslow brokerage discretion will support a disproportionate share of Winslow's soft dollar benefits.
Winslow does not enter into agreements with any broker-dealers which obligate Winslow to direct a certain amount of brokerage or commission in return for services. Nor does Winslow "backstop" or otherwise guarantee any broker's financial obligation to a third party for such research and services. However, certain broker-dealers may state in advance the amount of brokerage commissions they require for certain services and the applicable cash equivalent.
Winslow, consistent with its obligation to seek best execution on client transactions, may utilize commissions paid to broker-dealers for NASDAQ agency transactions to obtain certain research and research-related services.
Winslow's Trade Management Oversight Committee ("TMOC"), consisting of representatives from investment management, trading, portfolio administration and compliance, periodically reviews its soft dollar practices by 1) reviewing and approving soft dollar research and brokerage services; 2) approval and tracking of the brokerage budget; 3) evaluation of brokers, and 4) periodic reviews of soft dollar research and brokerage services for continued compliance within the Section 28(e) safe harbor.
Trade Order Aggregation and Allocation. Winslow will frequently aggregate multiple contemporaneous client purchase or sell orders into a block order for execution. Calculation of such an aggregated order is done via Winslow's trading software. The allocation of the order among various accounts participating in the trade is tracked, and the executed order is then allocated according to the original calculated allocation. If the aggregated order is not filled in its entirety, the partially filled order is allocated pro rata based on the original allocation. By aggregating orders of separate clients, Winslow can ordinarily negotiate commissions that are lower than commissions would be if orders were not aggregated. Clients' accounts for which orders are aggregated receive the average share price of such transaction, which could be higher or lower than the actual price that would otherwise be paid by such client absent the aggregation of orders. Any transaction costs incurred in the aggregated transaction will be shared pro rata based on each client's participation in the transaction. Separate documentation relating to the transaction is generated and maintained for each client participating in a bunched trade.
If, subsequent to the placing of the order, the allocation must be changed for certain reasons (for example, a client withdraws cash from an account scheduled to participate in the order), such change in allocation will be recorded in writing and approved by Winslow's Chief Compliance Officer.
Investment Strategy. Winslow invests in companies that have the potential for above-average future earnings growth with management focused on shareholder value. Winslow invests at least 80% of its assets in large capitalization companies having a market capitalization in excess of $4.0 billion at the time of purchase and generally which are improving their financial returns.
Investment Process. Winslow will invest in those companies that Winslow believes will provide an opportunity for achieving superior portfolio returns (i.e., returns in excess of the returns of the average stock mutual fund) over the long term.
When purchasing stocks Winslow looks for companies typically having some or all of the following attributes:
<R>Winslow takes a bottom-up investment approach when selecting investments. This means it bases investment decisions on company specific factors, not general economic conditions. Winslow employs a sell discipline pursuant to which it may sell some or all of its position in a stock when:</R>
Typically Winslow invests substantially all of the Fund's investable assets in domestic securities. However, the Fund is permitted to invest up to 20% of its net assets in foreign securities traded on U.S. exchanges.
Commissions Paid
A fund may pay compensation including both commissions and spreads in connection with the placement of portfolio transactions. The amount of brokerage commissions paid by a fund may change from year to year because of, among other things, changing asset levels, shareholder activity, and/or portfolio turnover.
<R>For the fiscal periods ended May 31, 2012 and 2011, the fund's portfolio turnover rates were 49% and 47% (annualized), respectively. Variations in turnover rate may be due to a fluctuating volume of shareholder purchase and redemption orders, market conditions, and/or changes in Strategic Advisers' investment outlook.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund held securities issued by one or more of its regular brokers or dealers or a parent company of its regular brokers or dealers. The following table shows the aggregate value of the securities of the regular broker or dealer or parent company held by the fund as of the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012.</R>
<R> Fund |
Regular Broker or Dealer |
Aggregate Value of
|
<R>Strategic Advisers Growth Fund |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. |
$ 14,576,055</R> |
<R>The following table shows the total amount of brokerage commissions paid by the fund, comprising commissions paid on securities and/or futures transactions, as applicable, for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2012 and 2011. The total amount of brokerage commissions paid is stated as a dollar amount and a percentage of the fund's average net assets.</R>
<R>Fiscal Year
|
|
Dollar
|
Percentage of
|
<R>2012 |
|
$ 3,722,904 |
0.05%</R> |
<R>2011 A |
|
$ 4,831,295 |
0.11%</R> |
<R> A Fund commenced operations on June 2, 2010.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012 the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2011 the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R> Broker |
Affiliated With |
Commissions </R> |
<R>NFS |
FMR LLC/
|
$ 6,955</R> |
<R>The fund commenced operations on June 2, 2010 and, therefore, does not have any affiliated brokerage commisions to report for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2010.</R>
<R>Brokerage commissions may vary significantly from year to year due to a variety of factors, including the types of investments selected by the sub-adviser(s), changes in transaction costs, and market conditions.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid $1,708,103 in brokerage commissions to firms that may have provided research or brokerage services involving approximately $2,938,212,313 of transactions.</R>
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. The NAV of the fund is computed by adding the value of the fund's investments, cash, and other assets, subtracting its liabilities, and dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding.
The Board of Trustees has ultimate responsibility for pricing, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers has established the Strategic Advisers Fair Value Committee (Strategic Advisers Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities. The Strategic Advisers Committee may rely on information and recommendations provided by affiliates of Strategic Advisers in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, including the fair valuation of securities.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) held by the fund are valued at their respective NAVs. If an underlying fund's NAV is unavailable, shares of that underlying fund will be fair valued in good faith by the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Generally, other portfolio securities and assets held by the fund, as well as portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity non-money market fund, are valued as follows:
Most equity securities (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued at the official closing price or the last reported sale price or, if no sale has occurred, at the last quoted bid price on the primary market or exchange on which they are traded.
Debt securities and other assets for which market quotations are readily available may be valued at market values in the principal market in which they normally are traded, as furnished by recognized dealers in such securities or assets. Or, debt securities and convertible securities may be valued on the basis of information furnished by a pricing service that uses a valuation matrix which incorporates both dealer-supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Use of pricing services has been approved by the Board of Trustees. A number of pricing services are available, and the fund may use various pricing services or discontinue the use of any pricing service.
Short-term securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less for which market quotations and information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available are valued at amortized cost, which approximates current value.
Futures contracts are valued at the settlement or closing price. Options are valued at their market quotations, if available. Swaps are valued daily using quotations received from independent pricing services or recognized dealers.
Independent brokers or quotation services provide prices of foreign securities in their local currency. Fidelity Service Company, Inc. (FSC) gathers all exchange rates daily at the close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) using the last quoted bid price on the local currency and then translates the value of foreign securities from their local currencies into U.S. dollars. Any changes in the value of forward contracts due to exchange rate fluctuations and days to maturity are included in the calculation of NAV.
The Board of Trustees of the underlying Fidelity funds has ultimate responsibility for pricing portfolio securities and assets held by those funds, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to FMR. FMR has established the FMR Fair Value Committee (FMR Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities.
Other portfolio securities and assets for which market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available or, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, are deemed unreliable will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before a fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, that security will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. In fair valuing a security, the FMR Committee and the Strategic Advisers Committee may consider factors including price movements in futures contracts and ADRs, market and trading trends, the bid/ask quotes of brokers, and off-exchange institutional trading.
Portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity money market fund are valued on the basis of amortized cost. This technique involves initially valuing an instrument at its cost as adjusted for amortization of premium or accretion of discount rather than its current market value. The amortized cost value of an instrument may be higher or lower than the price a money market fund would receive if it sold the instrument.
At such intervals as they deem appropriate, the Trustees of an underlying Fidelity money market fund consider the extent to which NAV calculated using market valuations would deviate from the $1.00 per share calculated using amortized cost valuation. If the Trustees believe that a deviation from a money market fund's amortized cost per share may result in material dilution or other unfair results to shareholders, the Trustees have agreed to take such corrective action, if any, as they deem appropriate to eliminate or reduce, to the extent reasonably practicable, the dilution or unfair results. Such corrective action could include selling portfolio instruments prior to maturity to realize capital gains or losses or to shorten average portfolio maturity; withholding dividends; redeeming shares in kind; establishing NAV by using available market quotations; and such other measures as the Trustees may deem appropriate.
BUYING AND SELLING INFORMATION
Shares of the fund are offered only to certain clients of Strategic Advisers that have granted Strategic Advisers discretionary investment authority. If you are not currently a Strategic Advisers client, please call 1-800-544-3455 for more information.
Investors participating in a Strategic Advisers discretionary investment program are charged an annual advisory fee based on a percentage of the average market value of assets in their account. The stated fee is then reduced by a credit reflecting the amount of fees, if any, received by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates from mutual funds for investment management or certain other services.
The fund may make redemption payments in whole or in part in readily marketable securities or other property pursuant to procedures approved by the Trustees if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund. Such securities or other property will be valued for this purpose as they are valued in computing the fund's NAV. Shareholders that receive securities or other property will realize, upon receipt, a gain or loss for tax purposes, and will incur additional costs and be exposed to market risk prior to and upon the sale of such securities or other property.
The fund, in its discretion, may determine to issue its shares in kind in exchange for securities held by the purchaser having a value, determined in accordance with the fund's policies for valuation of portfolio securities, equal to the purchase price of the fund shares issued. The fund will accept for in-kind purchases only securities or other instruments that are appropriate under its investment objective and policies. In addition, the fund generally will not accept securities of any issuer unless they are liquid, have a readily ascertainable market value, and are not subject to restrictions on resale. All dividends, distributions, and subscription or other rights associated with the securities become the property of the fund, along with the securities. Shares purchased in exchange for securities in kind generally cannot be redeemed for fifteen days following the exchange to allow time for the transfer to settle.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
Dividends. A portion of the fund's income may qualify for the dividends-received deduction available to corporate shareholders, but it is unlikely that all of the fund's income will qualify for the deduction. A portion of the fund's dividends, when distributed to individual shareholders, may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
Capital Gain Distributions. The fund's long-term capital gain distributions, including amounts attributable to an underlying fund's long-term capital gain distributions, are federally taxable to shareholders generally as capital gains.
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the fund had an aggregate capital loss carryforward of approximately $33,829,213. This loss carryforward, none of which will expire, is available to offset future capital gains. Under provisions of the Internal Revenue Code and related regulations, a fund's ability to utilize its capital loss carryforwards in a given year or in total may be limited.</R>
Returns of Capital. If the fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
Foreign Tax Credit or Deduction. Foreign governments may impose withholding taxes on dividends and interest earned by the fund with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. Foreign governments may also impose taxes on other payments or gains with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. As a general matter, if, at the close of its fiscal year, more than 50% of the fund's total assets is invested in securities of foreign issuers, the fund may elect to pass through eligible foreign taxes paid and thereby allow shareholders to take a deduction or, if they meet certain holding period requirements with respect to fund shares, a credit on their individual tax returns. In addition, if at the close of each quarter of its fiscal year at least 50% of the fund's total assets is represented by interests in other regulated investment companies, the same rules will apply to any foreign tax credits that underlying funds pass through to the fund. The amount of foreign taxes paid by the fund will be reduced to the extent that the fund lends securities over the dividend record date. Special rules may apply to the credit for individuals who receive dividends qualifying for the long-term capital gains tax rate.
Tax Status of the Fund. The fund intends to qualify each year as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code so that it will not be liable for federal tax on income and capital gains distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify as a regulated investment company, and avoid being subject to federal income or excise taxes at the fund level, the fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains within each calendar year as well as on a fiscal year basis (if the fiscal year is other than the calendar year), and intends to comply with other tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies.
Other Tax Information. The information above is only a summary of some of the tax consequences generally affecting the fund and its shareholders, and no attempt has been made to discuss individual tax consequences. It is up to you or your tax preparer to determine whether the sale of shares of the fund resulted in a capital gain or loss or other tax consequence to you. In addition to federal income taxes, shareholders may be subject to state and local taxes on fund distributions, and shares may be subject to state and local personal property taxes. Investors should consult their tax advisers to determine whether the fund is suitable to their particular tax situation.
<R>The Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and executive officers of the trust and fund, as applicable, are listed below. The Board of Trustees governs the fund and is responsible for protecting the interests of shareholders. The Trustees are experienced executives who meet periodically throughout the year to oversee the fund's activities, review contractual arrangements with companies that provide services to the fund, oversee management of the risks associated with such activities and contractual arrangements, and review the fund's performance. If the interests of the fund and an underlying Fidelity fund were to diverge, a conflict of interest could arise and affect how the Trustees and Member of the Advisory Board fulfill their fiduciary duties to the affected funds. Strategic Advisers has structured the fund to avoid these potential conflicts, although there may be situations where a conflict of interest is unavoidable. In such instances, Strategic Advisers, the Trustees, and Member of the Advisory Board would take reasonable steps to minimize and, if possible, eliminate the conflict. Each of the Trustees oversees 26 funds advised by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate.</R>
The Trustees hold office without limit in time except that (a) any Trustee may resign; (b) any Trustee may be removed by written instrument, signed by at least two-thirds of the number of Trustees prior to such removal; (c) any Trustee who requests to be retired or who has become incapacitated by illness or injury may be retired by written instrument signed by a majority of the other Trustees; and (d) any Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of shareholders by a two-thirds vote of the outstanding voting securities of the trust. The executive officers and Advisory Board Member hold office without limit in time, except that any officer and Advisory Board Member may resign or may be removed by a vote of a majority of the Trustees at any regular meeting or any special meeting of the Trustees. Except as indicated, each individual has held the office shown or other offices in the same company for the past five years.
Each Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) is referred to herein as an Independent Trustee.
Experience, Skills, Attributes, and Qualifications of the Fund's Trustees. The Governance and Nominating Committee has adopted a statement of policy that describes the experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills that are necessary and desirable for potential Independent Trustee candidates (Statement of Policy). The Board believes that each Trustee satisfied at the time he or she was initially elected or appointed a Trustee, and continues to satisfy, the standards contemplated by the Statement of Policy. The Governance and Nominating Committee may also engage professional search firms to help identify potential Independent Trustee candidates with experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills consistent with the Statement of Policy. Additional criteria based on the composition and skills of the current Independent Trustees, as well as experience or skills that may be appropriate in light of future changes to board composition, business conditions, and regulatory or other developments, may be considered by the professional search firms and the Governance and Nominating Committee. In addition, the Board takes into account the Trustees' commitment and participation in Board and committee meetings, as well as their leadership of standing and ad hoc committees throughout their tenure.
In determining that a particular Trustee was and continues to be qualified to serve as a Trustee, the Board has considered a variety of criteria, none of which, in isolation, was controlling. The Board believes that, collectively, the Trustees have balanced and diverse experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills, which allow the Board to operate effectively in governing the fund and protecting the interests of shareholders. Information about the specific experience, skills, attributes, and qualifications of each Trustee, which in each case led to the Board's conclusion that the Trustee should serve (or continue to serve) as a trustee of the fund, is provided below.
Board Structure and Oversight Function. Roger T. Servison is an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) and currently serves as Chairman. The Trustees have determined that an interested Chairman is appropriate and benefits shareholders because an interested Chairman has a personal and professional stake in the quality and continuity of services provided to the fund. Independent Trustees exercise their informed business judgment to appoint an individual of their choosing to serve as Chairman, regardless of whether the Trustee happens to be independent or a member of management. The Independent Trustees have determined that they can act independently and effectively without having an Independent Trustee serve as Chairman and that a key structural component for assuring that they are in a position to do so is for the Independent Trustees to constitute a substantial majority for the Board. The Independent Trustees also regularly meet in executive session. Ralph F. Cox serves as the lead Independent Trustee and as such (i) acts as a liaison between the Independent Trustees and management with respect to matters important to the Independent Trustees and (ii) with management prepares agendas for Board meetings.
<R>Fidelity funds are overseen by different Boards of Trustees. The fund's Board oversees asset allocation funds as well as the Fidelity enhanced index funds. Other boards oversee Fidelity's investment-grade bond, money market, and asset allocation funds and Fidelity's equity and high income funds. The fund may invest in Fidelity funds overseen by such other Boards. The use of separate Boards, each with its own committee structure, allows the Trustees of each group of Fidelity funds to focus on the unique issues of the funds they oversee, including common research, investment, and operational issues.</R>
The Trustees primarily operate as a full Board, but also operate in committees, to facilitate the timely and efficient consideration of all matters of importance to the Trustees, the fund, and fund shareholders and to facilitate compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and oversight of the fund's activities and associated risks. The Board has charged Strategic Advisers and its affiliates with (i) identifying events or circumstances the occurrence of which could have demonstrably adverse effects on the fund's business and/or reputation; (ii) implementing processes and controls to lessen the possibility that such events or circumstances occur or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur; and (iii) creating and maintaining a system designed to evaluate continuously business and market conditions in order to facilitate the identification and implementation processes described in (i) and (ii) above. Because the day-to-day operations and activities of the fund are carried out by or through Strategic Advisers, its affiliates and other service providers, the fund's exposure to risks is mitigated but not eliminated by the processes overseen by the Trustees. Board oversight of different aspects of the fund's activities is exercised primarily through the full Board, but also through the Audit and Compliance Committee. Appropriate personnel, including but not limited to the fund's Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), FMR's internal auditor, the independent accountants, the fund's Treasurer and portfolio management personnel, make periodic reports to the Board's committees, as appropriate. The responsibilities of each committee, including their oversight responsibilities, are described further under "Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees."
Interested Trustees *:
Correspondence intended for each Trustee who is an interested person may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience + |
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<R>Roger T. Servison (66)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Servison is Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Servison serves as President of Strategic New Business Development for Fidelity Investments and serves as a Director of Strategic Advisers. Previously, Mr. Servison oversaw Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company (2005-2006) and Strategic Advisers (2005-2007). Mr. Servison also served as President and a Director of Fidelity Brokerage Services (Japan), LLC (1994-2004). |
<R>Derek L. Young (47)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Mr. Young is Vice President of Fidelity's Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present), President and a Director of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011-present), President of Fidelity Global Asset Allocation (GAA) (2011-present), and Vice Chairman of Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (2011-present). Previously, Mr. Young served as Chief Investment Officer of GAA (2009-2011) and as a portfolio manager. |
* Trustees have been determined to be "Interested Trustees" by virtue of, among other things, their affiliation with the trust or various entities under common control with Strategic Advisers.
+ The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.
Independent Trustees :
Correspondence intended for each Independent Trustee (that is, the Trustees other than the Interested Trustees) may be sent to Fidelity Investments, P.O. Box 55235, Boston, Massachusetts 02205-5235.
Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience + |
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<R>Peter C. Aldrich (68)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Aldrich is a Director of the National Bureau of Economic Research and a Director of the funds of BlackRock Realty Group (2006-present). Previously, Mr. Aldrich served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010), a Managing Member of Poseidon, LLC (foreign private investment, 1998-2004), and Chairman and Managing Member of AEGIS, LLC (foreign private investment, 1997-2004). Mr. Aldrich also served as Faculty Chairman of The Research Council on Global Investment of The Conference Board (business and professional education non-profit, 1999-2004). Mr. Aldrich is a Member of the Boards of Trustees of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. |
<R>Amy Butte Liebowitz (44)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Ms. Butte Liebowitz is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of TILE Financial (financial internet service, 2008-present). Previously, Ms. Butte Liebowitz served as the Chief Financial Officer and member of the Board of Directors of MF Global (broker-dealer, 2006-2008), and Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the New York Stock Exchange (2004-2006). Ms. Butte Liebowitz is a member of the Boards of Directors of Accion International and the New York Women's Forum, as well as a selected participant in the World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader program. |
<R>Ralph F. Cox (79)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Cox is President of RABAR Enterprises (management consulting for the petroleum industry). Mr. Cox is a Director of Abraxas Petroleum (exploration and production). Mr. Cox is a member of the Advisory Boards of the Business and Engineering Schools of Texas A&M University and the Engineering School of University of Texas at Austin. Previously, Mr. Cox served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010) and as an Advisory Director of CH2M Hill Companies (engineering, 1981-2011). Mr. Ralph F. Cox and Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. are not related. |
<R>Karen Kaplan (52)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Ms. Kaplan is President of Hill Holliday (advertising and specialized marketing, 2007-present). Ms. Kaplan is a Director of DSM (dba Delta Dental, Doral, and DentaQuest) (2004-present), Member of the Board of Governors of the Chief Executives' Club of Boston (2010-present), Member of the Board of the Massachusetts Conference for Women (2008-present), and Director of the Executive Committee of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce (2006-present). She is also a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, an action oriented community of the most effective CEOs, heads of state, Nobel Prize winners, and non-governmental leaders in the world. Previously, Ms. Kaplan served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010), President of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2008-2010), Treasurer of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2002-2006), Vice Chair of the Board of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (2003-2010), Director of United Way of Massachusetts Bay (2004-2006), Director of ADVO (direct mail marketing, 2003-2007), and Director of Tweeter Home Entertainment Group (2006-2007). |
+ The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.
Advisory Board Member and Executive Officers :
Correspondence intended for each executive officer and Howard E. Cox, Jr. may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
Name, Age; Principal Occupation |
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<R>Howard E. Cox, Jr. (68)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Member of the Advisory Board of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II. Mr. Cox is a Member of the Advisory Board of Devonshire Investors (2009-present). Mr. Cox serves as an Advisory Partner of Greylock (venture capital) and a Director of Stryker Corporation (medical products and services). Previously, Mr. Cox served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010) and a Member of the Secretary of Defense's Business Board of Directors (2008-2010). Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. and Mr. Ralph F. Cox are not related. |
<R>Kenneth B. Robins (42)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> President and Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Robins also serves as President and Treasurer of other Fidelity Equity and High Income Funds (2008-present) and Assistant Treasurer of other Fidelity Fixed Income and Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present). Mr. Robins is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). Previously, Mr. Robins served as Deputy Treasurer of the Fidelity funds (2005-2008) and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2006-2008). |
<R>Marc Bryant (46)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010</R> Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of the fund. Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Fidelity Investments. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments, Mr. Bryant served as a Senior Vice President and the Head of Global Retail Legal for AllianceBernstein L.P. (2006-2010), and as the General Counsel for ProFund Advisors LLC (2001-2006). |
<R>Elizabeth Paige Baumann (43)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Officer of the fund. Ms. Baumann also serves as AML Officer of the Fidelity funds (2012-present) and The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2012-present), Chief AML Officer of FMR LLC (2012-present), and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Ms. Baumann served as Vice President and Deputy Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2007-2012). |
<R>Nicholas E. Steck (48)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Financial Officer of the fund. Mr. Steck serves as Senior Vice President of Fidelity Pricing and Cash Management Services (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. During the period 2002 to 2009, Mr. Steck served as a Compliance Officer of FMR, Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc., FMR LLC, Fidelity Research & Analysis (U.K.) Inc., Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc. |
<R>Laura M. Doherty (43)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Compliance Officer of the fund. Ms. Doherty also serves as Senior Vice President of the Office of the Chief Compliance Officer (2008-present). Previously, Ms. Doherty served as a Vice President in Fidelity's Corporate Audit department (1998-2008). |
<R>Adrien E. Deberghes (44)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Deberghes also serves as Assistant Treasurer (2010-present) and Deputy Treasurer (2008-present) of other Fidelity funds and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2008-present). Previously, Mr. Deberghes served as Senior Vice President of Mutual Fund Administration at State Street Corporation (2007-2008), Senior Director of Mutual Fund Administration at Investors Bank & Trust (2005-2007), and Director of Finance for Dunkin' Brands (2000-2005). |
<R>Jonathan Davis (43)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Davis is also Assistant Treasurer of certain Fidelity funds. Mr. Davis is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Mr. Davis served as Vice President and Associate General Counsel of FMR LLC (2003-2010). |
<R>Margaret A. Carey (38)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 </R> Assistant Secretary of the fund. Ms. Carey is also Assistant Secretary of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). |
Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees. The Board of Trustees has established two committees to supplement the work of the Board as a whole. The members of each committee are Independent Trustees.
<R>The Audit and Compliance Committee is composed of Ms. Butte Liebowitz (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Ralph Cox, and Ms. Kaplan. All committee members must be able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including a company's balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. The committee determines whether at least one member of the committee is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined in rules promulgated by the SEC under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The committee normally meets in conjunction with in person meetings of the Board of Trustees, or more frequently as called by the Chair. The committee meets separately periodically with the fund's Treasurer, the fund's Chief Financial Officer, the fund's CCO, personnel responsible for the internal audit function of FMR LLC, and the fund's outside auditors. The committee has direct responsibility for the appointment, compensation, and oversight of the work of the outside auditors employed by the fund for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or related work. The committee assists the Trustees in overseeing and monitoring: (i) the systems of internal accounting and financial controls of the fund and the fund's service providers, (ii) the financial reporting processes of the fund, (iii) the independence, objectivity and qualification of the auditors to the fund, (iv) the annual audits of the fund's financial statements, and (v) the accounting policies and disclosures of the fund. The committee considers and acts upon (i) the provision by any outside auditor of any non-audit services for any fund, and (ii) the provision by any outside auditor of certain non-audit services to fund service providers and their affiliates to the extent that such approval (in the case of this clause (ii)) is required under applicable regulations (Auditor Independence Regulations) of the SEC. In furtherance of the foregoing, the committee has adopted (and may from time to time amend or supplement) and provides oversight of policies and procedures for non-audit engagements by outside auditors of the fund. It is responsible for approving all audit engagement fees and terms for the fund and for resolving disagreements between the fund and any outside auditor regarding the fund's financial reporting, and has sole authority to hire and fire any auditor. Auditors of the fund report directly to the committee. The committee will obtain assurance of independence and objectivity from the outside auditors, including a formal written statement delineating all relationships between the auditor and the fund and any service providers consistent with Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Ethics and Independence Rule 3526, Communication with Audit Committees Concerning Independence. The committee will discuss with the outside auditors any such disclosed relationships and their impact on the auditor's independence and objectivity. The committee will receive reports of compliance with provisions of the Auditor Independence Regulations relating to the hiring of employees or former employees of the outside auditors. It oversees and receives reports on the fund's service providers' internal controls and reviews with management, internal auditors, and outside auditors the adequacy and effectiveness of the fund's and service providers' accounting and financial controls, including: (i) any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting that are reasonably likely to adversely affect the fund's ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial data; (ii) any change in the fund's internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the fund's internal control over financial reporting; and (iii) any fraud, whether material or not, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the fund's or service provider's internal controls over financial reporting. The committee will review with counsel any legal matters that may have a material impact on the fund's financial statements and any material reports or inquiries received from regulators or governmental agencies. The committee reviews at least annually a report from the outside auditor describing (i) any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality control review, peer review, or PCAOB examination of the auditing firm and (ii) any material issues raised by any inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional authorities of the auditing firm since the most recent report and in each case any steps taken to deal with such issues. The committee will oversee and receive reports on the fund's financial reporting process and will receive reports from an outside auditor relating to (i) critical accounting policies and practices used by the fund, (ii) alternative accounting treatments that the auditor has discussed with Strategic Advisers, and (iii) other material written communications between the auditor and Strategic Advisers (as determined by the auditor). The committee will discuss with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors and, if appropriate, internal audit personnel of FMR LLC, their qualitative judgments about the appropriateness and acceptability of accounting principles and financial disclosure practices used or proposed for adoption by the fund. The committee will review with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors, and internal audit personnel of FMR LLC (to the extent relevant) the results of audits of the fund's financial statements. The committee will review periodically the fund's major internal controls exposures and the steps that have been taken to monitor and control such exposures. The committee also oversees the administration and operation of the compliance policies and procedures of the fund and its service providers as required by Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act. The committee is responsible for the review and approval of policies and procedures relating to (i) provisions of the Code of Ethics, (ii) anti-money laundering requirements, (iii) compliance with investment restrictions and limitations, (iv) privacy, (v) recordkeeping, and (vi) other compliance policies and procedures which are not otherwise delegated to another committee of the Board of Trustees or reserved to the Board itself. The committee has responsibility for recommending to the Board the designation of a CCO of the fund. The committee serves as the primary point of contact between the CCO and the Board, it oversees the annual performance review and compensation of the CCO and, if required, makes recommendations to the Board with respect to the removal of the appointed CCO. The committee receives reports on significant correspondence with regulators or governmental agencies, employee complaints or published reports which raise concerns regarding compliance matters, and copies of significant non-routine correspondence with the SEC. The committee receives reports from the CCO including the annual report concerning the fund's compliance policies as required by Rule 38a-1 and quarterly reports in respect of any breaches of fiduciary duty or violations of federal securities laws. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The Governance and Nominating Committee is composed of Mr. Ralph Cox (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, and Mses. Butte Liebowitz and Kaplan. The committee meets as called by the Chair. With respect to fund governance and board administration matters, the committee periodically reviews procedures of the Board of Trustees and its committees (including committee charters) and periodically reviews compensation of Independent Trustees. The committee monitors corporate governance matters and makes recommendations to the Board of Trustees on the frequency and structure of the Board of Trustee meetings and on any other aspect of Board procedures. It reviews the performance of legal counsel employed by the funds and the Independent Trustees. On behalf of the Independent Trustees, the committee will make such findings and determinations as to the independence of counsel for the Independent Trustees as may be necessary or appropriate under applicable regulations or otherwise. The committee is also responsible for Board administrative matters applicable to Independent Trustees, such as expense reimbursement policies and compensation for attendance at meetings, conferences and other events. The committee monitors compliance with, acts as the administrator of, and makes determinations in respect of, the provisions of the code of ethics and any supplemental policies regarding personal securities transactions applicable to the Independent Trustees. The committee monitors the functioning of each Board committee and makes recommendations for any changes, including the creation or elimination of standing or ad hoc Board committees. The committee monitors regulatory and other developments to determine whether to recommend modifications to the committee's responsibilities or other Trustee policies and procedures in light of rule changes, reports concerning "best practices" in corporate governance and other developments in mutual fund governance. The committee recommends that the Board establish such special or ad hoc Board committees as may be desirable or necessary from time to time in order to address ethical, legal, or other matters that may arise. The committee also oversees the annual self-evaluation of the Board of Trustees and establishes procedures to allow it to exercise this oversight function. In conducting this oversight, the committee shall address all matters that it considers relevant to the performance of the Board of Trustees and shall report the results of its evaluation to the Board of Trustees, including any recommended amendments to the principles of governance, and any recommended changes to the fund's or the Board of Trustees' policies, procedures, and structures. The committee reviews periodically the size and composition of the Board of Trustees as a whole and recommends, if necessary, measures to be taken so that the Board of Trustees reflects the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and diversity required for the Board as a whole and contains at least the minimum number of Independent Trustees required by law. The committee makes nominations for the election or appointment of Independent Trustees and for membership on committees. The committee shall have authority to retain and terminate any third-party advisers, including authority to approve fees and other retention terms. Such advisers may include search firms to identify Independent Trustee candidates and board compensation consultants. The committee may conduct or authorize investigations into or studies of matters within the committee's scope of responsibilities, and may retain, at the fund's expense, such independent counsel or other advisers as it deems necessary. The committee will consider nominees to the Board of Trustees recommended by shareholders based upon the criteria applied to candidates presented to the committee by a search firm or other source. Recommendations, along with appropriate background material concerning the candidate that demonstrates his or her ability to serve as an Independent Trustee of the fund, should be submitted to the Chair of the committee at the address maintained for communications with Independent Trustees. If the committee retains a search firm, the Chair will generally forward all such submissions to the search firm for evaluation. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by each Trustee in the fund and in all funds in the aggregate within the same fund family overseen by the Trustee for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011 (or as of March 31, 2012 for Mr. Young, Trustee as of March 1, 2012).</R>
<R>Interested Trustees</R> |
||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Roger T. Servison |
Derek L. Young</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Growth Fund |
none |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none</R> |
<R>Independent Trustees</R> |
||||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Peter C. Aldrich |
Amy Butte Liebowitz |
Ralph F. Cox |
Karen Kaplan</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Growth Fund |
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none</R> |
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the compensation of each Trustee and Member of the Advisory Board for his or her services for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, or calendar year ended December 31, 2011, as applicable.</R>
<R>Compensation Table 1</R> |
|||||
<R>
AGGREGATE
|
Peter C.
|
Amy Butte
|
Ralph F.
|
Karen
|
</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Growth Fund |
$ 15,094 |
$ 12,068 |
$ 15,094 |
$ 15,094 |
</R> |
<R>
TOTAL COMPENSATION
|
$ 95,000 |
$ 23,750 |
$ 95,000 |
$ 95,000 |
</R> |
<R> 1 Roger T. Servison, Howard E. Cox, Jr., and Derek L. Young are interested persons and are compensated by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate (including FMR).</R>
<R> 2 Effective September 8, 2011, Ms. Butte Liebowitz serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.</R>
<R> A Reflects compensation received for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011, for 22 funds of two trusts.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and officers of the fund owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the fund's total outstanding shares.</R>
CONTROL OF INVESTMENT ADVISERS
FMR LLC, as successor by merger to FMR Corp., is the ultimate parent company of Strategic Advisers and Pyramis. The voting common shares of FMR LLC are divided into two series. Series B is held predominantly by members of the Edward C. Johnson 3d and Abigail P. Johnson family, directly or through trust and limited liability companies, and is entitled to 49% of the vote on any matter acted upon by the voting common shares. Series A is held predominantly by non-Johnson family member employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates and is entitled to 51% of the vote on any such matter. The Johnson family group and all other Series B shareholders have entered into a shareholders' voting agreement under which all Series B shares will be voted in accordance with the majority vote of Series B shares. Under the 1940 Act, control of a company is presumed where one individual or group of individuals owns more than 25% of the voting securities of that company. Therefore, through their ownership of voting common shares and the execution of the shareholders' voting agreement, members of the Johnson family may be deemed, under the 1940 Act, to form a controlling group with respect to FMR LLC.
At present, the primary business activities of FMR LLC and its subsidiaries are: (i) the provision of investment advisory, management, shareholder, investment information and assistance and certain fiduciary services for individual and institutional investors; (ii) the provision of securities brokerage services; (iii) the management and development of real estate; and (iv) the investment in and operation of a number of emerging businesses.
ClariVest, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 11452 El Camino Real, Suite 250, San Diego, California 92130. ClariVest Management Holdings, LLC owns 55% of ClariVest. ClariVest Holdings-One LLC effectively owns 20% of ClariVest. ClariVest Holdings-Two LLC effectively owns 20% of ClariVest. These two holding companies are wholly owned by Lovell Minnick Equity Partners II LP.
<R>MSIM, a registered investment adviser, has its principal offices at 522 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10036. MSIM is a subsidiary of Morgan Stanley. MSIM, together with its affiliated asset management companies, conducts a worldwide portfolio management business and provides a broad range of portfolio management services to customers in the U.S. and abroad. Morgan Stanley, the parent of MSIM, is a global financial services firm engaged in securities trading and brokerage activities, as well as providing investment banking, research and analysis, financing, and financial advisory services.</R>
<R>Pyramis is a registered investment adviser. FMR LLC is the ultimate parent company of Pyramis. Information regarding the ownership of FMR LLC is disclosed above.</R>
WRIMCO, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 6300 Lamar Avenue, P.O. Box 29217, Overland Park, Kansas 66201-9217. WRIMCO is a subsidiary of Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc., a publicly held company.
<R>Winslow, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 4720 IDS Tower, 80 South Eighth Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402. Winslow has been an investment adviser since 1992 and is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nuveen WCM Holdings, LLC, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Nuveen Investments, Inc.</R>
<R>Strategic Advisers, ClariVest, MSIM, Pyramis, WRIMCO, Winslow (the Investment Advisers), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and the fund have adopted codes of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act that set forth employees' fiduciary responsibilities regarding the fund, establish procedures for personal investing, and restrict certain transactions. Employees subject to the codes of ethics, including the Investment Advisers' investment personnel, may invest in securities for their own investment accounts, including securities that may be purchased or held by the fund.</R>
The fund has entered into a management contract with Strategic Advisers, pursuant to which Strategic Advisers furnishes investment advisory and other services.
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
<R>Strategic Advisers has retained ClariVest, MSIM, Pyramis, WRIMCO, and Winslow to serve as sub-advisers for the fund. The sub-advisers do not sponsor the fund.</R>
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
Management and Sub-Advisory Services. Under the terms of its management contract with the fund, Strategic Advisers acts as investment adviser and, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, directs the investments of the fund in accordance with its investment objective, policies and limitations. Strategic Advisers is authorized, in its discretion, to allocate the fund's assets pursuant to its investment strategy. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates provide the fund with all necessary office facilities and personnel for servicing the fund's investments, compensate all officers of the fund and all Trustees who are interested persons of the trust or of Strategic Advisers, and compensate all personnel of the fund or Strategic Advisers performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities.
In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, provide the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the fund. These services include providing facilities for maintaining the fund's organization; supervising relations with custodians, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, underwriters and other persons dealing with the fund; preparing all general shareholder communications and conducting shareholder relations; maintaining the fund's records and the registration of the fund's shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws; developing management and shareholder services for the fund; and furnishing reports, evaluations and analyses on a variety of subjects to the Trustees.
Under its respective sub-advisory agreement, and subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, each sub-adviser directs the investment of its allocated portion of the fund's assets in accordance with the fund's investment objective, policies and limitations.
Management-Related Expenses. In addition to the management fee payable to Strategic Advisers and the fees payable to the transfer agent and pricing and bookkeeping agent, the fund pays all of its expenses that are not assumed by those parties. The fund pays for the typesetting, printing, and mailing of its proxy materials to shareholders, legal expenses, and the fees of the custodian, auditor, and Independent Trustees. The fund's management contract further provides that the fund will pay for typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, notices, and reports to shareholders; however, under the terms of the fund's transfer agent agreement, the transfer agent bears these costs. Other expenses paid by the fund include interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, the fund's proportionate share of insurance premiums and Investment Company Institute dues, and the costs of registering shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws. The fund is also liable for such non-recurring expenses as may arise, including costs of any litigation to which the fund may be a party, and any obligation it may have to indemnify its officers and Trustees with respect to litigation.
Management Fees. For the services of Strategic Advisers under the management contract, the fund pays Strategic Advisers a monthly management fee calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets; provided, however, that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 0.95% of the fund's average daily net assets.
<R>In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the fund until September 30, 2014. The fee waiver by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns.</R>
<R>The following table shows the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers for the past two fiscal years and the amount of waivers reducing management fees for the fund.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on June 2, 2010.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, voluntarily reimburse all or a portion of the fund's operating expenses. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid for these expense reimbursements in the amount that expenses fall below the limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Expense reimbursements by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns, and repayment of the reimbursement by the fund will decrease its returns.
<R> Sub-Adviser - ClariVest. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with ClariVest pursuant to which ClariVest may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays ClariVest fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by ClariVest pursuant to a separately negotiated investment mandate (a "Strategy"). The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by ClariVest under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by ClariVest pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - MSIM. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with MSIM pursuant to which MSIM may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays MSIM fees based on the average net assets of the portion of the fund managed by MSIM.</R>
Sub-Adviser - Pyramis. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Pyramis pursuant to which Pyramis may provide investment advisory services for the fund.
<R>Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Pyramis fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Pyramis pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Pyramis under a particular Strategy based on the following rate schedule:</R>
Focused Large Cap Growth |
|||||
0.35% of the first $250 million of assets; |
|||||
0.30% of the next $250 million of assets; |
|||||
0.25% of the next $500 million of assets; and |
|||||
0.20% on any amount in excess of $1.0 billion of assets |
<R>Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Pyramis pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - WRIMCO. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with WRIMCO pursuant to which WRIMCO may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays WRIMCO fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by WRIMCO pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by WRIMCO under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by WRIMCO pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - Winslow. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Winslow pursuant to which Winslow may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Winslow fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Winslow pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Winslow under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Winslow pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R>The following table shows the amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to Pyramis for the past two fiscal years.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on June 2, 2010.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
<R>The following table shows the aggregate amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to unaffiliated sub-advisers for the past two fiscal years.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on June 2, 2010.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
<R>Differences between the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers and the amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to Pyramis and unaffiliated sub-advisers may be due to expense estimates, which are accrued in the period to which they relate and adjusted when actual amounts are known.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - Strategic Advisers. John A. Stone and Vincent Zelenko are employees of Strategic Advisers, a subsidiary of FMR LLC and an affiliate of FMR. Strategic Advisers is the adviser to the fund.</R>
<R>Mr. Stone is lead portfolio manager and Mr. Zelenko is co-manager of the fund and each receives compensation for their services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of each portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by Strategic Advisers or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
Each portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The primary components of each portfolio manager's bonus are based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of each portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account, and (ii) the investment performance of a broad range of Strategic Advisers funds and accounts, including the fund. Accounts may include model portfolios designed for asset allocation, retirement planning, or tax-sensitive goals. The pre-tax investment performance of each portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to his tenure on those fund(s) and account(s), and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over his tenure. Each component is calculated separately over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with each portfolio manager's tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a benchmark index and peer group. A subjective component of the bonus is based on each portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of Strategic Advisers.
The portion of each portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the fund is based on the fund's pre-tax investment performance measured against the Russell 1000 ® Growth Index, and the pre-tax investment performance of the fund within the Morningstar ® Large Growth peer group. Each portfolio manager may be compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, Strategic Advisers' parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement, and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.
A portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in a fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, a portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. A portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as a portfolio manager must allocate his time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate. A portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Stone as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($7,505 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Stone was $50,001 - $100,000.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Zelenko as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($7,505 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Zelenko was $10,001 - $50,000.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - ClariVest. David J. Pavan, Frank Feng, and Ed Wagner serve as co-portfolio managers for ClariVest's portion of the fund's assets. Compensation paid by ClariVest to its portfolio managers has three primary components: (1) a base salary, (2) a discretionary bonus, and (3) for those employees with equity in the firm (including the portfolio managers for the fund), distributions from the LLC. The portfolio managers also receive certain retirement, insurance, and other benefits that are broadly available to all ClariVest employees. The intent of this compensation plan is to achieve a market competitive structure with a high degree of variable compensation through participation in a bonus pool and equity distributions.</R>
ClariVest seeks to compensate portfolio managers in a manner commensurate with their responsibilities, contributions and performance, and that is competitive with other firms within the investment management industry. Salaries, bonuses, and distributions are also influenced by the operating performance of ClariVest.
Bonuses are based on a variety of factors, including overall profitability of the firm as well as individual contribution to the firm. Bonuses are not simply tied to individual product performance. ClariVest believes that payment of bonuses based on short term performance is counterproductive to the environment at ClariVest. All members of the investment team are expected to actively participate in ongoing research, some of which may not primarily benefit the product on which they are the named portfolio manager. Bonuses based on short term individual performance would not incent investment team members to do so. The firm's overall annual cash bonus pool is typically based on a fixed percentage of pre-bonus operating income.
ClariVest believes that equity ownership in the firm (or the potential for such) is both a tool for attracting and retaining employees. Currently, the portfolio managers for the fund are equity owners in the firm. Additionally, it is expected that equity ownership in the firm will broaden to additional employees over time.
It is possible that conflicts of interest may arise in connection with a portfolio manager's management of the fund's investments on the one hand and the investments of other accounts or vehicles for which the portfolio manager is responsible on the other. For example, a portfolio manager may have conflicts of interest in allocating management time, resources and investment opportunities among the fund and the other accounts or vehicles he advises. In addition, due to differences in the investment strategies or restrictions between the fund and the other accounts or vehicles, a portfolio manager may take action with respect to another account or vehicle that differs from the action taken with respect to the fund. In some cases, another account managed by a portfolio manager may compensate the investment adviser based on the performance of the securities held by that account or otherwise provide more revenue to the investment adviser. While these factors may create conflicts of interest for a portfolio manager in the allocation of management time, resources and investment opportunities, the portfolio managers will endeavor to exercise their discretion in a manner that they believe is equitable to all interested persons.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Pavan as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,266 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Pavan was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Feng as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,266 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Feng was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Wagner as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R> |
Registered
|
Other Pooled
|
Other
|
<R>Number of Accounts Managed |
2 |
2 |
4</R> |
<R>Number of Accounts Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees |
none |
none |
1</R> |
<R>Assets Managed (in millions) |
$ 1,276 |
$ 252 |
$ 43</R> |
<R>Assets Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees (in millions) |
none |
none |
$ 17</R> |
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,266 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Wagner was none.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - MSIM. Dennis P. Lynch serves as lead portfolio manager for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets. David S. Cohen, Sam G. Chainani, Alexander T. Norton, Jason C. Yeung and Armistead B. Nash serve as co-portfolio managers for MSIM's portion of the fund's assets.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation Structure. </R>
<R>Portfolio managers receive a combination of base compensation and discretionary compensation, comprising a cash bonus and several deferred compensation programs described below. The methodology used to determine portfolio manager compensation is applied across all funds/accounts managed by the portfolio manager.</R>
<R> Base salary compensation. Generally, portfolio managers receive base salary compensation based on the level of their position with the Adviser.</R>
<R> Discretionary compensation. In addition to base compensation, portfolio managers may receive discretionary compensation. Discretionary compensation can include:</R>
<R>Several factors determine discretionary compensation, which can vary by portfolio management team and circumstances. These factors include:</R>
<R> Conflicts. </R>
<R>Because the portfolio managers may manage assets for other investment companies, pooled investment vehicles, and/or other accounts (including institutional clients, pension plans and certain high net worth individuals), there may be an incentive to favor one client over another resulting in conflicts of interest. For instance, the Sub-Adviser may receive fees from certain accounts that are higher than the fee it receives from the Fund, or it may receive a performance-based fee on certain accounts. In those instances, the portfolio managers may have an incentive to favor the higher and/or performance-based fee accounts over the Fund. In addition, a conflict of interest could exist to the extent the Sub-Adviser has proprietary investments in certain accounts, where portfolio managers have personal investments in certain accounts or when certain accounts are investment options in the Sub-Adviser's employee benefits and/or deferred compensation plans. The portfolio manager may have an incentive to favor these accounts over others. If the Sub-Adviser manages accounts that engage in short sales of securities of the type in which the Fund invests, the Sub-Adviser could be seen as harming the performance of the Fund for the benefit of the accounts engaging in short sales if the short sales cause the market value of the securities to fall. The Sub-Adviser has adopted trade allocation and other policies and procedures that it believes are reasonably designed to address these and other conflicts of interest.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Lynch as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($507 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Lynch was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Cohen as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($507 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Cohen was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Chainani as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($507 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Chainani was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Norton as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($507 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Norton was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Yeung as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($507 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Yeung was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Nash as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($507 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Nash was none.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - Pyramis. Stephen Balter and Christopher Galizio are the portfolio managers of the Pyramis Focused Large Cap Growth strategy and receive compensation for their services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio managers compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of each portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by Pyramis or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
<R>The portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and experience at FMR, Pyramis or its affiliates. The primary components of the portfolio manager's bonus are based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account, and (ii) the investment performance of other Pyramis equity funds and accounts. The pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to the portfolio manager's tenure on those fund(s) and account(s) and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over the portfolio manager's tenure. Each component is calculated separately over the portfolio manager's tenure on those fund(s) and account(s) over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with the portfolio manager's tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to five years for the comparison to a benchmark index, and peer group. A smaller, subjective component of the portfolio manager's bonus is based on the portfolio manager's overall contribution to and leadership within the Pyramis investment platform. The portion of the portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the Pyramis Focused Large Cap Growth strategy is based on the pre-tax investment performance of the strategy measured against the Russell 1000 ® Growth Index, and the pre-tax investment performance of the strategy within the eVestment Alliance Large Cap Growth Equity Universe. The portfolio manager also is compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of Pyramis Global Advisors Holdings Corp, Pyramis' parent company. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of Pyramis and its affiliates.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Balter as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,123 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Balter was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Galizio as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,123 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Galizio was none.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - WRIMCO. Daniel P. Becker and Philip J. Sanders serve as co-portfolio managers for WRIMCO's portion of the fund's assets. WRIMCO believes that, integral to the retention of investment professionals are: a) a competitive base salary that is commensurate with the individual's level of experience and responsibility; b) an attractive bonus structure linked to investment performance, described below; and c) eligibility for a stock incentive plan in shares of WDR that rewards teamwork. Awards of equity-based compensation typically vest over time, so as to create an incentive to retain key talent; and d) to the extent a portfolio manager also manages institutional separate accounts, including funds for which WRIMCO serves as a sub-adviser, he or she will share in a percentage of the revenues earned, on behalf of such accounts, by WRIMCO.</R>
Portfolio managers can receive significant annual performance-based bonuses. The better the pre-tax performance of the portfolio relative to an appropriate benchmark, the more bonus compensation the manager receives. The primary benchmark is the portfolio manager's percentile ranking against the performance of managers of the same investment style at other firms. Half of a portfolio manager's bonus is based upon a three-year period, and half is based upon a one-year period. For truly exceptional results, bonuses can be several multiples of base salary. In cases where portfolio managers have more than one portfolio to manage, all the portfolios are similar in investment style and all are taken into account in determining bonuses. Thirty percent of annual performance-based bonuses is deferred for a three-year period. During that time, the deferred portion of bonuses is deemed invested in one or more mutual funds managed by WRIMCO (or its affiliate), with a minimum of 50% of the deferred bonus required to be invested in a mutual fund managed by the portfolio manager. In addition to the deferred portion of bonuses being deemed invested in mutual funds managed by WRIMCO (or its affiliate), WDR's 401(k) plan offers mutual funds managed by WRIMCO (or its affiliate) as investment options. No compensation is based upon the amount of the mutual fund assets under management.
Actual or apparent conflicts of interest may arise when a portfolio manager has day-to-day management responsibilities with respect to more than one fund or account, such as the following:
WRIMCO and the Funds have adopted certain compliance procedures, including the Code of Ethics, which are designed to address certain types of conflicts. However, there is no guarantee that such procedures will detect each and every situation in which a conflict arises.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Becker as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,543 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Becker was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Sanders as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,543 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Sanders was none.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - Winslow. Justin H. Kelly, R. Bart Wear, and Clark J. Winslow serve as co-portfolio managers for Winslow's portion of the fund's assets. In an effort to retain key personnel, Winslow has structured compensation plans for portfolio managers and other key personnel that it believes are competitive with other investment management firms. The compensation plan is determined by the Winslow Capital Operating Committee and is designed to align manager compensation with investors' goals by rewarding portfolio managers who meet the long-term objective of consistent, superior investment results, measured by the performance of the product. The portfolio managers have long-term employment agreements and are subject to non-competition/non-solicitation restrictions.</R>
<R>The Operating Committee establishes salaries at competitive levels, verified through industry surveys, to attract and maintain the best professional and administrative personnel. Portfolio manager compensation packages are independent of advisory fees collected on any given client account under management. In addition, an incentive bonus is paid annually to the employees based upon each individual's performance, client results and the profitability of the firm. Finally, employees of Winslow Capital, including the portfolio managers, have received profits interests in the firm which entitle their holders to participate in the firm's growth over time.</R>
A portfolio manager who makes investment decisions with respect to multiple funds and/or other accounts may be presented with one or more of the following potential conflicts:
To address potential conflicts of interest, Winslow has adopted various policies and procedures to provide for equitable treatment of trading activity and to ensure that investment opportunities are allocated in a fair and appropriate manner. In addition, Winslow has adopted a Code of Ethics that recognizes the manager's obligation to treat all of its clients, including the Fund, fairly and equitably. These policies, procedures and the Code of Ethics are designed to restrict the portfolio manager from favoring one client over another. There is no guarantee that the policies, procedures and the Code of Ethics will be successful in every instance, however because Winslow offers only one investment product: Large Cap Growth, and all accounts are managed essentially identically, Winslow does not believe any material conflicts of interest exist between the investment strategy of the Fund and the investment strategy of the other accounts managed by the portfolio managers, nor in allocation of investment opportunities.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Kelly as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,508 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Kelly was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Wear as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,508 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Wear was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Winslow as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Growth Fund ($1,508 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Winslow was none.</R>
Proxy Voting - Strategic Advisers.
The following Proxy Voting Guidelines were established by the Board of Trustees of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of the fund, after consultation with Strategic Advisers. (The guidelines are reviewed periodically by Strategic Advisers and its affiliates and by the Independent Trustees of the fund, and, accordingly, are subject to change.)
I. General Principles
A. The funds in the trust generally intend to vote shares of underlying funds using echo voting procedures (that is, in the same proportion as the holders of all other shares of the particular underlying fund).
B. Any proposals not covered by paragraph A above or other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate Strategic Advisers analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review and approval by the General Counsel or Compliance Officer of FMR or the General Counsel of FMR LLC.
Sub-Advisers:
Proxy voting policies and procedures are used by a sub-adviser to determine how to vote proxies relating to the securities held by its allocated portion of the fund's assets. The proxy voting policies and procedures used by the sub-advisers are described below.
Proxy Voting - ClariVest.
It is ClariVest's policy to vote proxies in the interest of maximizing value for ClariVest's Clients. ClariVest's full policy regarding proxy voting is contained in its Compliance Manual.
ClariVest utilizes RiskMetrics Group to vote proxies. As a default, proxies are generally voted by RiskMetrics Group in accordance with RiskMetrics Group recommendations. This default minimizes potential conflicts of interest in proxy voting, as we rely on a third party vendor. However, ClariVest retains ultimate decision making authority with respect to the voting of Client proxies and reserves the right to override RiskMetrics Group recommendations. If there is a vote for which RiskMetrics Group does not provide a recommendation, the Operations Manager, Portfolio Manager(s) and CCO discuss the vote to determine which option is in the interest of maximizing value for ClariVest's Clients.
ClariVest is not required to vote every Client proxy and refraining from voting should not necessarily be construed as a violation of ClariVest's fiduciary obligations. There may be times when refraining from voting is in the Client's best interest, such as when an adviser's analysis of a particular Client proxy reveals that the cost of voting the proxy may exceed the expected benefit to the Client (i.e., casting a vote on a foreign security may require that the adviser engage a translator or travel to a foreign country to vote in person).
<R> Proxy Voting - MSIM.</R>
<R> I. POLICY STATEMENT</R>
<R>Morgan Stanley Investment Management's ("MSIM") policy and procedures for voting proxies ("Policy") with respect to securities held in the accounts of clients applies to those MSIM entities that provide discretionary investment management services and for which an MSIM entity has authority to vote proxies. This Policy is reviewed and updated as necessary to address new and evolving proxy voting issues and standards.</R>
<R>The MSIM entities covered by this Policy currently include the following: Morgan Stanley Investment Advisors Inc., Morgan Stanley AIP GP LP, Morgan Stanley Investment Management Inc., Morgan Stanley Investment Management Limited, Morgan Stanley Investment Management Company, Morgan Stanley Asset & Investment Trust Management Co., Limited, Morgan Stanley Investment Management Private Limited and Private Investment Partners Inc. (each an "MSIM Affiliate" and collectively referred to as the "MSIM Affiliates" or as "we" below).</R>
<R>Each MSIM Affiliate will use its best efforts to vote proxies as part of its authority to manage, acquire and dispose of account assets. With respect to the MSIM registered management investment companies ("MSIM Funds"), each MSIM Affiliate will vote proxies under this Policy pursuant to authority granted under its applicable investment advisory agreement or, in the absence of such authority, as authorized by the Board of Directors/Trustees of the MSIM Funds. An MSIM Affiliate will not vote proxies unless the investment management or investment advisory agreement explicitly authorizes the MSIM Affiliate to vote proxies.</R>
<R>MSIM Affiliates will vote proxies in a prudent and diligent manner and in the best interests of clients, including beneficiaries of and participants in a client's benefit plan(s) for which the MSIM Affiliates manage assets, consistent with the objective of maximizing long-term investment returns ("Client Proxy Standard"). In certain situations, a client or its fiduciary may provide an MSIM Affiliate with a proxy voting policy. In these situations, the MSIM Affiliate will comply with the client's policy.</R>
<R>Proxy Research Services - ISS and Glass Lewis (together with other proxy research providers as we may retain from time to time, the "Research Providers") are independent advisers that specialize in providing a variety of fiduciary-level proxy-related services to institutional investment managers, plan sponsors, custodians, consultants, and other institutional investors. The services provided include in-depth research, global issuer analysis, and voting recommendations. While we may review and utilize the recommendations of one or more Research Providers in making proxy voting decisions, we are in no way obligated to follow such recommendations. In addition to research, ISS provides vote execution, reporting, and recordkeeping services.</R>
<R>Voting Proxies for Certain Non-U.S. Companies - Voting proxies of companies located in some jurisdictions may involve several problems that can restrict or prevent the ability to vote such proxies or entail significant costs. These problems include, but are not limited to: (i) proxy statements and ballots being written in a language other than English; (ii) untimely and/or inadequate notice of shareholder meetings; (iii) restrictions on the ability of holders outside the issuer's jurisdiction of organization to exercise votes; (iv) requirements to vote proxies in person; (v) the imposition of restrictions on the sale of the securities for a period of time in proximity to the shareholder meeting; and (vi) requirements to provide local agents with power of attorney to facilitate our voting instructions. As a result, we vote clients' non-U.S. proxies on a best efforts basis only, after weighing the costs and benefits of voting such proxies, consistent with the Client Proxy Standard. ISS has been retained to provide assistance in connection with voting non-U.S. proxies.</R>
<R> II. GENERAL PROXY VOTING GUIDELINES</R>
<R>To promote consistency in voting proxies on behalf of its clients, we follow this Policy (subject to any exception set forth herein). The Policy addresses a broad range of issues, and provides general voting parameters on proposals that arise most frequently. However, details of specific proposals vary, and those details affect particular voting decisions, as do factors specific to a given company. Pursuant to the procedures set forth herein, we may vote in a manner that is not in accordance with the following general guidelines, provided the vote is approved by the Proxy Review Committee (see Section III for description) and is consistent with the Client Proxy Standard. Morgan Stanley AIP GP LP will follow the procedures as described in Appendix A.</R>
<R>We endeavor to integrate governance and proxy voting policy with investment goals, using the vote to encourage portfolio companies to enhance long-term shareholder value and to provide a high standard of transparency such that equity markets can value corporate assets appropriately.</R>
<R>We seek to follow the Client Proxy Standard for each client. At times, this may result in split votes, for example when different clients have varying economic interests in the outcome of a particular voting matter (such as a case in which varied ownership interests in two companies involved in a merger result in different stakes in the outcome). We also may split votes at times based on differing views of portfolio managers.</R>
<R>We may abstain on matters for which disclosure is inadequate.</R>
<R> A. Routine Matters. We generally support routine management proposals. The following are examples of routine management proposals:</R>
<R>We generally support shareholder proposals advocating confidential voting procedures and independent tabulation of voting results.</R>
<R> B. Board of Directors.</R>
<R>1. Election of directors : Votes on board nominees can involve balancing a variety of considerations. In vote decisions, we may take into consideration whether the company has a majority voting policy in place that we believe makes the director vote more meaningful. In the absence of a proxy contest, we generally support the board's nominees for director except as follows:</R>
<R> a. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee if we believe a direct conflict exists between the interests of the nominee and the public shareholders, including failure to meet fiduciary standards of care and/or loyalty. We may oppose directors where we conclude that actions of directors are unlawful, unethical or negligent. We consider opposing individual board members or an entire slate if we believe the board is entrenched and/or dealing inadequately with performance problems; if we believe the board is acting with insufficient independence between the board and management; or if we believe the board has not been sufficiently forthcoming with information on key governance or other material matters.</R>
<R> b. We consider withholding support from or voting against interested directors if the company's board does not meet market standards for director independence, or if otherwise we believe board independence is insufficient. We refer to prevalent market standards as promulgated by a stock exchange or other authority within a given market (e.g., New York Stock Exchange or Nasdaq rules for most U.S. companies, and The Combined Code on Corporate Governance in the United Kingdom). Thus, for an NYSE company with no controlling shareholder, we would expect that at a minimum a majority of directors should be independent as defined by NYSE. Where we view market standards as inadequate, we may withhold votes based on stronger independence standards. Market standards notwithstanding, we generally do not view long board tenure alone as a basis to classify a director as non-independent.</R>
<R> i. At a company with a shareholder or group that controls the company by virtue of a majority economic interest in the company, we have a reduced expectation for board independence, although we believe the presence of independent directors can be helpful, particularly in staffing the audit committee, and at times we may withhold support from or vote against a nominee on the view the board or its committees are not sufficiently independent. In markets where board independence is not the norm (e.g. Japan), however, we consider factors including whether a board of a controlled company includes independent members who can be expected to look out for interests of minority holders.</R>
<R> ii. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee if he or she is affiliated with a major shareholder that has representation on a board disproportionate to its economic interest.</R>
<R> c. Depending on market standards, we consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee who is interested and who is standing for election as a member of the company's compensation/remuneration, nominating/governance or audit committee.</R>
<R> d. We consider withholding support from or voting against nominees if the term for which they are nominated is excessive. We consider this issue on a market-specific basis.</R>
<R> e. We consider withholding support from or voting against nominees if in our view there has been insufficient board renewal (turnover), particularly in the context of extended poor company performance.</R>
<R> f. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee standing for election if the board has not taken action to implement generally accepted governance practices for which there is a "bright line" test. For example, in the context of the U.S. market, failure to eliminate a dead hand or slow hand poison pill would be seen as a basis for opposing one or more incumbent nominees.</R>
<R> g. In markets that encourage designated audit committee financial experts, we consider voting against members of an audit committee if no members are designated as such. We also may not support the audit committee members if the company has faced financial reporting issues and/or does not put the auditor up for ratification by shareholders.</R>
<R> h. We believe investors should have the ability to vote on individual nominees, and may abstain or vote against a slate of nominees where we are not given the opportunity to vote on individual nominees.</R>
<R> i. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee who has failed to attend at least 75% of the nominee's board and board committee meetings within a given year without a reasonable excuse. We also consider opposing nominees if the company does not meet market standards for disclosure on attendance.</R>
<R> j. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee who appears overcommitted, particularly through service on an excessive number of boards. Market expectations are incorporated into this analysis; for U.S. boards, we generally oppose election of a nominee who serves on more than six public company boards (excluding investment companies), although we also may reference National Association of Corporate Directors guidance suggesting that public company CEOs, for example, should serve on no more than two outside boards given level of time commitment required in their primary job.</R>
<R> k. We consider withholding support from or voting against a nominee where we believe executive remuneration practices are poor, particularly if the company does not offer shareholders a separate "say-on-pay" advisory vote on pay. </R>
<R> 2. Discharge of directors' duties : In markets where an annual discharge of directors' responsibility is a routine agenda item, we generally support such discharge. However, we may vote against discharge or abstain from voting where there are serious findings of fraud or other unethical behavior for which the individual bears responsibility. The annual discharge of responsibility represents shareholder approval of disclosed actions taken by the board during the year and may make future shareholder action against the board difficult to pursue.</R>
<R> 3. Board independence : We generally support U.S. shareholder proposals requiring that a certain percentage (up to 66%) of the company's board members be independent directors, and promoting all-independent audit, compensation and nominating/governance committees.</R>
<R> 4. Board diversity : We consider on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals urging diversity of board membership with respect to gender, race or other factors.</R>
<R> 5. Majority voting : We generally support proposals requesting or requiring majority voting policies in election of directors, so long as there is a carve-out for plurality voting in the case of contested elections.</R>
<R> 6. Proxy access : We consider on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals on particular procedures for inclusion of shareholder nominees in company proxy statements.</R>
<R> 7. Reimbursement for dissident nominees : We generally support well-crafted U.S. shareholder proposals that would provide for reimbursement of dissident nominees elected to a board, as the cost to shareholders in electing such nominees can be factored into the voting decision on those nominees.</R>
<R> 8. Proposals to elect directors more frequently : In the U.S. public company context, we usually support shareholder and management proposals to elect all directors annually (to "declassify" the board), although we make an exception to this policy where we believe that long-term shareholder value may be harmed by this change given particular circumstances at the company at the time of the vote on such proposal. As indicated above, outside the United States we generally support greater accountability to shareholders that comes through more frequent director elections, but recognize that many markets embrace longer term lengths, sometimes for valid reasons given other aspects of the legal context in electing boards.</R>
<R> 9. Cumulative voting : We generally support proposals to eliminate cumulative voting in the U.S. market context. (Cumulative voting provides that shareholders may concentrate their votes for one or a handful of candidates, a system that can enable a minority bloc to place representation on a board.) U.S. proposals to establish cumulative voting in the election of directors generally will not be supported.</R>
<R> 10. Separation of Chairman and CEO positions : We vote on shareholder proposals to separate the Chairman and CEO positions and/or to appoint an independent Chairman based in part on prevailing practice in particular markets, since the context for such a practice varies. In many non-U.S. markets, we view separation of the roles as a market standard practice, and support division of the roles in that context. In the United States, we consider such proposals on a case-by-case basis, considering, among other things, the existing board leadership structure, company performance, and any evidence of entrenchment or perceived risk that power is overly concentrated in a single individual.</R>
<R> 11. Director retirement age and term limits : Proposals setting or recommending director retirement ages or director term limits are voted on a case-by-case basis that includes consideration of company performance, the rate of board renewal, evidence of effective individual director evaluation processes, and any indications of entrenchment.</R>
<R> 12. Proposals to limit directors' liability and/or broaden indemnification of officers and directors : Generally, we will support such proposals provided that an individual is eligible only if he or she has not acted in bad faith, with gross negligence or with reckless disregard of their duties.</R>
<R> C. Statutory auditor boards. The statutory auditor board, which is separate from the main board of directors, plays a role in corporate governance in several markets. These boards are elected by shareholders to provide assurance on compliance with legal and accounting standards and the company's articles of association. We generally vote for statutory auditor nominees if they meet independence standards. In markets that require disclosure on attendance by internal statutory auditors, however, we consider voting against nominees for these positions who failed to attend at least 75% of meetings in the previous year. We also consider opposing nominees if the company does not meet market standards for disclosure on attendance.</R>
<R> D. Corporate transactions and proxy fights. We examine proposals relating to mergers, acquisitions and other special corporate transactions (i.e., takeovers, spin-offs, sales of assets, reorganizations, restructurings and recapitalizations) on a case-by-case basis in the interests of each fund or other account. Proposals for mergers or other significant transactions that are friendly and approved by the Research Providers usually are supported if there is no portfolio manager objection. We also analyze proxy contests on a case-by-case basis.</R>
<R> E. Changes in capital structure. </R>
<R>1. We generally support the following:</R>
<R> 2. We generally oppose the following (notwithstanding management support):</R>
<R>We consider on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals to increase dividend payout ratios, in light of market practice and perceived market weaknesses, as well as individual company payout history and current circumstances. For example, currently we perceive low payouts to shareholders as a concern at some Japanese companies, but may deem a low payout ratio as appropriate for a growth company making good use of its cash, notwithstanding the broader market concern.</R>
<R> F. Takeover Defenses and Shareholder Rights.</R>
<R> 1. Shareholder rights plans : We generally support proposals to require shareholder approval or ratification of shareholder rights plans (poison pills). In voting on rights plans or similar takeover defenses, we consider on a case-by-case basis whether the company has demonstrated a need for the defense in the context of promoting long-term share value; whether provisions of the defense are in line with generally accepted governance principles in the market (and specifically the presence of an adequate qualified offer provision that would exempt offers meeting certain conditions from the pill); and the specific context if the proposal is made in the midst of a takeover bid or contest for control.</R>
<R> 2. Supermajority voting requirements : We generally oppose requirements for supermajority votes to amend the charter or bylaws, unless the provisions protect minority shareholders where there is a large shareholder. In line with this view, in the absence of a large shareholder we support reasonable shareholder proposals to limit such supermajority voting requirements.</R>
<R> 3. Shareholder rights to call meetings : We consider proposals to enhance shareholder rights to call meetings on a case-by-case basis. At large-cap U.S. companies, we generally support efforts to establish the right of holders of 10% or more of shares to call special meetings, unless the board or state law has set a policy or law establishing such rights at a threshold that we believe to be acceptable.</R>
<R> 4. Written consent rights : In the U.S. context, we examine proposals for shareholder written consent rights on a case-by-case basis. </R>
<R> 5. Reincorporation : We consider management and shareholder proposals to reincorporate to a different jurisdiction on a case-by-case basis. We oppose such proposals if we believe the main purpose is to take advantage of laws or judicial precedents that reduce shareholder rights.</R>
<R> 6. Anti-greenmail provisions : Proposals relating to the adoption of anti-greenmail provisions will be supported, provided that the proposal: (i) defines greenmail; (ii) prohibits buyback offers to large block holders (holders of at least 1% of the outstanding shares and in certain cases, a greater amount) not made to all shareholders or not approved by disinterested shareholders; and (iii) contains no anti-takeover measures or other provisions restricting the rights of shareholders.</R>
<R> 7. Bundled proposals : We may consider opposing or abstaining on proposals if disparate issues are "bundled" and presented for a single vote.</R>
<R> G. Auditors. We generally support management proposals for selection or ratification of independent auditors. However, we may consider opposing such proposals with reference to incumbent audit firms if the company has suffered from serious accounting irregularities and we believe rotation of the audit firm is appropriate, or if fees paid to the auditor for non-audit-related services are excessive. Generally, to determine if non-audit fees are excessive, a 50% test will be applied (i.e., non-audit-related fees should be less than 50% of the total fees paid to the auditor). We generally vote against proposals to indemnify auditors.</R>
<R> H. Executive and Director Remuneration.</R>
<R> 1. We generally support the following:</R>
<R> 2. We generally oppose retirement plans and bonuses for non-executive directors and independent statutory auditors.</R>
<R> 3. In the U.S. context, shareholder proposals requiring shareholder approval of all severance agreements will not be supported, but proposals that require shareholder approval for agreements in excess of three times the annual compensation (salary and bonus) generally will be supported. We generally oppose shareholder proposals that would establish arbitrary caps on pay. We consider on a case-by-case basis shareholder proposals that seek to limit Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans (SERPs), but support such proposals where we consider SERPs to be excessive.</R>
<R> 4. Shareholder proposals advocating stronger and/or particular pay-for-performance models will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, with consideration of the merits of the individual proposal within the context of the particular company and its labor markets, and the company's current and past practices. While we generally support emphasis on long-term components of senior executive pay and strong linkage of pay to performance, we consider factors including whether a proposal may be overly prescriptive, and the impact of the proposal, if implemented as written, on recruitment and retention.</R>
<R> 5. We generally support proposals advocating reasonable senior executive and director stock ownership guidelines and holding requirements for shares gained in executive equity compensation programs.</R>
<R> 6. We generally support shareholder proposals for reasonable "claw-back" provisions that provide for company recovery of senior executive bonuses to the extent they were based on achieving financial benchmarks that were not actually met in light of subsequent restatements.</R>
<R> 7. Management proposals effectively to re-price stock options are considered on a case-by-case basis. Considerations include the company's reasons and justifications for a re-pricing, the company's competitive position, whether senior executives and outside directors are excluded, potential cost to shareholders, whether the re-pricing or share exchange is on a value-for-value basis, and whether vesting requirements are extended.</R>
<R> I. Social, Political and Environmental Issues. Shareholders in the United States and certain other markets submit proposals encouraging changes in company disclosure and practices related to particular corporate social, political and environmental matters. We consider how to vote on the proposals on a case-by-case basis to determine likely impacts on shareholder value. We seek to balance concerns on reputational and other risks that lie behind a proposal against costs of implementation, while considering appropriate shareholder and management prerogatives. We may abstain from voting on proposals that do not have a readily determinable financial impact on shareholder value. We support proposals that if implemented would enhance useful disclosure, but we generally vote against proposals requesting reports that we believe are duplicative, related to matters not material to the business, or that would impose unnecessary or excessive costs. We believe that certain social and environmental shareholder proposals may intrude excessively on management prerogatives, which can lead us to oppose them.</R>
<R> J. Fund of Funds. Certain Funds advised by an MSIM Affiliate invest only in other MSIM Funds. If an underlying fund has a shareholder meeting, in order to avoid any potential conflict of interest, such proposals will be voted in the same proportion as the votes of the other shareholders of the underlying fund, unless otherwise determined by the Proxy Review Committee.</R>
<R> III. ADMINISTRATION OF POLICY</R>
<R>The MSIM Proxy Review Committee (the "Committee") has overall responsibility for the Policy. The Committee, which is appointed by MSIM's Long-Only Executive Committee, consists of investment professionals who represent the different investment disciplines and geographic locations of the firm, and is chaired by the director of the Corporate Governance Team ("CGT"). Because proxy voting is an investment responsibility and impacts shareholder value, and because of their knowledge of companies and markets, portfolio managers and other members of investment staff play a key role in proxy voting, although the Committee has final authority over proxy votes.</R>
<R>The CGT Director is responsible for identifying issues that require Committee deliberation or ratification. The CGT, working with advice of investment teams and the Committee, is responsible for voting on routine items and on matters that can be addressed in line with these Policy guidelines. The CGT has responsibility for voting case-by-case where guidelines and precedent provide adequate guidance.</R>
<R>The Committee will periodically review and have the authority to amend, as necessary, the Policy and establish and direct voting positions consistent with the Client Proxy Standard.</R>
<R>CGT and members of the Committee may take into account Research Providers' recommendations and research as well as any other relevant information they may request or receive, including portfolio manager and/or analyst comments and research, as applicable. Generally, proxies related to securities held in accounts that are managed pursuant to quantitative, index or index-like strategies ("Index Strategies") will be voted in the same manner as those held in actively managed accounts, unless economic interests of the accounts differ. Because accounts managed using Index Strategies are passively managed accounts, research from portfolio managers and/or analysts related to securities held in these accounts may not be available. If the affected securities are held only in accounts that are managed pursuant to Index Strategies, and the proxy relates to a matter that is not described in this Policy, the CGT will consider all available information from the Research Providers, and to the extent that the holdings are significant, from the portfolio managers and/or analysts. </R>
<R> A. Committee Procedures</R>
<R>The Committee meets at least quarterly, and reviews and considers changes to the Policy at least annually. Through meetings and/or written communications, the Committee is responsible for monitoring and ratifying "split votes" (i.e., allowing certain shares of the same issuer that are the subject of the same proxy solicitation and held by one or more MSIM portfolios to be voted differently than other shares) and/or "override voting" (i.e., voting all MSIM portfolio shares in a manner contrary to the Policy). The Committee will review developing issues and approve upcoming votes, as appropriate, for matters as requested by CGT.</R>
<R>The Committee reserves the right to review voting decisions at any time and to make voting decisions as necessary to ensure the independence and integrity of the votes.</R>
<R> B. Material Conflicts of Interest</R>
<R>In addition to the procedures discussed above, if the CGT Director determines that an issue raises a material conflict of interest, the CGT Director may request a special committee to review, and recommend a course of action with respect to, the conflict(s) in question ("Special Committee").</R>
<R>A potential material conflict of interest could exist in the following situations, among others:</R>
<R> 1. The issuer soliciting the vote is a client of MSIM or an affiliate of MSIM and the vote is on a matter that materially affects the issuer.</R>
<R> 2. The proxy relates to Morgan Stanley common stock or any other security issued by Morgan Stanley or its affiliates except if echo voting is used, as with MSIM Funds, as described herein.</R>
<R> 3. Morgan Stanley has a material pecuniary interest in the matter submitted for a vote (e.g., acting as a financial advisor to a party to a merger or acquisition for which Morgan Stanley will be paid a success fee if completed).</R>
<R>If the CGT Director determines that an issue raises a potential material conflict of interest, depending on the facts and circumstances, the issue will be addressed as follows:</R>
<R> 1. If the matter relates to a topic that is discussed in this Policy, the proposal will be voted as per the Policy.</R>
<R> 2. If the matter is not discussed in this Policy or the Policy indicates that the issue is to be decided case-by-case, the proposal will be voted in a manner consistent with the Research Providers, provided that all the Research Providers consulted have the same recommendation, no portfolio manager objects to that vote, and the vote is consistent with MSIM's Client Proxy Standard.</R>
<R> 3. If the Research Providers' recommendations differ, the CGT Director will refer the matter to a Special Committee to vote on the proposal, as appropriate.</R>
<R>Any Special Committee shall be comprised of the CGT Director, and at least two portfolio managers (preferably members of the Committee), as approved by the Committee. The CGT Director may request non-voting participation by MSIM's General Counsel or his/her designee and the Chief Compliance Officer or his/her designee. In addition to the research provided by Research Providers, the Special Committee may request analysis from MSIM Affiliate investment professionals and outside sources to the extent it deems appropriate.</R>
<R> C. Proxy Voting Reporting</R>
<R>The CGT will document in writing all Committee and Special Committee decisions and actions, which documentation will be maintained by the CGT for a period of at least six years. To the extent these decisions relate to a security held by an MSIM Fund, the CGT will report the decisions to each applicable Board of Trustees/Directors of those Funds at each Board's next regularly scheduled Board meeting. The report will contain information concerning decisions made during the most recently ended calendar quarter immediately preceding the Board meeting.</R>
<R>MSIM will promptly provide a copy of this Policy to any client requesting it. MSIM will also, upon client request, promptly provide a report indicating how each proxy was voted with respect to securities held in that client's account.</R>
<R>MSIM's Legal Department is responsible for filing an annual Form N-PX on behalf of each MSIM Fund for which such filing is required, indicating how all proxies were voted with respect to such Fund's holdings.</R>
Proxy Voting - Pyramis.
I. General Principles
A. Voting of shares will be conducted in a manner consistent with the best interests of clients as follows: (i) securities of a portfolio company will generally be voted in a manner consistent with the Guidelines; and (ii) voting will be done without regard to any other Pyramis or Fidelity companies' relationship, business or otherwise, with that portfolio company.
B. <R>FMR Investment Proxy Research votes proxies on behalf of Pyramis' clients. Like other Pyramis employees, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees have a fiduciary duty to never place their own personal interest ahead of the interests of Pyramis's clients and are instructed to avoid actual and apparent conflicts of interest. In the event of a conflict of interest, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees, like other Pyramis employees, will escalate to their managers or the Ethics Office, as appropriate, in accordance with Fidelity's corporate policy on conflicts of interest. A conflict of interest arises when there are factors that may prompt one to question whether a Fidelity and/or Pyramis employee is acting solely on the best interests of Pyramis, Fidelity and their customers. Employees are expected to avoid situations that could present even the appearance of a conflict between their interests and the interests of Pyramis and its customers.</R>
C. Except as set forth herein, Pyramis will generally vote in favor of routine management proposals.
D. Non-routine proposals will generally be voted in accordance with the Guidelines.
E. Non-routine proposals not covered by the Guidelines or involving other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review by an attorney within FMR's General Counsel's office and a member of senior management within FMR Investment Proxy Research. A significant pattern of such proposals or other special circumstances will be referred to Pyramis' Senior Compliance Officer or his designee.
F. Pyramis will vote on shareholder proposals not specifically addressed by the Guidelines based on an evaluation of a proposal's likelihood to enhance the economic returns or profitability of the portfolio company or to maximize shareholder value. Where information is not readily available to analyze the economic impact of the proposal, Pyramis will generally abstain.
G. <R>Many Pyramis accounts invest in voting securities issued by companies that are domiciled outside the United States and are not listed on a U.S. securities exchange. Corporate governance standards, legal or regulatory requirements and disclosure practices in foreign countries can differ from those in the United States. When voting proxies relating to non-U.S. securities, Pyramis will generally evaluate proposals in the context of the Guidelines and where applicable and feasible, take into consideration differing laws, regulations and practices in the relevant foreign market in determining how to vote shares.</R>
H. In certain non-U.S. jurisdictions, shareholders voting shares of a portfolio company may be restricted from trading the shares for a period of time around the shareholder meeting date. Because such trading restrictions can hinder portfolio management and could result in a loss of liquidity for a client, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in circumstances where such restrictions apply. In addition, certain non-U.S. jurisdictions require voting shareholders to disclose current share ownership on a fund-by-fund basis. When such disclosure requirements apply, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in order to safeguard fund holdings information.
I. Where a management-sponsored proposal is inconsistent with the Guidelines, Pyramis may receive a company's commitment to modify the proposal or its practice to conform to the Guidelines, and Pyramis will generally support management based on this commitment. If a company subsequently does not abide by its commitment, Pyramis will generally withhold authority for the election of directors at the next election.
II. Definitions (as used in this document)
A. Anti-Takeover Provision - includes fair price amendments; classified boards; "blank check" preferred stock; Golden Parachutes; supermajority provisions; Poison Pills; restricting the right to call special meetings; and any other provision that eliminates or limits shareholder rights.
B. Golden Parachute - Employment contracts, agreements, or policies that include an excise tax gross-up provision; single trigger for cash incentives; or may result in a lump sum payment of cash and acceleration of equity that may total more than three times annual compensation (salary and bonus) in the event of a termination following a change in control.
C. Greenmail - payment of a premium to repurchase shares from a shareholder seeking to take over a company through a proxy contest or other means.
D. Sunset Provision - a condition in a charter or plan that specifies an expiration date.
E. Permitted Bid Feature - a provision suspending the application of a Poison Pill, by shareholder referendum, in the event a potential acquirer announces a bona fide offer for all outstanding shares.
F. Poison Pill - a strategy employed by a potential take-over/target company to make its stock less attractive to an acquirer. Poison Pills are generally designed to dilute the acquirer's ownership and value in the event of a take-over.
G. <R>Large-Capitalization Company - a company included in the Russell 1000 index.</R>
H. Small-Capitalization Company - a company not included in the Russell 1000 index that is not a Micro-Capitalization Company.
I. Micro-Capitalization Company - a company with a market capitalization under US $300 million.
J. Evergreen Provision - a feature which provides for an automatic increase in the shares available for grant under an equity award plan on a regular basis.
III. Directors
A. Incumbent Directors
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of incumbent and nominee directors except where one or more such directors clearly appear to have failed to exercise reasonable judgment. Pyramis will also generally withhold authority for the election of all directors or directors on responsible committees if:
1. An Anti-Takeover Provision was introduced, an Anti-Takeover Provision was extended, or a new Anti-Takeover Provision was adopted upon the expiration of an existing Anti-Takeover Provision, without shareholder approval except as set forth below.
With respect to Poison Pills, however, Pyramis will consider not withholding authority on the election of directors if all of the following conditions are met when a Poison Pill is introduced, extended, or adopted:
a. The Poison Pill includes a Sunset Provision of less than five years;
b. The Poison Pill includes a Permitted Bid Feature;
c. The Poison Pill is linked to a business strategy that will result in greater value for the shareholders; and
d. Shareholder approval is required to reinstate the Poison Pill upon expiration.
Pyramis will also consider not withholding authority on the election of directors when one or more of the conditions above are not met if a board is willing to strongly consider seeking shareholder ratification of, or adding above conditions noted a. and b. to an existing Poison Pill. In such a case, if the company does not take appropriate action prior to the next annual shareholder meeting, Pyramis will withhold authority on the election of directors.
2. The company refuses, upon request by Pyramis, to amend the Poison Pill to allow Pyramis to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.
3. Within the last year and without shareholder approval, a company's board of directors or compensation committee has repriced outstanding options, exchanged outstanding options for equity, or tendered cash for outstanding options.
4. <R>Executive compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as: (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether the company has admitted to or settled a regulatory proceeding relating to options backdating; (iv) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (v) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (vi) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.</R>
5. To gain Pyramis' support on a proposal, the company made a commitment to modify a proposal or practice to conform to the Guidelines and the company has failed to act on that commitment.
6. The director attended fewer than 75% of the aggregate number of meetings of the board or its committees on which the director served during the company's prior fiscal year, absent extenuating circumstances.
7. The board is not composed of a majority of independent directors.
B. Indemnification
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of charter and by-law amendments expanding the indemnification of directors and/or limiting their liability for breaches of care unless Pyramis is otherwise dissatisfied with the performance of management or the proposal is accompanied by Anti-Takeover Provisions.
C. Independent Chairperson
Pyramis will generally vote against shareholder proposals calling for or recommending the appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson. However, Pyramis will consider voting for such proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson appears likely to further the interests of shareholders and to promote effective oversight of management by the board of directors.
D. Majority Director Elections
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals calling for directors to be elected by an affirmative majority of votes cast in a board election, provided that the proposal allows for plurality voting standard in the case of contested elections (i.e., where there are more nominees than board seats). Pyramis may consider voting against such shareholder proposals where a company's board has adopted an alternative measure, such as a director resignation policy, that provides a meaningful alternative to the majority voting standard and appropriately addresses situations where an incumbent director fails to receive the support of a majority of the votes cast in an uncontested election.
IV. Compensation
A. Executive Compensation
1. Advisory votes on executive compensation
<R>a. Pyramis will generally vote for proposals to ratify executive compensation unless such compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as, among other things, (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance-based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (iv) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (v) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.</R>
b. Pyramis will generally vote against proposals to ratify Golden Parachutes.
2. Frequency of advisory vote on executive compensation
Pyramis will generally support annual advisory votes on executive compensation.
B. Equity Award Plans (including stock options, restricted stock awards, and other stock awards).
Pyramis will generally vote against equity award plans or amendments to authorize additional shares under such plans if:
1. <R>(a) The company's average three year burn rate is greater than 1.5% for a Large-Capitalization Company, 2.5% for a Small-Capitalization Company or 3.5% for a Micro-Capitalization Company; and (b) there were no circumstances specific to the company or the plans that lead Pyramis to conclude that the burn rate is acceptable.</R>
2. In the case of stock option plans, (a) the offering price of options is less than 100% of fair market value on the date of grant, except that the offering price may be as low as 85% of fair market value if the discount is expressly granted in lieu of salary or cash bonus; (b) the plan's terms allow repricing of underwater options; or (c) the board/committee has repriced options outstanding under the plan in the past two years without shareholder approval.
<R></R>
3. <R>The plan includes an Evergreen Provision.</R>
4. <R>The plan provides for the acceleration of vesting of equity awards even though an actual change in control may not occur.</R>
<R></R>
C. Equity Exchanges and Repricing
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a management proposal to exchange, reprice or tender for cash, outstanding options if the proposed exchange, repricing, or tender offer is consistent with the interests of shareholders, taking into account such factors as:</R>
1. Whether the proposal excludes senior management and directors;
2. Whether the exchange or repricing proposal is value neutral to shareholders based upon an acceptable pricing model;
3. The company's relative performance compared to other companies within the relevant industry or industries;
4. Economic and other conditions affecting the relevant industry or industries in which the company competes; and
5. Any other facts or circumstances relevant to determining whether an exchange or repricing proposal is consistent with the interests of shareholders.
D. Employee Stock Purchase Plans
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of employee stock purchase plans if the minimum stock purchase price is equal to or greater than 85% of the stock's fair market value and the plan constitutes a reasonable effort to encourage broad based participation in the company's equity. In the case of non-U.S. company stock purchase plans, Pyramis may permit a lower minimum stock purchase price equal to the prevailing "best practices" in the relevant non-U.S. market, provided that the minimum stock purchase price must be at least 75% of the stock's fair market value.
E. Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs)
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of non-leveraged ESOPs. For leveraged ESOPs, Pyramis may examine the company's state of incorporation, existence of supermajority vote rules in the charter, number of shares authorized for the ESOP, and number of shares held by insiders. Pyramis may also examine where the ESOP shares are purchased and the dilution effect of the purchase. Pyramis will generally vote against leveraged ESOPs if all outstanding loans are due immediately upon change in control.
F. Bonus Plans and Tax Deductibility Proposals
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of cash and stock incentive plans that are submitted for shareholder approval in order to qualify for favorable tax treatment under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, provided that the plan includes well defined and appropriate performance criteria, and with respect to any cash component, that the maximum award per participant is clearly stated and is not unreasonable or excessive.
V. Anti-Takeover Provisions
Pyramis will generally vote against a proposal to adopt or approve the adoption of an Anti-Takeover Provision unless:
A. The Poison Pill includes the following features:
1. A Sunset Provision of no greater than five years;
2. Linked to a business strategy that is expected to result in greater value for the shareholders;
3. Requires shareholder approval to be reinstated upon expiration or if amended;
4. Contains a Permitted Bid Feature; and
5. Allows Pyramis accounts to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.
B. An Anti-Greenmail proposal that does not include other Anti-Takeover Provisions; or
C. It is a fair price amendment that considers a two-year price history or less.
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a proposal to eliminate an Anti-Takeover Provisions unless:
D. In the case of proposals to declassify a board of directors, Pyramis will generally vote against such a proposal if the issuer's Articles of Incorporation or applicable statutes include a provision whereby a majority of directors may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by written consent, or other reasonable procedures, by a majority of shareholders entitled to vote for the election of directors.
E. <R>In the case of shareholder proposals regarding shareholders' right to call special meetings, Pyramis generally will vote against each proposal if the threshold required to call a special meeting is less than 25% of the outstanding stock.</R>
F. <R>In the case of proposals regarding shareholders' right to act by written consent, Pyramis will generally vote against each proposal if it does not include appropriate mechanisms for implementation including, among other things, that at least 25% of the outstanding stock request that the company establish a record date determining which shareholders are entitled to act and that consents be solicited from all shareholders.</R>
VI. Capital Structure/Incorporation
A. Increases in Common Stock
Pyramis will generally vote against a provision to increase a company's common stock if such increase will result in a total number of authorized shares greater than three times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares, including stock options, except in the case of real estate investment trusts, where an increase that will result in a total number of authorized shares up to five times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares is generally acceptable.
B. New Classes of Shares
Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction of new classes of stock with differential voting rights.
C. Cumulative Voting Rights
Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction and in favor of the elimination of cumulative voting rights.
D. Acquisition or Business Combination Statutes
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposed amendments to a company's certificate of incorporation or by-laws that enable the company to opt out of the control shares acquisition or business combination statutes.
E. Incorporation or Reincorporation in Another State or Country
<R>Pyramis will generally vote for management proposals calling for, or recommending that, a portfolio company reincorporate in another state or country if, on balance, the economic and corporate governance factors in the proposed jurisdiction appear reasonably likely to be better aligned with shareholder interests, taking into account the corporate laws of the current and proposed jurisdictions and any changes to the company's current and proposed governing documents. Pyramis will consider supporting such shareholder proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, remaining incorporated in the current jurisdiction appears misaligned with shareholder interests.</R>
VII. Shares of Investment Companies
A. <R>If applicable, when a Pyramis account invests in an underlying Fidelity Fund with public shareholders, an exchange traded fund (ETF), or non-affiliated fund, Pyramis will vote in the same proportion as all other voting shareholders of such underlying fund or class ("echo voting"). Pyramis may choose not to vote if "echo voting" is not operationally feasible.</R>
B. Certain Pyramis accounts may invest in shares of underlying Fidelity Funds, which are held exclusively by Fidelity Funds or accounts managed by FMR or an affiliate. Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals recommended by the underlying funds' Board of Trustees.
VIII. Other
A. Voting Process
Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals to adopt confidential voting and independent vote tabulation practices.
B. Regulated Industries
<R>Voting of shares in securities of any regulated industry (e.g. U.S. banking) organization shall be conducted in a manner consistent with conditions that may be specified by the industry's regulator (e.g. the Federal Reserve Board) for a determination under applicable law (e.g. federal banking law) that no client or group of clients has acquired control of such organization.</R>
Proxy Voting - WRIMCO.
The Funds have delegated all proxy voting responsibilities to WRIMCO. WRIMCO has established guidelines that reflect what it believes are desirable principles of corporate governance.
Listed below are several reoccurring issues and WRIMCO's corresponding positions.
Board of Directors Issues:
WRIMCO generally supports proposals requiring that a majority of the board of directors consist of outside, or independent, directors.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals to limit or eliminate liability for monetary damages for violating the duty of care.
WRIMCO generally votes against indemnification proposals that would expand coverage to more serious acts such as negligence, willful or intentional misconduct, derivation of improper personal benefit, absence of good faith, reckless disregard for duty, and unexcused pattern of inattention. The success of a corporation in attracting and retaining qualified directors and officers, in the best interest of shareholders, is partially dependent on its ability to provide some satisfactory level of protection from personal financial risk. WRIMCO will support such protection so long as it does not exceed reasonable standards.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals requiring the provision for cumulative voting in the election of directors as cumulative voting may allow a minority group of shareholders to cause the election of one or more directors.
Corporate Governance Issues:
WRIMCO generally supports proposals to ratify the appointment of independent accountants/auditors unless reasons exist which cause it to vote against the appointment.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals to restrict or prohibit the right of shareholders to call special meetings.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals which include a provision to require a supermajority vote to amend any charter or bylaw provision, or to approve mergers or other significant business combinations.
WRIMCO generally votes for proposals to authorize an increase in the number of authorized shares of common stock.
WRIMCO generally votes against proposals for the adoption of a Shareholder Rights Plan (sometimes referred to as "Purchase Rights Plan"). It believes that anti-takeover proposals are generally not in the best interest of shareholders. Such a Plan gives the board of directors virtual veto power over acquisition offers which may well offer material benefits to shareholders.
Executive/Employee Issues:
WRIMCO will generally vote for proposals to establish an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) as long as the size of the ESOP is reasonably limited.
Political Activity:
WRIMCO will generally vote against proposals relating to corporate political activity or contributions, or requiring the publication of reports on political activity or contributions made by political action committees (PACs) sponsored or supported by the corporation. PAC contributions are generally made with funds contributed voluntarily by employees, and provide positive individual participation in the political process of a democratic society. In addition, Federal and most state laws require full disclosure of political contributions made by PACs. This is public information and available to all interested parties. Requiring reports in newspaper publications results in added expense without commensurate benefit to shareholders.
Conflicts of Interest Between WRIMCO and the Funds:
<R>WRIMCO will use the following three-step process to address conflicts of interest: (1) WRIMCO will attempt to identify any potential conflicts of interest; (2) WRIMCO will then determine if the conflict as identified is material; and (3) WRIMCO will follow established procedures, as described generally below to ensure that its proxy voting decisions are based on the best interests of the Funds and are not the product of a material conflict.</R>
I. Identifying Conflicts of Interest: WRIMCO will evaluate the nature of its relationships to assess which, if any, might place its interests, as well as those of its affiliates, in conflict with those of the Fund's shareholders on a proxy voting matter. WRIMCO will review any potential conflicts that involve the following four general categories to determine if there is a conflict and if so, if the conflict is material:
WRIMCO will designate an individual or committee to review and identify proxies for potential conflicts of interest on an ongoing basis.
II. "Material Conflicts": WRIMCO will review each relationship identified as having a potential conflict based on the individual facts and circumstances. For purposes of this review, WRIMCO will attempt to detect those relationships deemed material based on the reasonable likelihood that they would be viewed as important by the average shareholder.
III. Procedures to Address Material Conflicts: WRIMCO will use the following techniques to vote proxies that have been determined to present a "Material Conflict."
If the issue involves a material conflict and WRIMCO chooses to use a predetermined voting policy, WRIMCO will not be permitted to vary from the established voting policies established herein.
Proxy Voting - Winslow.
Winslow, pursuant to Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, has adopted Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures pursuant to which Winslow has undertaken to vote all proxies or other beneficial interests in an equity security prudently and solely in the best long-term economic interest of its advisory clients and their beneficiaries, considering all relevant factors and without undue influence from individuals or groups who may have an economic interest in the outcome of a proxy vote.
Winslow will vote all proxies appurtenant to shares of corporate stock held by a plan or account with respect to which Winslow serves as investment manager, unless the investment management contract expressly precludes Winslow, as investment manager, from voting such proxy.
<R>Winslow has delegated the authority to vote proxies in accordance with its Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures to Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS). Winslow subscribes to ISS' Implied Consent service feature. As ISS research is completed, ISS' voting agents execute the ballots according to the vote recommendations and consistent with the ISS Standard Proxy Voting Guidelines. Please see the "Guidelines Examples" section for examples of Winslow's guidelines with respect to certain typical proxy votes.</R>
Winslow retains the ability to override any vote if it disagrees with ISS' vote recommendation, and always maintains the option to review and amend votes before they are cast, except in the case of a conflict of interest. When there is an apparent conflict of interest, or the appearance of a conflict of interest, e.g., where Winslow may receive fees from a company for advisory or other services at the same time that Winslow has investments in the stock of that company, Winslow will follow the vote recommendation of ISS. Winslow retains documentation of all amended votes.
Guidelines Examples
The following examples illustrate the Guidelines with respect to certain typical proxy votes. This summary is not an exhaustive list of all the issues that may arise or of all matters addressed in the Guidelines, and whether Winslow supports or opposes a proposal will depend upon the specific facts and circumstances described in the proxy statement and other available information.
Conflicts of Interest. When a proxy presents a conflict of interest, such as when Winslow has actual knowledge of a material business arrangement between a particular proxy issuer or closely affiliated entity and Winslow or an affiliated entity of Winslow, Winslow's proxy voting policies and procedures mandate that Winslow follow an alternative voting procedure rather than voting proxies in its sole discretion. In these cases, Winslow may: (1) cause the proxies to be voted in accordance with the recommendations of an independent service provider; or (2) forward the proxies to the Fund's Board, so that the Board may vote the proxies itself.
Board of Directors. Winslow will vote on director nominees in an uncontested election on a case-by-case basis, examining such factors as the composition of the board and key board committees, attendance at board meetings, corporate governance provisions and takeover activity. Also, Winslow will withhold votes from overboarded CEO directors, defined as serving on more than three boards (including their own). Also, Winslow will withhold votes from directors who sit on more than six public company boards. In a contested election of directors, Winslow will evaluate the nominees based on such factors as the long-term financial performance of the target company relative to its industry; management's track record; background to the proxy contest; qualifications of director nominees (both slates) the likelihood that the proposed objectives and goals can be met; and stock ownership positions. Winslow generally supports proposals to fix the board size or designate a range for the board size. However, Winslow will vote against management ability to alter the size of a specified range without shareholder approval. In addition, Winslow supports proposals to repeal classified boards or elect all directors annually. Winslow also supports proposals seeking that a majority or more of the board be independent. Winslow generally votes against shareholder proposals to impose a mandatory retirement age for outside directors. Winslow will vote against or withhold votes from Compensation Committee members if the company has poor compensation practices.
Anti-takeover Defenses and Voting Related Issues. Winslow generally evaluates advance notice proposals on a case-by-case basis, supporting proposals that allow shareholders to submit proposals as close to the meeting date as reasonably possible and within the broadest window possible. Winslow generally supports shareholder proposals that ask a company to submit its poison pill for shareholder ratification; proposals to allow or make easier shareholder action by written consent; and proposals to lower supermajority vote requirements. Winslow generally votes against proposals to restrict or prohibit shareholder ability to call special shareholder meetings and proposals giving the board exclusive authority to amend the bylaws.
Capital Structure. Generally votes on proposals to increase the number of shares of common stock authorized for issuance are determined on a case-by-case basis using a model developed by ISS. Winslow will generally vote for proposals to create a new class of nonvoting or subvoting common stock if it is intended for financing purposes with minimal or no dilution to current shareholders and if it is not designed to preserve the voting power of an insider or significant shareholder. Winslow will generally vote for proposals to approve increases beyond the allowable increase when a company's shares are in danger of being delisted or if a company's ability to continue to operate as a going certain is uncertain. Winslow will generally vote against proposals authorizing the creation of new classes of preferred stock with unspecified voting, conversion, dividend distribution, and other rights, when no shares have been issued or reserved for a specific purpose.
Executive and Director Compensation. Proposals regarding compensation plans are reviewed on a case-by-case basis using a methodology focusing on the transfer of shareholder wealth. Generally, Winslow will support proposals seeking additional information regarding compensation, but will vote against proposals which set absolute levels on compensation or dictate amount or form of compensation.
To view a fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30, visit www.fidelity.com/proxyvotingresults or visit the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.
<R>The fund has entered into a distribution agreement with FDC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. The principal business address of FDC is 100 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917. FDC is a broker-dealer registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. The distribution agreement calls for FDC to use all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of the fund, which are continuously offered at NAV. Promotional and administrative expenses in connection with the offer and sale of shares are paid by Strategic Advisers.</R>
The Trustees have approved a Distribution and Service Plan with respect to shares of the fund (the Plan) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the Rule). The Rule provides in substance that a mutual fund may not engage directly or indirectly in financing any activity that is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund except pursuant to a plan approved on behalf of the fund under the Rule. The Plan, as approved by the Trustees, allows the fund and Strategic Advisers to incur certain expenses that might be considered to constitute indirect payment by the fund of distribution expenses.
Under the Plan, if the payment of management fees by the fund to Strategic Advisers is deemed to be indirect financing by the fund of the distribution of its shares, such payment is authorized by the Plan. The Plan specifically recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. In addition, the Plan provides that Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers or FDC), that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Prior to approving the Plan, the Trustees carefully considered all pertinent factors relating to the implementation of the Plan, and determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit the fund and its shareholders. In particular, the Trustees noted that the Plan does not authorize payments by the fund other than those made to Strategic Advisers under its management contract with the fund. To the extent that the Plan gives Strategic Advisers and FDC greater flexibility in connection with the distribution of shares of the fund, additional sales of shares of the fund or stabilization of cash flows may result. Furthermore, certain shareholder support services may be provided more effectively under the Plan by local entities with whom shareholders have other relationships.
TRANSFER AND SERVICE AGENT AGREEMENTS
The fund has entered into a transfer agent agreement with Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC), an affiliate of Strategic Advisers, which is located at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. Under the terms of the agreement, FIIOC (or an agent, including an affiliate) performs transfer agency services for the fund.
For providing transfer agency services, FIIOC receives an account fee and an asset-based fee with respect to assets managed by one or more sub-advisers and assets invested in non-affiliated ETFs. For retail accounts, these fees are based on fund type. For certain institutional accounts, these fees are based on size of position and fund type. For institutional retirement accounts, these fees are based on account type and fund type. The account fee is billed monthly on a pro rata basis at one-twelfth of the applicable annual rate as of the end of each calendar month. The asset-based fee is calculated and paid monthly on the basis of average daily net assets. For assets invested in underlying Fidelity funds, each underlying Fidelity fund pays its respective transfer agent (either FIIOC or an affiliate of FIIOC) fees based, in part, on the number of positions in and assets of the fund invested in such underlying Fidelity fund.
FIIOC also may collect fees charged in connection with providing certain types of services such as exchanges, closing out fund balances, maintaining fund positions with low balances, checkwriting, wire transactions, and providing historical account research.
FIIOC bears the expense of typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, and all other reports, notices, and statements to existing shareholders, with the exception of proxy statements.
The fund has entered into a service agent agreement with FSC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers (or an agent, including an affiliate). Under the terms of the agreement, FSC calculates the NAV and dividends for the fund and maintains the fund's portfolio and general accounting records.
For providing pricing and bookkeeping services, FSC receives a monthly fee based on the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month.
The annual rates for pricing and bookkeeping services for the fund are 0.0389% of the first $500 million of average net assets, 0.0275% of average net assets between $500 million and $3.5 billion, 0.0041% of average net assets between $3.5 billion and $25 billion, and 0.0019% of average net assets in excess of $25 billion.
<R>Pricing and bookkeeping fees paid by the fund to FSC for the past two fiscal years are shown in the following table.</R>
<R> Fund |
2012 |
2011</R> |
<R>Strategic Advisers Growth Fund |
$ 1,175,384 |
$ 900,241 A</R> |
<R> A From June 2, 2010.</R>
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRUST
<R> Trust Organization. Strategic Advisers Growth Fund is a fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, an open-end management investment company created under an initial trust instrument dated March 8, 2006. Currently, there are 20 funds offered in the trust: Strategic Advisers Core Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund. The Trustees are permitted to create additional funds in the trust and to create additional classes of the funds.</R>
The assets of the trust received for the issue or sale of shares of each of its funds and all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, subject to the rights of creditors, are allocated to such fund, and constitute the underlying assets of such fund. The underlying assets of each fund in the trust shall be charged with the liabilities and expenses attributable to such fund. Any general expenses of the trust shall be allocated between or among any one or more of the funds.
Shareholder Liability. The trust is a statutory trust organized under Delaware law. Delaware law provides that, except to the extent otherwise provided in the Trust Instrument, shareholders shall be entitled to the same limitations of personal liability extended to stockholders of private corporations for profit organized under the general corporation law of Delaware. The courts of some states, however, may decline to apply Delaware law on this point. The Trust Instrument contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for the debts, liabilities, obligations, and expenses of the trust. The Trust Instrument provides that the trust shall not have any claim against shareholders except for the payment of the purchase price of shares and requires that each agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the trust or the Trustees relating to the trust or to a fund shall include a provision limiting the obligations created thereby to the trust or to one or more funds and its or their assets. The Trust Instrument further provides that shareholders of a fund shall not have a claim on or right to any assets belonging to any other fund.
The Trust Instrument provides for indemnification out of each fund's property of any shareholder or former shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the fund solely by reason of his or her being or having been a shareholder and not because of his or her acts or omissions or for some other reason. The Trust Instrument also provides that each fund shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which Delaware law does not apply, no contractual limitation of liability was in effect, and a fund is unable to meet its obligations. Strategic Advisers believes that, in view of the above, the risk of personal liability to shareholders is extremely remote.
<R> Voting Rights. Each fund's capital consists of shares of beneficial interest. As a shareholder, you are entitled to one vote for each dollar of net asset value you own. The voting rights of shareholders can be changed only by a shareholder vote. Shares may be voted in the aggregate, by fund, and by class.</R>
The shares have no preemptive or conversion rights. Shares are fully paid and nonassessable, except as set forth under the heading "Shareholder Liability" above.
On matters submitted for consideration by shareholders of any underlying fund, the fund will vote its shares in proportion to the vote of all other holders of the same class of shares of that underlying fund.
The trust or a fund or a class may be terminated upon the sale of its assets to, or merger with, another open-end management investment company, series, or class thereof, or upon liquidation and distribution of its assets. The Trustees may reorganize, terminate, merge, or sell all or a portion of the assets of the trust or a fund or a class without prior shareholder approval. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the trust, shareholders of each of its funds are entitled to receive the underlying assets of such fund available for distribution. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of a fund or a class, shareholders of that fund or that class are entitled to receive the underlying assets of the fund or class available for distribution.
Custodians. The Bank of New York Mellon, 1 Wall Street, New York, New York, is custodian of the assets of the fund. The custodian is responsible for the safekeeping of the fund's assets and the appointment of any subcustodian banks and clearing agencies. JPMorgan Chase Bank, headquartered in New York, also may serve as a special purpose custodian of certain assets in connection with repurchase agreement transactions.
Strategic Advisers, its officers and directors, its affiliated companies, Member of the Advisory Board, and Members of the Board of Trustees may, from time to time, conduct transactions with various banks, including banks serving as custodians for certain funds advised by Strategic Advisers. Transactions that have occurred to date include mortgages and personal and general business loans. In the judgment of Strategic Advisers, the terms and conditions of those transactions were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other fund relationships.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 125 High Street, Boston, Massachusetts, independent registered public accounting firm, audits financial statements for the fund and provides other audit, tax, and related services.
The fund views holdings information as sensitive and limits its dissemination. The Board authorized Strategic Advisers, in consultation with FMR, to establish and administer guidelines for the dissemination of fund holdings information, which may be amended at any time without prior notice. FMR's Disclosure Policy Committee (comprising executive officers of FMR) evaluates disclosure policy with the goal of serving the fund's best interests by striking an appropriate balance between providing information about the fund's portfolio and protecting the fund from potentially harmful disclosure. The Board reviews the administration and modification of these guidelines and receives reports from the fund's chief compliance officer periodically.
Other registered investment companies that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be subject to different portfolio holdings disclosure policies, and neither Strategic Advisers nor the Board exercises control over such policies or disclosure. In addition, separate account clients of Strategic Advisers and the sub-advisers have access to their portfolio holdings and are not subject to the fund's portfolio holdings disclosure policies. Some of the funds that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser and some of the separate accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser have investment objectives and strategies that are substantially similar or identical to the fund's and, therefore, potentially substantially similar, and in certain cases nearly identical, portfolio holdings as the fund.
The fund will provide a full list of holdings monthly on www.fidelity.com 30 days after the month-end (excluding high income security holdings, which generally will be presented collectively monthly and included in a list of full holdings 60 days after its fiscal quarter-end).
Unless otherwise indicated, this information will be available on the web site until updated for the next applicable period.
The fund may also from time to time provide or make available to the Board or third parties upon request specific fund level performance attribution information and statistics. Third parties may include fund shareholders or prospective fund shareholders, members of the press, consultants, and ratings and ranking organizations.
<R> The Use of Holdings In Connection With Fund Operations. Material non-public holdings information may be provided as part of the investment activities of the fund to: entities which, by explicit agreement or by virtue of their respective duties to the fund, are required to maintain the confidentiality of the information disclosed; other parties if legally required; or persons Strategic Advisers believes will not misuse the disclosed information. These entities, parties, and persons include, but are not limited to: the fund's trustees; the fund's manager, its sub-advisers, if any, and their affiliates whose access persons are subject to a code of ethics; contractors who are subject to a confidentiality agreement; the fund's auditors; the fund's custodians; proxy voting service providers; financial printers; pricing service vendors; broker-dealers in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or requests for price quotations or bids on one or more securities; counsel to the fund or its Independent Trustees; regulatory authorities; stock exchanges and other listing organizations; parties to litigation; third parties in connection with a bankruptcy proceeding relating to a fund holding; and third parties who have submitted a standing request to a money market fund for daily holdings information. Non-public holdings information may also be provided to an issuer regarding the number or percentage of its shares that are owned by the fund and in connection with redemptions in kind.</R>
<R> Other Uses Of Holdings Information. In addition, the fund may provide material non-public holdings information to (i) third parties that calculate information derived from holdings for use by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, (ii) ratings and rankings organizations, and (iii) an investment adviser, trustee, or their agents to whom holdings are disclosed for due diligence purposes or in anticipation of a merger involving the fund. Each individual request is reviewed by the Disclosure Policy Committee which must find, in its sole discretion that, based on the specific facts and circumstances, the disclosure appears unlikely to be harmful to the fund. Entities receiving this information must have in place control mechanisms to reasonably ensure or otherwise agree that, (a) the holdings information will be kept confidential, (b) no employee shall use the information to effect trading or for their personal benefit, and (c) the nature and type of information that they, in turn, may disclose to third parties is limited. Strategic Advisers relies primarily on the existence of non-disclosure agreements and/or control mechanisms when determining that disclosure is not likely to be harmful to the fund.</R>
At this time, the entities receiving information described in the preceding paragraph are: Factset Research Systems Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day) and Anacomp Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day).
<R>Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, or the fund will not enter into any arrangements with third parties from which they derive consideration for the disclosure of material non-public holdings information. If, in the future, Strategic Advisers desired to make such an arrangement, it would seek prior Board approval and any such arrangements would be disclosed in the fund's SAI.</R>
There can be no assurance that the fund's policies and procedures with respect to disclosure of fund portfolio holdings will prevent the misuse of such information by individuals and firms that receive such information.
<R>The fund's financial statements and financial highlights for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012 and report of the independent registered public accounting firm, are included in the fund's annual report and are incorporated herein by reference. Total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table may differ from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the financial highlights because total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table include any acquired fund fees and expenses, whereas the ratios of expenses in the financial highlights do not. Acquired funds include other investment companies in which the fund has invested, if and to the extent it is permitted to do so. Total annual operating expenses in the prospectus fee table and the financial highlights do not include any expenses associated with investments in certain structured or synthetic products that may rely on the exception from the definition of "investment company" provided by section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act.</R>
Strategic Advisers is a registered service mark of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
Fund /Ticker
Strategic Advisers ® Value Fund /FVSAX
Offered exclusively to certain clients of Strategic Advisers, Inc. - not available for sale to the general public
Prospectus
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
Fund Summary |
Strategic Advisers ® Value Fund |
|
Fund Basics |
Investment Details |
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Valuing Shares |
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Shareholder Information |
Additional Information about the Purchase and Sale of Shares |
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Dividends and Capital Gain Distributions |
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Tax Consequences |
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Fund Services |
Fund Management |
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Fund Distribution |
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Appendix |
Financial Highlights |
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Additional Information about the Index |
Prospectus
Fund:
Strategic Advisers
®
Value Fund
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The following table describes the fees and expenses that may be incurred when you buy and hold shares of the fund.
Shareholder fees
|
None |
Annual fund operating expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a % of the value of your investment)
<R> Management fee (fluctuates based on the fund's allocation among underlying funds and sub-advisers) B |
0.43% </R> |
<R> Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) fees |
None </R> |
<R> Other expenses |
0.17% </R> |
<R> Acquired fund fees and expenses (fees and expenses of underlying funds) |
0.22% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses A |
0.82% </R> |
<R> Fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement B |
0.25% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement A |
0.57% </R> |
<R> A Differs from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the Financial Highlights section of the prospectus because of acquired fund fees and expenses. </R>
<R> B Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) has contractually agreed that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 0.70% of the fund's average daily net assets. In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets. This arrangement will remain in effect through September 30, 2014. Strategic Advisers may not discontinue or modify this arrangement without the approval of the Board of Trustees. </R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
This example helps compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
Let's say, hypothetically, that the annual return for shares of the fund is 5% and that your shareholder fees and the annual operating expenses for shares of the fund are exactly as described in the fee table. This example illustrates the effect of fees and expenses, but is not meant to suggest actual or expected fees and expenses or returns, all of which may vary. For every $10,000 you invested, here's how much you would pay in total expenses if you sell all of your shares at the end of each time period indicated:
<R> 1 year |
$ 58 </R> |
<R> 3 years |
$ 201 </R> |
<R> 5 years |
$ 396 </R> |
<R> 10 years |
$ 957 </R> |
<R>The fund will not incur transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells shares of affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it will incur transaction costs when it buys and sells other types of securities (including non-affiliated exchange traded funds) directly (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 annual operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 32% of the average value of its portfolio.</R>
Prospectus
Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) is permitted, subject to the approval of the Board of Trustees, to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement.
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
In addition, the fund is considered non-diversified and can invest a greater portion of assets in securities of a smaller number of individual issuers than a diversified fund. As a result, changes in the market value of a single investment could cause greater fluctuations in share price than would occur in a more diversified fund.
<R>An investment in the fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. You could lose money by investing in the fund.</R>
The following information is intended to help you understand the risks of investing in the fund. The information illustrates the changes in the performance of the fund's shares from year to year and compares the performance of the fund's shares to the performance of a securities market index over various periods of time. The index description appears in the Additional Information about the Index section of the prospectus. Past performance (before and after taxes) is not an indication of future performance.
Visit www.fidelity.com for updated return information.
Prospectus
<R> Calendar Years |
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|
|
|
|
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2009 |
2010 |
2011 </R> |
<R> |
|
|
|
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|
|
20.90% |
12.23% |
-0.77% </R> |
<R>
</R>
<R> During the periods shown in the chart: |
Returns |
Quarter ended </R> |
<R> Highest Quarter Return |
14.49% |
September 30, 2009 </R> |
<R> Lowest Quarter Return |
-16.05% |
September 30, 2011 </R> |
<R> Year-to-Date Return |
8.60% |
June 30, 2012 </R> |
<R>After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates, but do not reflect the impact of state or local taxes. Actual after-tax returns may differ depending on your individual circumstances. The after-tax returns shown are not relevant if you hold your shares in a retirement account or in another tax-deferred arrangement. Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares may be higher than other returns for the same period due to a tax benefit of realizing a capital loss upon the sale of fund shares.</R>
<R>
For the periods ended
|
Past 1
|
Life of
|
<R> Strategic Advisers Value Fund |
|
</R> |
<R> Return Before Taxes |
-0.77% |
11.47% </R> |
<R> Return After Taxes on Distributions |
-1.23% |
11.11% </R> |
<R> Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares |
0.16% |
9.86% </R> |
<R>
Russell 1000
®
Value Index
|
0.39% |
12.18% </R> |
<R> A From December 30, 2008. </R>
<R>Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC (Brandywine Global), Cohen & Steers Capital Management, Inc. (Cohen & Steers), LSV Asset Management (LSV), and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis) have been retained to serve as sub-advisers for the fund. Pyramis has not currently been allocated a portion of the fund's assets to manage.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
<R>John A. Stone (lead manager) and Kristina F. Stookey (co-manager) have managed the fund since December 2008.</R>
<R>Joseph J. Kirby (co-manager), Henry F. Otto (co-manager), and Steven M. Tonkovich (co-manager) have managed Brandywine Global's portion of the fund's assets since December 2009.</R>
Rick Helm (portfolio manager) has managed Cohen & Steers' portion of the fund's assets since December 2008.
<R></R>
<R>Josef Lakonishok (co-manager), Puneet Mansharamani (co-manager), and Menno Vermeulen (co-manager) have managed LSV's portion of the fund's assets since December 2009.</R>
The fund is not available for sale to the general public.
<R>The price to buy one share of the fund is its net asset value per share (NAV). Shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.</R>
<R>The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV. Shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.</R>
The fund is open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open.
The fund has no minimum investment requirement.
Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax and generally will be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, and may also be subject to state or local taxes, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account (in which case you may be taxed later, upon withdrawal of your investment from such account).
The fund, Strategic Advisers, Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and/or their affiliates may pay intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, or service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR, or FDC), for the sale of fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing your intermediary and your investment professional to recommend the fund over another investment. Ask your investment professional or visit your intermediary's web site for more information.
Prospectus
Investment Objective
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies
The fund normally invests primarily in common stocks.
The fund invests in companies that are believed to be undervalued in the marketplace in relation to factors such as the company's assets, sales, earnings, growth potential, or cash flow, or in relation to securities of other companies in the same industry. Companies with these characteristics tend to have lower than average price/book (P/B), price/sales (P/S), or price/earnings (P/E) ratios. The stocks of these companies are often called "value" stocks.
The fund normally invests primarily in securities of companies with large market capitalizations. Although a universal definition of large market capitalization companies does not exist, for purposes of this fund, large market capitalization companies generally are defined as those companies with market capitalizations similar to those of companies included in the Russell 1000 ® Value Index. A company's market capitalization is based on its current market capitalization or its market capitalization at the time of the fund's investment. The size of the companies in the index changes with market conditions and the composition of the index.
The fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers in addition to securities of domestic issuers.
The fund implements its investment strategies by investing directly in securities through one or more sub-advisers or indirectly in securities through one or more underlying funds, which in turn invest directly in securities.
Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of underlying funds or sub-advisers at any time.
Strategic Advisers pursues a disciplined, benchmark-driven approach to portfolio construction, and monitors and adjusts allocations to underlying funds and sub-advisers as necessary to favor those underlying funds and sub-advisers that Strategic Advisers believes will provide the most favorable outlook for achieving the fund's investment objective.
When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among underlying funds, Strategic Advisers relies on proprietary fundamental and quantitative fund research in its fund selection process. Factors considered when investing in underlying funds include fund performance, a fund manager's experience and investment style, fund company infrastructure, and fund characteristics such as expense ratio, asset size, and portfolio turnover.
<R>The fund may invest in affiliated funds ( i.e., Fidelity funds) and non-affiliated funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork ® and in non-affiliated ETFs. Underlying funds include both funds managed by FMR (an affiliated company that, together with Strategic Advisers, is part of Fidelity Investments) or an affiliate and funds managed by investment advisers other than Fidelity. Fidelity may receive service fees that typically are at an annual rate of up to 0.40% of a non-affiliated underlying fund's average daily net assets attributable to purchases through Fidelity's FundsNetwork, though such fees may be higher or lower, or may be charged as transaction and/or account fees. In addition, the fund may invest in ETFs in transactions not occurring through Fidelity's FundsNetwork.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Strategic Advisers may actively adjust the allocation of the fund's assets at any time. For current information on fund holdings, please call 1-800-544-3455 or visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com. For information on the underlying funds, see the underlying funds' prospectuses. A copy of any underlying Fidelity fund's prospectus is available at www.fidelity.com or www.advisor.fidelity.com. For a copy of any other underlying fund's prospectus, visit the web site of the company that manages or sponsors that underlying fund.</R>
When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers considers a variety of factors including, but not limited to, a sub-adviser's investment approach, the characteristics of a sub-adviser's typical investment portfolio, and a sub-adviser's performance patterns in different market environments.
Common types of investment approaches that a sub-adviser may use in selecting investments for a fund include, but are not limited to, quantitative analysis, fundamental analysis, or a combination of both approaches. Quantitative analysis refers to programmatic models that analyze such factors as growth potential, valuation, liquidity, and investment risk based on data inputs. Fundamental analysis involves a bottom-up assessment of a company's potential for success in light of factors including its financial condition, earnings outlook, strategy, management, industry position, and economic and market conditions.
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
The fund may also use various techniques, such as buying and selling futures contracts, to increase or decrease its exposure to changing security prices or other factors that affect security values. In addition, the fund may have indirect exposure to derivatives through its investments in underlying funds.
<R>Because the fund is considered non-diversified, a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund.</R>
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Description of Principal Security Types
In addition to investing in underlying funds, the fund may invest directly in the following principal security types:
Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Different types of equity securities provide different voting and dividend rights and priority in the event of the bankruptcy of the issuer. Equity securities include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, and warrants.
Principal Investment Risks
Many factors affect the fund's performance. The fund's share price changes daily based on the performance of the underlying funds and securities in which it invests and on changes in market conditions and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The fund's reaction to these developments will be affected by the types of underlying funds and securities in which the fund invests, the financial condition, industry and economic sector, and geographic location of an issuer, and the fund's level of investment in the securities of that underlying fund or issuer.
If Strategic Advisers' or a sub-adviser's allocation strategies do not work as intended, the fund may not achieve its objective. The portfolio managers' evaluations and assumptions in selecting underlying funds or individual securities may be incorrect in view of actual market conditions.
When your shares are sold they may be worth more or less than what you paid for them, which means that you could lose money by investing in the fund.
The following factors can significantly affect the fund's performance:
Multiple Sub-Adviser Risk. Because each sub-adviser manages its allocated portion independently from another sub-adviser, it is possible that the sub-advisers' security selection processes may not complement one another. As a result, the fund's aggregate exposure to a particular industry or group of industries, or to a single issuer, could unintentionally be larger or smaller than intended. Because each sub-adviser directs the trading for its own portion of the fund, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisers, the fund may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were managing the entire fund.
Investing in Other Funds. Regulatory restrictions may limit the amount that one fund can invest in another, and in certain cases further limit investments to the extent a fund's shares are already held by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The fund bears all risks of investment strategies employed by the underlying funds. The fund does not control the investments of the underlying funds, which may have different investment objectives and may engage in investment strategies that the fund would not engage in directly. Aggregation of underlying fund holdings may result in indirect concentration of assets in a particular industry or group of industries, or in a single issuer, which may increase volatility.
Prospectus
<R> Stock Market Volatility. The value of equity securities fluctuates in response to issuer, political, market, and economic developments. Fluctuations can be dramatic over the short as well as long term, and different parts of the market and different types of equity securities can react differently to these developments. For example, large cap stocks can react differently from small cap stocks, "growth" stocks can react differently from "value" stocks, and stocks selected using quantitative or technical analysis can react differently than stocks selected using fundamental analysis. Issuer, political, or economic developments can affect a single issuer, issuers within an industry or economic sector or geographic region, or the market as a whole. Changes in the financial condition of a single issuer can impact the market as a whole. Terrorism and related geo-political risks have led, and may in the future lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on world economies and markets generally.</R>
Foreign Exposure. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations can involve additional risks relating to political, economic, or regulatory conditions in foreign countries. These risks include fluctuations in foreign currencies; withholding or other taxes; trading, settlement, custodial, and other operational risks; and the less stringent investor protection and disclosure standards of some foreign markets. All of these factors can make foreign investments, especially those in emerging markets, more volatile and potentially less liquid than U.S. investments. In addition, foreign markets can perform differently from the U.S. market.
<R>Global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region.</R>
<R> Industry Exposure. Market conditions, interest rates, and economic, regulatory, or financial developments could significantly affect a single industry or a group of related industries, and the securities of companies in that industry or group of industries could react similarly to these or other developments. In addition, from time to time, a small number of companies may represent a large portion of a single industry or a group of related industries as a whole, and these companies can be sensitive to adverse economic, regulatory, or financial developments.</R>
<R></R>
Issuer-Specific Changes. Changes in the financial condition of an issuer or counterparty, changes in specific economic or political conditions that affect a particular type of security or issuer, and changes in general economic or political conditions can increase the risk of default by an issuer or counterparty, which can affect a security's or instrument's value. The value of securities of smaller, less well-known issuers can be more volatile than that of larger issuers.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
<R> Investing in ETFs. ETFs may trade in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) at prices below the value of their underlying portfolios and may not be liquid. An ETF that is not actively managed cannot sell poorly performing stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in its index or other benchmark. ETFs that track an index are subject to tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to its index or other benchmark).</R>
"Value" Investing. "Value" stocks can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole and other types of stocks. "Value" stocks tend to be inexpensive relative to their earnings or assets compared to other types of stocks. However, "value" stocks can continue to be inexpensive for long periods of time and may not ever realize their full value.
Quantitative Investing. The value of securities selected using quantitative analysis can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole or securities selected using only fundamental analysis. The factors used in quantitative analysis and the weight placed on those factors may not be predictive of a security's value. In addition, factors that affect a security's value can change over time and these changes may not be reflected in the quantitative model.
In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
The following policy is fundamental, that is, subject to change only by shareholder approval:
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The fund is open for business each day the NYSE is open.
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. Fidelity normally calculates the fund's NAV as of the close of business of the NYSE, normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The fund's assets normally are valued as of this time for the purpose of computing the fund's NAV.
NAV is not calculated and the fund will not process purchase and redemption requests submitted on days when the fund is not open for business. The time at which shares are priced and until which purchase and redemption orders are accepted may be changed as permitted by the SEC.
Prospectus
To the extent that the fund's assets are traded in other markets on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of the fund's assets may be affected on those days. In addition, trading in some of the fund's assets may not occur on days when the fund is open for business.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) are valued at their respective NAVs. For an explanation of the circumstances under which the underlying funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing, see the underlying funds' prospectuses and statements of additional information (SAIs). The fund's NAV is calculated using the values of the underlying funds in which it invests. Other assets (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued primarily on the basis of market quotations or official closing prices. Certain short-term securities are valued on the basis of amortized cost. If market quotations or official closing prices are not readily available or, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, are deemed unreliable for a security, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before the fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Arbitrage opportunities may exist when trading in a portfolio security or securities is halted and does not resume before a fund calculates its NAV. These arbitrage opportunities may enable short-term traders to dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Securities trading in overseas markets present time zone arbitrage opportunities when events affecting portfolio security values occur after the close of the overseas markets but prior to the close of the U.S. market. Fair valuation of a fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of a fund's NAV by short-term traders.
Fair value pricing is based on subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value of a security may differ materially from the value that would be realized if the security were sold.
Prospectus
THE FUND IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR SALE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
Shares of the fund can be purchased only through certain discretionary investment programs offered by Strategic Advisers. If you are not currently a Strategic Advisers client, please call 1-800-544-3455 (9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday) for more information. Strategic Advisers charges fees for its discretionary investment programs. For more information on these fees, please refer to the "Buying and Selling Information" section of the SAI.
The fund may reject for any reason, or cancel as permitted or required by law, any purchase orders.
Excessive trading of fund shares can harm shareholders in various ways, including reducing the returns to long-term shareholders by increasing costs to the fund (such as brokerage commissions), disrupting portfolio management strategies, and diluting the value of the shares in cases in which fluctuations in markets are not fully priced into the fund's NAV.
Because investments in the fund can be made only by Strategic Advisers on behalf of its clients, the potential for excessive or short-term disruptive purchases and sales is reduced. Accordingly, the Board of Trustees has not adopted policies and procedures designed to discourage excessive trading of fund shares and the fund accommodates frequent trading.
The fund has no exchange privilege with any other fund. The fund does not place a limit on purchases or sales of fund shares by Strategic Advisers. The fund reserves the right, but does not have the obligation, to reject any purchase transaction at any time. In addition, the fund reserves the right to impose restrictions on disruptive, excessive, or short-term trading.
The price to buy one share of the fund is its NAV. The fund's shares are sold without a sales charge.
Shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.
Provided the fund receives an order to buy shares in proper form before the close of business, the fund may place an order to buy shares of an underlying Fidelity fund after the close of business, pursuant to a pre-determined allocation, and receive that day's NAV.
The fund may stop offering shares completely or may offer shares only on a limited basis, for a period of time or permanently.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, purchase orders may be suspended, restricted, or canceled and the monies may be withheld.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV.
Shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form. Normally, redemptions will be processed by the next business day, but it may take up to seven days to pay the redemption proceeds if making immediate payment would adversely affect the fund.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
Provided the fund receives an order to sell shares in proper form before the close of business, the fund may place an order to sell shares of an underlying Fidelity fund after the close of business, pursuant to a pre-determined allocation, and receive that day's NAV.
Redemptions may be suspended or payment dates postponed when the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or holidays), when trading on the NYSE is restricted, or as permitted by the SEC.
Redemption proceeds may be paid in underlying fund shares, securities, or other property rather than in cash if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund.
When you terminate your relationship with Strategic Advisers, your shares may be sold at the NAV next calculated, in which case Strategic Advisers would send the redemption proceeds to you.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, redemption requests may be suspended, restricted, canceled, or processed and the proceeds may be withheld.
The fund earns dividends, interest, and other income from its investments, and distributes this income (less expenses) to shareholders as dividends. The fund also realizes capital gains from its investments, and distributes these gains (less any losses) to shareholders as capital gain distributions.
The fund normally pays dividends and capital gain distributions in July and December.
Dividends and capital gain distributions may be reinvested in additional shares of the fund or paid in cash.
As with any investment, your investment in the fund could have tax consequences for you. If you are not investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account, you should consider these tax consequences.
Taxes on distributions. Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes.
For federal tax purposes, certain of the fund's distributions, including dividends and distributions of short-term capital gains, are taxable to you as ordinary income, while certain of the fund's distributions, including distributions of long-term capital gains, are taxable to you generally as capital gains. A percentage of certain distributions of dividends may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
If Strategic Advisers buys shares on your behalf when a fund has realized but not yet distributed income or capital gains, you will be "buying a dividend" by paying the full price for the shares and then receiving a portion of the price back in the form of a taxable distribution.
Prospectus
Any taxable distributions you receive from the fund will normally be taxable to you when you receive them, regardless of your distribution option.
Taxes on transactions. Your redemptions may result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. A capital gain or loss on your investment in the fund generally is the difference between the cost of your shares and the price you receive when you sell them.
Prospectus
The fund is a mutual fund, an investment that pools shareholders' money and invests it toward a specified goal.
The fund employs a multi-manager and a fund of funds investment structure. Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of sub-advisers or underlying funds.
Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. The address of Strategic Advisers and its affiliates, unless otherwise indicated below, is 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R>As of December 31, 2011, Strategic Advisers had approximately $261.7 billion in discretionary assets under management.</R>
As the manager, Strategic Advisers has overall responsibility for directing the fund's investments and handling its business affairs.
<R> Brandywine Global , at 2929 Arch Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of May 31, 2012, Brandywine Global had approximately $37.4 billion in discretionary assets under management. Brandywine Global provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Cohen & Steers , at 280 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10017, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, Cohen & Steers had approximately $44.9 billion in discretionary assets under management. Cohen & Steers provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R></R>
<R> LSV , at 155 North Wacker Drive, Suite 4600, Chicago, Illinois 60606, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, LSV had approximately $58.9 billion in discretionary assets under management. LSV provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Pyramis , at 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. Pyramis is an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. As of December 31, 2011, Pyramis had approximately $40.2 billion in discretionary assets under management. Pyramis has not currently been allocated a portion of the fund's assets to manage.</R>
Strategic Advisers
<R>John A. Stone is lead manager of the fund, which he has managed since December 2008. He also manages other funds. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments in 2008 as a portfolio manager, Mr. Stone worked as a portfolio manager and a Principal at Mercer Global Investments beginning in 2006.</R>
<R>Kristina F. Stookey is co-manager of the fund, which she has managed since December 2008. Since joining Fidelity Investments in 2000, Ms. Stookey has worked as an analyst and portfolio manager.</R>
Brandywine Global
<R>Joseph J. Kirby serves as a portfolio manager for Brandywine Global's portion of the fund's assets. Mr. Kirby is lead portfolio manager for Brandywine Global's Diversified Large Cap Value Equity and Diversified Large Cap 130/30 strategies. He serves as a portfolio manager and securities analyst on Brandywine Global's Diversified Value Equity team. Mr. Kirby contributes to the quantitative and fundamental analysis of securities for the Diversified Value Equity portfolios by consistently applying Brandywine Global's disciplined management exclusionary process. Since joining Brandywine Global and its Diversified Team in 1994, Mr. Kirby has been involved in each aspect of the portfolio process, including leading the trading efforts for all Diversified portfolios from 1997 through 2000. Prior to joining Brandywine Global, he was with CoreStates Financial Corporation as an auditor (1992-1994). Mr. Kirby earned a B.S. in Finance from DeSales University.</R>
Prospectus
Henry F. Otto serves as a portfolio manager for Brandywine Global's portion of the fund's assets. Mr. Otto is the founder and co-lead portfolio manager of Brandywine Global's Diversified Value Equity strategies. Prior to joining Brandywine Global in 1988, he was with Dimensional Fund Advisors, Inc., where he managed and traded small cap portfolios and developed computer systems to structure portfolios and analyze performance (1984-1987), and the Chicago Board of Trade as a financial economist developing financial-based futures and options (1982-1984). He earned both an M.B.A. in Finance and Economics and a B.A. in Economics from the University of Chicago. Mr. Otto is a member of Brandywine Global's Executive Board.
Steven M. Tonkovich serves as a portfolio manager for Brandywine Global's portion of the fund's assets. Mr. Tonkovich is co-lead portfolio manager of Brandywine Global's Diversified Value Equity strategies. He plays an integral role in the team's continual refinement of the Diversified Value Equity investment process and the firm's ongoing research into value investing. Prior to joining Brandywine Global in 1989, he was with the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania as a research analyst in the Finance Department (1987-1989) and the Moore School of Electrical Engineering of the University of Pennsylvania as a research assistant (1986-1987). Mr. Tonkovich earned a B.S.E in Finance and Regional Science from the Wharton School. He is a member of Brandywine Global's Executive Board.
<R></R>
Cohen & Steers
Rick Helm serves as portfolio manager for Cohen & Steers' portion of the fund's assets. Mr. Helm is Senior Vice President of Cohen & Steers since August 2005 and is head of its large cap value portfolio management team. Prior to that, Mr. Helm was a senior portfolio manager of WM Advisors Inc. since 2001. From 1999 to 2001, Mr. Helm was Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager of Northwestern Trust and Investors Advisory Company.
<R></R>
LSV
Josef Lakonishok serves as a portfolio manager for LSV's portion of the fund's assets. Dr. Lakonishok has served as CEO, CIO, Partner and portfolio manager for LSV since its founding in 1994. He has more than 30 years of investment and research experience.
<R>Puneet Mansharamani, CFA, serves as a portfolio manager for LSV's portion of the fund's assets. Mr. Mansharamani has served as a Partner and portfolio manager since 2006 and a Quantitative Analyst of LSV since 2000. He has more than 12 years of investment experience.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
Menno Vermeulen, CFA, serves as a portfolio manager for LSV's portion of the fund's assets. Mr. Vermeulen has served as a portfolio manager and senior quantitative analyst of LSV since 1995 and a Partner since 1998. He has more than 19 years of investment and research experience. Prior to joining LSV, Mr. Vermeulen served as a portfolio manager for ABP Investments.
<R></R>
The SAI provides additional information about the compensation of, any other accounts managed by, and any fund shares held by the portfolio managers.
From time to time a manager, analyst, or other Fidelity employee may express views regarding a particular company, security, industry, or market sector. The views expressed by any such person are the views of only that individual as of the time expressed and do not necessarily represent the views of Fidelity or any other person in the Fidelity organization. Any such views are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and Fidelity disclaims any responsibility to update such views. These views may not be relied on as investment advice and, because investment decisions for a Fidelity fund are based on numerous factors, may not be relied on as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any Fidelity fund.
The fund pays a management fee to Strategic Advisers. The management fee is calculated and paid to Strategic Advisers every month.
The fund's management fee is calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets. Because the fund's management fee rate may fluctuate, the fund's management fee may be higher or lower in the future. The fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 0.70% of the fund's average daily net assets.
<R>Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets through September 30, 2014.</R>
<R>For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid a management fee of 0.18% of the fund's average net assets, after waiver and/or reimbursement.</R>
In return for the services of the fund's sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers will pay each of the fund's sub-advisers the fee (as described above) payable to that sub-adviser.
<R>The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the management contract and sub-advisory agreements for the fund is available in the fund's semi-annual report for the fiscal period ended November 30, 2011.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, agree to reimburse the fund for, or waive, management fees and other expenses above a specified limit. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid by the fund if expenses fall below the specified limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Prospectus
Reimbursement or waiver arrangements can decrease expenses and boost performance.
<R></R>
FDC distributes the fund's shares.
The fund has adopted a Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) with respect to its shares that recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenues, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other source, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, service-providers, and administrators, that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees of the fund has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Affiliates of Strategic Advisers may receive service fees or distribution fees or both with respect to underlying funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork.
If payments made by Strategic Advisers to FDC or to intermediaries under the Distribution and Service Plan were considered to be paid out of the fund's assets on an ongoing basis, they might increase the cost of your investment and might cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
No dealer, sales representative, or any other person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representations, other than those contained in this prospectus and in the related SAI, in connection with the offer contained in this prospectus. If given or made, such other information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by the fund or FDC. This prospectus and the related SAI do not constitute an offer by the fund or by FDC to sell shares of the fund to or to buy shares of the fund from any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer.
Prospectus
The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the financial history of the fund's shares for the period of the fund's operations. Certain information reflects financial results for a single share of the fund. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in shares of the fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the fund's financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the fund's annual report. A free copy of the annual report is available upon request.
<R> Years ended May 31, |
2012 |
2011 |
2010 |
2009 E </R> |
<R> Selected Per-Share Data |
|
|
|
</R> |
<R> Net asset value, beginning of period |
$ 14.56 |
$ 12.10 |
$ 10.45 |
$ 10.00 </R> |
<R> Income from Investment Operations |
|
|
|
</R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) D |
.24 |
.20 |
.16 |
.09 </R> |
<R> Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) |
(.82 ) |
2.47 |
1.64 |
.36 </R> |
<R> Total from investment operations |
(.58 ) |
2.67 |
1.80 |
.45 </R> |
<R> Distributions from net investment income |
(.21) |
(.16) |
(.15) |
- </R> |
<R> Distributions from net realized gain |
(.22 ) |
(.05 ) |
- |
- </R> |
<R> Total distributions |
(.44 ) H |
(.21 ) |
(.15 ) |
- </R> |
<R> Net asset value, end of period |
$ 13.54 |
$ 14.56 |
$ 12.10 |
$ 10.45 </R> |
<R> Total Return B,C |
(4.04)% |
22.29% |
17.40% |
4.50% </R> |
<R> Ratios to Average Net Assets F |
|
|
|
</R> |
<R> Expenses before reductions |
.60% |
.61% |
.93% |
1.08% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of fee waivers, if any |
.35% |
.35% |
.75% |
.90% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of all reductions |
.35% |
.35% |
.75% |
.90% A </R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) |
1.81% |
1.48% |
1.35% |
2.28% A </R> |
<R> Supplemental Data |
|
|
|
</R> |
<R> Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) |
$ 6,964,262 |
$ 7,343,388 |
$ 3,107,669 |
$ 436,993 </R> |
<R> Portfolio turnover rate G |
32% |
49% |
39% |
40% </R> |
<R> A Annualized </R>
<R> B Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized. </R>
<R> C Total returns would have been lower if certain expenses had not been reduced during the applicable periods shown. </R>
<R> D Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period. </R>
<R> E For the period December 30, 2008 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2009. </R>
<R> F Expense ratios reflect operating expenses of the Fund. Expenses before reductions do not reflect amounts reimbursed by the investment adviser or reductions from expense offset arrangements and do not represent the amount paid by the Fund during periods when reimbursements or reductions occur. Expense ratios before reductions for start-up periods may not be representative of longer term operating periods. Expenses net of fee waivers reflect expenses after reimbursement by the investment adviser but prior to reductions from expense offset arrangements. Expenses net of all reductions represent the net expenses paid by the Fund. Fees and expenses of the Underlying Funds are not included in the Fund's annualized ratios. The Fund indirectly bears its proportionate share of the expenses of the Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> G Amounts do not include the portfolio activity of any Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> H Total distributions of $.44 per share is comprised of distributions from net investment income of $.212 and distributions from net realized gain of $.223 per share. </R>
Prospectus
Appendix - continued
<R> Russell 1000 Value Index is a market capitalization-weighted index designed to measure the performance of the large-cap value segment of the U.S. equity market. It includes those Russell 1000 Index companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower expected growth rates.</R>
Prospectus
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OPENING A NEW ACCOUNT To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT ACT), requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or entity that opens an account. For individual investors opening an account: When you open an account, you will be asked for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow Fidelity to identify you. You may also be asked to provide documents that may help to establish your identity, such as your driver's license. For investors other than individuals: When you open an account, you will be asked for the name of the entity, its principal place of business and taxpayer identification number (TIN) and may be requested to provide information on persons with authority or control over the account such as name, residential address, date of birth and social security number. You may also be asked to provide documents, such as drivers' licenses, articles of incorporation, trust instruments or partnership agreements and other information that will help Fidelity identify the entity. |
You can obtain additional information about the fund. A description of the fund's policies and procedures for disclosing its holdings is available in its SAI and on Fidelity's web sites. The SAI also includes more detailed information about the fund and its investments. The SAI is incorporated herein by reference (legally forms a part of the prospectus). The fund's annual and semi-annual reports also include additional information. The fund's annual report includes a discussion of the fund's holdings and recent market conditions and the fund's investment strategies that affected performance.
For a free copy of any of these documents or to request other information or ask questions about the fund, call 1-800-544-3455. In addition, you may visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com for a free copy of a prospectus, SAI, or annual or semi-annual report or to request other information.
The SAI, the fund's annual and semi-annual reports and other related materials are available from the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) Database on the SEC's web site (http://www.sec.gov). You can obtain copies of this information, after paying a duplicating fee, by sending a request by e-mail to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You can also review and copy information about the fund, including the fund's SAI, at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call 1-202-551-8090 for information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference Room. Investment Company Act of 1940, File Number, 811-21991 |
FDC is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). You may obtain information about SIPC, including the SIPC brochure, by visiting www.sipc.org or calling SIPC at 202-371-8300.
Strategic Advisers and FundsNetwork are registered service marks of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
<R>1.912903.104 SUF-PRO-0712</R>
Strategic Advisers ® Value Fund (FVSAX)
A Fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
<R> Offered exclusively to certain clients of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) - not available for sale to the general public. </R>
This statement of additional information (SAI) is not a prospectus. Portions of the fund's annual report are incorporated herein. The annual report is supplied with this SAI.
<R>To obtain a free additional copy of the prospectus or SAI, dated July 30, 2012, or an annual report, please call Fidelity at 1-800-544-3455 or visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com.</R>
<R>SUF-PTB-0712
1.912904.105</R>
<R> |
PAGE </R> |
<R>Investment Policies and Limitations |
|
<R>Portfolio Transactions |
|
<R>Valuation |
|
<R>Buying and Selling Information |
|
<R>Distributions and Taxes |
|
<R>Trustees and Officers |
|
<R>Control of Investment Advisers |
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<R>Management Contract |
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<R>Proxy Voting Guidelines |
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<R>Distribution Services |
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<R>Transfer and Service Agent Agreements |
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<R>Description of the Trust |
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<R>Fund Holdings Information |
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<R>Financial Statements |
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<R>Appendix |
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS
The following policies and limitations supplement those set forth in the prospectus. Unless otherwise noted, whenever an investment policy or limitation states a maximum percentage of the fund's assets that may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy regarding quality standards, such standard or percentage limitation will be determined immediately after and as a result of the fund's acquisition of such security or other asset. Accordingly, any subsequent change in values, net assets, or other circumstances will not be considered when determining whether the investment complies with the fund's investment policies and limitations.
The fund's fundamental investment policies and limitations cannot be changed without approval by a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act)) of the fund. However, except for the fundamental investment limitations listed below, the investment policies and limitations described in this SAI are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
The following are the fund's fundamental investment limitations set forth in their entirety.
Senior Securities
The fund may not issue senior securities, except in connection with the insurance program established by the fund pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission or as otherwise permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Borrowing
The fund may not borrow money, except that the fund may borrow money for temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging or investment) in an amount not exceeding 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). Any borrowings that come to exceed this amount will be reduced within three days (not including Sundays and holidays) to the extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation.
Underwriting
The fund may not underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 in the disposition of restricted securities or in connection with investments in other investment companies.
Concentration
The fund may not purchase the securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or 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.
<R>For purposes of the fund's concentration limitation discussed above, Strategic Advisers or an affiliate may analyze the characteristics of a particular issuer and security and assign an industry or sector classification consistent with those characteristics in the event that the third-party classification provider used by Strategic Advisers does not assign a classification.</R>
Real Estate
The fund may not purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from investing in securities or other instruments backed by real estate or securities of companies engaged in the real estate business).
Commodities
The fund may not purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from purchasing or selling options and futures contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities).
Loans
The fund may not lend any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, but this limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities or to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.
The following investment limitations are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
Diversification
In order to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, the fund currently intends to comply with certain diversification limits imposed by Subchapter M.
<R>Subchapter M generally requires the fund to invest no more than 25% of its total assets in securities of any one issuer and to invest at least 50% of its total assets so that (a) no more than 5% of the fund's total assets are invested in securities of any one issuer, and (b) the fund does not hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of that issuer. However, Subchapter M allows unlimited investments in cash, cash items, government securities (as defined in Subchapter M) and securities of other regulated investment companies. These tax requirements are generally applied at the end of each quarter of the fund's taxable year.</R>
Short Sales
The fund does not currently intend to sell securities short, unless it owns or has the right to obtain securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short, and provided that transactions in futures contracts and options are not deemed to constitute selling securities short.
Margin Purchases
The fund does not currently intend to purchase securities on margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of transactions, and provided that margin payments in connection with futures contracts and options on futures contracts shall not constitute purchasing securities on margin.
Borrowing
The fund may borrow money only (a) from a bank or from a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) by engaging in reverse repurchase agreements with any party (reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings for purposes of the fundamental borrowing investment limitation).
Illiquid Securities
The fund does not currently intend to purchase any security if, as a result, more than 10% of its net assets would be invested in securities that are deemed to be illiquid because they are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or because they cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued.
For purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation discussed above, if through a change in values, net assets, or other circumstances, the fund were in a position where more than 10% of its net assets were invested in illiquid securities, it would consider appropriate steps to protect liquidity.
To the extent that the fund acquires the shares of an underlying fund in accordance with Section 12(d)(1)(F) of the 1940 Act, the underlying fund is not obligated to redeem its shares in an amount exceeding 1% of its shares outstanding during any period of less than 30 days. Those underlying fund shares will not be treated as illiquid securities for purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation described above to the extent that the fund is able to dispose of such securities by distributing them in kind to redeeming shareholders. (See "Securities of Other Investment Companies" on page (Click Here).)
Loans
The fund does not currently intend to lend assets other than securities to other parties, except by (a) lending money (up to 15% of the fund's net assets) to a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) assuming any unfunded commitments in connection with the acquisition of loans, loan participations, or other forms of debt instruments. (This limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities, to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.)
In addition to the fund's fundamental and non-fundamental investment limitations discussed above:
For the fund's limitations on futures and options transactions, see the section entitled "Futures, Options, and Swaps" on page (Click Here).
Notwithstanding the foregoing investment limitations, the underlying funds in which the fund may invest have adopted certain investment limitations that may be more or less restrictive than those listed above, thereby permitting the fund to engage indirectly in investment strategies that are prohibited under the investment limitations listed above. The investment limitations of each underlying fund are set forth in its registration statement.
<R>In accordance with its investment program as set forth in the prospectus, the fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in any one underlying Fidelity fund. Although the fund does not intend to concentrate its investments in a particular industry, the fund may indirectly concentrate in a particular industry or group of industries through its investments in one or more underlying funds.</R>
The following pages contain more detailed information about types of instruments in which the fund may invest, techniques the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may employ in pursuit of the fund's investment objective, and a summary of related risks. The fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may not buy all of these instruments or use all of these techniques unless it believes that doing so will help the fund achieve its goal. However, the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) is not required to buy any particular instrument or use any particular technique even if to do so might benefit the fund.
<R>Strategic Advisers ® Value Fund may have exposure to instruments, techniques, and risks either directly or indirectly through an investment in an underlying fund. An underlying fund may invest in the same or other types of instruments and its adviser may employ the same or other types of techniques. Strategic Advisers ® Value Fund's performance will be affected by the instruments, techniques, and risks associated with an underlying fund, in proportion to the amount of assets that the fund allocates to that underlying fund.</R>
On the following pages in this section titled "Investment Policies and Limitations," and except as otherwise indicated, references to "a fund" or "the fund" may relate to Strategic Advisers Value Fund or an underlying fund, and references to "an adviser" or "the adviser" may relate to Strategic Advisers (or its affiliates) or a sub-adviser of Strategic Advisers Value Fund, or an adviser of an underlying fund.
Borrowing. If a fund borrows money, its share price may be subject to greater fluctuation until the borrowing is paid off. If a fund makes additional investments while borrowings are outstanding, this may be considered a form of leverage.
<R> Cash Management. A fund may hold uninvested cash or may invest it in cash equivalents such as money market securities, repurchase agreements, or shares of short-term bond or money market funds, including (for Fidelity funds and other advisory clients only) shares of Fidelity central funds. Generally, these securities offer less potential for gains than other types of securities.</R>
<R> Common Stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock take precedence over the claims of those who own common stock, although related proceedings can take time to resolve and results can be unpredictable.</R>
Convertible Securities are bonds, debentures, notes, or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible security held by a fund is called for redemption or conversion, the fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.
Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield, convertible securities generally sell at prices above their "conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stocks and interest rates. When the underlying common stocks decline in value, convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities. However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the underlying common stocks rise in value, the value of convertible securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time, however, the difference between the market value of convertible securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because convertible securities may also be interest-rate sensitive, their value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk, and are often lower-quality securities.
Debt Securities are used by issuers to borrow money. The issuer usually pays a fixed, variable, or floating rate of interest, and must repay the amount borrowed, usually at the maturity of the security. Some debt securities, such as zero coupon bonds, do not pay interest but are sold at a deep discount from their face values. Debt securities include corporate bonds, government securities, repurchase agreements, and mortgage and other asset-backed securities.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are shares of other investment companies, commodity pools, or other entities that are traded on an exchange. Typically, assets underlying the ETF shares are stocks, though they may also be commodities or other instruments, selected to track a particular index or other benchmark.
Typically, ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark increases. However, in the case of inverse ETFs (also called "short ETFs" or "bear ETFs"), ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark decreases. Inverse ETFs seek to deliver the opposite of the performance of the benchmark they track and are often marketed as a way for investors to profit from, or at least hedge their exposure to, downward moving markets. Investments in inverse ETFs are similar to holding short positions in the underlying benchmark.
<R>ETF shares are redeemable only in large blocks (typically, 50,000 shares) often called "creation units" by persons other than a fund, and are redeemed principally in-kind at each day's next calculated net asset value per share (NAV). ETFs typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by a fund. A fund's purchase of ETFs results in the layering of expenses, such that the fund would indirectly bear a proportionate share of any ETF's operating expenses. Further, while traditional investment companies are continuously offered at NAV, ETFs are traded in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) on an intra-day basis at prices that may be above or below the value of their underlying portfolios.</R>
<R>Some of the risks of investing in an ETF that tracks an index are similar to those of investing in an indexed mutual fund, including tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to the index or other benchmark); and the risk that because an ETF is not actively managed, it cannot sell stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in the index or other benchmark. Other ETF risks include the risk that ETFs may trade in the secondary market at a discount from their NAV and the risk that the ETFs may not be liquid. ETFs also may be leveraged. Leveraged ETFs seek to deliver multiples of the performance of the index or other benchmark they track and use derivatives in an effort to amplify the returns (or decline, in the case of inverse ETFs) of the underlying index or benchmark. While leveraged ETFs may offer the potential for greater return, the potential for loss and the speed at which losses can be realized also are greater. Most leveraged and inverse ETFs "reset" daily, meaning they are designed to achieve their stated objectives on a daily basis. Leveraged and inverse ETFs can deviate substantially from the performance of their underlying benchmark over longer periods of time, particularly in volatile periods.</R>
Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs) are a type of senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt security issued by financial institutions that combines aspects of both bonds and ETFs. An ETN's returns are based on the performance of a market index or other reference asset minus fees and expenses. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are listed on an exchange and traded in the secondary market. However, unlike an ETF, an ETN can be held until the ETN's maturity, at which time the issuer will pay a return linked to the performance of the market index or other reference asset to which the ETN is linked minus certain fees. Unlike regular bonds, ETNs typically do not make periodic interest payments and principal typically is not protected.
<R>ETNs also incur certain expenses not incurred by their applicable index. The market value of an ETN is determined by supply and demand, the current performance of the index or other reference asset, and the credit rating of the ETN issuer. The market value of ETN shares may differ from their intraday indicative value. The value of an ETN may also change due to a change in the issuer's credit rating. As a result, there may be times when an ETN share trades at a premium or discount to its NAV. Some ETNs that use leverage in an effort to amplify the returns of an underlying index or other reference asset can, at times, be relatively illiquid and, thus, they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Leveraged ETNs may offer the potential for greater return, but the potential for loss and speed at which losses can be realized also are greater.</R>
Exposure to Foreign and Emerging Markets. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
Foreign investments involve risks relating to local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments, and may be affected by actions of foreign governments adverse to the interests of U.S. investors. Such actions may include expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on U.S. investment or on the ability to repatriate assets or convert currency into U.S. dollars, or other government intervention. Additionally, governmental issuers of foreign debt securities may be unwilling to pay interest and repay principal when due and may require that the conditions for payment be renegotiated. There is no assurance that a fund's adviser will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their effects. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies and of dividends and interest paid with respect to such securities will fluctuate based on the relative strength of the U.S. dollar.
<R>It is anticipated that in most cases the best available market for foreign securities will be on an exchange or in over-the-counter (OTC) markets located outside of the United States. Foreign stock markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as those in the United States, and securities of some foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. issuers. Foreign security trading, settlement and custodial practices (including those involving securities settlement where fund assets may be released prior to receipt of payment) are often less developed than those in U.S. markets, and may result in increased investment or valuation risk or substantial delays in the event of a failed trade or the insolvency of, or breach of duty by, a foreign broker-dealer, securities depository, or foreign subcustodian. In addition, the costs associated with foreign investments, including withholding taxes, brokerage commissions, and custodial costs, are generally higher than with U.S. investments.</R>
Foreign markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. markets. Foreign issuers are generally not bound by uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements and standards of practice comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. Adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis. In general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States. OTC markets tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain countries, may be totally unregulated. Regulatory enforcement may be influenced by economic or political concerns, and investors may have difficulty enforcing their legal rights in foreign countries.
Some foreign securities impose restrictions on transfer within the United States or to U.S. persons. Although securities subject to such transfer restrictions may be marketable abroad, they may be less liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject to such restrictions.
American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. The underlying shares are held in trust by a custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. However, ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. These risks include foreign exchange risk as well as the political and economic risks of the underlying issuer's country.
The risks of foreign investing may be magnified for investments in emerging markets. Security prices in emerging markets can be significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets, reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets may have relatively unstable governments, may present the risks of nationalization of businesses, restrictions on foreign ownership and prohibitions on the repatriation of assets, and may have less protection of property rights than more developed countries. The economies of countries with emerging markets may be based on only a few industries, may be highly vulnerable to changes in local or global trade conditions, and may suffer from extreme and volatile debt burdens or inflation rates. Local securities markets may trade a small number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of holdings difficult or impossible at times.
<R> Foreign Currency Transactions. A fund may conduct foreign currency transactions on a spot ( i.e., cash) or forward basis ( i.e., by entering into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies). Although foreign exchange dealers generally do not charge a fee for such conversions, they do realize a profit based on the difference between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the counterparty desire to resell that currency to the dealer. Forward contracts are customized transactions that require a specific amount of a currency to be delivered at a specific exchange rate on a specific date or range of dates in the future. Forward contracts are generally traded in an interbank market directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. The parties to a forward contract may agree to offset or terminate the contract before its maturity, or may hold the contract to maturity and complete the contemplated currency exchange.</R>
<R>The following discussion summarizes the principal currency management strategies involving forward contracts that could be used by a fund. A fund may also use swap agreements, indexed securities, and options and futures contracts relating to foreign currencies for the same purposes. Forward contracts not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying currency. All of these instruments and transactions are subject to the risk that the counterparty will default.</R>
A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect a fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the U.S. dollar price of the security. Forward contracts to purchase or sell a foreign currency may also be used by a fund in anticipation of future purchases or sales of securities denominated in foreign currency, even if the specific investments have not yet been selected.
A fund may also use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. For example, if a fund owned securities denominated in pounds sterling, it could enter into a forward contract to sell pounds sterling in return for U.S. dollars to hedge against possible declines in the pound's value. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge," would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations, but would not offset changes in security values caused by other factors. A fund could also hedge the position by selling another currency expected to perform similarly to the pound sterling. This type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S. dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged securities are denominated.
A fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency into another. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased, much as if a fund had sold a security denominated in one currency and purchased an equivalent security denominated in another. A fund may cross-hedge its U.S. dollar exposure in order to achieve a representative weighted mix of the major currencies in its benchmark index and/or to cover an underweight country or region exposure in its portfolio. Cross-hedges protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency, but will cause a fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases.
<R>Successful use of currency management strategies will depend on an adviser's skill in analyzing currency values. Currency management strategies may substantially change a fund's investment exposure to changes in currency exchange rates and could result in losses to a fund if currencies do not perform as an adviser anticipates. For example, if a currency's value rose at a time when a fund had hedged its position by selling that currency in exchange for dollars, the fund would not participate in the currency's appreciation. If a fund hedges currency exposure through proxy hedges, the fund could realize currency losses from both the hedge and the security position if the two currencies do not move in tandem. Similarly, if a fund increases its exposure to a foreign currency and that currency's value declines, the fund will realize a loss. Foreign currency transactions involve the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted and that a fund's hedging strategies will be ineffective. A fund may be required to limit its hedging transactions in foreign currency forwards, futures, and options in order to maintain its classification as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code (Code). Hedging transactions could result in the application of the mark-to-market provisions of the Code, which may cause an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by a fund and could affect whether dividends paid by a fund are classified as capital gains or ordinary income. A fund will cover its exposure to foreign currency transactions with liquid assets in compliance with applicable requirements. There is no assurance that an adviser's use of currency management strategies will be advantageous to a fund or that it will employ currency management strategies at appropriate times.</R>
Options and Futures Relating to Foreign Currencies. Currency futures contracts are similar to forward currency exchange contracts, except that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency futures contracts call for payment or delivery in U.S. dollars. The underlying instrument of a currency option may be a foreign currency, which generally is purchased or delivered in exchange for U.S. dollars, or may be a futures contract. The purchaser of a currency call obtains the right to purchase the underlying currency, and the purchaser of a currency put obtains the right to sell the underlying currency.
The uses and risks of currency options and futures are similar to options and futures relating to securities or indices, as discussed below. A fund may purchase and sell currency futures and may purchase and write currency options to increase or decrease its exposure to different foreign currencies. Currency options may also be purchased or written in conjunction with each other or with currency futures or forward contracts. Currency futures and options values can be expected to correlate with exchange rates, but may not reflect other factors that affect the value of a fund's investments. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a Yen-denominated security from a decline in the Yen, but will not protect a fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of a fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the fund's investments exactly over time.
Foreign Repurchase Agreements. Foreign repurchase agreements involve an agreement to purchase a foreign security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price in either U.S. dollars or foreign currency. Unlike typical U.S. repurchase agreements, foreign repurchase agreements may not be fully collateralized at all times. The value of a security purchased by a fund may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to repurchase the security. In the event of default by the counterparty, a fund may suffer a loss if the value of the security purchased is less than the agreed-upon repurchase price, or if the fund is unable to successfully assert a claim to the collateral under foreign laws. As a result, foreign repurchase agreements may involve higher credit risks than repurchase agreements in U.S. markets, as well as risks associated with currency fluctuations. In addition, as with other emerging market investments, repurchase agreements with counterparties located in emerging markets or relating to emerging markets may involve issuers or counterparties with lower credit ratings than typical U.S. repurchase agreements.
Fund's Rights as an Investor. Fidelity funds do not intend to direct or administer the day-to-day operations of any company. A fund may, however, exercise its rights as a shareholder or lender and may communicate its views on important matters of policy to a company's management, board of directors, and shareholders, and holders of a company's other securities when such matters could have a significant effect on the value of the fund's investment in the company. The activities in which a fund may engage, either individually or in conjunction with others, may include, among others, supporting or opposing proposed changes in a company's corporate structure or business activities; seeking changes in a company's directors or management; seeking changes in a company's direction or policies; seeking the sale or reorganization of the company or a portion of its assets; supporting or opposing third-party takeover efforts; supporting the filing of a bankruptcy petition; or foreclosing on collateral securing a security. This area of corporate activity is increasingly prone to litigation and it is possible that a fund could be involved in lawsuits related to such activities. Such activities will be monitored with a view to mitigating, to the extent possible, the risk of litigation against a fund and the risk of actual liability if a fund is involved in litigation. No guarantee can be made, however, that litigation against a fund will not be undertaken or liabilities incurred. The fund's proxy voting guidelines are included in this SAI.
Futures, Options, and Swaps. The success of any strategy involving futures, options, and swaps depends on an adviser's analysis of many economic and mathematical factors and a fund's return may be higher if it never invested in such instruments. Additionally, some of the contracts discussed below are new instruments without a trading history and there can be no assurance that a market for the instruments will continue to exist. Government legislation or regulation could affect the use of such instruments and could limit a fund's ability to pursue its investment strategies.
<R>Strategic Advisers Value Fund will not: (a) sell futures contracts, purchase put options, or write call options if, as a result, more than 25% of the fund's total assets would be hedged with futures and options under normal conditions; (b) purchase futures contracts or write put options if, as a result, the fund's total obligations upon settlement or exercise of purchased futures contracts and written put options would exceed 25% of its total assets under normal conditions; or (c) purchase call options if, as a result, the current value of option premiums for call options purchased by the fund would exceed 5% of the fund's total assets. These limitations do not apply to options attached to or acquired or traded together with their underlying securities, and do not apply to structured notes.</R>
<R>The limitations on the fund's investments in futures contracts, options, and swaps, and the fund's policies regarding futures contracts, options, and swaps may be changed as regulatory agencies permit.</R>
<R>The requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company may limit the extent to which a fund may enter into futures, options on futures, and forward contracts.</R>
<R> Futures Contracts. In purchasing a futures contract, the buyer agrees to purchase a specified underlying instrument at a specified future date. In selling a futures contract, the seller agrees to sell a specified underlying instrument at a specified date. The price at which the purchase and sale will take place is fixed when the buyer and seller enter into the contract. Some currently available futures contracts are based on specific securities, some are based on commodities or commodities indices (for funds that seek commodities exposure), and some are based on indices of securities prices (including foreign indices for funds that seek foreign exposure). Futures on indices and futures not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying instrument. Futures can be held until their delivery dates, or can be closed out by offsetting purchases or sales of futures contracts before then if a liquid market is available. A fund may realize a gain or loss by closing out its futures contracts.</R>
The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in tandem with the value of its underlying instrument. Therefore, purchasing futures contracts will tend to increase a fund's exposure to positive and negative price fluctuations in the underlying instrument, much as if it had purchased the underlying instrument directly. When a fund sells a futures contract, by contrast, the value of its futures position will tend to move in a direction contrary to the market. Selling futures contracts, therefore, will tend to offset both positive and negative market price changes, much as if the underlying instrument had been sold.
The purchaser or seller of a futures contract or an option for a futures contract is not required to deliver or pay for the underlying instrument or the final cash settlement price, as applicable, unless the contract is held until the delivery date. However, both the purchaser and seller are required to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant (FCM), when the contract is entered into. If the value of either party's position declines, that party will be required to make additional "variation margin" payments to settle the change in value on a daily basis. This process of "marking to market" will be reflected in the daily calculation of open positions computed in a fund's NAV. The party that has a gain is entitled to receive all or a portion of this amount. Initial and variation margin payments do not constitute purchasing securities on margin for purposes of a fund's investment limitations. In the event of the bankruptcy or insolvency of an FCM that holds margin on behalf of a fund, the fund may be entitled to return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by the FCM's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the fund. A fund is required to segregate liquid assets equivalent to the fund's outstanding obligations under the contract in excess of the initial margin and variation margin, if any.
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<R>Although futures exchanges generally operate similarly in the United States and abroad, foreign futures exchanges may follow trading, settlement, and margin procedures that are different from those for U.S. exchanges. Futures contracts traded outside the United States may involve greater risk of loss than U.S.-traded contracts, including potentially greater risk of losses due to insolvency of a futures broker, exchange member, or other party that may owe initial or variation margin to a fund. Because initial and variation margin payments may be measured in foreign currency, a futures contract traded outside the United States may also involve the risk of foreign currency fluctuation.</R>
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There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. Exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for futures contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or other market conditions, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its futures positions could also be impaired. These risks may be heightened for commodity futures contracts, which have historically been subject to greater price volatility than exists for instruments such as stocks and bonds.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded futures contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in futures contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the futures position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Futures prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Futures prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell futures contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's futures positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments. In addition, the price of a commodity futures contract can reflect the storage costs associated with the purchase of the physical commodity.
Options. By purchasing a put option, the purchaser obtains the right (but not the obligation) to sell the option's underlying instrument at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the purchaser pays the current market price for the option (known as the option premium). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific assets or securities, indices of securities or commodities prices, and futures contracts (including commodity futures contracts). The purchaser may terminate its position in a put option by allowing it to expire or by exercising the option. If the option is allowed to expire, the purchaser will lose the entire premium. If the option is exercised, the purchaser completes the sale of the underlying instrument at the strike price. A purchaser may also terminate a put option position by closing it out in the secondary market at its current price, if a liquid secondary market exists.
The buyer of a typical put option can expect to realize a gain if the underlying instrument's price falls substantially. However, if the underlying instrument's price does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer can expect to suffer a loss (limited to the amount of the premium, plus related transaction costs).
The features of call options are essentially the same as those of put options, except that the purchaser of a call option obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. A call buyer typically attempts to participate in potential price increases of the underlying instrument with risk limited to the cost of the option if the underlying instrument's price falls. At the same time, the buyer can expect to suffer a loss if the underlying instrument's price does not rise sufficiently to offset the cost of the option.
The writer of a put or call option takes the opposite side of the transaction from the option's purchaser. In return for receipt of the premium, the writer assumes the obligation to pay or receive the strike price for the option's underlying instrument if the other party to the option chooses to exercise it. The writer may seek to terminate a position in a put option before exercise by closing out the option in the secondary market at its current price. If the secondary market is not liquid for a put option, however, the writer must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes. When writing an option on a futures contract, a fund will be required to make margin payments to an FCM as described above for futures contracts.
If the underlying instrument's price rises, a put writer would generally expect to profit, although its gain would be limited to the amount of the premium it received. If the underlying instrument's price remains the same over time, it is likely that the writer will also profit, because it should be able to close out the option at a lower price. If the underlying instrument's price falls, the put writer would expect to suffer a loss. This loss should be less than the loss from purchasing the underlying instrument directly, however, because the premium received for writing the option should mitigate the effects of the decline.
Writing a call option obligates the writer to sell or deliver the option's underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, upon exercise of the option. The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that writing calls generally is a profitable strategy if prices remain the same or fall. Through receipt of the option premium, a call writer mitigates the effects of a price increase. At the same time, because a call writer must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, even if its current value is greater, a call writer gives up some ability to participate in security price increases.
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There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular options contract at any particular time. Options may have relatively low trading volume and liquidity if their strike prices are not close to the underlying instrument's current price. In addition, exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for options contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or otherwise, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its options positions could also be impaired.
Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract size, and strike price, the terms of OTC options (options not traded on exchanges) generally are established through negotiation with the other party to the option contract. While this type of arrangement allows the purchaser or writer greater flexibility to tailor an option to its needs, OTC options generally are less liquid and involve greater credit risk than exchange-traded options, which are backed by the clearing organization of the exchanges where they are traded.
Combined positions involve purchasing and writing options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument would construct a combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract. Another possible combined position would involve writing a call option at one strike price and buying a call option at a lower price, to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
A fund may also buy and sell options on swaps. Options on interest rate swaps are known as swaptions. An option on a swap gives a party the right to enter into a new swap agreement or to extend, shorten, cancel or modify an existing swap contract at a specific date in the future in exchange for a premium.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded options contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in options contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the options position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Options prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Options prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the options and futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how options and futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell options contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's options positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments.
Swap Agreements. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors. Swap agreements are two party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors. Swap agreements can vary in term like other fixed-income investments. Most swap agreements are traded over-the-counter. In a standard "swap" transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments (such as securities, commodities, or indices). The gross returns to be exchanged or swapped between the parties are calculated with respect to a notional amount, which is the predetermined dollar principal of the trade representing the hypothetical underlying quantity upon which payment obligations are computed.
Swap agreements can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of a fund's investments and its share price and, if applicable, its yield. Swap agreements are subject to liquidity risk, meaning that a fund may be unable to sell a swap contract to a third party at a favorable price.
A total return swap is a contract whereby one party agrees to make a series of payments to another party based on the change in the market value of the assets underlying such contract (which can include a security, commodity, index or baskets thereof) during the specified period. In exchange, the other party to the contract agrees to make a series of payments calculated by reference to an interest rate and/or some other agreed-upon amount (including the change in market value of other underlying assets). A fund may use total return swaps to gain exposure to an asset without owning it or taking physical custody of it. For example, a fund investing in total return commodity swaps will receive the price appreciation of a commodity, commodity index or portion thereof in exchange for payment of an agreed-upon fee.
In a credit default swap, the credit default protection buyer makes periodic payments, known as premiums, to the credit default protection seller. In return the credit default protection seller will make a payment to the credit default protection buyer upon the occurrence of a specified credit event. A credit default swap can refer to a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets, each known as the reference entity or underlying asset. A fund may act as either the buyer or the seller of a credit default swap. A fund may buy or sell credit default protection on a basket of issuers or assets, even if a number of the underlying assets referenced in the basket are lower-quality debt securities. In an unhedged credit default swap, a fund buys credit default protection on a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets without owning the underlying asset or debt issued by the reference entity. Credit default swaps involve greater and different risks than investing directly in the referenced asset, because, in addition to market risk, credit default swaps include liquidity, counterparty and operational risk.
Credit default swaps allow a fund to acquire or reduce credit exposure to a particular issuer, asset or basket of assets. If a swap agreement calls for payments by a fund, the fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. If a fund is the credit default protection seller, the fund will experience a loss if a credit event occurs and the credit of the reference entity or underlying asset has deteriorated. If a fund is the credit default protection buyer, the fund will be required to pay premiums to the credit default protection seller.
If the creditworthiness of a fund's swap counterparty declines, the risk that the counterparty may not perform could increase, potentially resulting in a loss to the fund. To limit the counterparty risk involved in swap agreements, a Fidelity fund will enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness.
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<R>If a counterparty to a swap transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in exercising its right to the return of related fund assets under an action against the counterparty.</R>
<R>The trust, on behalf of the Fidelity fund to which this SAI relates, has filed with the National Futures Association a notice claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" (CPO) under the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended, and the rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) promulgated thereunder, with respect to the fund's operation. Accordingly, the trust is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool or a CPO. However, the CFTC has adopted certain rule amendments that significantly affect the continued availability of this exclusion, and may subject advisers to funds to regulation by the CFTC. The scope of application and the effective date of these amendments is still uncertain. As of the date of this SAI, there is no certainty that a fund or its adviser will be able to rely on an exclusion in the future. A fund may determine not to use investment strategies that trigger additional CFTC regulation or may determine to operate subject to CFTC regulation, if applicable. If a fund or its adviser operates subject to CFTC regulation, it may incur additional expenses.</R>
Illiquid Securities cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may be costly to a fund.
<R>Under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, a Fidelity fund's adviser determines the liquidity of the fund's investments and, through reports from the fund's adviser, the Board monitors investments in illiquid securities.</R>
Various factors may be considered in determining the liquidity of a fund's investments, including (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations, (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security).
<R> Increasing Government Debt. The total public debt of the United States and other countries around the globe as a percent of gross domestic product has grown rapidly since the beginning of the 2008 financial downturn. Although high debt levels do not necessarily indicate or cause economic problems, they may create certain systemic risks if sound debt management practices are not implemented.</R>
<R>A high national debt level may increase market pressures to meet government funding needs, which may drive debt cost higher and cause a country to sell additional debt, thereby increasing refinancing risk. A high national debt also raises concerns that a government will not be able to make principal or interest payments when they are due. In the worst case, unsustainable debt levels can decline the valuation of currencies, and can prevent a government from implementing effective counter-cyclical fiscal policy in economic downturns.</R>
<R>On August 5, 2011, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services lowered its long-term sovereign credit rating on the United States one level to "AA+" from "AAA." While Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed the United States' short-term sovereign credit rating as "A-1+," there is no guarantee that Standard & Poor's Ratings Services will not decide to lower this rating in the future. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services stated that its decision was prompted by its view on the rising public debt burden and its perception of greater policymaking uncertainty. The market prices and yields of securities supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government may be adversely affected by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services decisions to downgrade the long-term sovereign credit rating of the United States.</R>
<R> Indexed Securities are instruments whose prices are indexed to the prices of other securities, securities indices, or other financial indicators. Indexed securities typically, but not always, are debt securities or deposits whose values at maturity or coupon rates are determined by reference to a specific instrument, statistic, or measure.</R>
<R>Indexed securities also include commercial paper, certificates of deposit, and other fixed-income securities whose values at maturity or coupon interest rates are determined by reference to the returns of particular stock indices. Indexed securities can be affected by stock prices as well as changes in interest rates and the creditworthiness of their issuers and may not track the indexes as accurately as direct investments in the indexes.</R>
<R>Indexed securities may have principal payments as well as coupon payments that depend on the performance of one or more interest rates. Their coupon rates or principal payments may change by several percentage points for every 1% interest rate change. </R>
<R>Mortgage-indexed securities, for example, could be structured to replicate the performance of mortgage securities and the characteristics of direct ownership.</R>
<R>Inflation-protected securities, for example, can be indexed to a measure of inflation, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI).</R>
<R>Commodity-indexed securities, for example, can be indexed to a commodities index such as the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index Total Return.</R>
<R>Gold-indexed securities typically provide for a maturity value that depends on the price of gold, resulting in a security whose price tends to rise and fall together with gold prices.</R>
Currency-indexed securities typically are short-term to intermediate-term debt securities whose maturity values or interest rates are determined by reference to the values of one or more specified foreign currencies, and may offer higher yields than U.S. dollar-denominated securities. Currency-indexed securities may be positively or negatively indexed; that is, their maturity value may increase when the specified currency value increases, resulting in a security that performs similarly to a foreign-denominated instrument, or their maturity value may decline when foreign currencies increase, resulting in a security whose price characteristics are similar to a put on the underlying currency. Currency-indexed securities may also have prices that depend on the values of a number of different foreign currencies relative to each other.
<R>The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the instrument or measure to which they are indexed, and may also be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying instruments or measures. Indexed securities are also subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's creditworthiness deteriorates. Recent issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. Government agencies.</R>
<R> Insolvency of Issuers, Counterparties, and Intermediaries. Issuers of fund portfolio securities or counterparties to fund transactions that become insolvent or declare bankruptcy can pose special investment risks. In each circumstance, risk of loss, valuation uncertainty, increased illiquidity, and other unpredictable occurrences may negatively impact an investment. Each of these risks may be amplified in foreign markets, where security trading, settlement, and custodial practices can be less developed than those in the U.S. markets, and bankruptcy laws differ from those of the U.S.</R>
<R>As a general matter, if the issuer of a fund portfolio security is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock have priority over the claims of common stock owners. These events can negatively impact the value of the issuer's securities and the results of related proceedings can be unpredictable.</R>
<R>If a counterparty to a fund transaction, such as a swap transaction, a short sale, a borrowing, or other complex transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in its ability to exercise rights to obtain the return of related fund assets or in exercising other rights against the counterparty. In addition, insolvency and liquidation proceedings take time to resolve, which can limit or preclude a fund's ability to terminate a transaction or obtain related assets or collateral in a timely fashion. Uncertainty may also arise upon the insolvency of a securities or commodities intermediary such as a broker-dealer or futures commission merchant with which a fund has pending transactions. If an intermediary becomes insolvent, while securities positions and other holdings may be protected by U.S. or foreign laws, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether these protections are available to specific trades based on the circumstances. Receiving the benefit of these protections can also take time to resolve, which may result in illiquid positions.</R>
Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program. Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a Fidelity fund may lend money to, and borrow money from, other funds advised by Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR) or its affiliates. A Fidelity fund will borrow through the program only when the costs are equal to or lower than the costs of bank loans. A Fidelity fund will lend through the program only when the returns are higher than those available from an investment in repurchase agreements. Interfund loans and borrowings normally extend overnight, but can have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one day's notice. A Fidelity fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional borrowing costs.
Investment-Grade Debt Securities. Investment-grade debt securities include all types of debt instruments that are of medium and high-quality. Investment-grade debt securities include repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. Government securities as well as repurchase agreements collateralized by equity securities, non-investment-grade debt, and all other instruments in which a fund can perfect a security interest, provided the repurchase agreement counterparty has an investment-grade rating. Some investment-grade debt securities may possess speculative characteristics and may be more sensitive to economic changes and to changes in the financial conditions of issuers. An investment-grade rating means the security or issuer is rated investment-grade by a credit rating agency registered as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) with the SEC (for example, Moody's Investors Service, Inc.), or is unrated but considered to be of equivalent quality by a fund's adviser. For purposes of determining the maximum maturity of an investment-grade debt security, an adviser may take into account normal settlement periods.
<R> Investments by Large Shareholders. A fund may experience large redemptions or investments due to transactions in fund shares by large shareholders. While it is impossible to predict the overall effect of these transactions over time, there could be an adverse impact on a fund's performance. In the event of such redemptions or investments, a fund could be required to sell securities or to invest cash at a time when it may not otherwise desire to do so. Such transactions may increase a fund's brokerage and/or other transaction costs. In addition, when investors own a substantial portion of a fund's shares, a large redemption could cause actual expenses to increase, or could result in the fund's current expenses being allocated over a smaller asset base, leading to an increase in the fund's expense ratio. Redemptions of fund shares could also accelerate the realization of taxable capital gains in the fund if sales of securities result in capital gains. The impact of these transactions is likely to be greater when a significant investor purchases, redeems, or owns a substantial portion of the fund's shares. When possible, Fidelity will consider how to minimize these potential adverse effects, and may take such actions as it deems appropriate to address potential adverse effects, including redemption of shares in-kind rather than in cash or carrying out the transactions over a period of time, although there can be no assurance that such actions will be successful.</R>
<R> Loans and Other Direct Debt Instruments. Direct debt instruments are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments involve a risk of loss in case of default or insolvency of the borrower and may offer less legal protection to the purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation, or there may be a requirement that a fund supply additional cash to a borrower on demand. A fund may acquire loans by buying an assignment of all or a portion of the loan from a lender or by purchasing a loan participation from a lender or other purchaser of a participation.</R>
<R>Lenders and purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of interest and repayment of principal. If scheduled interest or principal payments are not made, the value of the instrument may be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured provide more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of failure to make scheduled interest or principal payments. However, there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the borrower's obligation, or that the collateral could be liquidated. Indebtedness of borrowers whose creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks and may be highly speculative. Borrowers that are in bankruptcy or restructuring may never pay off their indebtedness, or may pay only a small fraction of the amount owed. Direct indebtedness of foreign countries also involves a risk that the governmental entities responsible for the repayment of the debt may be unable, or unwilling, to pay interest and repay principal when due.</R>
<R>Direct lending and investments in loans through direct assignment of a financial institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the lender/purchaser could become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of lender liability, a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender. Direct debt instruments may also involve a risk of insolvency of the lending bank or other intermediary. </R>
A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness, the purchaser has direct recourse against the borrower, the purchaser may have to rely on the agent to apply appropriate credit remedies against a borrower. If assets held by the agent for the benefit of a purchaser were determined to be subject to the claims of the agent's general creditors, the purchaser might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or interest.
<R>Direct indebtedness may include letters of credit, revolving credit facilities, or other standby financing commitments that obligate lenders/purchasers to make additional cash payments on demand. These commitments may have the effect of requiring a lender/purchaser to increase its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise have done so, even if the borrower's condition makes it unlikely that the amount will ever be repaid.</R>
<R>For a Fidelity fund that limits the amount of total assets that it will invest in any one issuer or in issuers within the same industry, the fund generally will treat the borrower as the "issuer" of indebtedness held by the fund. In the case of loan participations where a bank or other lending institution serves as financial intermediary between a fund and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the fund the direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC interpretations require a fund, in appropriate circumstances, to treat both the lending bank or other lending institution and the borrower as "issuers" for these purposes. Treating a financial intermediary as an issuer of indebtedness may restrict a fund's ability to invest in indebtedness related to a single financial intermediary, or a group of intermediaries engaged in the same industry, even if the underlying borrowers represent many different companies and industries.</R>
Lower-Quality Debt Securities. Lower-quality debt securities include all types of debt instruments that have poor protection with respect to the payment of interest and repayment of principal, or may be in default. These securities are often considered to be speculative and involve greater risk of loss or price changes due to changes in the issuer's capacity to pay. The market prices of lower-quality debt securities may fluctuate more than those of higher-quality debt securities and may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty, which may follow periods of rising interest rates.
The market for lower-quality debt securities may be thinner and less active than that for higher-quality debt securities, which can adversely affect the prices at which the former are sold. Adverse publicity and changing investor perceptions may affect the liquidity of lower-quality debt securities and the ability of outside pricing services to value lower-quality debt securities.
Because the risk of default is higher for lower-quality debt securities, research and credit analysis are an especially important part of managing securities of this type. Such analysis may focus on relative values based on factors such as interest or dividend coverage, asset coverage, earnings prospects, and the experience and managerial strength of the issuer, in an attempt to identify those issuers of high-yielding securities whose financial condition is adequate to meet future obligations, has improved, or is expected to improve in the future.
A fund may choose, at its expense or in conjunction with others, to pursue litigation or otherwise to exercise its rights as a security holder to seek to protect the interests of security holders if it determines this to be in the best interest of the fund's shareholders.
Precious Metals. Precious metals, such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, at times have been subject to substantial price fluctuations over short periods of time and may be affected by unpredictable monetary and political policies such as currency devaluations or revaluations, economic and social conditions within a country, trade imbalances, or trade or currency restrictions between countries. The prices of gold and other precious metals, however, are less subject to local and company-specific factors than securities of individual companies. As a result, precious metals may be more or less volatile in price than securities of companies engaged in precious metals-related businesses. Investments in precious metals can present concerns such as delivery, storage and maintenance, possible illiquidity, and the unavailability of accurate market valuations. Although precious metals can be purchased in any form, including bullion and coins, a Fidelity fund intends to purchase only those forms of precious metals that are readily marketable and that can be stored in accordance with custody regulations applicable to mutual funds. A fund may incur higher custody and transaction costs for precious metals than for securities. Also, precious metals investments do not pay income.
For a fund to qualify as a regulated investment company under current federal tax law, gains from selling precious metals may not exceed 10% of the fund's gross income for its taxable year. This tax requirement could cause a fund to hold or sell precious metals or securities when it would not otherwise do so.
Preferred Stock represents an equity or ownership 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.
Real Estate Investment Trusts. Equity real estate investment trusts own real estate properties, while mortgage real estate investment trusts make construction, development, and long-term mortgage loans. Their value may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property of the trusts, the creditworthiness of the issuer, property taxes, interest rates, and tax and regulatory requirements, such as those relating to the environment. Both types of trusts are dependent upon management skill, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status of income under the Internal Revenue Code and failing to maintain exemption from the 1940 Act.
<R> Reforms and Government Intervention in the Financial Markets. Economic downturns can trigger various economic, legal, budgetary, tax, and regulatory reforms across the globe. Instability in the financial markets in the wake of the 2008 economic downturn led the U.S. Government and other governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that experienced extreme volatility, and in some cases, a lack of liquidity. Reforms are ongoing and their effects are uncertain. Federal, state, local, foreign, and other governments, their regulatory agencies, or self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which a fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Reforms may also change the way in which a fund is regulated and could limit or preclude a fund's ability to achieve its investment objective or engage in certain strategies. Also, while reforms generally are intended to strengthen markets, systems, and public finances, they could affect fund expenses and the value of fund investments.</R>
<R>The value of a fund's holdings is also generally subject to the risk of future local, national, or global economic disturbances based on unknown weaknesses in the markets in which a fund invests. In the event of such a disturbance, the issuers of securities held by a fund may experience significant declines in the value of their assets and even cease operations, or may receive government assistance accompanied by increased restrictions on their business operations or other government intervention. In addition, it is not certain that the U.S. Government or foreign governments will intervene in response to a future market disturbance and the effect of any such future intervention cannot be predicted.</R>
<R> Repurchase Agreements involve an agreement to purchase a security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price. The resale price reflects the purchase price plus an agreed-upon incremental amount which is unrelated to the coupon rate or maturity of the purchased security. As protection against the risk that the original seller will not fulfill its obligation, the securities are held in a separate account at a bank, marked-to-market daily, and maintained at a value at least equal to the sale price plus the accrued incremental amount. The value of the security purchased may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to purchase the security. In addition, delays or losses could result if the other party to the agreement defaults or becomes insolvent. A fund may be limited in its ability to exercise its right to liquidate assets related to a repurchase agreement with an insolvent counterparty. A Fidelity fund may engage in repurchase agreement transactions with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser.</R>
Restricted Securities are subject to legal restrictions on their sale. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or be costly to a fund. Restricted securities generally can be sold in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (1933 Act), or in a registered public offering. Where registration is required, the holder of a registered security may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expense and a considerable period may elapse between the time it decides to seek registration and the time it may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the holder might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed when it decided to seek registration of the security.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. In a reverse repurchase agreement, a fund sells a security to another party, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that security at an agreed-upon price and time. A Fidelity fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser. Such transactions may increase fluctuations in the market value of a fund's assets and, if applicable, a fund's yield, and may be viewed as a form of leverage.
<R> Securities Lending. Securities lending allows a fund to retain ownership of the securities loaned and, at the same time, earn additional income. The borrower provides the fund with collateral in an amount at least equal to the value of the securities loaned. The fund seeks to maintain the ability to obtain the right to vote or consent on proxy proposals involving material events affecting securities loaned. If the borrower defaults on its obligation to return the securities loaned because of insolvency or other reasons, a fund could experience delays and costs in recovering the securities loaned or in gaining access to the collateral. These delays and costs could be greater for foreign securities. If a fund is not able to recover the securities loaned, the fund may sell the collateral and purchase a replacement investment in the market. The value of the collateral could decrease below the value of the replacement investment by the time the replacement investment is purchased.</R>
<R> Securities of Other Investment Companies, including shares of closed-end investment companies (which include business development companies (BDCs)), unit investment trusts, and open-end investment companies, represent interests in professionally managed portfolios that may invest in any type of instrument. Investing in other investment companies involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, but may involve additional expenses at the investment company-level, such as portfolio management fees and operating expenses. For certain investment companies, such as BDCs, these expenses may be significant. Certain types of investment companies, such as closed-end investment companies, issue a fixed number of shares that trade on a stock exchange or over-the-counter at a premium or a discount to their NAV. Others are continuously offered at NAV, but may also be traded in the secondary market.</R>
<R>The securities of closed-end funds may be leveraged. As a result, a fund may be indirectly exposed to leverage through an investment in such securities. An investment in securities of closed-end funds that use leverage may expose a fund to higher volatility in the market value of such securities and the possibility that the fund's long-term returns on such securities will be diminished.</R>
The extent to which a fund can invest in securities of other investment companies may be limited by federal securities laws.
Short Sales. Short sales involve the market sale of a security a fund has borrowed from a prime broker with which it has a contractual relationship, with the expectation that the security will underperform either the market or the securities that the fund holds long. A fund closes a short sale by purchasing the same security at the current market price and delivering it to the prime broker.
Until a fund closes out a short position, the fund is obligated to pay the prime broker (from which it borrowed the security sold short) interest as well as any dividends that accrue during the period of the loan. While a short position is outstanding, a fund must also pledge a portion of its assets to the prime broker as collateral for the borrowed security. The collateral will be marked to market daily.
<R>Short positions create a risk that a fund will be required to cover them by buying the security at a time when the security has appreciated in value, thus resulting in a loss to the fund. A short position in a security poses more risk than holding the same security long. Because a short position loses value as the security's price increases, the loss on a short sale is theoretically unlimited. The loss on a long position is limited to what a fund originally paid for the security together with any transaction costs. A fund may not always be able to borrow a security the fund seeks to sell short at a particular time or at an acceptable price. As a result, a fund may be unable to fully implement its investment strategy due to a lack of available stocks or for other reasons. It is possible that the market value of the securities a fund holds in long positions will decline at the same time that the market value of the securities the fund has sold short increases, thereby increasing the fund's potential volatility. Because a fund may be required to pay dividends, interest, premiums and other expenses in connection with a short sale, any benefit for the fund resulting from the short sale will be decreased, and the amount of any ultimate gain will be decreased or of any loss will be increased, by the amount of such expenses.</R>
A fund may also enter into short sales against the box. Short sales "against the box" are short sales of securities that a fund owns or has the right to obtain (equivalent in kind or amount to the securities sold short). If a fund enters into a short sale against the box, it will be required to set aside securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short (or securities convertible or exchangeable into such securities) and will be required to hold such securities while the short sale is outstanding. A fund will incur transaction costs, including interest expenses, in connection with opening, maintaining, and closing short sales against the box.
Sources of Liquidity or Credit Support. Issuers may employ various forms of credit and liquidity enhancements, including letters of credit, guarantees, swaps, puts, and demand features, and insurance provided by domestic or foreign entities such as banks and other financial institutions. An adviser and its affiliates may rely on their evaluation of the credit of the issuer or the credit of the liquidity or credit enhancement provider in determining whether to purchase or hold a security supported by such enhancement. In evaluating the credit of a foreign bank or other foreign entities, factors considered may include whether adequate public information about the entity is available and whether the entity may be subject to unfavorable political or economic developments, currency controls, or other government restrictions that might affect its ability to honor its commitment. Changes in the credit quality of the issuer and/or entity providing the enhancement could affect the value of the security or a fund's share price.
Sovereign Debt Obligations are issued or guaranteed by foreign governments or their agencies, including debt of Latin American nations or other developing countries. Sovereign debt may be in the form of conventional securities or other types of debt instruments such as loans or loan participations. Sovereign debt of developing countries may involve a high degree of risk, and may be in default or present the risk of default. Governmental entities responsible for repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal and pay interest when due, and may require renegotiation or rescheduling of debt payments. In addition, prospects for repayment of principal and payment of interest may depend on political as well as economic factors. Although some sovereign debt, such as Brady Bonds, is collateralized by U.S. Government securities, repayment of principal and payment of interest is not guaranteed by the U.S. Government.
<R> Structured Securities (also called "structured notes") are derivative debt securities, the interest rate on or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. The value of the interest rate on and/or the principal of structured securities is determined by reference to changes in the value of a reference instrument ( e.g., a security or other financial instrument, asset, currency, interest rate, commodity, or index) or the relative change in two or more reference instruments. A structured security may be positively, negatively, or both positively and negatively indexed; that is, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument increases. Similarly, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument decreases. Further, the change in the principal amount payable with respect to, or the interest rate of, a structured security may be calculated as a multiple of the percentage change (positive or negative) in the value of the underlying reference instrument(s); therefore, the value of such structured security may be very volatile. Structured securities may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because the investor bears the risk of the reference instrument. Structured securities may also be more volatile, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities or more traditional debt securities. In addition, because structured securities generally are traded over-the-counter, structured securities are subject to the creditworthiness of the counterparty of the structured security, and their values may decline substantially if the counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates.</R>
<R> Temporary Defensive Policies. In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, a fund may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If a fund does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.</R>
Strategic Advisers Value Fund reserves the right to invest without limitation in preferred stocks and investment-grade debt instruments for temporary, defensive purposes.
<R> Transfer Agent Bank Accounts. Proceeds from shareholder purchases of a Fidelity fund may pass through a series of demand deposit bank accounts before being held at the fund's custodian. Redemption proceeds may pass from the custodian to the shareholder through a similar series of bank accounts.</R>
<R>If a bank account is registered to the transfer agent or an affiliate, who acts as an agent for the fund when opening, closing, and conducting business in the bank account, the transfer agent or an affiliate may invest overnight balances in the account in repurchase agreements. Any balances that are not invested in repurchase agreements remain in the bank account overnight. Any risks associated with such an account are investment risks of the fund. The fund faces the risk of loss of these balances if the bank becomes insolvent.</R>
Warrants. Warrants are instruments which entitle the holder to buy an equity security at a specific price for a specific period of time. Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss.
Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
Zero Coupon Bonds do not make interest payments; instead, they are sold at a discount from their face value and are redeemed at face value when they mature. Because zero coupon bonds do not pay current income, their prices can be more volatile than other types of fixed-income securities when interest rates change. In calculating a fund's dividend, a portion of the difference between a zero coupon bond's purchase price and its face value is considered income.
To the extent that Strategic Advisers grants investment management authority over an allocated portion of the fund's assets to a sub-adviser (see the section entitled "Management Contract"), that sub-adviser is authorized to provide the services described in the respective sub-advisory agreement, and in accordance with the policies described in this section.
Orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities are placed on behalf of the fund by Strategic Advisers (either directly or through its affiliates) or a sub-adviser, pursuant to authority contained in the management contract and the respective sub-advisory agreement.
Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be responsible for the placement of portfolio securities transactions for other investment companies and investment accounts for which it has or its affiliates have investment discretion.
The fund will not incur any commissions or sales charges when it invests in affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it may incur such costs when it invests directly in other types of securities, including ETFs.
Purchases and sales of equity securities on a securities exchange or OTC are effected through brokers who receive compensation for their services. Generally, compensation relating to securities traded on foreign exchanges will be higher than compensation relating to securities traded on U.S. exchanges and may not be subject to negotiation. Compensation may also be paid in connection with principal transactions (in both OTC securities and securities listed on an exchange) and agency OTC transactions executed with an electronic communications network (ECN) or an alternative trading system. Equity securities may be purchased from underwriters at prices that include underwriting fees.
Purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally made with an issuer or a primary market-maker acting as principal. Although there is no stated brokerage commission paid by the fund for any fixed-income security, the price paid by the fund to an underwriter includes the disclosed underwriting fee and prices in secondary trades usually include an undisclosed dealer commission or markup reflecting the spread between the bid and ask prices of the fixed-income security. New issues of equity and fixed-income securities may also be purchased in underwritten fixed price offerings.
The Trustees of the fund periodically review Strategic Advisers' and its affiliates' and each sub-adviser's performance of their respective responsibilities in connection with the placement of portfolio securities transactions on behalf of the fund. The Trustees also review the compensation paid by the fund over representative periods of time to determine if it was reasonable in relation to the benefits to the fund.
Strategic Advisers.
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Strategic Advisers, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, the following: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and characteristics of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for avoiding or lessening market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
The trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Strategic Advisers or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker may be higher than the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Strategic Advisers or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
Benefit to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these brokerage and research products or services with their own resources. To minimize the potential for conflicts of interest, the trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services Strategic Advisers or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates or have no explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.
Strategic Advisers' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Strategic Advisers or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Strategic Advisers or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately, rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) who have entered into arrangements with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with certain brokers, including National Financial Services LLC (NFS), with whom they are under common control, provided Strategic Advisers or its affiliates determine that these affiliates' trade execution abilities and costs are comparable to those of non-affiliated, qualified brokerage firms. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with brokers that use NFS as a clearing agent.
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
<R> Non-U.S. Transactions</R>
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers.
Trade Allocation
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Strategic Advisers to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC (Brandywine Global) .
As a sub-advisor to the fund, Brandywine Global seeks to obtain the most favorable total cost or proceeds in the execution of portfolio transactions. Brandywine Global considers a number of factors in determining broker selection including but not limited to: order size, price of the security, execution difficulty of the transaction, liquidity of the security, market and exchange conditions, order flow information, speed of execution desired, value if brokerage and research services provided and commission cost. The commission paid may not always reflect the lowest commission available in the market at a given point of time. Brandywine Global may receive research services from a broker in connection with initiating portfolio transactions for the fund. Such research may be available for the benefit of other accounts managed by Brandywine Global. Brandywine Global utilizes research, research-related products and other brokerage services provided to the firm on a third party research commission basis. Brandywine Global seeks to operate within the safe harbor of Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. In accordance with that safe harbor, Brandywine Global may execute client portfolio transactions through broker-dealers who provide research and brokerage services to Brandywine Global if Brandywine Global determines that the commissions paid are reasonable in relation to the research or brokerage services received. Trading strategy is determined on Brandywine Global's trading desk after order review by portfolio manager and trader. The portfolio managers and traders analyze brokerage and execution results through review of trading reports available through proprietary Brandywine Global systems and a third-party transaction review provider.
Cohen & Steers Capital Management, Inc. (Cohen & Steers) .
In selecting a broker to execute each particular transaction, Cohen & Steers generally will take the following into consideration (if and as relevant to the transaction): the best net price available; the reliability, integrity and financial condition of the broker; the size and difficulty in executing the order; and the value of the expected contribution of the broker to the investment performance of the fund on a continuing basis. Accordingly, the cost of the brokerage commissions to a fund in any transaction may be greater than that available from other brokers if the difference is reasonably justified by other aspects of the portfolio execution and other services offered. In addition, Cohen & Steers may receive research services from a broker in connection with initiating portfolio transactions for a fund. Research services include pricing and market data services. Cohen & Steers shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached any duty solely by reason of its having caused a fund to pay a broker an amount of commission for effecting a portfolio investment transaction in excess of the amount of commission another broker would have charged solely for execution services for that transaction if Cohen & Steers, as the case may be, determines in good faith that the commission was reasonable in relation to the value of the research service provided. Research and investment information may be provided by brokers at no cost to Cohen & Steers and available for the benefit of other accounts advised by Cohen & Steers and their affiliates, and not all of the information will be used in connection with a fund. While this information may be useful in varying degrees and may tend to reduce Cohen & Steers' expenses, it is not possible to estimate its value and in the opinion of Cohen & Steers it does not reduce Cohen & Steers' expenses in a determinable amount. The extent to which Cohen & Steers makes use of statistical, research and other services furnished by brokers is considered by Cohen & Steers in the allocation of brokerage business but there is no formula by which such business is allocated. Cohen & Steers does so in accordance with its judgment of the best interests of a fund. Cohen & Steers may also take into account payments made by brokers effecting transactions for a fund to other persons on behalf of a fund for services provided to it for which it would be obligated to pay (such as custodial and professional fees). Pursuant to its internal procedures, Cohen & Steers regularly evaluates the brokerage and research services provided by each broker-dealer that it uses.
<R></R>
LSV Asset Management (LSV).
In selecting brokers for transactions, LSV uses its best judgment to choose the broker most capable of providing the brokerage services necessary to obtain the best available price and most favorable execution, i.e., the price and commission which provides the most favorable total cost and proceeds reasonably obtainable under the circumstances. The full range and quality of brokerage services available will be considered in making these determinations. For example, brokers may be selected on the basis of their ability to provide certain services related to the requirements of the specific transaction, such as the following: the ability to match up natural order flow; the ability to control anonymity; timing or price limits; the quality of the back office; commission rates; use of automation; or the ability to provide information relating to the particular transaction. LSV periodically evaluates the quality of these brokerage services as provided by various firms.
LSV does not consider itself obligated to choose the broker offering the lowest available commission rate if, in its best judgment, there is a risk that the total cost or proceeds from the transaction might be less favorable than obtainable elsewhere. LSV keeps informed of rate structures offered by the brokerage community. In the selection of brokers, LSV does not solicit competitive bids or "shop" the order for a lower rate if this would, in its best judgment, be harmful to the execution process and not in the best interest of its clients.
<R>LSV may be in the position of buying or selling the same security for a number of its clients at roughly the same time. When effecting trades on an aggregated basis, LSV is required to allocate aggregated trades promptly and fairly. Securities purchased or proceeds of securities sold through aggregated orders on a particular trading day shall be allocated to the account of each portfolio managed by LSV that bought or sold such securities at the average execution price achieved on that particular trading day. If less than the total of the aggregated orders is executed on a particular trading day, purchased securities or proceeds are generally allocated pro rata among the participating portfolios in proportion to their planned participation in the aggregated orders subject to change at the trader's discretion, to take into consideration cash balances, the use of round lots, the completion of small orders or the reduction of settlement fees. Further, in the event the entire order is not filled, it is possible the client's portfolio will be deemed to have purchased or sold less than the entire number of securities sought to be purchased or sold on behalf of the client's portfolio. Aggregation may work on some occasions to the client's disadvantage.</R>
Commissions Paid
A fund may pay compensation including both commissions and spreads in connection with the placement of portfolio transactions. The amount of brokerage commissions paid by a fund may change from year to year because of, among other things, changing asset levels, shareholder activity, and/or portfolio turnover.
<R>For the fiscal periods ended May 31, 2012 and 2011, the fund's portfolio turnover rates were 32% and 49%, respectively. Variations in turnover rate may be due to a fluctuating volume of shareholder purchase and redemption orders, market conditions, and/or changes in Strategic Advisers' investment outlook.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund held securities issued by one or more of its regular brokers or dealers or a parent company of its regular brokers or dealers. The following table shows the aggregate value of the securities of the regular broker or dealer or parent company held by the fund as of the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012.</R>
<R> Fund |
Regular Broker or Dealer |
Aggregate Value of
|
<R>Strategic Advisers Value Fund |
Bank of America Corp. |
$ 15,498,945</R> |
<R> |
Citigroup, Inc. |
$ 42,466,369</R> |
<R> |
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. |
$ 26,843,850</R> |
<R> |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. |
$ 131,860,755</R> |
<R> |
Morgan Stanley |
$ 5,154,288</R> |
<R>The following table shows the total amount of brokerage commissions paid by the fund, comprising commissions paid on securities and/or futures transactions, as applicable, for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010. The total amount of brokerage commissions paid is stated as a dollar amount and a percentage of the fund's average net assets.</R>
|
Dollar
|
Percentage of
|
|
<R>2012 |
|
$ 1,828,869 |
0.03%</R> |
<R>2011 |
|
$ 3,537,790 |
0.06%</R> |
<R>2010 |
|
$ 1,764,543 |
0.15%</R> |
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012 the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R> Broker |
Affiliated With |
Commissions |
Percentage of
|
Percentage of
|
<R>SunTrust Capital Markets |
Brandywine |
$ 3,632 |
0.20% |
0.03%</R> |
<R>Weeden & Co. |
Brandywine |
$ 2,294 |
0.13% |
0.10%</R> |
<R>Wunderlich Securities |
Brandywine |
$ 20,171 |
1.10% |
0.31%</R> |
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2011 the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R> Broker |
Affiliated With |
Commissions</R> |
<R>NFS |
FMR LLC/ Strategic Advisers |
$ 71,544</R> |
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2010 the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R> Broker |
Affiliated With |
Commissions</R> |
<R>NFS |
FMR LLC/ Strategic Advisers |
$ 22,228</R> |
<R>Brokerage commissions may vary significantly from year to year due to a variety of factors, including the types of investments selected by the sub-adviser(s), changes in transaction costs, and market conditions.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid $577,466 in brokerage commissions to firms that may have provided research or brokerage services involving approximately $656,923,602 of transactions.</R>
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. The NAV of the fund is computed by adding the value of the fund's investments, cash, and other assets, subtracting its liabilities, and dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding.
The Board of Trustees has ultimate responsibility for pricing, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers has established the Strategic Advisers Fair Value Committee (Strategic Advisers Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities. The Strategic Advisers Committee may rely on information and recommendations provided by affiliates of Strategic Advisers in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, including the fair valuation of securities.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) held by the fund are valued at their respective NAVs. If an underlying fund's NAV is unavailable, shares of that underlying fund will be fair valued in good faith by the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Generally, other portfolio securities and assets held by the fund, as well as portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity non-money market fund, are valued as follows:
Most equity securities (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued at the official closing price or the last reported sale price or, if no sale has occurred, at the last quoted bid price on the primary market or exchange on which they are traded.
Debt securities and other assets for which market quotations are readily available may be valued at market values in the principal market in which they normally are traded, as furnished by recognized dealers in such securities or assets. Or, debt securities and convertible securities may be valued on the basis of information furnished by a pricing service that uses a valuation matrix which incorporates both dealer-supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Use of pricing services has been approved by the Board of Trustees. A number of pricing services are available, and the fund may use various pricing services or discontinue the use of any pricing service.
Short-term securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less for which market quotations and information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available are valued at amortized cost, which approximates current value.
Futures contracts are valued at the settlement or closing price. Options are valued at their market quotations, if available. Swaps are valued daily using quotations received from independent pricing services or recognized dealers.
Independent brokers or quotation services provide prices of foreign securities in their local currency. Fidelity Service Company, Inc. (FSC) gathers all exchange rates daily at the close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) using the last quoted bid price on the local currency and then translates the value of foreign securities from their local currencies into U.S. dollars. Any changes in the value of forward contracts due to exchange rate fluctuations and days to maturity are included in the calculation of NAV.
The Board of Trustees of the underlying Fidelity funds has ultimate responsibility for pricing portfolio securities and assets held by those funds, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to FMR. FMR has established the FMR Fair Value Committee (FMR Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities.
Other portfolio securities and assets for which market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available or, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, are deemed unreliable will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before a fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, that security will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. In fair valuing a security, the FMR Committee and the Strategic Advisers Committee may consider factors including price movements in futures contracts and ADRs, market and trading trends, the bid/ask quotes of brokers, and off-exchange institutional trading.
Portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity money market fund are valued on the basis of amortized cost. This technique involves initially valuing an instrument at its cost as adjusted for amortization of premium or accretion of discount rather than its current market value. The amortized cost value of an instrument may be higher or lower than the price a money market fund would receive if it sold the instrument.
At such intervals as they deem appropriate, the Trustees of an underlying Fidelity money market fund consider the extent to which NAV calculated using market valuations would deviate from the $1.00 per share calculated using amortized cost valuation. If the Trustees believe that a deviation from a money market fund's amortized cost per share may result in material dilution or other unfair results to shareholders, the Trustees have agreed to take such corrective action, if any, as they deem appropriate to eliminate or reduce, to the extent reasonably practicable, the dilution or unfair results. Such corrective action could include selling portfolio instruments prior to maturity to realize capital gains or losses or to shorten average portfolio maturity; withholding dividends; redeeming shares in kind; establishing NAV by using available market quotations; and such other measures as the Trustees may deem appropriate.
BUYING AND SELLING INFORMATION
Shares of the fund are offered only to certain clients of Strategic Advisers that have granted Strategic Advisers discretionary investment authority. If you are not currently a Strategic Advisers client, please call 1-800-544-3455 for more information.
Investors participating in a Strategic Advisers discretionary investment program are charged an annual advisory fee based on a percentage of the average market value of assets in their account. The stated fee is then reduced by a credit reflecting the amount of fees, if any, received by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates from mutual funds for investment management or certain other services.
The fund may make redemption payments in whole or in part in readily marketable securities or other property pursuant to procedures approved by the Trustees if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund. Such securities or other property will be valued for this purpose as they are valued in computing the fund's NAV. Shareholders that receive securities or other property will realize, upon receipt, a gain or loss for tax purposes, and will incur additional costs and be exposed to market risk prior to and upon the sale of such securities or other property.
The fund, in its discretion, may determine to issue its shares in kind in exchange for securities held by the purchaser having a value, determined in accordance with the fund's policies for valuation of portfolio securities, equal to the purchase price of the fund shares issued. The fund will accept for in-kind purchases only securities or other instruments that are appropriate under its investment objective and policies. In addition, the fund generally will not accept securities of any issuer unless they are liquid, have a readily ascertainable market value, and are not subject to restrictions on resale. All dividends, distributions, and subscription or other rights associated with the securities become the property of the fund, along with the securities. Shares purchased in exchange for securities in kind generally cannot be redeemed for fifteen days following the exchange to allow time for the transfer to settle.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
Dividends. A portion of the fund's income may qualify for the dividends-received deduction available to corporate shareholders, but it is unlikely that all of the fund's income will qualify for the deduction. A portion of the fund's dividends, when distributed to individual shareholders, may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
Capital Gain Distributions. The fund's long-term capital gain distributions, including amounts attributable to an underlying fund's long-term capital gain distributions, are federally taxable to shareholders generally as capital gains.
Returns of Capital. If the fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
Foreign Tax Credit or Deduction. Foreign governments may impose withholding taxes on dividends and interest earned by the fund with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. Foreign governments may also impose taxes on other payments or gains with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. As a general matter, if, at the close of its fiscal year, more than 50% of the fund's total assets is invested in securities of foreign issuers, the fund may elect to pass through eligible foreign taxes paid and thereby allow shareholders to take a deduction or, if they meet certain holding period requirements with respect to fund shares, a credit on their individual tax returns. In addition, if at the close of each quarter of its fiscal year at least 50% of the fund's total assets is represented by interests in other regulated investment companies, the same rules will apply to any foreign tax credits that underlying funds pass through to the fund. The amount of foreign taxes paid by the fund will be reduced to the extent that the fund lends securities over the dividend record date. Special rules may apply to the credit for individuals who receive dividends qualifying for the long-term capital gains tax rate. Because the fund does not currently anticipate that securities of foreign issuers or underlying regulated investment companies will constitute more than 50% of its total assets at the end of its fiscal year, or fiscal quarter, respectively, shareholders should not expect to be eligible to claim a foreign tax credit or deduction on their federal income tax returns with respect to foreign taxes withheld.
Tax Status of the Fund. The fund intends to qualify each year as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code so that it will not be liable for federal tax on income and capital gains distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify as a regulated investment company, and avoid being subject to federal income or excise taxes at the fund level, the fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains within each calendar year as well as on a fiscal year basis (if the fiscal year is other than the calendar year), and intends to comply with other tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies.
Other Tax Information. The information above is only a summary of some of the tax consequences generally affecting the fund and its shareholders, and no attempt has been made to discuss individual tax consequences. It is up to you or your tax preparer to determine whether the sale of shares of the fund resulted in a capital gain or loss or other tax consequence to you. In addition to federal income taxes, shareholders may be subject to state and local taxes on fund distributions, and shares may be subject to state and local personal property taxes. Investors should consult their tax advisers to determine whether the fund is suitable to their particular tax situation.
<R>The Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and executive officers of the trust and fund, as applicable, are listed below. The Board of Trustees governs the fund and is responsible for protecting the interests of shareholders. The Trustees are experienced executives who meet periodically throughout the year to oversee the fund's activities, review contractual arrangements with companies that provide services to the fund, oversee management of the risks associated with such activities and contractual arrangements, and review the fund's performance. If the interests of the fund and an underlying Fidelity fund were to diverge, a conflict of interest could arise and affect how the Trustees and Member of the Advisory Board fulfill their fiduciary duties to the affected funds. Strategic Advisers has structured the fund to avoid these potential conflicts, although there may be situations where a conflict of interest is unavoidable. In such instances, Strategic Advisers, the Trustees, and Member of the Advisory Board would take reasonable steps to minimize and, if possible, eliminate the conflict. Each of the Trustees oversees 26 funds advised by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate.</R>
The Trustees hold office without limit in time except that (a) any Trustee may resign; (b) any Trustee may be removed by written instrument, signed by at least two-thirds of the number of Trustees prior to such removal; (c) any Trustee who requests to be retired or who has become incapacitated by illness or injury may be retired by written instrument signed by a majority of the other Trustees; and (d) any Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of shareholders by a two-thirds vote of the outstanding voting securities of the trust. The executive officers and Advisory Board Member hold office without limit in time, except that any officer and Advisory Board Member may resign or may be removed by a vote of a majority of the Trustees at any regular meeting or any special meeting of the Trustees. Except as indicated, each individual has held the office shown or other offices in the same company for the past five years.
Each Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) is referred to herein as an Independent Trustee.
Experience, Skills, Attributes, and Qualifications of the Fund's Trustees. The Governance and Nominating Committee has adopted a statement of policy that describes the experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills that are necessary and desirable for potential Independent Trustee candidates (Statement of Policy). The Board believes that each Trustee satisfied at the time he or she was initially elected or appointed a Trustee, and continues to satisfy, the standards contemplated by the Statement of Policy. The Governance and Nominating Committee may also engage professional search firms to help identify potential Independent Trustee candidates with experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills consistent with the Statement of Policy. Additional criteria based on the composition and skills of the current Independent Trustees, as well as experience or skills that may be appropriate in light of future changes to board composition, business conditions, and regulatory or other developments, may be considered by the professional search firms and the Governance and Nominating Committee. In addition, the Board takes into account the Trustees' commitment and participation in Board and committee meetings, as well as their leadership of standing and ad hoc committees throughout their tenure.
In determining that a particular Trustee was and continues to be qualified to serve as a Trustee, the Board has considered a variety of criteria, none of which, in isolation, was controlling. The Board believes that, collectively, the Trustees have balanced and diverse experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills, which allow the Board to operate effectively in governing the fund and protecting the interests of shareholders. Information about the specific experience, skills, attributes, and qualifications of each Trustee, which in each case led to the Board's conclusion that the Trustee should serve (or continue to serve) as a trustee of the fund, is provided below.
Board Structure and Oversight Function. Roger T. Servison is an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) and currently serves as Chairman. The Trustees have determined that an interested Chairman is appropriate and benefits shareholders because an interested Chairman has a personal and professional stake in the quality and continuity of services provided to the fund. Independent Trustees exercise their informed business judgment to appoint an individual of their choosing to serve as Chairman, regardless of whether the Trustee happens to be independent or a member of management. The Independent Trustees have determined that they can act independently and effectively without having an Independent Trustee serve as Chairman and that a key structural component for assuring that they are in a position to do so is for the Independent Trustees to constitute a substantial majority for the Board. The Independent Trustees also regularly meet in executive session. Ralph F. Cox serves as the lead Independent Trustee and as such (i) acts as a liaison between the Independent Trustees and management with respect to matters important to the Independent Trustees and (ii) with management prepares agendas for Board meetings.
<R>Fidelity funds are overseen by different Boards of Trustees. The fund's Board oversees asset allocation funds as well as the Fidelity enhanced index funds. Other boards oversee Fidelity's investment-grade bond, money market, and asset allocation funds and Fidelity's equity and high income funds. The fund may invest in Fidelity funds overseen by such other Boards. The use of separate Boards, each with its own committee structure, allows the Trustees of each group of Fidelity funds to focus on the unique issues of the funds they oversee, including common research, investment, and operational issues.</R>
<R>The Trustees primarily operate as a full Board, but also operate in committees, to facilitate the timely and efficient consideration of all matters of importance to the Trustees, the fund, and fund shareholders and to facilitate compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and oversight of the fund's activities and associated risks. The Board has charged Strategic Advisers and its affiliates with (i) identifying events or circumstances the occurrence of which could have demonstrably adverse effects on the fund's business and/or reputation; (ii) implementing processes and controls to lessen the possibility that such events or circumstances occur or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur; and (iii) creating and maintaining a system designed to evaluate continuously business and market conditions in order to facilitate the identification and implementation processes described in (i) and (ii) above. Because the day-to-day operations and activities of the fund are carried out by or through Strategic Advisers, its affiliates and other service providers, the fund's exposure to risks is mitigated but not eliminated by the processes overseen by the Trustees. Board oversight of different aspects of the fund's activities is exercised primarily through the full Board, but also through the Audit and Compliance Committee. Appropriate personnel, including but not limited to the fund's Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), FMR's internal auditor, the independent accountants, the fund's Treasurer and portfolio management personnel, make periodic reports to the Board's committees, as appropriate. The responsibilities of each committee, including their oversight responsibilities, are described further under "Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees."</R>
Interested Trustees *:
Correspondence intended for each Trustee who is an interested person may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience +</R> |
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<R>Roger T. Servison (66)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Servison is Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Servison serves as President of Strategic New Business Development for Fidelity Investments and serves as a Director of Strategic Advisers. Previously, Mr. Servison oversaw Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company (2005-2006) and Strategic Advisers (2005-2007). Mr. Servison also served as President and a Director of Fidelity Brokerage Services (Japan), LLC (1994-2004). |
<R>Derek L. Young (47)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Mr. Young is Vice President of Fidelity's Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present), President and a Director of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011-present), President of Fidelity Global Asset Allocation (GAA) (2011-present), and Vice Chairman of Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (2011-present). Previously, Mr. Young served as Chief Investment Officer of GAA (2009-2011) and as a portfolio manager. |
<R>* Trustees have been determined to be "Interested Trustees" by virtue of, among other things, their affiliation with the trust or various entities under common control with Strategic Advisers.</R>
<R> + The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.</R>
<R> Independent Trustees :</R>
<R>Correspondence intended for each Independent Trustee (that is, the Trustees other than the Interested Trustees) may be sent to Fidelity Investments, P.O. Box 55235, Boston, Massachusetts 02205-5235.</R>
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience +</R> |
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<R>Peter C. Aldrich (68)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Aldrich is a Director of the National Bureau of Economic Research and a Director of the funds of BlackRock Realty Group (2006-present). Previously, Mr. Aldrich served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010), a Managing Member of Poseidon, LLC (foreign private investment, 1998-2004), and Chairman and Managing Member of AEGIS, LLC (foreign private investment, 1997-2004). Mr. Aldrich also served as Faculty Chairman of The Research Council on Global Investment of The Conference Board (business and professional education non-profit, 1999-2004). Mr. Aldrich is a Member of the Boards of Trustees of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. |
<R>Amy Butte Liebowitz (44)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Ms. Butte Liebowitz is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of TILE Financial (financial internet service, 2008-present). Previously, Ms. Butte Liebowitz served as the Chief Financial Officer and member of the Board of Directors of MF Global (broker-dealer, 2006-2008), and Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the New York Stock Exchange (2004-2006). Ms. Butte Liebowitz is a member of the Boards of Directors of Accion International and the New York Women's Forum, as well as a selected participant in the World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader program. |
<R>Ralph F. Cox (79)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Cox is President of RABAR Enterprises (management consulting for the petroleum industry). Mr. Cox is a Director of Abraxas Petroleum (exploration and production). Mr. Cox is a member of the Advisory Boards of the Business and Engineering Schools of Texas A&M University and the Engineering School of University of Texas at Austin. Previously, Mr. Cox served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010) and as an Advisory Director of CH2M Hill Companies (engineering, 1981-2011). Mr. Ralph F. Cox and Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. are not related. |
<R>Karen Kaplan (52)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Ms. Kaplan is President of Hill Holliday (advertising and specialized marketing, 2007-present). Ms. Kaplan is a Director of DSM (dba Delta Dental, Doral, and DentaQuest) (2004-present), Member of the Board of Governors of the Chief Executives' Club of Boston (2010-present), Member of the Board of the Massachusetts Conference for Women (2008-present), and Director of the Executive Committee of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce (2006-present). She is also a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, an action oriented community of the most effective CEOs, heads of state, Nobel Prize winners, and non-governmental leaders in the world. Previously, Ms. Kaplan served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010), President of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2008-2010), Treasurer of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2002-2006), Vice Chair of the Board of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (2003-2010), Director of United Way of Massachusetts Bay (2004-2006), Director of ADVO (direct mail marketing, 2003-2007), and Director of Tweeter Home Entertainment Group (2006-2007). |
<R> + The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.</R>
<R> Advisory Board Member and Executive Officers :</R>
<R>Correspondence intended for each executive officer and Howard E. Cox, Jr. may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.</R>
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupation</R> |
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<R>Howard E. Cox, Jr. (68)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Member of the Advisory Board of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II. Mr. Cox is a Member of the Advisory Board of Devonshire Investors (2009-present). Mr. Cox serves as an Advisory Partner of Greylock (venture capital) and a Director of Stryker Corporation (medical products and services). Previously, Mr. Cox served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010) and a Member of the Secretary of Defense's Business Board of Directors (2008-2010). Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. and Mr. Ralph F. Cox are not related. |
<R>Kenneth B. Robins (42)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> President and Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Robins also serves as President and Treasurer of other Fidelity Equity and High Income Funds (2008-present) and Assistant Treasurer of other Fidelity Fixed Income and Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present). Mr. Robins is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). Previously, Mr. Robins served as Deputy Treasurer of the Fidelity funds (2005-2008) and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2006-2008). |
<R>Marc Bryant (46)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010</R> Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of the fund. Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Fidelity Investments. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments, Mr. Bryant served as a Senior Vice President and the Head of Global Retail Legal for AllianceBernstein L.P. (2006-2010), and as the General Counsel for ProFund Advisors LLC (2001-2006). |
<R>Elizabeth Paige Baumann (43)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Officer of the fund. Ms. Baumann also serves as AML Officer of the Fidelity funds (2012-present) and The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2012-present), Chief AML Officer of FMR LLC (2012-present), and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Ms. Baumann served as Vice President and Deputy Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2007-2012). |
<R>Nicholas E. Steck (48)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Financial Officer of the fund. Mr. Steck serves as Senior Vice President of Fidelity Pricing and Cash Management Services (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. During the period 2002 to 2009, Mr. Steck served as a Compliance Officer of FMR, Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc., FMR LLC, Fidelity Research & Analysis (U.K.) Inc., Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc. |
<R>Laura M. Doherty (43)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Compliance Officer of the fund. Ms. Doherty also serves as Senior Vice President of the Office of the Chief Compliance Officer (2008-present). Previously, Ms. Doherty served as a Vice President in Fidelity's Corporate Audit department (1998-2008). |
<R>Adrien E. Deberghes (44)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Deberghes also serves as Assistant Treasurer (2010-present) and Deputy Treasurer (2008-present) of other Fidelity funds and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2008-present). Previously, Mr. Deberghes served as Senior Vice President of Mutual Fund Administration at State Street Corporation (2007-2008), Senior Director of Mutual Fund Administration at Investors Bank & Trust (2005-2007), and Director of Finance for Dunkin' Brands (2000-2005). |
<R>Jonathan Davis (43)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Davis is also Assistant Treasurer of certain Fidelity funds. Mr. Davis is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Mr. Davis served as Vice President and Associate General Counsel of FMR LLC (2003-2010). |
<R>Margaret A. Carey (38)</R> |
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<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 </R> Assistant Secretary of the fund. Ms. Carey is also Assistant Secretary of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). |
Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees. The Board of Trustees has established two committees to supplement the work of the Board as a whole. The members of each committee are Independent Trustees.
<R>The Audit and Compliance Committee is composed of Ms. Butte Liebowitz (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Ralph Cox, and Ms. Kaplan. All committee members must be able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including a company's balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. The committee determines whether at least one member of the committee is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined in rules promulgated by the SEC under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The committee normally meets in conjunction with in person meetings of the Board of Trustees, or more frequently as called by the Chair. The committee meets separately periodically with the fund's Treasurer, the fund's Chief Financial Officer, the fund's CCO, personnel responsible for the internal audit function of FMR LLC, and the fund's outside auditors. The committee has direct responsibility for the appointment, compensation, and oversight of the work of the outside auditors employed by the fund for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or related work. The committee assists the Trustees in overseeing and monitoring: (i) the systems of internal accounting and financial controls of the fund and the fund's service providers, (ii) the financial reporting processes of the fund, (iii) the independence, objectivity and qualification of the auditors to the fund, (iv) the annual audits of the fund's financial statements, and (v) the accounting policies and disclosures of the fund. The committee considers and acts upon (i) the provision by any outside auditor of any non-audit services for any fund, and (ii) the provision by any outside auditor of certain non-audit services to fund service providers and their affiliates to the extent that such approval (in the case of this clause (ii)) is required under applicable regulations (Auditor Independence Regulations) of the SEC. In furtherance of the foregoing, the committee has adopted (and may from time to time amend or supplement) and provides oversight of policies and procedures for non-audit engagements by outside auditors of the fund. It is responsible for approving all audit engagement fees and terms for the fund and for resolving disagreements between the fund and any outside auditor regarding the fund's financial reporting, and has sole authority to hire and fire any auditor. Auditors of the fund report directly to the committee. The committee will obtain assurance of independence and objectivity from the outside auditors, including a formal written statement delineating all relationships between the auditor and the fund and any service providers consistent with Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Ethics and Independence Rule 3526, Communication with Audit Committees Concerning Independence. The committee will discuss with the outside auditors any such disclosed relationships and their impact on the auditor's independence and objectivity. The committee will receive reports of compliance with provisions of the Auditor Independence Regulations relating to the hiring of employees or former employees of the outside auditors. It oversees and receives reports on the fund's service providers' internal controls and reviews with management, internal auditors, and outside auditors the adequacy and effectiveness of the fund's and service providers' accounting and financial controls, including: (i) any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting that are reasonably likely to adversely affect the fund's ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial data; (ii) any change in the fund's internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the fund's internal control over financial reporting; and (iii) any fraud, whether material or not, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the fund's or service provider's internal controls over financial reporting. The committee will review with counsel any legal matters that may have a material impact on the fund's financial statements and any material reports or inquiries received from regulators or governmental agencies. The committee reviews at least annually a report from the outside auditor describing (i) any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality control review, peer review, or PCAOB examination of the auditing firm and (ii) any material issues raised by any inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional authorities of the auditing firm since the most recent report and in each case any steps taken to deal with such issues. The committee will oversee and receive reports on the fund's financial reporting process and will receive reports from an outside auditor relating to (i) critical accounting policies and practices used by the fund, (ii) alternative accounting treatments that the auditor has discussed with Strategic Advisers, and (iii) other material written communications between the auditor and Strategic Advisers (as determined by the auditor). The committee will discuss with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors and, if appropriate, internal audit personnel of FMR LLC, their qualitative judgments about the appropriateness and acceptability of accounting principles and financial disclosure practices used or proposed for adoption by the fund. The committee will review with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors, and internal audit personnel of FMR LLC (to the extent relevant) the results of audits of the fund's financial statements. The committee will review periodically the fund's major internal controls exposures and the steps that have been taken to monitor and control such exposures. The committee also oversees the administration and operation of the compliance policies and procedures of the fund and its service providers as required by Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act. The committee is responsible for the review and approval of policies and procedures relating to (i) provisions of the Code of Ethics, (ii) anti-money laundering requirements, (iii) compliance with investment restrictions and limitations, (iv) privacy, (v) recordkeeping, and (vi) other compliance policies and procedures which are not otherwise delegated to another committee of the Board of Trustees or reserved to the Board itself. The committee has responsibility for recommending to the Board the designation of a CCO of the fund. The committee serves as the primary point of contact between the CCO and the Board, it oversees the annual performance review and compensation of the CCO and, if required, makes recommendations to the Board with respect to the removal of the appointed CCO. The committee receives reports on significant correspondence with regulators or governmental agencies, employee complaints or published reports which raise concerns regarding compliance matters, and copies of significant non-routine correspondence with the SEC. The committee receives reports from the CCO including the annual report concerning the fund's compliance policies as required by Rule 38a-1 and quarterly reports in respect of any breaches of fiduciary duty or violations of federal securities laws. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The Governance and Nominating Committee is composed of Mr. Ralph Cox (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, and Mses. Butte Liebowitz and Kaplan. The committee meets as called by the Chair. With respect to fund governance and board administration matters, the committee periodically reviews procedures of the Board of Trustees and its committees (including committee charters) and periodically reviews compensation of Independent Trustees. The committee monitors corporate governance matters and makes recommendations to the Board of Trustees on the frequency and structure of the Board of Trustee meetings and on any other aspect of Board procedures. It reviews the performance of legal counsel employed by the funds and the Independent Trustees. On behalf of the Independent Trustees, the committee will make such findings and determinations as to the independence of counsel for the Independent Trustees as may be necessary or appropriate under applicable regulations or otherwise. The committee is also responsible for Board administrative matters applicable to Independent Trustees, such as expense reimbursement policies and compensation for attendance at meetings, conferences and other events. The committee monitors compliance with, acts as the administrator of, and makes determinations in respect of, the provisions of the code of ethics and any supplemental policies regarding personal securities transactions applicable to the Independent Trustees. The committee monitors the functioning of each Board committee and makes recommendations for any changes, including the creation or elimination of standing or ad hoc Board committees. The committee monitors regulatory and other developments to determine whether to recommend modifications to the committee's responsibilities or other Trustee policies and procedures in light of rule changes, reports concerning "best practices" in corporate governance and other developments in mutual fund governance. The committee recommends that the Board establish such special or ad hoc Board committees as may be desirable or necessary from time to time in order to address ethical, legal, or other matters that may arise. The committee also oversees the annual self-evaluation of the Board of Trustees and establishes procedures to allow it to exercise this oversight function. In conducting this oversight, the committee shall address all matters that it considers relevant to the performance of the Board of Trustees and shall report the results of its evaluation to the Board of Trustees, including any recommended amendments to the principles of governance, and any recommended changes to the fund's or the Board of Trustees' policies, procedures, and structures. The committee reviews periodically the size and composition of the Board of Trustees as a whole and recommends, if necessary, measures to be taken so that the Board of Trustees reflects the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and diversity required for the Board as a whole and contains at least the minimum number of Independent Trustees required by law. The committee makes nominations for the election or appointment of Independent Trustees and for membership on committees. The committee shall have authority to retain and terminate any third-party advisers, including authority to approve fees and other retention terms. Such advisers may include search firms to identify Independent Trustee candidates and board compensation consultants. The committee may conduct or authorize investigations into or studies of matters within the committee's scope of responsibilities, and may retain, at the fund's expense, such independent counsel or other advisers as it deems necessary. The committee will consider nominees to the Board of Trustees recommended by shareholders based upon the criteria applied to candidates presented to the committee by a search firm or other source. Recommendations, along with appropriate background material concerning the candidate that demonstrates his or her ability to serve as an Independent Trustee of the fund, should be submitted to the Chair of the committee at the address maintained for communications with Independent Trustees. If the committee retains a search firm, the Chair will generally forward all such submissions to the search firm for evaluation. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by each Trustee in the fund and in all funds in the aggregate within the same fund family overseen by the Trustee for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011 (or as of March 31, 2012 for Mr. Young, Trustee as of March 1, 2012).</R>
<R>Interested Trustees</R> |
||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Roger T. Servison |
Derek L. Young</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Value Fund |
none |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none</R> |
<R>Independent Trustees</R> |
||||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Peter C. Aldrich |
Amy Butte Liebowitz |
Ralph F. Cox |
Karen Kaplan</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Value Fund |
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none</R> |
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the compensation of each Trustee and Member of the Advisory Board for his or her services for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, or calendar year ended December 31, 2011, as applicable.</R>
<R>Compensation Table 1</R> |
|||||
<R>
AGGREGATE
|
Peter C.
|
Amy Butte
|
Ralph F.
|
Karen
|
</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Value Fund |
$ 13,965 |
$ 10,752 |
$ 13,965 |
$ 13,965 |
</R> |
<R>
TOTAL COMPENSATION
|
$ 95,000 |
$ 23,750 |
$ 95,000 |
$ 95,000 |
</R> |
<R> 1 Roger T. Servison, Howard E. Cox, Jr., and Derek L. Young are interested persons and are compensated by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate (including FMR).</R>
<R> 2 Effective September 8, 2011, Ms. Butte Liebowitz serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.</R>
<R> A Reflects compensation received for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011, for 22 funds of two trusts.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and officers of the fund owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the fund's total outstanding shares.</R>
CONTROL OF INVESTMENT ADVISERS
<R>FMR LLC, as successor by merger to FMR Corp., is the ultimate parent company of Strategic Advisers and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis). The voting common shares of FMR LLC are divided into two series. Series B is held predominantly by members of the Edward C. Johnson 3d and Abigail P. Johnson family, directly or through trust and limited liability companies, and is entitled to 49% of the vote on any matter acted upon by the voting common shares. Series A is held predominantly by non-Johnson family member employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates and is entitled to 51% of the vote on any such matter. The Johnson family group and all other Series B shareholders have entered into a shareholders' voting agreement under which all Series B shares will be voted in accordance with the majority vote of Series B shares. Under the 1940 Act, control of a company is presumed where one individual or group of individuals owns more than 25% of the voting securities of that company. Therefore, through their ownership of voting common shares and the execution of the shareholders' voting agreement, members of the Johnson family may be deemed, under the 1940 Act, to form a controlling group with respect to FMR LLC.</R>
At present, the primary business activities of FMR LLC and its subsidiaries are: (i) the provision of investment advisory, management, shareholder, investment information and assistance and certain fiduciary services for individual and institutional investors; (ii) the provision of securities brokerage services; (iii) the management and development of real estate; and (iv) the investment in and operation of a number of emerging businesses.
Brandywine Global, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 2929 Arch Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104. Brandywine Global is a wholly owned, independently operated subsidiary of Legg Mason, Inc.
Cohen & Steers, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 280 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017. Cohen & Steers is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cohen & Steers, Inc. (CNS).
<R></R>
LSV, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 155 North Wacker Drive, Suite 4600, Chicago, IL 60606. LSV is a Delaware general partnership between its employees (59%) and SEI Funds, Inc. (41%), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI Investments Company.
<R>Pyramis is a registered investment adviser. FMR LLC is the ultimate parent company of Pyramis. Information regarding the ownership of FMR LLC is disclosed above.</R>
<R>Strategic Advisers, Brandywine Global, Cohen & Steers, LSV, Pyramis (the Investment Advisers), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and the fund have adopted codes of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act that set forth employees' fiduciary responsibilities regarding the fund, establish procedures for personal investing, and restrict certain transactions. Employees subject to the codes of ethics, including the Investment Advisers' investment personnel, may invest in securities for their own investment accounts, including securities that may be purchased or held by the fund.</R>
The fund has entered into a management contract with Strategic Advisers, pursuant to which Strategic Advisers furnishes investment advisory and other services.
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
<R>Strategic Advisers has retained Brandywine Global, Cohen & Steers, LSV, and Pyramis to serve as sub-advisers for the fund. The sub-advisers do not sponsor the fund.</R>
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
Management and Sub-Advisory Services. Under the terms of its management contract with the fund, Strategic Advisers acts as investment adviser and, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, directs the investments of the fund in accordance with its investment objective, policies and limitations. Strategic Advisers is authorized, in its discretion, to allocate the fund's assets pursuant to its investment strategy. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates provide the fund with all necessary office facilities and personnel for servicing the fund's investments, compensate all officers of the fund and all Trustees who are interested persons of the trust or of Strategic Advisers, and compensate all personnel of the fund or Strategic Advisers performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities.
In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, provide the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the fund. These services include providing facilities for maintaining the fund's organization; supervising relations with custodians, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, underwriters and other persons dealing with the fund; preparing all general shareholder communications and conducting shareholder relations; maintaining the fund's records and the registration of the fund's shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws; developing management and shareholder services for the fund; and furnishing reports, evaluations and analyses on a variety of subjects to the Trustees.
Under its respective sub-advisory agreement, and subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, each sub-adviser directs the investment of its allocated portion of the fund's assets in accordance with the fund's investment objective, policies and limitations.
Management-Related Expenses. In addition to the management fee payable to Strategic Advisers and the fees payable to the transfer agent and pricing and bookkeeping agent, the fund pays all of its expenses that are not assumed by those parties. The fund pays for the typesetting, printing, and mailing of its proxy materials to shareholders, legal expenses, and the fees of the custodian, auditor, and Independent Trustees. The fund's management contract further provides that the fund will pay for typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, notices, and reports to shareholders; however, under the terms of the fund's transfer agent agreement, the transfer agent bears these costs. Other expenses paid by the fund include interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, the fund's proportionate share of insurance premiums and Investment Company Institute dues, and the costs of registering shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws. The fund is also liable for such non-recurring expenses as may arise, including costs of any litigation to which the fund may be a party, and any obligation it may have to indemnify its officers and Trustees with respect to litigation.
Management Fees. For the services of Strategic Advisers under the management contract, the fund pays Strategic Advisers a monthly management fee calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets; provided, however, that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 0.70% of the fund's average daily net assets.
<R>In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the fund until September 30, 2014. The fee waiver by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns. Prior to April 1, 2010, Strategic Advisers had contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.13% of the average daily net assets of the fund. </R>
The following table shows the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers for the past three fiscal years and the amount of waivers reducing management fees for the fund.
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, voluntarily reimburse all or a portion of the fund's operating expenses. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid for these expense reimbursements in the amount that expenses fall below the limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Expense reimbursements by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns, and repayment of the reimbursement by the fund will decrease its returns.
<R> Sub-Adviser - Brandywine Global. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Brandywine Global pursuant to which Brandywine Global may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Brandywine Global fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Brandywine Global pursuant to a separately negotiated investment mandate (a "Strategy"). The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Brandywine Global under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Brandywine Global pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - Cohen & Steers. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Cohen & Steers pursuant to which Cohen & Steers may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Cohen & Steers fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Cohen & Steers pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Cohen & Steers under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Cohen & Steers pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - LSV. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with LSV pursuant to which LSV may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays LSV fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by LSV pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by LSV under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by LSV pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - Pyramis. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Pyramis pursuant to which Pyramis may provide investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R>Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Pyramis fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Pyramis pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Pyramis under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Pyramis pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
Pyramis has not currently been allocated a portion of the fund's assets to manage.
The following table shows the aggregate amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to unaffiliated sub-advisers for the past three fiscal years.
<R>Differences between the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers and the amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to unaffiliated sub-advisers may be due to expense estimates, which are accrued in the period to which they relate and adjusted when actual amounts are known.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - Strategic Advisers. </R>
<R>John A. Stone and Kristina F. Stookey are employees of Strategic Advisers, a subsidiary of FMR LLC and an affiliate of FMR. Strategic Advisers is the adviser to the fund.</R>
<R>Mr. Stone is lead portfolio manager, and Ms. Stookey is co-portfolio manager of the fund and each receives compensation for their services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of each portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by Strategic Advisers or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
Each portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The primary components of each portfolio manager's bonus are based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of each portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account, and (ii) the investment performance of a broad range of Strategic Advisers funds and accounts, including the fund. Accounts may include model portfolios designed for asset allocation, retirement planning, or tax-sensitive goals. The pre-tax investment performance of each portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to his or her tenure on those fund(s) and account(s), and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over his or her tenure. Each component is calculated separately over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with each portfolio manager's tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a benchmark index and peer group. A subjective component of the bonus is based on each portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of Strategic Advisers.
The portion of each portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the fund is based on the fund's pre-tax investment performance measured against the Russell 1000 ® Value Index, and the pre-tax investment performance of the fund within the Morningstar ® Large Value peer group. Each portfolio manager may be compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, Strategic Advisers' parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement, and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.
A portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in a fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, a portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. A portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as a portfolio manager must allocate his or her time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate. A portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Stone as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Fund ($6,962 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Stone was $50,001 - $100,000.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Ms. Stookey as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Fund ($6,962 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Fund beneficially owned by Ms. Stookey was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Brandywine Global. All Portfolio Managers receive a competitive base salary. In addition, from the firm's profits, a bonus is paid quarterly and based on the performance of their investment strategies relative to a relevant peer-group universe over one-quarter, one-, three- and five-year time periods. After this performance-based incentive compensation is allocated, profits associated with individual product groups are allocated as follows: a majority is retained within the product group and the remainder is allocated to a pool shared by all product groups. More subjective measurements of an individual's contributions to the success of their product group and to the overall success of the firm are considered as part of the individual allocation decision. Finally, all investment professionals are eligible for options on Legg Mason stock, provided from time-to-time at Legg Mason's discretion to its investment management subsidiaries. Brandywine Global believes this system achieves the goal of retaining top-quality investment professionals, as it provides extremely competitive compensation with entrepreneurial potential, and of fostering excellent performance, growth, and teamwork.
Conflicts of Interest. Brandywine Global believes that there are no material conflicts of interest that arise in connection with its simultaneous management of its various portfolios. All portfolios within a given investment style are treated in a similar fashion for all investment decisions, unless a client provides specific investment restrictions. All trade executions of a given investment decision are allocated in an unbiased manner to avoid any conflict over allocation of investment opportunities.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Otto as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes assets of Strategic Advisers Value Fund ($1,697 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Otto was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Tonkovich as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes assets of Strategic Advisers Value Fund ($1,697 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Tonkovich was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Kirby as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes assets of Strategic Advisers Value Fund ($1,697 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Kirby was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Cohen & Steers. Compensation of Cohen & Steers portfolio managers and other investment professionals has three primary components: (1) a base salary, (2) an annual cash bonus and (3) long-term stock-based compensation consisting generally of restricted stock units of Cohen & Steers' parent, CNS. Cohen & Steers' investment professionals, including the portfolio managers, also receive certain retirement, insurance and other benefits that are broadly available to all of its employees. Compensation of investment professionals is reviewed primarily on an annual basis. Cash bonuses, stock-based compensation awards, and adjustments in base salary are typically paid or put into effect in the January following the fiscal year-end of CNS.
Cohen & Steers compensates its portfolio managers based primarily on the scale and complexity of their portfolio responsibilities and the total return performance of funds and accounts managed by the portfolio manager compared with appropriate peer groups or benchmarks. In evaluating the performance of a portfolio manager, primary emphasis is normally placed on one- and three-year performance. Performance is evaluated on a pre-tax and pre-expense basis. In addition to rankings within peer groups of funds on the basis of absolute performance, consideration may also be given to risk-adjusted performance. For managers responsible for multiple funds and accounts, investment performance is evaluated on an aggregate basis. Portfolio managers are also evaluated on the basis of their success in managing their dedicated team of analysts. Base compensation for portfolio managers of Cohen & Steers varies in line with the portfolio manager's seniority and position with the firm.
Salaries, bonuses and stock-based compensation are also influenced by the operating performance of Cohen & Steers and CNS. While the annual salaries of the Cohen & Steers' portfolio managers are fixed, cash bonuses and stock based compensation may fluctuate significantly from year-to-year, based on changes in manager performance and other factors.
In addition, Mr. Helm, the Portfolio Manager for the Fund at Cohen & Steers, and the Cohen & Steers investment team that is assembled in Seattle, Washington to manage large cap value portfolios are entitled to additional compensation based on a percentage of revenues, less allocated expenses, associated with fees paid to Cohen & Steers with respect to large cap value portfolios.
Conflicts of Interests. Although the potential for conflicts of interest exist when an investment adviser and portfolio managers manage other accounts that invest in securities in which a fund may invest or that may pursue a strategy similar to one of the fund's strategies (collectively, "Similar Accounts"), Cohen & Steers has procedures in place that are designed to ensure that all accounts are treated fairly and that the fund is not disadvantaged.
For example, a portfolio manager may have conflicts of interest in allocating management time, resources and investment opportunities among a fund and the other accounts or vehicles he advises. In addition, due to differences in the investment strategies or restrictions among a fund and the other accounts, a portfolio manager may take action with respect to another account that differs from the action taken with respect to a fund. In some cases, another account managed by a portfolio manager may provide more revenue to Cohen & Steers. While this may appear to create additional conflicts of interest for the portfolio manager in the allocation of management time, resources and investment opportunities, Cohen & Steers strives to ensure that portfolio managers endeavor to exercise their discretion in a manner that is equitable to all interested persons. In this regard, in the absence of specific account-related limitations (such as client-imposed restrictions or lack of available cash), it is the general policy of Cohen & Steers to allocate investment ideas pro rata to all accounts with the same primary investment strategy, except where an allocation would not produce a meaningful position size. In addition, a fund, as a registered investment company, is subject to different regulations than certain of the other accounts, and, consequently, may not be permitted to engage in all the investment techniques or transactions, or to engage in such techniques or transactions to the same degree, as the other accounts.
Certain Cohen & Steers portfolio managers may from time to time manage one or more accounts on behalf of Cohen & Steers and its affiliated companies (the "CNS Accounts"). Certain securities held and traded in the CNS Accounts also may be held and traded in one or more client accounts. It is the policy of Cohen & Steers; however, not to put the interests of the CNS Accounts ahead of the interests of client accounts. Cohen & Steers may aggregate orders of client accounts with those of the CNS Accounts; however, under no circumstances will preferential treatment be given to the CNS Accounts. For all orders involving the CNS Accounts, purchases or sales will be allocated prior to trade placement, and orders that are only partially filled will be allocated across all accounts in proportion to the shares each account, including the CNS Accounts, was designated to receive prior to trading, except as noted below. As a result, it is expected that the CNS Accounts will receive the same average price as other accounts included in the aggregated order. Shares will not normally be allocated or re-allocated to the CNS Accounts after trade execution or after the average price is known. However, in the event so few shares of an order are executed that a pro-rata allocation is not practical, a rotational system of allocation may be used; however, the CNS Accounts will never be part of that rotation or receive shares of a partially filled order other than on a pro-rata basis.
Because certain CNS Accounts are managed with a cash management objective, it is possible that a security will be sold out of the CNS Accounts but continue to be held for one or more client accounts. In situations when this occurs, such security will remain in a client account only if Cohen & Steers, acting in their reasonable judgment and consistent with its fiduciary duties, believes this is appropriate for, and consistent with the objectives and profile of, the client account.
Certain accounts managed by Cohen & Steers may compensate Cohen & Steers using performance based fees. Orders for these accounts will be aggregated, to the extent possible, with any other account managed by Cohen & Steers, regardless of the method of compensation. In the event such orders are aggregated, allocation of partially-filled orders will be made on a pro-rata basis in accordance with pre-trade indications. An account's fee structure is not considered when making allocation decisions.
Finally, the structure of a portfolio manager's compensation may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. A portfolio manager's base pay and bonus tend to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management. As such, there may be an indirect relationship between a portfolio manager's marketing or sales efforts and his or her bonus.
Cohen & Steers has adopted certain compliance procedures that are designed to address the above conflicts as well as other types of conflicts of interests. However, there is no guarantee that such procedures will detect each and every situation where a conflict arises.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Helm as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R> |
Registered
|
Other Pooled
|
Other
|
<R>Number of Accounts Managed |
5 |
2 |
17</R> |
<R>Number of Accounts Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees |
none |
none |
1</R> |
<R>Assets Managed (in millions) |
$ 2,155 |
$ 368 |
$ 753</R> |
<R>Assets Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees (in millions) |
none |
none |
$ 71</R> |
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Fund ($1,531 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Helm was none.</R>
<R></R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - LSV. The portfolio managers' compensation consists of a salary and discretionary bonus. Each of the portfolio managers is a partner of LSV and thereby receives a portion of the overall profit of LSV as part of his ownership interests. The bonus is based upon the profitability of LSV and individual performance. Individual performance is subjective and may be based on a number of factors, such as the individual's leadership and contribution to the strategic planning and development of the investment group.
Conflicts of Interest. The same team of portfolio managers is responsible for the day-to-day management of all of LSV's accounts. A potential conflict of interest could arise in relation to accounts with a performance-based fee relative to other accounts in the same strategy without a performance-based fee and accounts in which employees may be invested. LSV has policies and procedures to monitor for this potential conflict and designed to ensure that investment opportunities are fairly allocated to all clients.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Lakonishok as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes assets of Strategic Advisers Value Fund ($1,695 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Lakonishok was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Vermeulen as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes assets of Strategic Advisers Value Fund ($1,695 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Vermeulen was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Mansharamani as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes assets of Strategic Advisers Value Fund ($1,695 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Mansharamani was none.</R>
Proxy Voting - Strategic Advisers.
The following Proxy Voting Guidelines were established by the Board of Trustees of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of the fund, after consultation with Strategic Advisers. (The guidelines are reviewed periodically by Strategic Advisers and its affiliates and by the Independent Trustees of the fund, and, accordingly, are subject to change.)
I. General Principles
A. The funds in the trust generally intend to vote shares of underlying funds using echo voting procedures (that is, in the same proportion as the holders of all other shares of the particular underlying fund).
B. Any proposals not covered by paragraph A above or other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate Strategic Advisers analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review and approval by the General Counsel or Compliance Officer of FMR or the General Counsel of FMR LLC.
Sub-Advisers:
Proxy voting policies and procedures are used by a sub-adviser to determine how to vote proxies relating to the securities held by its allocated portion of the fund's assets. The proxy voting policies and procedures used by the sub-advisers are described below.
Proxy Voting - Brandywine Global.
Policy. Brandywine Global has a responsibility to its clients for voting proxies for portfolio securities consistent with the best economic interests of its clients. Brandywine Global maintains written policies and procedures as to the handling, research, voting and reporting of proxy voting and makes appropriate disclosures about our firm's proxy policies and practices. The policy and practice includes the fact that the firm has a responsibility to monitor corporate actions, receive and vote client proxies and disclose any potential conflicts of interest as well as making information available to clients about the voting of proxies for their portfolio securities and maintaining relevant and required records.
Background. Proxy voting is an important right of shareholders and reasonable care and diligence must be undertaken to ensure that such rights are properly and timely exercised.
Investment advisers registered with the SEC, and which exercise voting authority with respect to client securities, are required by Rule 206(4)-6 of the Advisers Act to (a) adopt and implement written policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to ensure that client securities are voted in the best interests of clients, which must include how an adviser addresses material conflicts that may arise between an adviser's interests and those of its clients; (b) to disclose to clients how they may obtain information from the adviser with respect to the voting of proxies for their securities; (c) to describe to clients a summary of its proxy voting policies and procedures and, upon request, furnish a copy to its clients; and (d) maintain certain records relating to the adviser's proxy voting activities when the adviser does have proxy voting authority.
Responsibility. Compliance has the responsibility for the implementation and monitoring of the firm's proxy voting policy, practices, disclosures and record keeping, including outlining voting guidelines in the procedures.
Procedures. Brandywine Global has implemented policies and procedures that we believe are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interest of clients, in accordance with our fiduciary duties and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 ("Advisers Act"). Our authority to vote the proxies of our clients is established through investment management agreements or comparable documents.
In exercising its voting authority, Brandywine Global will not consult or enter into agreements with officers, directors or employees of its parent, Legg Mason Inc., or any of its affiliates, regarding the voting of any securities owned by its clients.
While the guidelines included in the procedures are intended to provide a benchmark for voting standards, each vote is ultimately cast on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration Brandywine Global's contractual obligations to our clients and all other relevant facts and circumstances at the time of the vote (such that these guidelines may be overridden to the extent Brandywine Global believes appropriate).
Voting Authority
Voting Guidelines
Voting Records & Client Notification
A proxy log shall be maintained by Brandywine Global that includes the issuer name, exchange ticker symbol, CUSIP number, shareholder meeting date, brief identification of the matter voted on, whether the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a shareholder of the issuer, whether a vote was cast on the matter, record of how the vote was cast, and whether the vote was cast for or against the recommendation of the issuer's management team.
In addition, a description of these Policies shall be provided to new clients prior to the inception of their account, simultaneous with the provision of Brandywine Global's Disclosure Brochure whenever possible.
Administration of Proxies
Administration of Client Requests
Identifying Potential Conflict of interest
Personal Conflicts
1. any potential personal conflict with regard to a specific proxy; and
2. any potential conflict of which they become aware relating to another voting person.
1 17 CFR Part 275 [Release No. IA-2106; File No. S7-38-02], RIN 3235-AI65
Professional Conflicts
Proxy Voting - Cohen & Steers.
The following is a summary of Cohen & Steers' Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures.
Voting rights are an important component of corporate governance. Cohen & Steers has three overall objectives in exercising voting rights:
<R>A. General Proxy Voting Guidelines </R>
<R> 1. Objectives</R>
<R>Voting rights are an important component of corporate governance. Cohen & Steers has three overall objectives in exercising voting rights:</R>
<R> Responsibility. Cohen & Steers shall seek to ensure that there is an effective means in place to hold companies accountable for their actions. While management must be accountable to its board, the board must be accountable to a company's shareholders. Although accountability can be promoted in a variety of ways, protecting shareholder voting rights may be among our most important tools.</R>
<R> Rationalizing Management and Shareholder Concerns. Cohen & Steers seeks to ensure that the interests of a company's management and board are aligned with those of the company's shareholders. In this respect, compensation must be structured to reward the creation of shareholder value.</R>
<R> Shareholder Communication. Since companies are owned by their shareholders, Cohen & Steers seeks to ensure that management effectively communicates with its owners about the company's business operations and financial performance. It is only with effective communication that shareholders will be able to assess the performance of management and to make informed decisions on when to buy, sell or hold a company's securities.</R>
<R>In exercising voting rights, Cohen & Steers shall conduct itself in accordance with the general principles set forth below.</R>
<R>The ability to exercise a voting right with respect to a security is a valuable right and, therefore, must be viewed as part of the asset itself.</R>
<R>In exercising voting rights, Cohen & Steers shall engage in a careful evaluation of issues that may materially affect the rights of shareholders and the value of the security.</R>
<R>Consistent with general fiduciary principles, the exercise of voting rights shall always be conducted with reasonable care, prudence and diligence.</R>
<R>In exercising voting rights on behalf of clients, Cohen & Steers shall conduct itself in the same manner as if Cohen & Steers were the constructive owner of the securities.</R>
<R>To the extent reasonably possible, Cohen & Steers shall participate in each shareholder voting opportunity. </R>
<R>Voting rights shall not automatically be exercised in favor of management-supported proposals.</R>
<R>Cohen & Steers, and its officers and employees, shall never accept any item of value in consideration of a favorable proxy voting decision.</R>
<R>Set forth below are general guidelines that Cohen & Steers shall follow in exercising proxy voting rights:</R>
<R> Prudence. In making a proxy voting decision, Cohen & Steers shall give appropriate consideration to all relevant facts and circumstances, including the value of the securities to be voted and the likely effect any vote may have on that value. Since voting rights must be exercised on the basis of an informed judgment, investigation shall be a critical initial step.</R>
<R> Third Party Views. While Cohen & Steers may consider the views of third parties, Cohen & Steers shall never base a proxy voting decision solely on the opinion of a third party. Rather, decisions shall be based on a reasonable and good faith determination as to how best to maximize shareholder value. </R>
<R> Shareholder Value. Just as the decision whether to purchase or sell a security is a matter of judgment, determining whether a specific proxy resolution will increase the market value of a security is a matter of judgment as to which informed parties may differ. In determining how a proxy vote may affect the economic value of a security, Cohen & Steers shall consider both short-term and long-term views about a company's business and prospects, especially in light of our projected holding period on the stock (e.g., Cohen & Steers may discount long-term views on a short-term holding).</R>
<R>B. Specific Guidelines </R>
<R> Uncontested Director Elections </R>
<R>Votes on director nominees should be made on a case-by-case basis using a "mosaic" approach, where all factors are considered in director elections and where no single issue is deemed to be determinative. For example, a nominee's experience and business judgment may be critical to the long-term success of the portfolio company, notwithstanding the fact that he or she may serve on the board of more than four public companies. In evaluating nominees, we consider the following factors:</R>
<R>Whether the nominee attended less than 75 percent of the board and committee meetings without a valid excuse for the absences;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is an inside or affiliated outside director and sits on the audit, compensation, or nominating committees;</R>
<R>Whether the board ignored a significant shareholder proposal that was approved by a (i) majority of the shares outstanding or (ii) majority of the votes cast for two consecutive years;</R>
<R>Whether the board, without shareholder approval, to our knowledge instituted a new poison pill plan, extended an existing plan, or adopted a new plan upon the expiration of an existing plan during the past year;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is an inside or affiliated outside director and the full board serves as the audit, compensation, or nominating committee or the company does not have one of these committees;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is an insider or affiliated outsider on boards that are not at least majority independent;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is the CEO of a publicly-traded company who serves on more than two public boards;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is the chairperson of more than one publicly-traded company;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee serves on more than four public company boards;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee serves on the audit committee where there is evidence (such as audit reports or reports mandated under the Sarbanes Oxley Act) that there exists material weaknesses in the company's internal controls;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee serves on the compensation committee if that director was present at the time of the grant of backdated options or options the pricing or the timing of which we believe may have been manipulated to provide additional benefits to executives;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee has a material related party transaction or is believed by us to have a material conflict of interest with the portfolio company;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee (or the overall board) in our view has a record of making poor corporate or strategic decisions or has demonstrated an overall lack of good business judgment, including, among other things, whether the company's total shareholder return is in the bottom 25% of its peer group over the prior five years;</R>
<R>Material failures of governance, stewardship, risk oversight, or fiduciary responsibilities at the company; </R>
<R>Failure to replace management as appropriate; and </R>
<R>Egregious actions related to a director's service on other boards that raise substantial doubt about his or her ability to effectively oversee management and serve the best interests of shareholders at any company.</R>
<R>We recognize the importance of shareholder access to the ballot process as a means to ensure that boards do not become self-perpetuating and self-serving. However, we are also aware that some proposals may promote certain interest groups and could be disruptive to the nomination process. We will generally vote against proxy access except in instances where companies have displayed a lack of shareholder accountability and where the proposal is specifically defined ( i.e. minimum ownership threshold, duration, etc.). </R>
<R> Director Nominees in a Contested Election </R>
<R>By definition, this type of board candidate or slate runs for the purpose of seeking a significant change in corporate policy or control. Therefore, the economic impact of the vote in favor of or in opposition to that director or slate must be analyzed using a higher standard such as is normally applied to changes in control. Criteria for evaluating director nominees as a group or individually should also include: the underlying reason why the new slate (or individual director) is being proposed; performance; compensation; corporate governance provisions and takeover activity; criminal activity; attendance at meetings; investment in the company; interlocking directorships; inside, outside and independent directors; number of other board seats; and other experience. It is impossible to have a general policy regarding director nominees in a contested election.</R>
<R> Reimbursement of Proxy Solicitation Expenses </R>
<R>Decisions to provide full reimbursement for dissidents waging a proxy contest should be made on a case-by-case basis. </R>
<R> Ratification of Auditors </R>
<R>We vote for proposals to ratify auditors, unless an auditor has a financial interest in or association with the company, and is therefore not independent; or there is reason to believe that the independent auditor has rendered an opinion that is neither accurate nor indicative of the company's financial position. </R>
<R>Generally, we vote against auditor ratification and withhold votes from audit committee members if non-audit fees exceed audit fees.</R>
<R>We vote on a case-by-case basis on auditor rotation proposals. Criteria for evaluating the rotation proposal include, but are not limited to: tenure of the audit firm; establishment and disclosure of a renewal process whereby the auditor is regularly evaluated for both audit quality and competitive price; length of the rotation period advocated in the proposal; and any significant audit related issues.</R>
<R>Generally, we vote against auditor indemnification and limitation of liability; however we recognize there may be situations where indemnification and limitations on liability may be appropriate. </R>
<R>While we recognize that a takeover attempt can be a significant distraction for the board and management to deal with, the simple fact is that the possibility of a corporate takeover keeps management focused on maximizing shareholder value. As a result, Cohen & Steers opposes measures that are designed to prevent or obstruct corporate takeovers because they can entrench current management. The following are our guidelines on change of control issues:</R>
<R> Shareholder Rights Plans </R>
<R>We acknowledge that there are arguments for and against shareholder rights plans, also known as "poison pills." Companies should put their case for rights plans to shareholders. </R>
<R>We review on a case-by-case basis management proposals to ratify a poison pill. We generally look for shareholder friendly features including a two- to three-year sunset provision, a permitted bid provision and a 20 percent or higher flip-in provision. </R>
<R> Greenmail</R>
<R>We vote for proposals to adopt anti-greenmail charter or bylaw amendments or otherwise restrict a company's ability to make greenmail payments. </R>
<R> Unequal Voting Rights </R>
<R>Generally, we vote against dual-class recapitalizations as they offer an effective way for a firm to thwart hostile takeovers by concentrating voting power in the hands of management or other insiders. </R>
<R> Classified Boards </R>
<R>We generally vote in favor of shareholder proposals to declassify a board of directors, although we acknowledge that a classified board may be in the long-term best interests of a company in certain situations, such as continuity of a strong board and management team or for certain types of companies. In voting on shareholder proposals to declassify a board of directors, we evaluate all facts and circumstances surrounding such proposal, including whether the shareholder proposing the de-classification has an agenda in making such proposal that may be at odds with the long-term best interests of the company or whether it would be in the best interests of the company to thwart a shareholder's attempt to control the board of directors.</R>
<R> Cumulative Voting</R>
<R>Having the ability to cumulate our votes for the election of directors - that is, cast more than one vote for a director about whom they feel strongly - generally increases shareholders' rights to effect change in the management of a corporation. However, we acknowledge that cumulative voting promotes special candidates who may not represent the interests of all, or even a majority, of shareholders. In voting on proposals to institute cumulative voting, we therefore evaluate all facts and circumstances surrounding such proposal and we generally vote against cumulative voting where the company has good corporate governance practices in place, including majority voting for board elections and de-staggered boards.</R>
<R> Shareholder Ability to Call Special Meeting </R>
<R>Cohen & Steers votes on a case-by-case basis for shareholder proposals requesting companies to amend their governance documents (bylaws and/or charter) in order to allow shareholders to call special meetings. We recognize the importance on shareholder ability to call a special meeting and generally will vote for such shareholder proposals where the shareholder(s) making such proposal hold at least 20% of the company's outstanding shares. However, we are also aware that some proposals are put forth in order to promote the agenda(s) of certain special interest groups and could be disruptive to the management of the company, and in those cases we will vote against such shareholder proposals. </R>
<R> Shareholder Ability to Act by Written Consent </R>
<R>We generally vote against proposals to allow or facilitate shareholder action by written consent. The requirement that all shareholders be given notice of a shareholders' meeting and matters to be discussed therein seems to provide a reasonable protection of minority shareholder rights. </R>
<R> Shareholder Ability to Alter the Size of the Board </R>
<R>We generally vote for proposals that seek to fix the size of the board and vote against proposals that give management the ability to alter the size of the board without shareholder approval. While we recognize the importance of such proposals, we are however also aware that these proposals are sometimes put forth in order to promote the agenda(s) of certain special interest groups and could be disruptive to the management of the company.</R>
<R> Miscellaneous Board Provisions </R>
<R> Board Committees </R>
<R>Boards should delegate key oversight functions, such as responsibility for audit, nominating and compensation issues, to independent committees. The chairman and members of any committee should be clearly identified in the annual report. Any committee should have the authority to engage independent advisors where appropriate at the company's expense. </R>
<R>Audit, nominating and compensation committees should consist solely of non-employee directors, who are independent of management. </R>
<R> Separate Chairman and CEO Positions </R>
<R>We will generally vote for proposals looking to separate the CEO and Chairman roles. We do acknowledge, however, that under certain circumstances, it may be reasonable for the CEO and Chairman roles to be held by a single person. </R>
<R> Lead Directors and Executive Sessions </R>
<R>In cases where the CEO and Chairman roles are combined, we will vote for the appointment of a "lead" (non-insider) director and for regular "executive" sessions (board meetings taking place without the CEO/Chairman present).</R>
<R> Majority of Independent Directors </R>
<R>We vote for proposals that call for the board to be composed of a majority of independent directors. We believe that a majority of independent directors can be an important factor in facilitating objective decision making and enhancing accountability to shareholders.</R>
<R> Independent Committees</R>
<R>We vote for shareholder proposals requesting that the board's audit, compensation, and nominating committees consist exclusively of independent directors. </R>
<R> Stock Ownership Requirements </R>
<R>We support measures requiring senior executives to hold a minimum amount of stock in a company (often expressed as a percentage of annual compensation), which may include restricted stock or restricted stock units.</R>
<R> Term of Office</R>
<R>We vote against shareholder proposals to limit the tenure of outside directors. Term limits pose artificial and arbitrary impositions on the board and could harm shareholder interests by forcing experienced and knowledgeable directors off the board.</R>
<R> Director and Officer Indemnification and Liability Protection</R>
<R>Proposals concerning director and officer indemnification and liability protection should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.</R>
<R> Board Size</R>
<R>We generally vote for proposals to limit the size of the board to 15 members or less.</R>
<R> Majority Vote Standard</R>
<R>We generally vote for proposals asking for the board to initiate the appropriate process to amend the company's governance documents (charter or bylaws) to provide that director nominees shall be elected by the affirmative vote of the majority of votes cast at an annual meeting of shareholders. We would generally review on a case-by-case basis proposals that address alternative approaches to a majority vote requirement.</R>
<R> Confidential Voting</R>
<R>We vote for shareholder proposals requesting that companies adopt confidential voting, use independent tabulators, and use independent inspectors of election as long as the proposals include clauses for proxy contests as follows: in the case of a contested election, management should be permitted to request that the dissident group honor its confidential voting policy. If the dissidents agree, the policy remains in place. If the dissidents do not agree, the confidential voting policy is waived.</R>
<R>We also vote for management proposals to adopt confidential voting.</R>
<R>We review on a case-by-case basis bundled or "conditioned" proxy proposals. In the case of items that are conditioned upon each other, we examine the benefits and costs of the packaged items. In instances where the joint effect of the conditioned items is not in shareholders' best interests, we vote against the proposals. If the combined effect is positive, we support such proposals. In the case of bundled director proposals, we will vote for the entire slate only if we would have otherwise voted for each director on an individual basis.</R>
<R> Date/Location of Meeting </R>
<R>We vote against shareholder proposals to change the date or location of the shareholders' meeting. No one site will meet the needs of all shareholders.</R>
<R> Adjourn Meeting if Votes are Insufficient. </R>
<R>Open-end requests for adjournment of a shareholder meeting generally will not be supported. However, where management specifically states the reason for requesting an adjournment and the requested adjournment is necessary to permit a proposal that would otherwise be supported under this policy to be carried out, the adjournment request will be supported. </R>
<R> Disclosure of Shareholder Proponents </R>
<R>We vote for shareholder proposals requesting that companies disclose the names of shareholder proponents. Shareholders may wish to contact the proponents of a shareholder proposal for additional information. </R>
<R> Increase Additional Common Stock </R>
<R>We generally vote for increases in authorized shares, provided that the increase is not greater than three times the number of shares outstanding and reserved for issuance (including shares reserved for stock-related plans and securities convertible into common stock, but not shares reserved for any poison pill plan).</R>
<R>Votes generally are cast in favor of proposals to authorize additional shares of stock except where the proposal:</R>
<R>creates a blank check preferred stock; or</R>
<R>establishes classes of stock with superior voting rights.</R>
<R> Blank Check Preferred Stock </R>
<R>Votes generally are cast in opposition to management proposals authorizing the creation of new classes of preferred stock with unspecific voting, conversion, distribution and other rights, and management proposals to increase the number of authorized blank check preferred shares. We may vote in favor of this type of proposal when we receive assurances to our reasonable satisfaction that (i) the preferred stock was authorized by the board for the use of legitimate capital formation purposes and not for anti-takeover purposes, and (ii) no preferred stock will be issued with voting power that is disproportionate to the economic interests of the preferred stock. These representations should be made either in the proxy statement or in a separate letter from the company to Cohen & Steers.</R>
<R> Pre-emptive Rights </R>
<R>We believe that the governance and regulation of public equity markets allow for adequate shareholder protection against dilution. Further, we believe that companies should have more flexibility to issue shares without costly and time constraining rights offerings. As such, we do not believe that pre-emptive rights are necessary and as such, we generally vote for the issuance of equity shares without pre-emptive rights. On a limited basis, we will vote for shareholder pre-emptive rights where such pre-emptive rights are necessary, taking into account the best interests of the company's shareholders.</R>
<R>We acknowledge that international local practices typically call for shareholder pre-emptive rights when a company seeks authority to issue shares (e.g., UK authority for the issuance of only up to 5% of outstanding shares without pre-emptive rights). While we would prefer that companies be permitted to issue shares without pre-emptive rights, in deference to international local practices, in markets outside the US we will approve issuance requests without pre-emptive rights for up to 100% of a company's outstanding capital.</R>
<R> Dual Class Capitalizations </R>
<R>Because classes of common stock with unequal voting rights limit the rights of certain shareholders, we vote against adoption of a dual or multiple class capitalization structure.</R>
<R> Restructurings/Recapitalizations </R>
<R>We review proposals to increase common and/or preferred shares and to issue shares as part of a debt restructuring plan on a case-by-case basis. In voting, we consider the following issues: </R>
<R>dilution - how much will ownership interest of existing shareholders be reduced, and how extreme will dilution to any future earnings be?</R>
<R>change in control - will the transaction result in a change in control of the company?</R>
<R>bankruptcy - generally, approve proposals that facilitate debt restructurings unless there are clear signs of self-dealing or other abuses.</R>
<R> Share Repurchase Programs </R>
<R>Boards may institute share repurchase or stock buy-back programs for a number of reasons. Cohen & Steers will generally vote in favor of such programs where the repurchase would be in the long-term best interests of shareholders, and where the company is not thought to be able to use the cash in a more useful way.</R>
<R>We will vote against such programs when shareholders' interests could be better served by deployment of the cash for alternative uses, or where the repurchase is a defensive maneuver or an attempt to entrench management.</R>
<R> Targeted Share Placements </R>
<R>These shareholder proposals ask companies to seek stockholder approval before placing 10% or more of their voting stock with a single investor. The proposals are typically in reaction to the placement by various companies of a large block of their voting stock in an ESOP, parent capital fund or with a single friendly investor, with the aim of protecting themselves against a hostile tender offer. These proposals are voted on a case-by-case basis after reviewing the individual situation of the company receiving the proposal.</R>
<R> Executive and Director Compensation </R>
<R> Executive Compensation ("Say on Pay") </R>
<R>Votes regarding shareholder "say on pay" are determined on a case-by-case basis. Generally, we believe that executive compensation should be tied to the long-term performance of the executive and the company both in absolute and relative to the peer group. We therefore monitor the compensation practices of portfolio companies to determine whether compensation to these executives is commensurate to the company's total shareholder return (TSR) ( i.e., we generally expect companies that pay their executives at the higher end of the pay range to also be performing commensurately well).</R>
<R>Further, pay elements that are not directly based on performance are generally evaluated on a case-by-case basis considering the context of a company's overall pay program and demonstrated pay-for-performance philosophy. The following list highlights certain negative pay practices that carry significant weight in this overall consideration and may result in adverse vote recommendations:</R>
<R>Repricing or replacing of underwater stock options/SARS without prior shareholder approval (including cash buyouts and voluntary surrender of underwater options);</R>
<R>Excessive perquisites or tax gross-ups;</R>
<R>New or extended agreements that provide for:</R>
<R>CIC payments exceeding 3 times base salary and bonus;</R>
<R>CIC severance payments without involuntary job loss or substantial diminution of duties ("single" or "modified single" triggers);</R>
<R>CIC payments with excise tax gross-ups (including "modified" gross-ups).</R>
<R>Also, we generally vote for shareholder proposals that seek additional disclosure of executive and director pay information.</R>
<R> Frequency of Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation ("Say When on Pay") </R>
<R>We generally vote for annual advisory votes on compensation as we note that executive compensation is also evaluated on an annual basis by the company's compensation committee.</R>
<R> Stock-based Incentive Plans </R>
<R>Votes with respect to compensation plans should be determined on a case-by-case basis. The analysis of compensation plans focuses primarily on the transfer of shareholder wealth (the dollar cost of pay plans to shareholders). Other matters included in our analysis are the amount of the company's outstanding stock to be reserved for the award of stock options or restricted stock, whether the exercise price of an option is less than the stock's fair market value at the date of the grant of the options, and whether the plan provides for the exchange of outstanding options for new ones at lower exercise prices. Every award type is valued. An estimated dollar cost for the proposed plan and all continuing plans is derived. This cost, dilution to shareholders' equity, will also be expressed as a percentage figure for the transfer of shareholder wealth and will be considered along with dilution to voting power. Once the cost of the plan is estimated, it is compared to an allowable industry-specific and market cap-based dilution cap. </R>
<R>If the proposed plan cost is above the allowable cap, an against vote is indicated. If the proposed cost is below the allowable cap, a vote for the plan is indicated unless the plan violates the repricing guidelines. If the company has a history of repricing options or has the express ability to reprice underwater stock options without first securing shareholder approval under the proposed plan, the plan receives an against vote - even in cases where the plan cost is considered acceptable based on the quantitative analysis. </R>
<R>We vote against equity plans that have high average three year burn rates, unless the company has publicly committed to reduce the burn rate to a rate that is comparable to its peer group (as determined by Cohen & Steers). </R>
<R> Approval of Cash or Cash-and-Stock Bonus Plans </R>
<R>We vote for cash or cash-and-stock bonus plans to exempt the compensation from limits on deductibility under the provisions of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code.</R>
<R> Reload/Evergreen Features </R>
<R>We will generally vote against plans that enable the issuance of reload options and that provide an automatic share replenishment ("evergreen") feature.</R>
<R> Golden Parachutes </R>
<R>In general, the guidelines call for voting against "golden parachute" plans because they impede potential takeovers that shareholders should be free to consider. In particular, we oppose the use of employment contracts that result in cash grants of greater than three times annual compensation (salary and bonus) and generally withhold our votes at the next shareholder meeting for directors who to our knowledge approved golden parachutes.</R>
<R> Voting on Golden Parachutes in an Acquisition, Merger, Consolidation, or Proposed Sale </R>
<R>We vote on a case-by-case basis on proposals to approve the company's golden parachute compensation. Features that may lead to a vote against include:</R>
<R>Potentially excessive severance payments (cash grants of greater than three times annual compensation (salary and bonus));</R>
<R>Recently adopted or materially amended agreements that include excessive excise tax gross-up provisions (since prior annual meeting);</R>
<R>Recently adopted or materially amended agreements that include modified single triggers (since prior annual meeting);</R>
<R>Single trigger payments that will happen immediately upon a change in control, including cash payment and such items as the acceleration of performance-based equity despite the failure to achieve performance measures;</R>
<R>Single-trigger vesting of equity based on a definition of change in control that requires only shareholder approval of the transaction (rather than consummation);</R>
<R>Recent amendments or other changes that may make packages so attractive as to influence merger agreements that may not be in the best interests of shareholders;</R>
<R>In the case of a substantial gross-up from pre-existing/grandfathered contract: the element that triggered the gross-up ( i.e., option mega-grants at low point in stock price, unusual or outsized payments in cash or equity made or negotiated prior to the merger); or </R>
<R>The company's assertion that a proposed transaction is conditioned on shareholder approval of the golden parachute advisory vote.</R>
<R> 401(k) Employee Benefit Plans </R>
<R>We vote for proposals to implement a 401(k) savings plan for employees.</R>
<R> Employee Stock Purchase Plans </R>
<R>We support employee stock purchase plans, although we generally believe the discounted purchase price should be at least 85% of the current market price.</R>
<R> Option Expensing </R>
<R>We vote for shareholder proposals to expense fixed-price options.</R>
<R> Vesting </R>
<R>We believe that restricted stock awards normally should vest over at least a two-year period.</R>
<R> Option Repricing </R>
<R>Stock options generally should not be re-priced, and never should be re-priced without shareholder approval. In addition, companies should not issue new options, with a lower strike price, to make up for previously issued options that are substantially underwater. Cohen & Steers will vote against the election of any slate of directors that, to its knowledge, has authorized a company to re-price or replace underwater options during the most recent year without shareholder approval.</R>
<R> Stock Holding Periods </R>
<R>Generally vote against all proposals requiring executives to hold the stock received upon option exercise for a specific period of time.</R>
<R> Transferable Stock Options </R>
<R>Review on a case-by-case basis proposals to grant transferable stock options or otherwise permit the transfer of outstanding stock options, including cost of proposal and alignment with shareholder interests.</R>
<R> Recoup Bonuses </R>
<R>We vote on a case-by-case on shareholder proposals to recoup unearned incentive bonuses or other incentive payments made to senior executives if it is later determined that fraud, misconduct, or negligence significantly contributed to a restatement of financial results that led to the awarding of unearned incentive compensation.</R>
<R> Reincorporation Outside of the United States </R>
<R>Generally, we will vote against companies looking to reincorporate outside of the U.S.</R>
<R> Voting on State Takeover Statutes </R>
<R>We review 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, freezeout provisions, fair price provisions, stakeholder laws, poison pill endorsements, severance pay and labor contract provisions, antigreenmail provisions, and disgorgement provisions). In voting on these shareholder proposals, we evaluate all facts and circumstances surrounding such proposal, including whether the shareholder proposing such measure has an agenda in making such proposal that may be at odds with the long-term best interests of the company or whether it would be in the best interests of the company to thwart a shareholder's attempt to control the board of directors.</R>
<R> Voting on Reincorporation Proposals </R>
<R>Proposals to change a company's state of incorporation are examined on a case-by-case basis. In making our decision, we review management's rationale for the proposal, changes to the charter/bylaws, and differences in the state laws governing the companies.</R>
<R> Mergers and Corporate Restructurings </R>
<R> Mergers and Acquisitions </R>
<R>Votes on mergers and acquisitions should be considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors including the following: anticipated financial and operating benefits; offer price (cost vs. premium); prospects of the combined companies; how the deal was negotiated; and changes in corporate governance and their impact on shareholder rights.</R>
<R>We vote against proposals that require a super-majority of shareholders to approve a merger or other significant business combination. We support proposals that seek to lower super-majority voting requirements.</R>
<R> Nonfinancial Effects of a Merger or Acquisition </R>
<R>Some companies have proposed a charter provision which specifies that the board of directors may examine the nonfinancial effect of a merger or acquisition on the company. This provision would allow the board to evaluate the impact a proposed change in control would have on employees, host communities, suppliers and/or others. We generally vote against proposals to adopt such charter provisions. We feel it is the directors' fiduciary duty to base decisions solely on the financial interests of the shareholders.</R>
<R> Corporate Restructuring </R>
<R>Votes on corporate restructuring proposals, including minority squeezeouts, leveraged buyouts, "going private" proposals, spin-offs, liquidations, and asset sales, should be considered on a case-by-case basis.</R>
<R> Spin-offs </R>
<R>Votes on spin-offs should be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the tax and regulatory advantages, planned use of sale proceeds, market focus, and managerial incentives.</R>
<R> Asset Sales </R>
<R>Votes on asset sales should be made on a case-by-case basis after considering the impact on the balance sheet/working capital, value received for the asset, and potential elimination of diseconomies.</R>
<R> Liquidations </R>
<R>Votes on liquidations should be made on a case-by-case basis after reviewing management's efforts to pursue other alternatives, appraisal value of assets, and the compensation plan for executives managing the liquidation.</R>
<R> Appraisal Rights </R>
<R>We vote for proposals to restore, or provide shareholders with, rights of appraisal. Rights of appraisal provide shareholders who are not satisfied with the terms of certain corporate transactions the right to demand a judicial review in order to determine a fair value for their shares.</R>
<R> Changing Corporate Name </R>
<R>We vote for changing the corporate name.</R>
<R> Shareholder Rights </R>
<R>Our position on the rights of shareholders is as follows:</R>
<R>Shareholders should be given the opportunity to exercise their rights. Notification of opportunities for the exercise of voting rights should be given in good time.</R>
<R>Shareholders are entitled to submit questions to company management.</R>
<R>Minority shareholders should be protected as far as possible from the exercise of voting rights by majority shareholders.</R>
<R>Shareholders are entitled to hold company management as well as the legal person or legal entity accountable for any action caused by the company or company management for which the company, company management or legal entity should bear responsibility.</R>
<R> Environmental and Social Issues </R>
<R>We recognize that the companies in which we invest can enhance shareholder value and long-term profitability by adopting policies and procedures that promote corporate social and environmental responsibility. Because of the diverse nature of environmental and social shareholder proposals and the myriad ways companies deal with them, these proposals should be considered on a case-by-case basis. All such proposals are scrutinized based on whether they contribute to the creation of shareholder value, are reasonable and relevant, and provide adequate disclosure of key issues to shareholders. When evaluating social and environmental shareholder proposals, we tend to focus on the financial aspects of the social and environmental proposals, and we consider the following factors (in the order of importance as set forth below):</R>
<R>Whether adoption of the proposal is likely to have significant economic benefit for the company, such that shareholder value is enhanced or protected by the adoption of the proposal;</R>
<R>Whether the issues presented are more appropriately/effectively dealt with through governmental or company-specific action, as many social and environmental issues are more properly the province of government and broad regulatory action;</R>
<R>Whether the subject of the proposal is best left to the discretion of the board;</R>
<R>Whether the company has already responded in some appropriate manner to the request embodied in the proposal;</R>
<R>Whether the information requested concerns business issues that relate to a meaningful percentage of the company's business as measured by sales, assets, and earnings;</R>
<R>The degree to which the company's stated position on the issues raised in the proposal could affect its reputation or sales, or leave it vulnerable to a boycott or selective purchasing;</R>
<R>Whether implementation of the proposal's request would achieve the proposal's objectives;</R>
<R>Whether the requested information is available to shareholders either from the company or from a publicly available source; and</R>
<R>Whether providing this information would reveal proprietary or confidential information that would place the company at a competitive disadvantage.</R>
<R></R>
Proxy Voting - LSV.
Voting Responsibility. LSV's standard investment management agreement expressly authorizes LSV to vote proxies on behalf of the client's account. Therefore, unless the client expressly reserves proxy voting responsibility, it is LSV's responsibility to vote proxies relating to securities held for the client's account.
ERISA Accounts. Unless proxy voting responsibility has been expressly reserved and is being exercised by another fiduciary for an ERISA plan client, LSV, as the investment adviser for the account, must vote all proxies relating to securities held for the plan's account. If LSV is responsible for voting, LSV shall make appropriate arrangements with each account custodian to have proxies forwarded, on a timely basis to the appropriate person, and shall endeavor to correct delays or other problems relating to timely delivery of proxies and proxy materials.
Fiduciary obligations of prudence and loyalty require an investment adviser with proxy voting responsibility to vote proxies on issues that affect the value of the client's investment. Proxy voting decisions must be made solely in the best interests of the client's account. In voting proxies, LSV is required to consider those factors that may affect the value of the client's investment and may not subordinate the interests of the client to unrelated objectives.
LSV has adopted proxy voting guidelines that provide direction in determining how various types of proxy issues are to be voted. LSV will engage an expert independent third party to design guidelines for client accounts that are updated for current corporate governance issues, helping to ensure that clients' best interests are served by voting decisions. Clients are sent a copy of their respective guidelines on an annual basis.
<R>LSV's quantitative investment process does not provide output or analysis that would be functional in analyzing proxy issues. LSV therefore will retain an independent, expert third party, currently Glass Lewis & Co. ("GLC"). GLC will implement LSV's proxy voting process, provide assistance in developing guidelines and provide analysis of proxy issues on a case-by-case basis. LSV is responsible for monitoring GLC to ensure that proxies are appropriately voted. LSV will vote issues contrary to, or issues not covered by, the guidelines only when LSV believes it is in the best interest of the client. Where the client has provided proxy voting guidelines to LSV, those guidelines will be followed, unless it is determined that a different vote would add more value to the client's holding of the security in question. Direction from a client on a particular proxy vote will take precedence over the guidelines. LSV's use of GLC is not a delegation of LSV's fiduciary obligation to vote proxies for clients.</R>
Should a material conflict arise between LSV's interest and that of its clients (e.g., a client bringing a shareholder action has solicited LSV's support; LSV manages a pension plan for a company whose management is soliciting proxies; or an LSV employee has a relative involved in management at an investee company), LSV will vote the proxies in accordance with the recommendation of the independent third party proxy voting service. A written record will be maintained describing the conflict of interest, and an explanation of how the vote taken was in the client's best interest.
LSV may refrain from voting a proxy if the cost of voting the proxy exceeds the expected benefit to the client, for example in the case of voting a foreign security when the proxy must be translated into English or the vote must be cast in person.
Clients may receive a copy of LSV's voting record for their account by request. LSV will additionally provide any mutual fund for which LSV acts as adviser or sub-adviser, a copy of LSV's voting record for the fund so that the fund may fulfill its obligation to report proxy votes to fund shareholders.
Record Keeping. In accordance with the recordkeeping rules, LSV will retain:
(i) Copies of its proxy voting policies and procedures.
(ii) A copy of each proxy statement received regarding client securities (maintained by the proxy voting service and/or available on EDGAR).
(iii) A record of each vote cast on behalf of a client (maintained by the proxy voting service).
(iv) A copy of any document created that was material to the voting decision or that memorializes the basis for that decision (maintained by the proxy voting service).
(v) A copy of clients' written requests for proxy voting information and a copy of LSV's written response to a client's request for proxy voting information for the client's account.
(vi) LSV will ensure that it may obtain access to the proxy voting service's records promptly upon LSV's request.
LSV will maintain required materials in an easily accessible place for not less than five years from the end of the fiscal year during which the last entry took place, the first two years in LSV's principal office.
To view a fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30, visit www.fidelity.com/proxyvotingresults or visit the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.
<R>The fund has entered into a distribution agreement with FDC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. The principal business address of FDC is 100 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917. FDC is a broker-dealer registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. The distribution agreement calls for FDC to use all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of the fund, which are continuously offered at NAV. Promotional and administrative expenses in connection with the offer and sale of shares are paid by Strategic Advisers.</R>
The Trustees have approved a Distribution and Service Plan with respect to shares of the fund (the Plan) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the Rule). The Rule provides in substance that a mutual fund may not engage directly or indirectly in financing any activity that is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund except pursuant to a plan approved on behalf of the fund under the Rule. The Plan, as approved by the Trustees, allows the fund and Strategic Advisers to incur certain expenses that might be considered to constitute indirect payment by the fund of distribution expenses.
Under the Plan, if the payment of management fees by the fund to Strategic Advisers is deemed to be indirect financing by the fund of the distribution of its shares, such payment is authorized by the Plan. The Plan specifically recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. In addition, the Plan provides that Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers or FDC), that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Prior to approving the Plan, the Trustees carefully considered all pertinent factors relating to the implementation of the Plan, and determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit the fund and its shareholders. In particular, the Trustees noted that the Plan does not authorize payments by the fund other than those made to Strategic Advisers under its management contract with the fund. To the extent that the Plan gives Strategic Advisers and FDC greater flexibility in connection with the distribution of shares of the fund, additional sales of shares of the fund or stabilization of cash flows may result. Furthermore, certain shareholder support services may be provided more effectively under the Plan by local entities with whom shareholders have other relationships.
TRANSFER AND SERVICE AGENT AGREEMENTS
The fund has entered into a transfer agent agreement with Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC), an affiliate of Strategic Advisers, which is located at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. Under the terms of the agreement, FIIOC (or an agent, including an affiliate) performs transfer agency services for the fund.
For providing transfer agency services, FIIOC receives an account fee and an asset-based fee with respect to assets managed by one or more sub-advisers and assets invested in non-affiliated ETFs. For retail accounts, these fees are based on fund type. For certain institutional accounts, these fees are based on size of position and fund type. For institutional retirement accounts, these fees are based on account type and fund type. The account fee is billed monthly on a pro rata basis at one-twelfth of the applicable annual rate as of the end of each calendar month. The asset-based fee is calculated and paid monthly on the basis of average daily net assets. For assets invested in underlying Fidelity funds, each underlying Fidelity fund pays its respective transfer agent (either FIIOC or an affiliate of FIIOC) fees based, in part, on the number of positions in and assets of the fund invested in such underlying Fidelity fund.
FIIOC also may collect fees charged in connection with providing certain types of services such as exchanges, closing out fund balances, maintaining fund positions with low balances, checkwriting, wire transactions, and providing historical account research.
FIIOC bears the expense of typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, and all other reports, notices, and statements to existing shareholders, with the exception of proxy statements.
The fund has entered into a service agent agreement with FSC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers (or an agent, including an affiliate). Under the terms of the agreement, FSC calculates the NAV and dividends for the fund and maintains the fund's portfolio and general accounting records.
For providing pricing and bookkeeping services, FSC receives a monthly fee based on the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month.
The annual rates for pricing and bookkeeping services for the fund are 0.0389% of the first $500 million of average net assets, 0.0275% of average net assets between $500 million and $3.5 billion, 0.0041% of average net assets between $3.5 billion and $25 billion, and 0.0019% of average net assets in excess of $25 billion.
Pricing and bookkeeping fees paid by the fund to FSC for the past three fiscal years are shown in the following table.
<R> Fund |
2012 |
2011 |
2010</R> |
<R>Strategic Advisers Value Fund |
$ 1,153,499 |
$ 1,117,675 |
$ 399,222</R> |
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRUST
<R> Trust Organization. Strategic Advisers Value Fund is a fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, an open-end management investment company created under an initial trust instrument dated March 8, 2006. Currently, there are 20 funds offered in the trust: Strategic Advisers Core Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund. The Trustees are permitted to create additional funds in the trust and to create additional classes of the fund.</R>
The assets of the trust received for the issue or sale of shares of each of its funds and all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, subject to the rights of creditors, are allocated to such fund, and constitute the underlying assets of such fund. The underlying assets of each fund in the trust shall be charged with the liabilities and expenses attributable to such fund. Any general expenses of the trust shall be allocated between or among any one or more of the funds.
Shareholder Liability. The trust is a statutory trust organized under Delaware law. Delaware law provides that, except to the extent otherwise provided in the Trust Instrument, shareholders shall be entitled to the same limitations of personal liability extended to stockholders of private corporations for profit organized under the general corporation law of Delaware. The courts of some states, however, may decline to apply Delaware law on this point. The Trust Instrument contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for the debts, liabilities, obligations, and expenses of the trust. The Trust Instrument provides that the trust shall not have any claim against shareholders except for the payment of the purchase price of shares and requires that each agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the trust or the Trustees relating to the trust or to a fund shall include a provision limiting the obligations created thereby to the trust or to one or more funds and its or their assets. The Trust Instrument further provides that shareholders of a fund shall not have a claim on or right to any assets belonging to any other fund.
The Trust Instrument provides for indemnification out of each fund's property of any shareholder or former shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the fund solely by reason of his or her being or having been a shareholder and not because of his or her acts or omissions or for some other reason. The Trust Instrument also provides that each fund shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which Delaware law does not apply, no contractual limitation of liability was in effect, and a fund is unable to meet its obligations. Strategic Advisers believes that, in view of the above, the risk of personal liability to shareholders is extremely remote.
<R> Voting Rights. Each fund's capital consists of shares of beneficial interest. As a shareholder, you are entitled to one vote for each dollar of net asset value you own. The voting rights of shareholders can be changed only by a shareholder vote. Shares may be voted in the aggregate, by fund, and by class.</R>
The shares have no preemptive or conversion rights. Shares are fully paid and nonassessable, except as set forth under the heading "Shareholder Liability" above.
On matters submitted for consideration by shareholders of any underlying fund, the fund will vote its shares in proportion to the vote of all other holders of the same class of shares of that underlying fund.
The trust or a fund or a class may be terminated upon the sale of its assets to, or merger with, another open-end management investment company, series, or class thereof, or upon liquidation and distribution of its assets. The Trustees may reorganize, terminate, merge, or sell all or a portion of the assets of the trust or a fund or a class without prior shareholder approval. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the trust, shareholders of each of its funds are entitled to receive the underlying assets of such fund available for distribution. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of a fund or a class, shareholders of that fund or that class are entitled to receive the underlying assets of the fund or class available for distribution.
Custodians. State Street Bank and Trust Company, 1776 Heritage Drive, Quincy, Massachusetts, is custodian of the assets of the fund. The custodian is responsible for the safekeeping of the fund's assets and the appointment of any subcustodian banks and clearing agencies. The Bank of New York Mellon and JPMorgan Chase Bank, each headquartered in New York, also may serve as special purpose custodians of certain assets in connection with repurchase agreement transactions.
Strategic Advisers, its officers and directors, its affiliated companies, Member of the Advisory Board, and Members of the Board of Trustees may, from time to time, conduct transactions with various banks, including banks serving as custodians for certain funds advised by Strategic Advisers. Transactions that have occurred to date include mortgages and personal and general business loans. In the judgment of Strategic Advisers, the terms and conditions of those transactions were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other fund relationships.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 125 High Street, Boston, Massachusetts, independent registered public accounting firm, audits financial statements for the fund and provides other audit, tax, and related services.
<R></R>
The fund views holdings information as sensitive and limits its dissemination. The Board authorized Strategic Advisers, in consultation with FMR, to establish and administer guidelines for the dissemination of fund holdings information, which may be amended at any time without prior notice. FMR's Disclosure Policy Committee (comprising executive officers of FMR) evaluates disclosure policy with the goal of serving the fund's best interests by striking an appropriate balance between providing information about the fund's portfolio and protecting the fund from potentially harmful disclosure. The Board reviews the administration and modification of these guidelines and receives reports from the fund's chief compliance officer periodically.
Other registered investment companies that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be subject to different portfolio holdings disclosure policies, and neither Strategic Advisers nor the Board exercises control over such policies or disclosure. In addition, separate account clients of Strategic Advisers and the sub-advisers have access to their portfolio holdings and are not subject to the fund's portfolio holdings disclosure policies. Some of the funds that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser and some of the separate accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser have investment objectives and strategies that are substantially similar or identical to the fund's and, therefore, potentially substantially similar, and in certain cases nearly identical, portfolio holdings as the fund.
The fund will provide a full list of holdings monthly on www.fidelity.com 30 days after the month-end (excluding high income security holdings, which generally will be presented collectively monthly and included in a list of full holdings 60 days after its fiscal quarter-end).
Unless otherwise indicated, this information will be available on the web site until updated for the next applicable period.
The fund may also from time to time provide or make available to the Board or third parties upon request specific fund level performance attribution information and statistics. Third parties may include fund shareholders or prospective fund shareholders, members of the press, consultants, and ratings and ranking organizations.
<R> The Use of Holdings In Connection With Fund Operations. Material non-public holdings information may be provided as part of the investment activities of the fund to: entities which, by explicit agreement or by virtue of their respective duties to the fund, are required to maintain the confidentiality of the information disclosed; other parties if legally required; or persons Strategic Advisers believes will not misuse the disclosed information. These entities, parties, and persons include, but are not limited to: the fund's trustees; the fund's manager, its sub-advisers, if any, and their affiliates whose access persons are subject to a code of ethics; contractors who are subject to a confidentiality agreement; the fund's auditors; the fund's custodians; proxy voting service providers; financial printers; pricing service vendors; broker-dealers in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or requests for price quotations or bids on one or more securities; counsel to the fund or its Independent Trustees; regulatory authorities; stock exchanges and other listing organizations; parties to litigation; third parties in connection with a bankruptcy proceeding relating to a fund holding; and third parties who have submitted a standing request to a money market fund for daily holdings information. Non-public holdings information may also be provided to an issuer regarding the number or percentage of its shares that are owned by the fund and in connection with redemptions in kind.</R>
<R> Other Uses Of Holdings Information. In addition, the fund may provide material non-public holdings information to (i) third parties that calculate information derived from holdings for use by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, (ii) ratings and rankings organizations, and (iii) an investment adviser, trustee, or their agents to whom holdings are disclosed for due diligence purposes or in anticipation of a merger involving the fund. Each individual request is reviewed by the Disclosure Policy Committee which must find, in its sole discretion that, based on the specific facts and circumstances, the disclosure appears unlikely to be harmful to the fund. Entities receiving this information must have in place control mechanisms to reasonably ensure or otherwise agree that, (a) the holdings information will be kept confidential, (b) no employee shall use the information to effect trading or for their personal benefit, and (c) the nature and type of information that they, in turn, may disclose to third parties is limited. Strategic Advisers relies primarily on the existence of non-disclosure agreements and/or control mechanisms when determining that disclosure is not likely to be harmful to the fund.</R>
At this time, the entities receiving information described in the preceding paragraph are: Factset Research Systems Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day) and Anacomp Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day).
<R>Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, or the fund will not enter into any arrangements with third parties from which they derive consideration for the disclosure of material non-public holdings information. If, in the future, Strategic Advisers desired to make such an arrangement, it would seek prior Board approval and any such arrangements would be disclosed in the fund's SAI.</R>
There can be no assurance that the fund's policies and procedures with respect to disclosure of fund portfolio holdings will prevent the misuse of such information by individuals and firms that receive such information.
<R>The fund's financial statements and financial highlights for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, and report of the independent registered public accounting firm, are included in the fund's annual report and are incorporated herein by reference. Total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table may differ from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the financial highlights because total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table include any acquired fund fees and expenses, whereas the ratios of expenses in the financial highlights do not. Acquired funds include other investment companies in which the fund has invested, if and to the extent it is permitted to do so. Total annual operating expenses in the prospectus fee table and the financial highlights do not include any expenses associated with investments in certain structured or synthetic products that may rely on the exception from the definition of "investment company" provided by section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act.</R>
Strategic Advisers is a registered service mark of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
Fund /Ticker
Strategic Advisers ® Core Fund /FCSAX
Offered exclusively to certain clients of Strategic Advisers, Inc. - not available for sale to the general public
Prospectus
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
Fund Summary |
Strategic Advisers ® Core Fund |
|
Fund Basics |
Investment Details |
|
|
Valuing Shares |
|
Shareholder Information |
Additional Information about the Purchase and Sale of Shares |
|
|
Dividends and Capital Gain Distributions |
|
|
Tax Consequences |
|
Fund Services |
Fund Management |
|
|
Fund Distribution |
|
Appendix |
Financial Highlights |
|
|
Additional Information about the Index |
Prospectus
Fund:
Strategic Advisers
®
Core Fund
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The following table describes the fees and expenses that may be incurred when you buy and hold shares of the fund.
Shareholder fees
|
None |
Annual fund operating expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a % of the value of your investment)
<R> Management fee (fluctuates based on the fund's allocation among underlying funds and sub-advisers) |
0.41% </R> |
<R> Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) fees |
None </R> |
<R> Other expenses |
0.00% </R> |
<R> Acquired fund fees and expenses (fees and expenses of underlying funds) |
0.59% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses A |
1.00% </R> |
<R> Fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement B |
0.25% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement A |
0.75% </R> |
<R> A Differs from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the Financial Highlights section of the prospectus because of acquired fund fees and expenses. </R>
<R> B Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) has contractually agreed that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.00% of the fund's average daily net assets. In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets. This arrangement will remain in effect through September 30, 2014. Strategic Advisers may not discontinue or modify these arrangements without the approval of the Board of Trustees. </R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
This example helps compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
Let's say, hypothetically, that the annual return for shares of the fund is 5% and that your shareholder fees and the annual operating expenses for shares of the fund are exactly as described in the fee table. This example illustrates the effect of fees and expenses, but is not meant to suggest actual or expected fees and expenses or returns, all of which may vary. For every $10,000 you invested, here's how much you would pay in total expenses if you sell all of your shares at the end of each time period indicated:
<R> 1 year |
$ 77 </R> |
<R> 3 years |
$ 258 </R> |
<R> 5 years |
$ 493 </R> |
<R> 10 years |
$ 1,169 </R> |
<R>The fund will not incur transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells shares of affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it will incur transaction costs when it buys and sells other types of securities (including non-affiliated exchange traded funds) directly (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 annual operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund's performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 64% of the average value of its portfolio.</R>
Prospectus
Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) is permitted, subject to the approval of the Board of Trustees, to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement.
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
In addition, the fund is considered non-diversified and can invest a greater portion of assets in securities of a smaller number of individual issuers than a diversified fund. As a result, changes in the market value of a single investment could cause greater fluctuations in share price than would occur in a more diversified fund.
<R>An investment in the fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. You could lose money by investing in the fund.</R>
<R>The following information is intended to help you understand the risks of investing in the fund. The information illustrates the changes in the performance of the fund's shares from year to year and compares the performance of the fund's shares to the performance of a securities market index over various periods of time. The index description appears in the Additional Information about the Index section of the prospectus. Past performance (before and after taxes) is not an indication of future performance.</R>
Visit www.fidelity.com for updated return information.
Prospectus
<R> Calendar Years |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2010 |
2011 </R> |
<R> |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
15.66% |
-2.27% </R> |
<R>
</R>
<R> During the periods shown in the chart: |
Returns |
Quarter ended </R> |
<R> Highest Quarter Return |
12.07% |
December 31, 2010 </R> |
<R> Lowest Quarter Return |
-15.91% |
September 30, 2011 </R> |
<R> Year-to-Date Return |
8.36% |
June 30, 2012 </R> |
<R>After-tax returns are calculated using the historical highest individual federal marginal income tax rates, but do not reflect the impact of state or local taxes. Actual after-tax returns may differ depending on your individual circumstances. The after-tax returns shown are not relevant if you hold your shares in a retirement account or in another tax-deferred arrangement. Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares may be higher than other returns for the same period due to a tax benefit of realizing a capital loss upon the sale of fund shares.</R>
<R>
For the periods ended
|
Past 1
|
Life of
|
<R> Strategic Advisers Core Fund |
|
</R> |
<R> Return Before Taxes |
-2.27% |
5.83% </R> |
<R> Return After Taxes on Distributions |
-2.95% |
5.37% </R> |
<R> Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares |
-1.08% |
4.83% </R> |
<R>
S&P 500
®
Index
|
2.11% |
7.84% </R> |
<R> A From December 30, 2009. </R>
<R>Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. First Eagle Investment Management, LLC (First Eagle), Lazard Asset Management LLC (Lazard), OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (OppenheimerFunds), Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis), and T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. (T. Rowe Price) have been retained to serve as sub-advisers for the fund.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
<R>John A. Stone (lead portfolio manager) has managed the fund since December 2009.</R>
<R>Niall Devitt (co-portfolio manager) has managed the fund since January 2012.</R>
Colin Morris (co-manager) has managed First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets since December 2009.
Phillip Marriott (co-manager) has managed First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets since January 2010.
Andrew Lacey (co-manager), Richard Tutino (co-manager), and Ronald Temple (co-manager) have managed Lazard's portion of the fund's assets since December 2009.
<R>Manind ("Mani") Govil, CFA, Senior Vice President (lead portfolio manager) and Benjamin Ram (co-portfolio manager) have managed OppenheimerFunds' portion of the fund's assets since December 2011.</R>
<R>Lawrence Rakers (portfolio manager) has managed Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets since January 2012.</R>
Anna Dopkin (portfolio manager) has managed T. Rowe Price's portion of the fund's assets since June 2010.
The fund is not available for sale to the general public.
<R>The price to buy one share of the fund is its net asset value per share (NAV). Shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.</R>
<R>The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV. Shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.</R>
The fund is open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open.
The fund has no minimum investment requirement.
Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax and generally will be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, and may also be subject to state or local taxes, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account (in which case you may be taxed later, upon withdrawal of your investment from such account).
The fund, Strategic Advisers, Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and/or their affiliates may pay intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, or service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR, or FDC), for the sale of fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing your intermediary and your investment professional to recommend the fund over another investment. Ask your investment professional or visit your intermediary's web site for more information.
Prospectus
Investment Objective
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies
The fund normally invests primarily in common stocks.
The fund normally invests primarily in securities of companies with large market capitalizations. Although a universal definition of large market capitalization companies does not exist, for purposes of this fund, large market capitalization companies generally are defined as those companies with market capitalizations similar to those of companies included in the S&P 500 Index. A company's market capitalization is based on its current market capitalization or its market capitalization at the time of the fund's investment. The size of the companies in the index changes with market conditions and the composition of the index.
The fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers in addition to securities of domestic issuers.
The fund is not constrained by any particular investment style. At any given time, the fund may tend to buy "growth" stocks or "value" stocks, or a combination of both types.
The fund implements its investment strategies by investing directly in securities through one or more sub-advisers or indirectly in securities through one or more underlying funds, which in turn invest directly in securities.
Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of underlying funds or sub-advisers at any time.
Strategic Advisers pursues a disciplined, benchmark-driven approach to portfolio construction, and monitors and adjusts allocations to underlying funds and sub-advisers as necessary to favor those underlying funds and sub-advisers that Strategic Advisers believes will provide the most favorable outlook for achieving the fund's investment objective.
<R>When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among underlying funds, Strategic Advisers relies on proprietary fundamental and quantitative fund research in its fund selection process. Factors considered when investing in underlying funds include fund performance, a fund manager's experience and investment style, fund company infrastructure, and fund characteristics such as expense ratio, asset size, and portfolio turnover.</R>
<R>The fund may invest in affiliated equity funds ( i.e., Fidelity funds) and non-affiliated equity funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork ® and in non-affiliated ETFs. Underlying funds include both funds managed by FMR (an affiliated company that, together with Strategic Advisers, is part of Fidelity Investments) or an affiliate and funds managed by investment advisers other than Fidelity. Fidelity receives service fees that typically are at an annual rate of up to 0.40% of a non-affiliated underlying fund's average daily net assets attributable to purchases through Fidelity's FundsNetwork, though such fees may be higher or lower, or may be charged as a transaction and/or account fees. In addition, the fund may invest in ETFs in transactions not occurring through Fidelity's FundsNetwork.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
The fund may invest in underlying funds that establish long and short positions in equity securities. A long/short strategy involves buying long equities that are expected to increase in value and selling short equities that are expected to decrease in value. These underlying funds may use derivatives, including futures contracts, options, and swaps, to obtain significant amounts of long or short exposure.
Strategic Advisers may actively adjust the allocation of the fund's assets at any time. For current information on fund holdings, please call 1-800-544-3455 or visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com. For information on the underlying funds, see the underlying funds' prospectuses. A copy of any underlying Fidelity fund's prospectus is available at www.fidelity.com or www.advisor.fidelity.com. For a copy of any other underlying fund's prospectus, visit the web site of the company that manages or sponsors that underlying fund.
When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers considers a variety of factors including, but not limited to, a sub-adviser's investment approach, the characteristics of a sub-adviser's typical investment portfolio, and a sub-adviser's performance patterns in different market environments.
Common types of investment approaches that a sub-adviser may use in selecting investments for a fund include, but are not limited to, quantitative analysis, fundamental analysis, or a combination of both approaches. Quantitative analysis refers to programmatic models that analyze such factors as growth potential, valuation, liquidity, and investment risk based on data inputs. Fundamental analysis involves a bottom-up assessment of a company's potential for success in light of factors including its financial condition, earnings outlook, strategy, management, industry position, and economic and market conditions.
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
The fund may also use various techniques, such as buying and selling futures contracts, to increase or decrease its exposure to changing security prices or other factors that affect security values. In addition, the fund may have indirect exposure to derivatives through its investments in underlying funds.
<R>Because the fund is considered non-diversified, a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund.</R>
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
Prospectus
Description of Principal Security Types
In addition to investing in underlying funds, the fund may invest directly in the following principal security types:
Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Different types of equity securities provide different voting and dividend rights and priority in the event of the bankruptcy of the issuer. Equity securities include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, and warrants.
Principal Investment Risks
<R>Many factors affect the fund's performance. The fund's share price changes daily based on the performance of the underlying funds and securities in which it invests and on changes in market conditions and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The fund's reaction to these developments will be affected by the types of underlying funds and securities in which the fund invests, the financial condition, industry and economic sector, and geographic location of an issuer, and the fund's level of investment in the securities of that underlying fund or issuer. In addition, because a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund, the fund's performance could be closely tied to that one issuer or underlying fund and could be more volatile than the performance of more diversified funds.</R>
If Strategic Advisers' or a sub-adviser's allocation strategies do not work as intended, the fund may not achieve its objective. The portfolio managers' evaluations and assumptions in selecting underlying funds or individual securities may be incorrect in view of actual market conditions.
When your shares are sold they may be worth more or less than what you paid for them, which means that you could lose money by investing in the fund.
The following factors can significantly affect the fund's performance:
Multiple Sub-Adviser Risk. Because each sub-adviser manages its allocated portion independently from another sub-adviser, it is possible that the sub-advisers' security selection processes may not complement one another. As a result, the fund's aggregate exposure to a particular industry or group of industries, or to a single issuer, could unintentionally be larger or smaller than intended. Because each sub-adviser directs the trading for its own portion of the fund, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisers, the fund may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were managing the entire fund.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Investing in Other Funds. Regulatory restrictions may limit the amount that one fund can invest in another, and in certain cases further limit investments to the extent a fund's shares are already held by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The fund bears all risks of investment strategies employed by the underlying funds. The fund does not control the investments of the underlying funds, which may have different investment objectives and may engage in investment strategies that the fund would not engage in directly. Aggregation of underlying fund holdings may result in indirect concentration of assets in a particular industry or group of industries, or in a single issuer, which may increase volatility.
<R> Stock Market Volatility. The value of equity securities fluctuates in response to issuer, political, market, and economic developments. Fluctuations can be dramatic over the short as well as long term, and different parts of the market and different types of equity securities can react differently to these developments. For example, large cap stocks can react differently from small cap stocks, "growth" stocks can react differently from "value" stocks, and stocks selected using quantitative or technical analysis can react differently than stocks selected using fundamental analysis. Issuer, political, or economic developments can affect a single issuer, issuers within an industry or economic sector or geographic region, or the market as a whole. Changes in the financial condition of a single issuer can impact the market as a whole. Terrorism and related geo-political risks have led, and may in the future lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on world economies and markets generally.</R>
Foreign Exposure. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations can involve additional risks relating to political, economic, or regulatory conditions in foreign countries. These risks include fluctuations in foreign currencies; withholding or other taxes; trading, settlement, custodial, and other operational risks; and the less stringent investor protection and disclosure standards of some foreign markets. All of these factors can make foreign investments, especially those in emerging markets, more volatile and potentially less liquid than U.S. investments. In addition, foreign markets can perform differently from the U.S. market.
<R>Global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region.</R>
<R> Industry Exposure. Market conditions, interest rates, and economic, regulatory, or financial developments could significantly affect a single industry or a group of related industries, and the securities of companies in that industry or group of industries could react similarly to these or other developments. In addition, from time to time, a small number of companies may represent a large portion of a single industry or a group of related industries as a whole, and these companies can be sensitive to adverse economic, regulatory, or financial developments.</R>
Prospectus
<R></R>
Issuer-Specific Changes. Changes in the financial condition of an issuer or counterparty, changes in specific economic or political conditions that affect a particular type of security or issuer, and changes in general economic or political conditions can increase the risk of default by an issuer or counterparty, which can affect a security's or instrument's value. The value of securities of smaller, less well-known issuers can be more volatile than that of larger issuers.
<R> Investing in ETFs. ETFs may trade in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) at prices below the value of their underlying portfolios and may not be liquid. An ETF that is not actively managed cannot sell poorly performing stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in its index or other benchmark. ETFs that track an index are subject to tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to its index or other benchmark).</R>
Short Sales and Leverage Risk. Short sales involve the sale of a security a fund has borrowed, with the expectation that the security will underperform the market. Short sales create a risk that a fund will be required to close the short position by buying the security at a time when the security has appreciated in value, thus resulting in a loss. A short position in a security poses more risk than holding the same security long. Because a short position loses value as the security's price increases, the loss on a short sale is theoretically unlimited. The loss on a long position is limited to what a fund originally paid for the security together with any transaction costs. A fund may not always be able to borrow a security it seeks to sell short at a particular time or at an acceptable price. As a result, a fund may be unable to fully implement its investment strategy due to a lack of available stocks or for other reasons. It is possible that the market value of the securities a fund holds in long positions will decline at the same time that the market value of the securities it has sold short increases, thereby increasing its potential volatility. A fund will incur transaction costs, including interest expenses, in connection with opening, maintaining, and closing short sales. Regulatory bans on certain short selling activities may prevent a fund from fully implementing its strategy. Short sales involve leverage because a fund borrows securities and then sells them, effectively leveraging its assets. The use of leverage may increase market exposure, magnify investment risks, and cause losses to be realized more quickly. Assets segregated to cover these transactions may decline in value and are not available to meet redemptions.
Quantitative Investing. The value of securities selected using quantitative analysis can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole or securities selected using only fundamental analysis. The factors used in quantitative analysis and the weight placed on those factors may not be predictive of a security's value. In addition, factors that affect a security's value can change over time and these changes may not be reflected in the quantitative model.
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
The following policy is fundamental, that is, subject to change only by shareholder approval:
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The fund is open for business each day the NYSE is open.
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. Fidelity normally calculates the fund's NAV as of the close of business of the NYSE, normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The fund's assets normally are valued as of this time for the purpose of computing the fund's NAV.
NAV is not calculated and the fund will not process purchase and redemption requests submitted on days when the fund is not open for business. The time at which shares are priced and until which purchase and redemption orders are accepted may be changed as permitted by the SEC.
To the extent that the fund's assets are traded in other markets on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of the fund's assets may be affected on those days. In addition, trading in some of the fund's assets may not occur on days when the fund is open for business.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) are valued at their respective NAVs. For an explanation of the circumstances under which the underlying funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing, see the underlying funds' prospectuses and statements of additional information (SAIs). The fund's NAV is calculated using the values of the underlying funds in which it invests. Other assets (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued primarily on the basis of market quotations or official closing prices. Certain short-term securities are valued on the basis of amortized cost. If market quotations or official closing prices are not readily available or, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, are deemed unreliable for a security, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before the fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Prospectus
Arbitrage opportunities may exist when trading in a portfolio security or securities is halted and does not resume before a fund calculates its NAV. These arbitrage opportunities may enable short-term traders to dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Securities trading in overseas markets present time zone arbitrage opportunities when events affecting portfolio security values occur after the close of the overseas markets but prior to the close of the U.S. market. Fair valuation of a fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of a fund's NAV by short-term traders.
Fair value pricing is based on subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value of a security may differ materially from the value that would be realized if the security were sold.
Prospectus
THE FUND IS NOT AVAILABLE FOR SALE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
Shares of the fund can be purchased only through certain discretionary investment programs offered by Strategic Advisers. If you are not currently a Strategic Advisers client, please call 1-800-544-3455 (9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday) for more information. Strategic Advisers charges fees for its discretionary investment programs. For more information on these fees, please refer to the "Buying and Selling Information" section of the SAI.
The fund may reject for any reason, or cancel as permitted or required by law, any purchase orders.
Excessive trading of fund shares can harm shareholders in various ways, including reducing the returns to long-term shareholders by increasing costs to the fund (such as brokerage commissions), disrupting portfolio management strategies, and diluting the value of the shares in cases in which fluctuations in markets are not fully priced into the fund's NAV.
Because investments in the fund can be made only by Strategic Advisers on behalf of its clients, the potential for excessive or short-term disruptive purchases and sales is reduced. Accordingly, the Board of Trustees has not adopted policies and procedures designed to discourage excessive trading of fund shares and the fund accommodates frequent trading.
The fund has no exchange privilege with any other fund. The fund does not place a limit on purchases or sales of fund shares by Strategic Advisers. The fund reserves the right, but does not have the obligation, to reject any purchase transaction at any time. In addition, the fund reserves the right to impose restrictions on disruptive, excessive, or short-term trading.
The price to buy one share of the fund is its NAV. The fund's shares are sold without a sales charge.
Shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form.
Provided the fund receives an order to buy shares in proper form before the close of business, the fund may place an order to buy shares of an underlying Fidelity fund after the close of business, pursuant to a pre-determined allocation, and receive that day's NAV.
The fund may stop offering shares completely or may offer shares only on a limited basis, for a period of time or permanently.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, purchase orders may be suspended, restricted, or canceled and the monies may be withheld.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV.
Shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after an order is received in proper form. Normally, redemptions will be processed by the next business day, but it may take up to seven days to pay the redemption proceeds if making immediate payment would adversely affect the fund.
Prospectus
Provided the fund receives an order to sell shares in proper form before the close of business, the fund may place an order to sell shares of an underlying Fidelity fund after the close of business, pursuant to a pre-determined allocation, and receive that day's NAV.
Redemptions may be suspended or payment dates postponed when the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or holidays), when trading on the NYSE is restricted, or as permitted by the SEC.
Redemption proceeds may be paid in underlying fund shares, securities, or other property rather than in cash if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund.
When you terminate your relationship with Strategic Advisers, your shares may be sold at the NAV next calculated, in which case Strategic Advisers would send the redemption proceeds to you.
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, redemption requests may be suspended, restricted, canceled, or processed and the proceeds may be withheld.
The fund earns dividends, interest, and other income from its investments, and distributes this income (less expenses) to shareholders as dividends. The fund also realizes capital gains from its investments, and distributes these gains (less any losses) to shareholders as capital gain distributions.
The fund normally pays dividends and capital gain distributions in July and December.
Dividends and capital gain distributions may be reinvested in additional shares of the fund or paid in cash.
As with any investment, your investment in the fund could have tax consequences for you. If you are not investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account, you should consider these tax consequences.
Taxes on distributions. Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes.
For federal tax purposes, certain of the fund's distributions, including dividends and distributions of short-term capital gains, are taxable to you as ordinary income, while certain of the fund's distributions, including distributions of long-term capital gains, are taxable to you generally as capital gains. A percentage of certain distributions of dividends may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
If Strategic Advisers buys shares on your behalf when a fund has realized but not yet distributed income or capital gains, you will be "buying a dividend" by paying the full price for the shares and then receiving a portion of the price back in the form of a taxable distribution.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
Any taxable distributions you receive from the fund will normally be taxable to you when you receive them, regardless of your distribution option.
Taxes on transactions. Your redemptions may result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. A capital gain or loss on your investment in the fund generally is the difference between the cost of your shares and the price you receive when you sell them.
Prospectus
The fund is a mutual fund, an investment that pools shareholders' money and invests it toward a specified goal.
The fund employs a multi-manager and a fund of funds investment structure. Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of sub-advisers or underlying funds.
Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. The address of Strategic Advisers and its affiliates, unless otherwise indicated below, is 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R>As of December 31, 2011, Strategic Advisers had approximately $261.7 billion in discretionary assets under management.</R>
As the manager, Strategic Advisers has overall responsibility for directing the fund's investments and handling its business affairs.
<R> First Eagle, at 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10105, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, First Eagle had approximately $65.8 billion in discretionary assets under management. First Eagle provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Lazard, at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, Lazard had approximately $141.3 billion in discretionary assets under management. Lazard provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> OppenheimerFunds, at Two World Financial Center, 225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor, New York, New York 10281-1008, has been retained to serve as sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, OppenheimerFunds, its divisions and its subsidiaries, had approximately $176.6 billion in assets under management. OpppenheimerFunds provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Pyramis, at 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. Pyramis is an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. As of December 31, 2011, Pyramis had approximately $40.2 billion in discretionary assets under management. Pyramis provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> T. Rowe Price, at 100 East Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, T. Rowe Price had approximately $554.8 billion in assets under management. T. Rowe Price provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
Strategic Advisers
<R>John A. Stone is lead portfolio manager of the fund, which he has managed since December 2009. He also manages other funds. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments in 2008 as a portfolio manager, Mr. Stone worked as a portfolio manager and a Principal at Mercer Global Investments beginning in 2006.</R>
<R>Niall Devitt is co-portfolio manager of the fund, which he has managed since January 2012. Mr. Devitt joined Fidelity Investments in 2001 and has been a part of Strategic Advisers since 2006 where he has worked as a research associate and analyst. Mr. Devitt also serves as team leader of the U.S. Equity Core team.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
<R>Colin Morris serves as a portfolio manager for First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2009. He joined First Eagle in July 1992 as a Senior Vice President. He came to First Eagle from Mabon Securities, where he was a partner responsible for arbitrage investments. Before joining Mabon in 1986, Mr. Morris was an analyst at Mitchell and Associates, a boutique mergers and acquisitions investment company.</R>
Phillip Marriott serves as a portfolio manager for First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets. He has assisted in managing First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets since January 2010. He joined First Eagle as an analyst in April 1996 and was named Associate Portfolio Manager in March 2008. Before joining the Firm, Mr. Marriott was an Associate at Goldman Sachs & Co. where he focused on providing advisory services to financial institutions. He started his career at Citicorp, where he was Credit Officer at the company's Finance/Leasing division.
<R>Andrew Lacey is a member of the portfolio management team assigned Lazard's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2009. He has worked in investment management for Lazard since 1995 where, as Deputy Chairman, he is responsible for oversight of the firm's U.S. and global strategies, and is a portfolio manager/analyst on various U.S. and global equity portfolio teams.</R>
<R>Richard Tutino is a member of the portfolio management team assigned Lazard's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2009. He joined Lazard in 1997 and is a portfolio manager/analyst for U.S. large cap equities. Prior to Lazard, Mr. Tutino was with Dreman Value Management, EF Hutton and Company, Inc., Fahnestock Asset Management and Thorsell Parker Partners.</R>
<R>Ronald Temple is a member of the portfolio management team assigned Lazard's portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since December 2009. He joined Lazard in 2001 where he is a portfolio manager/analyst on certain U.S. equity portfolio teams and a Co-Director of Research. Mr. Temple brought ten years of global experience to Lazard, from roles at Deutsche Bank AG, Bank of America NT & SA and Fleet Financial Group in London, New York, Singapore, San Francisco and Boston.</R>
<R>Manind ("Mani") Govil, CFA, is a Senior Vice President, Head of the Main Street team and a portfolio manager of OppenheimerFunds. Prior to joining OppenheimerFunds in May 2009, Mr. Govil was a portfolio manager with RS Investment Management Co. LLC from October 2006 until March 2009.</R>
<R>Benjamin Ram is a Vice President and portfolio manager of OppenheimerFunds. Prior to joining OppenheimerFunds in May 2009, Mr. Ram was sector manager for financial investments and a co-portfolio manager for mid-cap portfolios with the RS Core Equity Team of RS Investment Management Co. LLC from October 2006 to May 2009.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Lawrence Rakers serves as portfolio manager for Pyramis' portion of the fund's assets, which he has managed since January 2012. He is a portfolio manager at Pyramis Global Advisors, a unit of Fidelity. He also manages other Fidelity funds. Since joining Fidelity Investments in 1993, Mr. Rakers has worked as a research analyst and manager.</R>
<R>Anna Dopkin, CFA is chairman of the investment advisory committee for T. Rowe Price's portion of the fund's assets. The committee chairman has day-to-day responsibility for managing the portfolio and works with an oversight team in developing and executing the investment program for T. Rowe Price's portion of the fund's assets.</R>
Ms. Dopkin is a Vice President of T. Rowe Price, the director of Equity Research-North America, and a member of the Equity Steering Committee. Ms. Dopkin is the lead portfolio manager on the Structured Research Strategy team, and chairman of the Capital Opportunity Fund's Investment Advisory Committee. Previously, she managed the Financial Services Fund as well as the Growth & Income Fund. Prior to joining T. Rowe Price as an Equity Research Analyst in 1996, Ms. Dopkin worked at Goldman Sachs for 7 years in the Mortgage Securities Department in New York and London.
The oversight team at T. Rowe Price is responsible for ensuring adherence to portfolio constraints and risk controls along with managing the investment of cash flows.
The SAI provides additional information about the compensation of, any other accounts managed by, and any fund shares held by the portfolio managers.
From time to time a manager, analyst, or other Fidelity employee may express views regarding a particular company, security, industry, or market sector. The views expressed by any such person are the views of only that individual as of the time expressed and do not necessarily represent the views of Fidelity or any other person in the Fidelity organization. Any such views are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and Fidelity disclaims any responsibility to update such views. These views may not be relied on as investment advice and, because investment decisions for a Fidelity fund are based on numerous factors, may not be relied on as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any Fidelity fund.
The fund pays a management fee to Strategic Advisers. The management fee is calculated and paid to Strategic Advisers every month. Strategic Advisers is responsible for the payment of all other expenses of the fund with limited exceptions.
The fund's management fee is calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets. Because the fund's management fee rate may fluctuate, the fund's management fee may be higher or lower in the future. The fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.00% of the fund's average daily net assets.
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
<R>Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets through September 30, 2014.</R>
<R>For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid a management fee of 0.16% of the fund's average net assets, after waiver and/or reimbursement.</R>
In return for the services of the fund's sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers will pay each of the fund's sub-advisers the fee (as described above) payable to that sub-adviser.
<R>The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the management contract and sub-advisory agreements with First Eagle, Lazard, Pyramis, and T. Rowe Price for the fund is available in the fund's semi-annual report for the fiscal period ended November 30, 2011. The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the sub-advisory agreement with OppenheimerFunds for the fund is available in the fund's annual report for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, agree to reimburse the fund for, or waive, management fees above a specified limit. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid by the fund if expenses fall below the specified limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Reimbursement or waiver arrangements can decrease expenses and boost performance.
FDC distributes the fund's shares.
The fund has adopted a Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) with respect to its shares that recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenues, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other source, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, service-providers, and administrators, that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees of the fund has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Affiliates of Strategic Advisers may receive service fees or distribution fees or both with respect to underlying funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork.
If payments made by Strategic Advisers to FDC or to intermediaries under the Distribution and Service Plan were considered to be paid out of the fund's assets on an ongoing basis, they might increase the cost of your investment and might cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
Prospectus
No dealer, sales representative, or any other person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representations, other than those contained in this prospectus and in the related SAI, in connection with the offer contained in this prospectus. If given or made, such other information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by the fund or FDC. This prospectus and the related SAI do not constitute an offer by the fund or by FDC to sell shares of the fund to or to buy shares of the fund from any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer.
Prospectus
The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the financial history of the fund's shares for the period of the fund's operations. Certain information reflects financial results for a single share of the fund. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in shares of the fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the fund's financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the fund's annual report. A free copy of the annual report is available upon request.
<R> Years ended May 31, |
2012 |
2011 |
2010 F </R> |
<R> Selected Per-Share Data |
|
|
</R> |
<R> Net asset value, beginning of period |
$ 12.06 |
$ 9.74 |
$ 10.00 </R> |
<R> Income from Investment Operations |
|
|
</R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) D |
.13 |
.10 |
.03 </R> |
<R> Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) |
(.56 ) |
2.32 |
(.29 ) </R> |
<R> Total from investment operations |
(.43 ) |
2.42 |
(.26 ) </R> |
<R> Distributions from net investment income |
(.12) |
(.08) |
- </R> |
<R> Distributions from net realized gain |
(.23 ) |
(.02 ) |
- </R> |
<R> Total distributions |
(.35 ) |
(.10 ) |
- </R> |
<R> Net asset value, end of period |
$ 11.28 |
$ 12.06 |
$ 9.74 </R> |
<R> Total Return B,C |
(3.58)% |
24.93% |
(2.60)% </R> |
<R> Ratios to Average Net Assets E,G |
|
|
</R> |
<R> Expenses before reductions |
.41% |
.41% |
.43% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of fee waivers, if any |
.16% |
.15% |
.18% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of all reductions |
.16% |
.15% |
.18% A </R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) |
1.20% |
.90% |
.77% A </R> |
<R> Supplemental Data |
|
|
</R> |
<R> Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) |
$ 8,064,341 |
$ 8,524,136 |
$ 2,662,628 </R> |
<R> Portfolio turnover rate H |
64% I |
54% |
31% </R> |
<R> A Annualized </R>
<R> B Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized. </R>
<R> C Total returns would have been lower if certain expenses had not been reduced during the applicable periods shown. </R>
<R> D Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period. </R>
<R> E Fees and expenses of any underlying Fidelity Central Funds are not included in the Fund's expense ratio. The Fund indirectly bears its proportionate share of the expenses of any underlying Fidelity Central Funds. </R>
<R> F For the period December 30, 2009 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2010. </R>
<R> G Expense ratios reflect operating expenses of the Fund. Expenses before reductions do not reflect amounts reimbursed by the investment adviser or reductions from brokerage service arrangements or reductions from other expense offset arrangements and do not represent the amount paid by the Fund during periods when reimbursements or reductions occur. Expense ratios before reductions for start-up periods may not be representative of longer term operating periods. Expenses net of fee waivers reflect expenses after reimbursement by the investment adviser but prior to reductions from brokerage service arrangements or other expense offset arrangements. Expenses net of all reductions represent the net expenses paid by the Fund. Fees and expenses of the Underlying Funds are not included in the Fund's annualized ratios. The Fund indirectly bears its proportionate share of the expenses of the Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> H Amounts do not include the portfolio activity of any Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> I Portfolio turnover rate excludes securities received or delivered in-kind. </R>
Prospectus
S&P 500 Index is a market capitalization-weighted index of 500 common stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation to represent U.S. equity performance.
Prospectus
Notes
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OPENING A NEW ACCOUNT To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT ACT), requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or entity that opens an account. For individual investors opening an account: When you open an account, you will be asked for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow Fidelity to identify you. You may also be asked to provide documents that may help to establish your identity, such as your driver's license. For investors other than individuals: When you open an account, you will be asked for the name of the entity, its principal place of business and taxpayer identification number (TIN) and may be requested to provide information on persons with authority or control over the account such as name, residential address, date of birth and social security number. You may also be asked to provide documents, such as drivers' licenses, articles of incorporation, trust instruments or partnership agreements and other information that will help Fidelity identify the entity. |
You can obtain additional information about the fund. A description of the fund's policies and procedures for disclosing its holdings is available in its SAI and on Fidelity's web sites. The SAI also includes more detailed information about the fund and its investments. The SAI is incorporated herein by reference (legally forms a part of the prospectus). The fund's annual and semi-annual reports also include additional information. The fund's annual report includes a discussion of the fund's holdings and recent market conditions and the fund's investment strategies that affected performance.
For a free copy of any of these documents or to request other information or ask questions about the fund, call 1-800-544-3455. In addition, you may visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com for a free copy of a prospectus, SAI, or annual or semi-annual report or to request other information.
The SAI, the fund's annual and semi-annual reports and other related materials are available from the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) Database on the SEC's web site (http://www.sec.gov). You can obtain copies of this information, after paying a duplicating fee, by sending a request by e-mail to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You can also review and copy information about the fund, including the fund's SAI, at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call 1-202-551-8090 for information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference Room. Investment Company Act of 1940, File Number, 811-21991 |
FDC is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). You may obtain information about SIPC, including the SIPC brochure, by visiting www.sipc.org or calling SIPC at 202-371-8300.
Strategic Advisers and FundsNetwork are registered service marks of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
<R>1.902945.103 SAI-COR-PRO-0712</R>
Strategic Advisers ® Core Fund (FCSAX)
A Fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
Offered exclusively to certain clients of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) - not available for sale to the general public.
This statement of additional information (SAI) is not a prospectus. Portions of the fund's annual report are incorporated herein. The annual report is supplied with this SAI.
<R>To obtain a free additional copy of the prospectus or SAI, dated July 30, 2012, or an annual report, please call Fidelity at 1-800-544-3455 or visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com.</R>
<R>SAI-COR-PTB-0712
1.902946.104</R>
|
PAGE |
Investment Policies and Limitations |
|
Portfolio Transactions |
|
Valuation |
|
Buying and Selling Information |
|
Distributions and Taxes |
|
Trustees and Officers |
|
Control of Investment Advisers |
|
Management Contract |
|
Proxy Voting Guidelines |
|
Distribution Services |
|
Transfer and Service Agent Agreements |
|
Description of the Trust |
|
<R>Fund Holdings Information |
|
<R>Financial Statements |
|
Appendix |
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS
The following policies and limitations supplement those set forth in the prospectus. Unless otherwise noted, whenever an investment policy or limitation states a maximum percentage of the fund's assets that may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy regarding quality standards, such standard or percentage limitation will be determined immediately after and as a result of the fund's acquisition of such security or other asset. Accordingly, any subsequent change in values, net assets, or other circumstances will not be considered when determining whether the investment complies with the fund's investment policies and limitations.
The fund's fundamental investment policies and limitations cannot be changed without approval by a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act)) of the fund. However, except for the fundamental investment limitations listed below, the investment policies and limitations described in this SAI are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
The following are the fund's fundamental investment limitations set forth in their entirety.
Senior Securities
The fund may not issue senior securities, except in connection with the insurance program established by the fund pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission or as otherwise permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Borrowing
The fund may not borrow money, except that the fund may borrow money for temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging or investment) in an amount not exceeding 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). Any borrowings that come to exceed this amount will be reduced within three days (not including Sundays and holidays) to the extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation.
Underwriting
The fund may not underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 in the disposition of restricted securities or in connection with investments in other investment companies.
Concentration
The fund may not purchase the securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or 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.
<R>For purposes of the fund's concentration limitation discussed above, Strategic Advisers or an affiliate may analyze the characteristics of a particular issuer and security and assign an industry or sector classification consistent with those characteristics in the event that the third-party classification provider used by Strategic Advisers does not assign a classification.</R>
Real Estate
The fund may not purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from investing in securities or other instruments backed by real estate or securities of companies engaged in the real estate business).
Commodities
The fund may not purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from purchasing or selling options and futures contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities).
Loans
The fund may not lend any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, but this limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities or to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.
The following investment limitations are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
Diversification
In order to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, the fund currently intends to comply with certain diversification limits imposed by Subchapter M.
<R>Subchapter M generally requires the fund to invest no more than 25% of its total assets in securities of any one issuer and to invest at least 50% of its total assets so that (a) no more than 5% of the fund's total assets are invested in securities of any one issuer, and (b) the fund does not hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of that issuer. However, Subchapter M allows unlimited investments in cash, cash items, government securities (as defined in Subchapter M) and securities of other regulated investment companies. These tax requirements are generally applied at the end of each quarter of the fund's taxable year.</R>
Margin Purchases
The fund does not currently intend to purchase securities on margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of transactions, and provided that margin payments in connection with futures contracts and options on futures contracts shall not constitute purchasing securities on margin.
Borrowing
The fund may borrow money only (a) from a bank or from a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) by engaging in reverse repurchase agreements with any party (reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings for purposes of the fundamental borrowing investment limitation).
Illiquid Securities
The fund does not currently intend to purchase any security if, as a result, more than 10% of its net assets would be invested in securities that are deemed to be illiquid because they are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or because they cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued.
For purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation discussed above, if through a change in values, net assets, or other circumstances, the fund were in a position where more than 10% of its net assets were invested in illiquid securities, it would consider appropriate steps to protect liquidity.
To the extent that the fund acquires the shares of an underlying fund in accordance with Section 12(d)(1)(F) of the 1940 Act, the underlying fund is not obligated to redeem its shares in an amount exceeding 1% of its shares outstanding during any period of less than 30 days. Those underlying fund shares will not be treated as illiquid securities for purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation described above to the extent that the fund is able to dispose of such securities by distributing them in kind to redeeming shareholders. (See "Securities of Other Investment Companies" on page (Click Here) .)
Loans
The fund does not currently intend to lend assets other than securities to other parties, except by (a) lending money (up to 15% of the fund's net assets) to a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) assuming any unfunded commitments in connection with the acquisition of loans, loan participations, or other forms of debt instruments. (This limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities, to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.)
In addition to the fund's fundamental and non-fundamental investment limitations discussed above:
For the fund's limitations on futures and options transactions, see the section entitled "Futures, Options, and Swaps" on page (Click Here).
Notwithstanding the foregoing investment limitations, the underlying funds in which the fund may invest have adopted certain investment limitations that may be more or less restrictive than those listed above, thereby permitting the fund to engage indirectly in investment strategies that are prohibited under the investment limitations listed above. The investment limitations of each underlying fund are set forth in its registration statement.
<R>In accordance with its investment program as set forth in the prospectus, the fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in any one underlying Fidelity fund. Although the fund does not intend to concentrate its investments in a particular industry, the fund may indirectly concentrate in a particular industry or group of industries through its investments in one or more underlying funds.</R>
The following pages contain more detailed information about types of instruments in which the fund may invest, techniques the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may employ in pursuit of the fund's investment objective, and a summary of related risks. The fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may not buy all of these instruments or use all of these techniques unless it believes that doing so will help the fund achieve its goal. However, the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) is not required to buy any particular instrument or use any particular technique even if to do so might benefit the fund.
Strategic Advisers ® Core Fund may have exposure to instruments, techniques, and risks either directly or indirectly through an investment in an underlying fund. An underlying fund may invest in the same or other types of instruments and its adviser may employ the same or other types of techniques. Strategic Advisers Core Fund's performance will be affected by the instruments, techniques, and risks associated with an underlying fund, in proportion to the amount of assets that the fund allocates to that underlying fund.
On the following pages in this section titled "Investment Policies and Limitations," and except as otherwise indicated, references to "a fund" or "the fund" may relate to Strategic Advisers Core Fund or an underlying fund, and references to "an adviser" or "the adviser" may relate to Strategic Advisers (or its affiliates) or a sub-adviser of Strategic Advisers Core Fund, or an adviser of an underlying fund.
Borrowing. If a fund borrows money, its share price may be subject to greater fluctuation until the borrowing is paid off. If a fund makes additional investments while borrowings are outstanding, this may be considered a form of leverage.
<R> Cash Management. A fund may hold uninvested cash or may invest it in cash equivalents such as money market securities, repurchase agreements, or shares of short-term bond or money market funds, including (for Fidelity funds and other advisory clients only) shares of Fidelity central funds. Generally, these securities offer less potential for gains than other types of securities.</R>
<R> Common Stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock take precedence over the claims of those who own common stock, although related proceedings can take time to resolve and results can be unpredictable.</R>
Convertible Securities are bonds, debentures, notes, or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible security held by a fund is called for redemption or conversion, the fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.
Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield, convertible securities generally sell at prices above their "conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stocks and interest rates. When the underlying common stocks decline in value, convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities. However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the underlying common stocks rise in value, the value of convertible securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time, however, the difference between the market value of convertible securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because convertible securities may also be interest-rate sensitive, their value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk, and are often lower-quality securities.
Debt Securities are used by issuers to borrow money. The issuer usually pays a fixed, variable, or floating rate of interest, and must repay the amount borrowed, usually at the maturity of the security. Some debt securities, such as zero coupon bonds, do not pay interest but are sold at a deep discount from their face values. Debt securities include corporate bonds, government securities, repurchase agreements, and mortgage and other asset-backed securities.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are shares of other investment companies, commodity pools, or other entities that are traded on an exchange. Typically, assets underlying the ETF shares are stocks, though they may also be commodities or other instruments, selected to track a particular index or other benchmark.
Typically, ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark increases. However, in the case of inverse ETFs (also called "short ETFs" or "bear ETFs"), ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark decreases. Inverse ETFs seek to deliver the opposite of the performance of the benchmark they track and are often marketed as a way for investors to profit from, or at least hedge their exposure to, downward moving markets. Investments in inverse ETFs are similar to holding short positions in the underlying benchmark.
ETF shares are redeemable only in large blocks (typically, 50,000 shares) often called "creation units" by persons other than a fund, and are redeemed principally in-kind at each day's next calculated net asset value per share (NAV). ETFs typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by a fund. A fund's purchase of ETFs results in the layering of expenses, such that the fund would indirectly bear a proportionate share of any ETF's operating expenses. Further, while traditional investment companies are continuously offered at NAV, ETFs are traded in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) on an intra-day basis at prices that may be above or below the value of their underlying portfolios.
<R>Some of the risks of investing in an ETF that tracks an index are similar to those of investing in an indexed mutual fund, including tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to the index or other benchmark); and the risk that because an ETF is not actively managed, it cannot sell stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in the index or other benchmark. Other ETF risks include the risk that ETFs may trade in the secondary market at a discount from their NAV and the risk that the ETFs may not be liquid. ETFs also may be leveraged. Leveraged ETFs seek to deliver multiples of the performance of the index or other benchmark they track and use derivatives in an effort to amplify the returns (or decline, in the case of inverse ETFs) of the underlying index or benchmark. While leveraged ETFs may offer the potential for greater return, the potential for loss and the speed at which losses can be realized also are greater. Most leveraged and inverse ETFs "reset" daily, meaning they are designed to achieve their stated objectives on a daily basis. Leveraged and inverse ETFs can deviate substantially from the performance of their underlying benchmark over longer periods of time, particularly in volatile periods.</R>
Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs) are a type of senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt security issued by financial institutions that combines aspects of both bonds and ETFs. An ETN's returns are based on the performance of a market index or other reference asset minus fees and expenses. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are listed on an exchange and traded in the secondary market. However, unlike an ETF, an ETN can be held until the ETN's maturity, at which time the issuer will pay a return linked to the performance of the market index or other reference asset to which the ETN is linked minus certain fees. Unlike regular bonds, ETNs typically do not make periodic interest payments and principal typically is not protected.
<R>ETNs also incur certain expenses not incurred by their applicable index. The market value of an ETN is determined by supply and demand, the current performance of the index or other reference asset, and the credit rating of the ETN issuer. The market value of ETN shares may differ from their intraday indicative value. The value of an ETN may also change due to a change in the issuer's credit rating. As a result, there may be times when an ETN share trades at a premium or discount to its NAV. Some ETNs that use leverage in an effort to amplify the returns of an underlying index or other reference asset can, at times, be relatively illiquid and, thus, they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Leveraged ETNs may offer the potential for greater return, but the potential for loss and speed at which losses can be realized also are greater.</R>
<R> Exposure to Foreign and Emerging Markets. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.</R>
Foreign investments involve risks relating to local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments, and may be affected by actions of foreign governments adverse to the interests of U.S. investors. Such actions may include expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on U.S. investment or on the ability to repatriate assets or convert currency into U.S. dollars, or other government intervention. Additionally, governmental issuers of foreign debt securities may be unwilling to pay interest and repay principal when due and may require that the conditions for payment be renegotiated. There is no assurance that a fund's adviser will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their effects. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies and of dividends and interest paid with respect to such securities will fluctuate based on the relative strength of the U.S. dollar.
<R>It is anticipated that in most cases the best available market for foreign securities will be on an exchange or in over-the-counter (OTC) markets located outside of the United States. Foreign stock markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as those in the United States, and securities of some foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. issuers. Foreign security trading, settlement and custodial practices (including those involving securities settlement where fund assets may be released prior to receipt of payment) are often less developed than those in U.S. markets, and may result in increased investment or valuation risk or substantial delays in the event of a failed trade or the insolvency of, or breach of duty by, a foreign broker-dealer, securities depository, or foreign subcustodian. In addition, the costs associated with foreign investments, including withholding taxes, brokerage commissions, and custodial costs, are generally higher than with U.S. investments.</R>
Foreign markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. markets. Foreign issuers are generally not bound by uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements and standards of practice comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. Adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis. In general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States. OTC markets tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain countries, may be totally unregulated. Regulatory enforcement may be influenced by economic or political concerns, and investors may have difficulty enforcing their legal rights in foreign countries.
Some foreign securities impose restrictions on transfer within the United States or to U.S. persons. Although securities subject to such transfer restrictions may be marketable abroad, they may be less liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject to such restrictions.
American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. The underlying shares are held in trust by a custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. However, ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. These risks include foreign exchange risk as well as the political and economic risks of the underlying issuer's country.
The risks of foreign investing may be magnified for investments in emerging markets. Security prices in emerging markets can be significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets, reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets may have relatively unstable governments, may present the risks of nationalization of businesses, restrictions on foreign ownership and prohibitions on the repatriation of assets, and may have less protection of property rights than more developed countries. The economies of countries with emerging markets may be based on only a few industries, may be highly vulnerable to changes in local or global trade conditions, and may suffer from extreme and volatile debt burdens or inflation rates. Local securities markets may trade a small number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of holdings difficult or impossible at times.
Foreign Currency Transactions. A fund may conduct foreign currency transactions on a spot ( i.e., cash) or forward basis ( i.e., by entering into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies). Although foreign exchange dealers generally do not charge a fee for such conversions, they do realize a profit based on the difference between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the counterparty desire to resell that currency to the dealer. Forward contracts are customized transactions that require a specific amount of a currency to be delivered at a specific exchange rate on a specific date or range of dates in the future. Forward contracts are generally traded in an interbank market directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. The parties to a forward contract may agree to offset or terminate the contract before its maturity, or may hold the contract to maturity and complete the contemplated currency exchange.
<R>The following discussion summarizes the principal currency management strategies involving forward contracts that could be used by a fund. A fund may also use swap agreements, indexed securities, and options and futures contracts relating to foreign currencies for the same purposes. Forward contracts not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying currency. All of these instruments and transactions are subject to the risk that the counterparty will default.</R>
A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect a fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the U.S. dollar price of the security. Forward contracts to purchase or sell a foreign currency may also be used by a fund in anticipation of future purchases or sales of securities denominated in foreign currency, even if the specific investments have not yet been selected.
A fund may also use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. For example, if a fund owned securities denominated in pounds sterling, it could enter into a forward contract to sell pounds sterling in return for U.S. dollars to hedge against possible declines in the pound's value. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge," would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations, but would not offset changes in security values caused by other factors. A fund could also hedge the position by selling another currency expected to perform similarly to the pound sterling. This type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S. dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged securities are denominated.
A fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency into another. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased, much as if a fund had sold a security denominated in one currency and purchased an equivalent security denominated in another. A fund may cross-hedge its U.S. dollar exposure in order to achieve a representative weighted mix of the major currencies in its benchmark index and/or to cover an underweight country or region exposure in its portfolio. Cross-hedges protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency, but will cause a fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases.
<R>Successful use of currency management strategies will depend on an adviser's skill in analyzing currency values. Currency management strategies may substantially change a fund's investment exposure to changes in currency exchange rates and could result in losses to a fund if currencies do not perform as an adviser anticipates. For example, if a currency's value rose at a time when a fund had hedged its position by selling that currency in exchange for dollars, the fund would not participate in the currency's appreciation. If a fund hedges currency exposure through proxy hedges, the fund could realize currency losses from both the hedge and the security position if the two currencies do not move in tandem. Similarly, if a fund increases its exposure to a foreign currency and that currency's value declines, the fund will realize a loss. Foreign currency transactions involve the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted and that a fund's hedging strategies will be ineffective. A fund may be required to limit its hedging transactions in foreign currency forwards, futures, and options in order to maintain its classification as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code (Code). Hedging transactions could result in the application of the mark-to-market provisions of the Code, which may cause an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by a fund and could affect whether dividends paid by a fund are classified as capital gains or ordinary income. A fund will cover its exposure to foreign currency transactions with liquid assets in compliance with applicable requirements. There is no assurance that an adviser's use of currency management strategies will be advantageous to a fund or that it will employ currency management strategies at appropriate times.</R>
Options and Futures Relating to Foreign Currencies. Currency futures contracts are similar to forward currency exchange contracts, except that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency futures contracts call for payment or delivery in U.S. dollars. The underlying instrument of a currency option may be a foreign currency, which generally is purchased or delivered in exchange for U.S. dollars, or may be a futures contract. The purchaser of a currency call obtains the right to purchase the underlying currency, and the purchaser of a currency put obtains the right to sell the underlying currency.
The uses and risks of currency options and futures are similar to options and futures relating to securities or indices, as discussed below. A fund may purchase and sell currency futures and may purchase and write currency options to increase or decrease its exposure to different foreign currencies. Currency options may also be purchased or written in conjunction with each other or with currency futures or forward contracts. Currency futures and options values can be expected to correlate with exchange rates, but may not reflect other factors that affect the value of a fund's investments. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a Yen-denominated security from a decline in the Yen, but will not protect a fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of a fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the fund's investments exactly over time.
Foreign Repurchase Agreements. Foreign repurchase agreements involve an agreement to purchase a foreign security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price in either U.S. dollars or foreign currency. Unlike typical U.S. repurchase agreements, foreign repurchase agreements may not be fully collateralized at all times. The value of a security purchased by a fund may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to repurchase the security. In the event of default by the counterparty, a fund may suffer a loss if the value of the security purchased is less than the agreed-upon repurchase price, or if the fund is unable to successfully assert a claim to the collateral under foreign laws. As a result, foreign repurchase agreements may involve higher credit risks than repurchase agreements in U.S. markets, as well as risks associated with currency fluctuations. In addition, as with other emerging market investments, repurchase agreements with counterparties located in emerging markets or relating to emerging markets may involve issuers or counterparties with lower credit ratings than typical U.S. repurchase agreements.
Fund's Rights as an Investor. Fidelity funds do not intend to direct or administer the day-to-day operations of any company. A fund may, however, exercise its rights as a shareholder or lender and may communicate its views on important matters of policy to a company's management, board of directors, and shareholders, and holders of a company's other securities when such matters could have a significant effect on the value of the fund's investment in the company. The activities in which a fund may engage, either individually or in conjunction with others, may include, among others, supporting or opposing proposed changes in a company's corporate structure or business activities; seeking changes in a company's directors or management; seeking changes in a company's direction or policies; seeking the sale or reorganization of the company or a portion of its assets; supporting or opposing third-party takeover efforts; supporting the filing of a bankruptcy petition; or foreclosing on collateral securing a security. This area of corporate activity is increasingly prone to litigation and it is possible that a fund could be involved in lawsuits related to such activities. Such activities will be monitored with a view to mitigating, to the extent possible, the risk of litigation against a fund and the risk of actual liability if a fund is involved in litigation. No guarantee can be made, however, that litigation against a fund will not be undertaken or liabilities incurred. The fund's proxy voting guidelines are included in this SAI.
Futures, Options, and Swaps. The success of any strategy involving futures, options, and swaps depends on an adviser's analysis of many economic and mathematical factors and a fund's return may be higher if it never invested in such instruments. Additionally, some of the contracts discussed below are new instruments without a trading history and there can be no assurance that a market for the instruments will continue to exist. Government legislation or regulation could affect the use of such instruments and could limit a fund's ability to pursue its investment strategies.
<R>Strategic Advisers Core Fund will not: (a) sell futures contracts, purchase put options, or write call options if, as a result, more than 25% of the fund's total assets would be hedged with futures and options under normal conditions; (b) purchase futures contracts or write put options if, as a result, the fund's total obligations upon settlement or exercise of purchased futures contracts and written put options would exceed 25% of its total assets under normal conditions; or (c) purchase call options if, as a result, the current value of option premiums for call options purchased by the fund would exceed 5% of the fund's total assets. These limitations do not apply to options attached to or acquired or traded together with their underlying securities, and do not apply to structured notes.</R>
<R>The limitations on the fund's investments in futures contracts, options, and swaps, and the fund's policies regarding futures contracts, options, and swaps may be changed as regulatory agencies permit.</R>
<R>The requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company may limit the extent to which a fund may enter into futures, options on futures, and forward contracts.</R>
<R> Futures Contracts. In purchasing a futures contract, the buyer agrees to purchase a specified underlying instrument at a specified future date. In selling a futures contract, the seller agrees to sell a specified underlying instrument at a specified date. The price at which the purchase and sale will take place is fixed when the buyer and seller enter into the contract. Some currently available futures contracts are based on specific securities, some are based on commodities or commodities indices (for funds that seek commodities exposure), and some are based on indices of securities prices (including foreign indices for funds that seek foreign exposure). Futures on indices and futures not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying instrument. Futures can be held until their delivery dates, or can be closed out by offsetting purchases or sales of futures contracts before then if a liquid market is available. A fund may realize a gain or loss by closing out its futures contracts.</R>
The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in tandem with the value of its underlying instrument. Therefore, purchasing futures contracts will tend to increase a fund's exposure to positive and negative price fluctuations in the underlying instrument, much as if it had purchased the underlying instrument directly. When a fund sells a futures contract, by contrast, the value of its futures position will tend to move in a direction contrary to the market. Selling futures contracts, therefore, will tend to offset both positive and negative market price changes, much as if the underlying instrument had been sold.
The purchaser or seller of a futures contract or an option for a futures contract is not required to deliver or pay for the underlying instrument or the final cash settlement price, as applicable, unless the contract is held until the delivery date. However, both the purchaser and seller are required to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant (FCM), when the contract is entered into. If the value of either party's position declines, that party will be required to make additional "variation margin" payments to settle the change in value on a daily basis. This process of "marking to market" will be reflected in the daily calculation of open positions computed in a fund's NAV. The party that has a gain is entitled to receive all or a portion of this amount. Initial and variation margin payments do not constitute purchasing securities on margin for purposes of a fund's investment limitations. In the event of the bankruptcy or insolvency of an FCM that holds margin on behalf of a fund, the fund may be entitled to return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by the FCM's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the fund. A fund is required to segregate liquid assets equivalent to the fund's outstanding obligations under the contract in excess of the initial margin and variation margin, if any.
<R>Although futures exchanges generally operate similarly in the United States and abroad, foreign futures exchanges may follow trading, settlement, and margin procedures that are different from those for U.S. exchanges. Futures contracts traded outside the United States may involve greater risk of loss than U.S.-traded contracts, including potentially greater risk of losses due to insolvency of a futures broker, exchange member, or other party that may owe initial or variation margin to a fund. Because initial and variation margin payments may be measured in foreign currency, a futures contract traded outside the United States may also involve the risk of foreign currency fluctuation.</R>
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There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. Exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for futures contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or other market conditions, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its futures positions could also be impaired. These risks may be heightened for commodity futures contracts, which have historically been subject to greater price volatility than exists for instruments such as stocks and bonds.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded futures contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in futures contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the futures position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Futures prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Futures prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell futures contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's futures positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments. In addition, the price of a commodity futures contract can reflect the storage costs associated with the purchase of the physical commodity.
Options. By purchasing a put option, the purchaser obtains the right (but not the obligation) to sell the option's underlying instrument at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the purchaser pays the current market price for the option (known as the option premium). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific assets or securities, indices of securities or commodities prices, and futures contracts (including commodity futures contracts). The purchaser may terminate its position in a put option by allowing it to expire or by exercising the option. If the option is allowed to expire, the purchaser will lose the entire premium. If the option is exercised, the purchaser completes the sale of the underlying instrument at the strike price. A purchaser may also terminate a put option position by closing it out in the secondary market at its current price, if a liquid secondary market exists.
The buyer of a typical put option can expect to realize a gain if the underlying instrument's price falls substantially. However, if the underlying instrument's price does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer can expect to suffer a loss (limited to the amount of the premium, plus related transaction costs).
The features of call options are essentially the same as those of put options, except that the purchaser of a call option obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. A call buyer typically attempts to participate in potential price increases of the underlying instrument with risk limited to the cost of the option if the underlying instrument's price falls. At the same time, the buyer can expect to suffer a loss if the underlying instrument's price does not rise sufficiently to offset the cost of the option.
The writer of a put or call option takes the opposite side of the transaction from the option's purchaser. In return for receipt of the premium, the writer assumes the obligation to pay or receive the strike price for the option's underlying instrument if the other party to the option chooses to exercise it. The writer may seek to terminate a position in a put option before exercise by closing out the option in the secondary market at its current price. If the secondary market is not liquid for a put option, however, the writer must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes. When writing an option on a futures contract, a fund will be required to make margin payments to an FCM as described above for futures contracts.
If the underlying instrument's price rises, a put writer would generally expect to profit, although its gain would be limited to the amount of the premium it received. If the underlying instrument's price remains the same over time, it is likely that the writer will also profit, because it should be able to close out the option at a lower price. If the underlying instrument's price falls, the put writer would expect to suffer a loss. This loss should be less than the loss from purchasing the underlying instrument directly, however, because the premium received for writing the option should mitigate the effects of the decline.
Writing a call option obligates the writer to sell or deliver the option's underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, upon exercise of the option. The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that writing calls generally is a profitable strategy if prices remain the same or fall. Through receipt of the option premium, a call writer mitigates the effects of a price increase. At the same time, because a call writer must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, even if its current value is greater, a call writer gives up some ability to participate in security price increases.
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There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular options contract at any particular time. Options may have relatively low trading volume and liquidity if their strike prices are not close to the underlying instrument's current price. In addition, exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for options contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or otherwise, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its options positions could also be impaired.
Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract size, and strike price, the terms of OTC options (options not traded on exchanges) generally are established through negotiation with the other party to the option contract. While this type of arrangement allows the purchaser or writer greater flexibility to tailor an option to its needs, OTC options generally are less liquid and involve greater credit risk than exchange-traded options, which are backed by the clearing organization of the exchanges where they are traded.
Combined positions involve purchasing and writing options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument would construct a combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract. Another possible combined position would involve writing a call option at one strike price and buying a call option at a lower price, to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
A fund may also buy and sell options on swaps. Options on interest rate swaps are known as swaptions. An option on a swap gives a party the right to enter into a new swap agreement or to extend, shorten, cancel or modify an existing swap contract at a specific date in the future in exchange for a premium.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded options contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in options contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the options position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Options prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Options prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the options and futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how options and futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell options contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's options positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments.
Swap Agreements. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors. Swap agreements are two party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors. Swap agreements can vary in term like other fixed-income investments. Most swap agreements are traded over-the-counter. In a standard "swap" transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments (such as securities, commodities, or indices). The gross returns to be exchanged or swapped between the parties are calculated with respect to a notional amount, which is the predetermined dollar principal of the trade representing the hypothetical underlying quantity upon which payment obligations are computed.
Swap agreements can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of a fund's investments and its share price and, if applicable, its yield. Swap agreements are subject to liquidity risk, meaning that a fund may be unable to sell a swap contract to a third party at a favorable price.
A total return swap is a contract whereby one party agrees to make a series of payments to another party based on the change in the market value of the assets underlying such contract (which can include a security, commodity, index or baskets thereof) during the specified period. In exchange, the other party to the contract agrees to make a series of payments calculated by reference to an interest rate and/or some other agreed-upon amount (including the change in market value of other underlying assets). A fund may use total return swaps to gain exposure to an asset without owning it or taking physical custody of it. For example, a fund investing in total return commodity swaps will receive the price appreciation of a commodity, commodity index or portion thereof in exchange for payment of an agreed-upon fee.
In a credit default swap, the credit default protection buyer makes periodic payments, known as premiums, to the credit default protection seller. In return the credit default protection seller will make a payment to the credit default protection buyer upon the occurrence of a specified credit event. A credit default swap can refer to a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets, each known as the reference entity or underlying asset. A fund may act as either the buyer or the seller of a credit default swap. A fund may buy or sell credit default protection on a basket of issuers or assets, even if a number of the underlying assets referenced in the basket are lower-quality debt securities. In an unhedged credit default swap, a fund buys credit default protection on a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets without owning the underlying asset or debt issued by the reference entity. Credit default swaps involve greater and different risks than investing directly in the referenced asset, because, in addition to market risk, credit default swaps include liquidity, counterparty and operational risk.
Credit default swaps allow a fund to acquire or reduce credit exposure to a particular issuer, asset or basket of assets. If a swap agreement calls for payments by a fund, the fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. If a fund is the credit default protection seller, the fund will experience a loss if a credit event occurs and the credit of the reference entity or underlying asset has deteriorated. If a fund is the credit default protection buyer, the fund will be required to pay premiums to the credit default protection seller.
If the creditworthiness of a fund's swap counterparty declines, the risk that the counterparty may not perform could increase, potentially resulting in a loss to the fund. To limit the counterparty risk involved in swap agreements, a Fidelity fund will enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness.
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<R>If a counterparty to a swap transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in exercising its right to the return of related fund assets under an action against the counterparty.</R>
<R>The trust, on behalf of the Fidelity fund to which this SAI relates, has filed with the National Futures Association a notice claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" (CPO) under the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended, and the rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) promulgated thereunder, with respect to the fund's operation. Accordingly, the trust is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool or a CPO. However, the CFTC has adopted certain rule amendments that significantly affect the continued availability of this exclusion, and may subject advisers to funds to regulation by the CFTC. The scope of application and the effective date of these amendments is still uncertain. As of the date of this SAI, there is no certainty that a fund or its adviser will be able to rely on an exclusion in the future. A fund may determine not to use investment strategies that trigger additional CFTC regulation or may determine to operate subject to CFTC regulation, if applicable. If a fund or its adviser operates subject to CFTC regulation, it may incur additional expenses.</R>
<R> Illiquid Securities cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may be costly to a fund.</R>
<R>Under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, a Fidelity fund's adviser determines the liquidity of the fund's investments and, through reports from the fund's adviser, the Board monitors investments in illiquid securities.</R>
<R>Various factors may be considered in determining the liquidity of a fund's investments, including (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations, (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security).</R>
<R> Increasing Government Debt. The total public debt of the United States and other countries around the globe as a percent of gross domestic product has grown rapidly since the beginning of the 2008 financial downturn. Although high debt levels do not necessarily indicate or cause economic problems, they may create certain systemic risks if sound debt management practices are not implemented.</R>
<R>A high national debt level may increase market pressures to meet government funding needs, which may drive debt cost higher and cause a country to sell additional debt, thereby increasing refinancing risk. A high national debt also raises concerns that a government will not be able to make principal or interest payments when they are due. In the worst case, unsustainable debt levels can decline the valuation of currencies, and can prevent a government from implementing effective counter-cyclical fiscal policy in economic downturns.</R>
<R>On August 5, 2011, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services lowered its long-term sovereign credit rating on the United States one level to "AA+" from "AAA." While Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed the United States' short-term sovereign credit rating as "A-1+," there is no guarantee that Standard & Poor's Ratings Services will not decide to lower this rating in the future. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services stated that its decision was prompted by its view on the rising public debt burden and its perception of greater policymaking uncertainty. The market prices and yields of securities supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government may be adversely affected by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services decisions to downgrade the long-term sovereign credit rating of the United States.</R>
<R> Indexed Securities are instruments whose prices are indexed to the prices of other securities, securities indices, or other financial indicators. Indexed securities typically, but not always, are debt securities or deposits whose values at maturity or coupon rates are determined by reference to a specific instrument, statistic, or measure.</R>
<R>Indexed securities also include commercial paper, certificates of deposit, and other fixed-income securities whose values at maturity or coupon interest rates are determined by reference to the returns of particular stock indices. Indexed securities can be affected by stock prices as well as changes in interest rates and the creditworthiness of their issuers and may not track the indexes as accurately as direct investments in the indexes.</R>
<R>Indexed securities may have principal payments as well as coupon payments that depend on the performance of one or more interest rates. Their coupon rates or principal payments may change by several percentage points for every 1% interest rate change. </R>
<R>Mortgage-indexed securities, for example, could be structured to replicate the performance of mortgage securities and the characteristics of direct ownership.</R>
<R>Inflation-protected securities, for example, can be indexed to a measure of inflation, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI).</R>
<R>Commodity-indexed securities, for example, can be indexed to a commodities index such as the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index Total Return.</R>
<R>Gold-indexed securities typically provide for a maturity value that depends on the price of gold, resulting in a security whose price tends to rise and fall together with gold prices.</R>
Currency-indexed securities typically are short-term to intermediate-term debt securities whose maturity values or interest rates are determined by reference to the values of one or more specified foreign currencies, and may offer higher yields than U.S. dollar-denominated securities. Currency-indexed securities may be positively or negatively indexed; that is, their maturity value may increase when the specified currency value increases, resulting in a security that performs similarly to a foreign-denominated instrument, or their maturity value may decline when foreign currencies increase, resulting in a security whose price characteristics are similar to a put on the underlying currency. Currency-indexed securities may also have prices that depend on the values of a number of different foreign currencies relative to each other.
<R>The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the instrument or measure to which they are indexed, and may also be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying instruments or measures. Indexed securities are also subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's creditworthiness deteriorates. Recent issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. Government agencies.</R>
<R> Insolvency of Issuers, Counterparties, and Intermediaries. Issuers of fund portfolio securities or counterparties to fund transactions that become insolvent or declare bankruptcy can pose special investment risks. In each circumstance, risk of loss, valuation uncertainty, increased illiquidity, and other unpredictable occurrences may negatively impact an investment. Each of these risks may be amplified in foreign markets, where security trading, settlement, and custodial practices can be less developed than those in the U.S. markets, and bankruptcy laws differ from those of the U.S.</R>
<R>As a general matter, if the issuer of a fund portfolio security is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock have priority over the claims of common stock owners. These events can negatively impact the value of the issuer's securities and the results of related proceedings can be unpredictable.</R>
<R>If a counterparty to a fund transaction, such as a swap transaction, a short sale, a borrowing, or other complex transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in its ability to exercise rights to obtain the return of related fund assets or in exercising other rights against the counterparty. In addition, insolvency and liquidation proceedings take time to resolve, which can limit or preclude a fund's ability to terminate a transaction or obtain related assets or collateral in a timely fashion. Uncertainty may also arise upon the insolvency of a securities or commodities intermediary such as a broker-dealer or futures commission merchant with which a fund has pending transactions. If an intermediary becomes insolvent, while securities positions and other holdings may be protected by U.S. or foreign laws, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether these protections are available to specific trades based on the circumstances. Receiving the benefit of these protections can also take time to resolve, which may result in illiquid positions.</R>
<R> Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program. Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a Fidelity fund may lend money to, and borrow money from, other funds advised by Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR) or its affiliates. A Fidelity fund will borrow through the program only when the costs are equal to or lower than the costs of bank loans. A Fidelity fund will lend through the program only when the returns are higher than those available from an investment in repurchase agreements. Interfund loans and borrowings normally extend overnight, but can have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one day's notice. A Fidelity fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional borrowing costs.</R>
Investment-Grade Debt Securities. Investment-grade debt securities include all types of debt instruments that are of medium and high-quality. Investment-grade debt securities include repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. Government securities as well as repurchase agreements collateralized by equity securities, non-investment-grade debt, and all other instruments in which a fund can perfect a security interest, provided the repurchase agreement counterparty has an investment-grade rating. Some investment-grade debt securities may possess speculative characteristics and may be more sensitive to economic changes and to changes in the financial conditions of issuers. An investment-grade rating means the security or issuer is rated investment-grade by a credit rating agency registered as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) with the SEC (for example, Moody's Investors Service, Inc.), or is unrated but considered to be of equivalent quality by a fund's adviser. For purposes of determining the maximum maturity of an investment-grade debt security, an adviser may take into account normal settlement periods.
<R> Investments by Large Shareholders. A fund may experience large redemptions or investments due to transactions in fund shares by large shareholders. While it is impossible to predict the overall effect of these transactions over time, there could be an adverse impact on a fund's performance. In the event of such redemptions or investments, a fund could be required to sell securities or to invest cash at a time when it may not otherwise desire to do so. Such transactions may increase a fund's brokerage and/or other transaction costs. In addition, when investors own a substantial portion of a fund's shares, a large redemption could cause actual expenses to increase, or could result in the fund's current expenses being allocated over a smaller asset base, leading to an increase in the fund's expense ratio. Redemptions of fund shares could also accelerate the realization of taxable capital gains in the fund if sales of securities result in capital gains. The impact of these transactions is likely to be greater when a significant investor purchases, redeems, or owns a substantial portion of the fund's shares. When possible, Fidelity will consider how to minimize these potential adverse effects, and may take such actions as it deems appropriate to address potential adverse effects, including redemption of shares in-kind rather than in cash or carrying out the transactions over a period of time, although there can be no assurance that such actions will be successful.</R>
<R> Loans and Other Direct Debt Instruments. Direct debt instruments are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments involve a risk of loss in case of default or insolvency of the borrower and may offer less legal protection to the purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation, or there may be a requirement that a fund supply additional cash to a borrower on demand. A fund may acquire loans by buying an assignment of all or a portion of the loan from a lender or by purchasing a loan participation from a lender or other purchaser of a participation.</R>
<R>Lenders and purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of interest and repayment of principal. If scheduled interest or principal payments are not made, the value of the instrument may be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured provide more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of failure to make scheduled interest or principal payments. However, there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the borrower's obligation, or that the collateral could be liquidated. Indebtedness of borrowers whose creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks and may be highly speculative. Borrowers that are in bankruptcy or restructuring may never pay off their indebtedness, or may pay only a small fraction of the amount owed. Direct indebtedness of foreign countries also involves a risk that the governmental entities responsible for the repayment of the debt may be unable, or unwilling, to pay interest and repay principal when due.</R>
<R>Direct lending and investments in loans through direct assignment of a financial institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the lender/purchaser could become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of lender liability, a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender. Direct debt instruments may also involve a risk of insolvency of the lending bank or other intermediary. </R>
A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness, the purchaser has direct recourse against the borrower, the purchaser may have to rely on the agent to apply appropriate credit remedies against a borrower. If assets held by the agent for the benefit of a purchaser were determined to be subject to the claims of the agent's general creditors, the purchaser might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or interest.
<R>Direct indebtedness may include letters of credit, revolving credit facilities, or other standby financing commitments that obligate lenders/purchasers to make additional cash payments on demand. These commitments may have the effect of requiring a lender/purchaser to increase its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise have done so, even if the borrower's condition makes it unlikely that the amount will ever be repaid.</R>
<R>For a Fidelity fund that limits the amount of total assets that it will invest in any one issuer or in issuers within the same industry, the fund generally will treat the borrower as the "issuer" of indebtedness held by the fund. In the case of loan participations where a bank or other lending institution serves as financial intermediary between a fund and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the fund the direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC interpretations require a fund, in appropriate circumstances, to treat both the lending bank or other lending institution and the borrower as "issuers" for these purposes. Treating a financial intermediary as an issuer of indebtedness may restrict a fund's ability to invest in indebtedness related to a single financial intermediary, or a group of intermediaries engaged in the same industry, even if the underlying borrowers represent many different companies and industries.</R>
Lower-Quality Debt Securities. Lower-quality debt securities include all types of debt instruments that have poor protection with respect to the payment of interest and repayment of principal, or may be in default. These securities are often considered to be speculative and involve greater risk of loss or price changes due to changes in the issuer's capacity to pay. The market prices of lower-quality debt securities may fluctuate more than those of higher-quality debt securities and may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty, which may follow periods of rising interest rates.
The market for lower-quality debt securities may be thinner and less active than that for higher-quality debt securities, which can adversely affect the prices at which the former are sold. Adverse publicity and changing investor perceptions may affect the liquidity of lower-quality debt securities and the ability of outside pricing services to value lower-quality debt securities.
Because the risk of default is higher for lower-quality debt securities, research and credit analysis are an especially important part of managing securities of this type. Such analysis may focus on relative values based on factors such as interest or dividend coverage, asset coverage, earnings prospects, and the experience and managerial strength of the issuer, in an attempt to identify those issuers of high-yielding securities whose financial condition is adequate to meet future obligations, has improved, or is expected to improve in the future.
A fund may choose, at its expense or in conjunction with others, to pursue litigation or otherwise to exercise its rights as a security holder to seek to protect the interests of security holders if it determines this to be in the best interest of the fund's shareholders.
Precious Metals. Precious metals, such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, at times have been subject to substantial price fluctuations over short periods of time and may be affected by unpredictable monetary and political policies such as currency devaluations or revaluations, economic and social conditions within a country, trade imbalances, or trade or currency restrictions between countries. The prices of gold and other precious metals, however, are less subject to local and company-specific factors than securities of individual companies. As a result, precious metals may be more or less volatile in price than securities of companies engaged in precious metals-related businesses. Investments in precious metals can present concerns such as delivery, storage and maintenance, possible illiquidity, and the unavailability of accurate market valuations. Although precious metals can be purchased in any form, including bullion and coins, a Fidelity fund intends to purchase only those forms of precious metals that are readily marketable and that can be stored in accordance with custody regulations applicable to mutual funds. A fund may incur higher custody and transaction costs for precious metals than for securities. Also, precious metals investments do not pay income.
For a fund to qualify as a regulated investment company under current federal tax law, gains from selling precious metals may not exceed 10% of the fund's gross income for its taxable year. This tax requirement could cause a fund to hold or sell precious metals or securities when it would not otherwise do so.
Preferred Stock represents an equity or ownership 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.
Real Estate Investment Trusts. Equity real estate investment trusts own real estate properties, while mortgage real estate investment trusts make construction, development, and long-term mortgage loans. Their value may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property of the trusts, the creditworthiness of the issuer, property taxes, interest rates, and tax and regulatory requirements, such as those relating to the environment. Both types of trusts are dependent upon management skill, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status of income under the Internal Revenue Code and failing to maintain exemption from the 1940 Act.
<R> Reforms and Government Intervention in the Financial Markets. Economic downturns can trigger various economic, legal, budgetary, tax, and regulatory reforms across the globe. Instability in the financial markets in the wake of the 2008 economic downturn led the U.S. Government and other governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that experienced extreme volatility, and in some cases, a lack of liquidity. Reforms are ongoing and their effects are uncertain. Federal, state, local, foreign, and other governments, their regulatory agencies, or self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which a fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Reforms may also change the way in which a fund is regulated and could limit or preclude a fund's ability to achieve its investment objective or engage in certain strategies. Also, while reforms generally are intended to strengthen markets, systems, and public finances, they could affect fund expenses and the value of fund investments.</R>
<R>The value of a fund's holdings is also generally subject to the risk of future local, national, or global economic disturbances based on unknown weaknesses in the markets in which a fund invests. In the event of such a disturbance, the issuers of securities held by a fund may experience significant declines in the value of their assets and even cease operations, or may receive government assistance accompanied by increased restrictions on their business operations or other government intervention. In addition, it is not certain that the U.S. Government or foreign governments will intervene in response to a future market disturbance and the effect of any such future intervention cannot be predicted.</R>
<R> Repurchase Agreements involve an agreement to purchase a security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price. The resale price reflects the purchase price plus an agreed-upon incremental amount which is unrelated to the coupon rate or maturity of the purchased security. As protection against the risk that the original seller will not fulfill its obligation, the securities are held in a separate account at a bank, marked-to-market daily, and maintained at a value at least equal to the sale price plus the accrued incremental amount. The value of the security purchased may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to purchase the security. In addition, delays or losses could result if the other party to the agreement defaults or becomes insolvent. A fund may be limited in its ability to exercise its right to liquidate assets related to a repurchase agreement with an insolvent counterparty. A Fidelity fund may engage in repurchase agreement transactions with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser.</R>
Restricted Securities are subject to legal restrictions on their sale. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or be costly to a fund. Restricted securities generally can be sold in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (1933 Act), or in a registered public offering. Where registration is required, the holder of a registered security may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expense and a considerable period may elapse between the time it decides to seek registration and the time it may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the holder might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed when it decided to seek registration of the security.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. In a reverse repurchase agreement, a fund sells a security to another party, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that security at an agreed-upon price and time. A Fidelity fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser. Such transactions may increase fluctuations in the market value of a fund's assets and, if applicable, a fund's yield, and may be viewed as a form of leverage.
<R> Securities Lending. Securities lending allows a fund to retain ownership of the securities loaned and, at the same time, earn additional income. The borrower provides the fund with collateral in an amount at least equal to the value of the securities loaned. The fund seeks to maintain the ability to obtain the right to vote or consent on proxy proposals involving material events affecting securities loaned. If the borrower defaults on its obligation to return the securities loaned because of insolvency or other reasons, a fund could experience delays and costs in recovering the securities loaned or in gaining access to the collateral. These delays and costs could be greater for foreign securities. If a fund is not able to recover the securities loaned, the fund may sell the collateral and purchase a replacement investment in the market. The value of the collateral could decrease below the value of the replacement investment by the time the replacement investment is purchased.</R>
<R> Securities of Other Investment Companies, including shares of closed-end investment companies (which include business development companies (BDCs)), unit investment trusts, and open-end investment companies, represent interests in professionally managed portfolios that may invest in any type of instrument. Investing in other investment companies involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, but may involve additional expenses at the investment company-level, such as portfolio management fees and operating expenses. For certain investment companies, such as BDCs, these expenses may be significant. Certain types of investment companies, such as closed-end investment companies, issue a fixed number of shares that trade on a stock exchange or over-the-counter at a premium or a discount to their NAV. Others are continuously offered at NAV, but may also be traded in the secondary market.</R>
The extent to which a fund can invest in securities of other investment companies may be limited by federal securities laws.
Short Sales. Short sales involve the market sale of a security a fund has borrowed from a prime broker with which it has a contractual relationship, with the expectation that the security will underperform either the market or the securities that the fund holds long. A fund closes a short sale by purchasing the same security at the current market price and delivering it to the prime broker.
<R>Until a fund closes out a short position, the fund is obligated to pay the prime broker (from which it borrowed the security sold short) interest as well as any dividends that accrue during the period of the loan. While a short position is outstanding, a fund must also pledge a portion of its assets to the prime broker as collateral for the borrowed security. The collateral will be marked to market daily.</R>
Short positions create a risk that a fund will be required to cover them by buying the security at a time when the security has appreciated in value, thus resulting in a loss to the fund. A short position in a security poses more risk than holding the same security long. Because a short position loses value as the security's price increases, the loss on a short sale is theoretically unlimited. The loss on a long position is limited to what a fund originally paid for the security together with any transaction costs. A fund may not always be able to borrow a security the fund seeks to sell short at a particular time or at an acceptable price. As a result, a fund may be unable to fully implement its investment strategy due to a lack of available stocks or for other reasons. It is possible that the market value of the securities a fund holds in long positions will decline at the same time that the market value of the securities the fund has sold short increases, thereby increasing the fund's potential volatility. Because a fund may be required to pay dividends, interest, premiums and other expenses in connection with a short sale, any benefit for the fund resulting from the short sale will be decreased, and the amount of any ultimate gain will be decreased or of any loss will be increased, by the amount of such expenses.
A fund may also enter into short sales against the box. Short sales "against the box" are short sales of securities that a fund owns or has the right to obtain (equivalent in kind or amount to the securities sold short). If a fund enters into a short sale against the box, it will be required to set aside securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short (or securities convertible or exchangeable into such securities) and will be required to hold such securities while the short sale is outstanding. A fund will incur transaction costs, including interest expenses, in connection with opening, maintaining, and closing short sales against the box.
Sources of Liquidity or Credit Support. Issuers may employ various forms of credit and liquidity enhancements, including letters of credit, guarantees, swaps, puts, and demand features, and insurance provided by domestic or foreign entities such as banks and other financial institutions. An adviser and its affiliates may rely on their evaluation of the credit of the issuer or the credit of the liquidity or credit enhancement provider in determining whether to purchase or hold a security supported by such enhancement. In evaluating the credit of a foreign bank or other foreign entities, factors considered may include whether adequate public information about the entity is available and whether the entity may be subject to unfavorable political or economic developments, currency controls, or other government restrictions that might affect its ability to honor its commitment. Changes in the credit quality of the issuer and/or entity providing the enhancement could affect the value of the security or a fund's share price.
Sovereign Debt Obligations are issued or guaranteed by foreign governments or their agencies, including debt of Latin American nations or other developing countries. Sovereign debt may be in the form of conventional securities or other types of debt instruments such as loans or loan participations. Sovereign debt of developing countries may involve a high degree of risk, and may be in default or present the risk of default. Governmental entities responsible for repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal and pay interest when due, and may require renegotiation or rescheduling of debt payments. In addition, prospects for repayment of principal and payment of interest may depend on political as well as economic factors. Although some sovereign debt, such as Brady Bonds, is collateralized by U.S. Government securities, repayment of principal and payment of interest is not guaranteed by the U.S. Government.
Structured Securities (also called "structured notes") are derivative debt securities, the interest rate on or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. The value of the interest rate on and/or the principal of structured securities is determined by reference to changes in the value of a reference instrument ( e.g., a security or other financial instrument, asset, currency, interest rate, commodity, or index) or the relative change in two or more reference instruments. A structured security may be positively, negatively, or both positively and negatively indexed; that is, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument increases. Similarly, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument decreases. Further, the change in the principal amount payable with respect to, or the interest rate of, a structured security may be calculated as a multiple of the percentage change (positive or negative) in the value of the underlying reference instrument(s); therefore, the value of such structured security may be very volatile. Structured securities may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because the investor bears the risk of the reference instrument. Structured securities may also be more volatile, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities or more traditional debt securities. In addition, because structured securities generally are traded over-the-counter, structured securities are subject to the creditworthiness of the counterparty of the structured security, and their values may decline substantially if the counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates.
<R> Temporary Defensive Policies. In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, a fund may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If a fund does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.</R>
<R>Strategic Advisers Core Fund reserves the right to invest without limitation in preferred stocks and investment-grade debt instruments for temporary, defensive purposes.</R>
<R> Transfer Agent Bank Accounts. Proceeds from shareholder purchases of a Fidelity fund may pass through a series of demand deposit bank accounts before being held at the fund's custodian. Redemption proceeds may pass from the custodian to the shareholder through a similar series of bank accounts.</R>
<R>If a bank account is registered to the transfer agent or an affiliate, who acts as an agent for the fund when opening, closing, and conducting business in the bank account, the transfer agent or an affiliate may invest overnight balances in the account in repurchase agreements. Any balances that are not invested in repurchase agreements remain in the bank account overnight. Any risks associated with such an account are investment risks of the fund. The fund faces the risk of loss of these balances if the bank becomes insolvent.</R>
Warrants. Warrants are instruments which entitle the holder to buy an equity security at a specific price for a specific period of time. Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss.
Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
Zero Coupon Bonds do not make interest payments; instead, they are sold at a discount from their face value and are redeemed at face value when they mature. Because zero coupon bonds do not pay current income, their prices can be more volatile than other types of fixed-income securities when interest rates change. In calculating a fund's dividend, a portion of the difference between a zero coupon bond's purchase price and its face value is considered income.
To the extent that Strategic Advisers grants investment management authority over an allocated portion of the fund's assets to a sub-adviser (see the section entitled "Management Contract"), that sub-adviser is authorized to provide the services described in the respective sub-advisory agreement, and in accordance with the policies described in this section.
Orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities are placed on behalf of the fund by Strategic Advisers (either directly or through its affiliates) or a sub-adviser, pursuant to authority contained in the management contract and the respective sub-advisory agreement.
Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be responsible for the placement of portfolio securities transactions for other investment companies and investment accounts for which it has or its affiliates have investment discretion.
The fund will not incur any commissions or sales charges when it invests in affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it may incur such costs when it invests directly in other types of securities, including ETFs.
Purchases and sales of equity securities on a securities exchange or OTC are effected through brokers who receive compensation for their services. Generally, compensation relating to securities traded on foreign exchanges will be higher than compensation relating to securities traded on U.S. exchanges and may not be subject to negotiation. Compensation may also be paid in connection with principal transactions (in both OTC securities and securities listed on an exchange) and agency OTC transactions executed with an electronic communications network (ECN) or an alternative trading system. Equity securities may be purchased from underwriters at prices that include underwriting fees.
Purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally made with an issuer or a primary market-maker acting as principal. Although there is no stated brokerage commission paid by the fund for any fixed-income security, the price paid by the fund to an underwriter includes the disclosed underwriting fee and prices in secondary trades usually include an undisclosed dealer commission or markup reflecting the spread between the bid and ask prices of the fixed-income security. New issues of equity and fixed-income securities may also be purchased in underwritten fixed price offerings.
The Trustees of the fund periodically review Strategic Advisers' and its affiliates' and each sub-adviser's performance of their respective responsibilities in connection with the placement of portfolio securities transactions on behalf of the fund. The Trustees also review the compensation paid by the fund over representative periods of time to determine if it was reasonable in relation to the benefits to the fund.
Strategic Advisers.
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Strategic Advisers, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, the following: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and characteristics of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for avoiding or lessening market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
The trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Strategic Advisers or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker may be higher than the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Strategic Advisers or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
Benefit to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these brokerage and research products or services with their own resources. To minimize the potential for conflicts of interest, the trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services Strategic Advisers or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates or have no explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.
Strategic Advisers' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Strategic Advisers or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Strategic Advisers or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately, rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) who have entered into arrangements with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with certain brokers, including National Financial Services LLC (NFS), with whom they are under common control, provided Strategic Advisers or its affiliates determine that these affiliates' trade execution abilities and costs are comparable to those of non-affiliated, qualified brokerage firms. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with brokers that use NFS as a clearing agent.
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
<R> Non-U.S. Transactions</R>
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers.
Trade Allocation
Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Strategic Advisers to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
First Eagle Investment Management, LLC (First Eagle).
First Eagle is responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities, futures and options on securities, on indices and on futures for the fund, the selection of brokers, dealers and futures commission merchants to effect those transactions and the negotiations of brokerage commissions, if any, for its portion of the fund. Broker-dealers and futures commission merchants may receive brokerage commissions on fund portfolio transactions, including options and the purchase and sale of underlying securities or futures positions upon the exercise of options. Orders may be directed to any broker or futures commission merchant including, to the extent and in the manner permitted by applicable law. A substantial number of brokers through whom First Eagle executes agency orders provide proprietary research on general economic trends or particular companies. Selected brokers provide third-party research and brokerage services, that is, services obtained by the broker from a third party that the broker then provides to First Eagle including "commission sharing arrangements." First Eagle may obtain quote and other market data information in this manner. Certain brokers may also invite investment personnel of First Eagle to attend investment conferences sponsored by such brokers.
Brokerage commissions generally are negotiated in the case of U.S. securities transactions, but in the case of foreign securities transactions may be fixed and may be higher than prevailing U.S. rates. Commission rates are established pursuant to negotiations with the executing parties based on the quantity and quality of the execution services. Equity securities traded in over-the-counter market and bonds, including convertible bonds, are generally traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the security usually includes a profit to the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price which includes an amount of compensation to the underwriters, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount. On occasion, certain money market instruments and U.S. government agency securities may be purchased directly from the issuer, in which case no commissions or discounts are paid. First Eagle will consider the research and investment services provided by brokers, dealers or futures commission merchants who effect or are parties to portfolio transactions the fund, First Eagle or First Eagle's other clients. Such research and investment services include those which brokerage houses customarily provide to institutional investors such as statistical and economic data and research reports on particular companies and industries. In general, research and brokerage services obtained from brokers are used by First Eagle in connection with all of its investment activities, and some of such services obtained in connection with the execution of transactions for the fund may be used in managing other investment accounts. Conversely, brokers, dealers or futures commission merchants furnishing such services may be selected for the execution of transactions of such other accounts, whose aggregate assets are far larger than the fund's, and the services furnished by such brokers, dealers or futures commission merchants may be used by First Eagle in providing investment management for the fund. Commission rates are established pursuant to negotiations with the broker, dealer or futures commission merchant based on the quality and quantity of execution services provided by the executing party in light of generally prevailing rates. In addition, First Eagle may pay higher commissions on brokerage transactions for the fund to brokers in order to secure the research and investment services.
Lazard Asset Management, LLC (Lazard).
Lazard is primarily responsible for the investment decisions and the placing of portfolio transactions for its portion of the fund. In arranging for the fund's securities transactions, Lazard is primarily concerned with seeking best execution, which is considered to be the most favorable combination of price and quantity that can be traded at a point in time given, among other factors, the liquidity, market conditions, and required urgency of execution. In choosing broker-dealers, Lazard considers all relevant factors, including but not limited to: the ability of a broker-dealer to provide a prompt and efficient agency execution; the ability and willingness of a broker-dealer to facilitate the transactions by acting as principal and going at risk for its own accounts; the ability of a broker-dealer to provide accurate and timely settlement of the transaction; Lazard's knowledge of the negotiated commission rates currently available and other current transactions costs; the clearance and settlement capabilities of the broker; Lazard's knowledge of the financial condition of the broker or dealer selected; and any other matter relevant to the selection of a broker-dealer.
In the over-the-counter market, securities are generally traded on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the security usually includes a profit to the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are purchased at a fixed price that includes an amount of compensation to the underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount.
Purchase and sale orders for securities held by the fund may be combined with those for other accounts in the interest of the most favorable net results for all. In some cases, this policy may adversely affect the price paid or received by an account, or the size of the position obtained or liquidated. When Lazard determines that a particular security should be bought for or sold by more than one client, Lazard undertakes to allocate those transactions between the participants equitably.
<R> OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (OppenheimerFunds). </R>
<R>One of OppenheimerFunds' duties under the investment sub-advisory agreement is to arrange the portfolio transactions for its portion of the fund. The sub-advisory agreement contains provisions relating to the employment of broker-dealers for that purpose. The sub-advisory agreement authorizes OppenheimerFunds to employ broker-dealers, including "affiliated brokers," as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act, that OppenheimerFunds believes, in its best judgment based on all relevant factors, will implement the policy of the fund to obtain the "best execution" of the fund's portfolio transactions. "Best execution" means executing trades in a manner such that the total costs or proceeds are the most favorable under the circumstances. Some of the circumstances that may influence this decision are: cost (brokerage commission or dealer spread), size of order, difficulty of order, and the firm's ability to provide prompt and reliable execution.</R>
<R>OppenheimerFunds need not seek competitive commission bidding. However, OppenheimerFunds is expected to be aware of the current rates of eligible brokers and to minimize the commissions paid to the extent consistent with the interests and policies of the fund as established by its board of directors. The fund is not required to pay the lowest available commission. Under the sub-advisory agreement, in choosing brokers to execute portfolio transactions for the fund, OppenheimerFunds may select brokers (other than affiliates) that provide both brokerage and research services to the fund. The commissions paid to those brokers may be higher than another qualified broker would charge, if OppenheimerFunds makes a good faith determination that the commission is fair and reasonable in relation to the services provided.</R>
<R>The sub-advisory agreement permits OppenheimerFunds to allocate brokerage for research services in compliance with Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The research services provided by a particular broker may be useful both to the fund and to one or more of the other funds or accounts advised by OppenheimerFunds or its affiliates. Investment research may be supplied to OppenheimerFunds by a broker through which trades are placed or by a third party at the instance of the broker.</R>
<R>Investment research services include information and analysis on particular companies and industries as well as market or economic trends and portfolio strategy, market quotations for portfolio evaluations, analytical software and similar products and services. If a research service also assists OppenheimerFunds in a non-research capacity (such as bookkeeping or other administrative functions), then only the percentage or component that provides assistance to OppenheimerFunds in the investment decision making process may be paid in commission dollars. The research services provided by brokers broaden the scope and supplement the research activities of OppenheimerFunds. That research provides additional views and comparisons for consideration, and helps OppenheimerFunds to obtain market information for the valuation of securities that are either held in the fund's portfolio or are being considered for purchase.</R>
<R>OppenheimerFunds' portfolio traders allocate brokerage based upon recommendations from the portfolio managers, together with the portfolio traders' judgment as to the execution capability of the broker or dealer. In certain instances, portfolio managers may directly place trades and allocate brokerage. In either case, OppenheimerFunds' executive officers supervise the allocation of brokerage.</R>
<R>Transactions in securities other than those for which an exchange is the primary market are generally done with principals or market makers. In transactions on foreign exchanges, the fund may be required to pay fixed brokerage commissions and therefore would not have the benefit of negotiated commissions that are available in U.S. markets. Brokerage commissions are paid primarily for transactions in listed securities or for certain fixed-income agency transactions executed in the secondary market. Otherwise, brokerage commissions are paid only if it appears likely that a better price or execution can be obtained by doing so. In an option transaction, the fund ordinarily uses the same broker for the purchase or sale of the option and any transaction in the securities to which the option relates.</R>
<R>Other funds and accounts advised by OppenheimerFunds may have investment policies similar to those of the fund. Those other funds and accounts may purchase or sell the same securities as the fund at the same time as the fund, which could affect the supply and price of the securities. When possible, OppenheimerFunds tries to combine concurrent orders to purchase or sell the same security by more than one of the funds and accounts managed by OppenheimerFunds or its affiliates. If two or more accounts advised by OppenheimerFunds purchase the same security on the same day from the same dealer, the transactions under those combined orders are averaged as to price and allocated in accordance with the purchase or sale orders actually placed for each account.</R>
<R> Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis). </R>
<R> The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers</R>
<R>Pyramis or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Pyramis, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Pyramis or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and character of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Pyramis and/or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for lessening or avoiding market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.</R>
<R>In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Pyramis and/or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Pyramis and/or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Pyramis or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker is generally the same as the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of a futures commission merchant (FCM) is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Pyramis and/or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.</R>
<R> The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services</R>
<R>Brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Pyramis or its affiliates.</R>
<R> Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Pyramis' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise. </R>
<R> Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).</R>
<R> Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Pyramis or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in their investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Pyramis or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").</R>
<R> Benefits to Pyramis. Pyramis' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these products or services with their own resources. However, the trading desks of Pyramis and its affiliates are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services that Pyramis or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Pyramis or its affiliates or might not have an explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.</R>
<R> Pyramis' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Pyramis or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Pyramis or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Pyramis' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Pyramis or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Pyramis, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Pyramis or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Pyramis or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Pyramis or its affiliates.</R>
<R> Research Contracts. Pyramis or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Pyramis or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Pyramis or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Pyramis or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Pyramis or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Pyramis and its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Pyramis' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately ( e.g., with hard dollars), rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Pyramis' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.</R>
<R> Commission Recapture</R>
<R>Pyramis or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Pyramis) who have entered into arrangements with Pyramis or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.</R>
<R> Affiliated Transactions</R>
<R>Pyramis or its affiliates may be authorized to place portfolio transactions with Fidelity Capital Markets (FCM), a division of NFS, an affiliated broker-dealer of Pyramis and its affiliates, or other broker-dealers with whom they are under common control, and use CrossStream, an alternative trading system operated by NFS, if they reasonably believe the quality of the transaction is comparable to what it would be with other qualified broker-dealers. With respect to trades that are executed by Pyramis' affiliates, Pyramis and such affiliate seek to ensure that the trade execution obtained is comparable to that of unaffiliated brokers and that the continued use of such affiliate is appropriate. In addition, Pyramis or its affiliates may place trades with broker-dealers that use NFS as a clearing agent.</R>
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
<R> Non-U.S. Securities Transactions</R>
<R>To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Pyramis or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers or may engage a third party to do so.</R>
<R> Trade Allocation</R>
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Pyramis or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Pyramis or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
<R>When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Pyramis to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.</R>
T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. (T. Rowe Price).
Investment or Brokerage Discretion
Decisions with respect to the selection, purchase, and sale of portfolio securities on behalf of an allocated portion of the fund's assets (the sub-fund) are made by T. Rowe Price. T. Rowe Price is responsible for implementing the decisions for the sub-fund, including, where applicable, the negotiation of commissions, the allocation of portfolio brokerage and principal business, and the use of affiliates to assist in routing orders for execution.
How Broker-Dealers Are Selected
In purchasing and selling equity securities, T. Rowe Price seeks to obtain best execution at favorable prices through responsible broker-dealers and, in the case of agency transactions, at competitive commission rates. However, under certain conditions, higher brokerage commissions may be paid to broker-dealers providing brokerage and research services. In selecting broker-dealers to execute the sub-fund's portfolio transactions, consideration is given to such factors as the price of the security, the rate of the commission, the size and difficulty of the order, the reliability, integrity, general execution, and operational capabilities of competing broker-dealers, their expertise in particular markets, and brokerage and research services provided by them. It is not the policy of T. Rowe Price to seek the lowest available commission rate where it is believed that a broker-dealer charging a higher commission rate would offer greater reliability or provide better price or more efficient execution.
In general, we utilize a broad spectrum of execution venues. These include traditional stock exchanges, electronic communication networks, alternative trading systems, algorithmic solutions, crossing networks, and other alternative pools of liquidity. In selecting from among these options, T. Rowe Price generally seeks to select the broker-dealers or system it believes to be actively and effectively trading the security being purchased or sold.
Evaluating the Overall Reasonableness of Brokerage Commissions Paid
On a continuing basis, T. Rowe Price seeks to determine what levels of commission rates are reasonable in the marketplace for transactions executed on behalf of clients. In evaluating the reasonableness of commission rates, T. Rowe Price considers factors such as: (a) rates quoted by broker-dealers; (b) the size of a particular transaction, in terms of the number of shares, dollar amount, and number of clients involved; (c) the complexity of a particular transaction in terms of both execution and settlement; (d) the level and type of business conducted with a particular firm over a period of time; (e) the extent to which the broker-dealer has capital at risk in the transaction; (f) historical commission rates; and (g) rates paid by other institutional investors based on available public information.
Commissions Paid to Broker-Dealers for Research
<R>T. Rowe Price receives a wide range of research services from broker-dealers. These services include information on the economy, industries, groups of securities, individual companies, statistics, accounting and tax law interpretations, political developments, legal developments affecting portfolio securities, technical market action, pricing and appraisal services, performance analysis, credit analysis, risk measurement analysis, and analysis of corporate responsibility issues. The research incorporates both domestic and international perspectives. Research services are received primarily in the form of written reports, e-mails, computer-generated services, telephone contacts, and personal meetings with security analysts, corporate and industry executives, and other persons. In addition, research may include the provision of access to unaffiliated individuals with expertise in various industries, businesses, or other related areas. T. Rowe Price receives (including receipt by accessing certain electronic platforms) complimentary and customary fixed income research from various broker-dealers, including broker-dealers with whom fixed income transactions are carried out in accordance with T. Rowe Price's best execution obligations. Such research, however, is not contingent upon specific trades with the providing broker-dealer. Such services may also be provided through meetings arranged with corporate management, industry spokespersons, economists, academicians, and government representatives. Some research may be incorporated into firm-wide systems or communications.</R>
Certain broker-dealers that provide quality brokerage and execution services also furnish proprietary research services to T. Rowe Price. Proprietary research may also include research provided by an affiliate of the broker-dealer. With regard to the payment of brokerage commissions and receipt of proprietary research, T. Rowe Price has adopted brokerage allocation policies which embody the concepts of Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act which permits an investment adviser to cause its accounts or clients to pay a higher commission to a broker-dealer that furnishes research services than what might be charged by another broker-dealer that does not furnish research services (or that furnishes brokerage and research services deemed to be of lesser value). The adviser must determine in good faith that the commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the research services (and any brokerage services) provided. The determination may be viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the adviser with respect to the accounts over which it exercises investment discretion. As a result, research may not necessarily benefit all accounts paying commissions to such broker-dealers.
T. Rowe Price has a policy of not allocating brokerage business in return for products or services other than brokerage or research services, as described in Section 28(e).
Independent third-party research is an important component of the investment process and may be paid for directly by T. Rowe Price, obtained through commission sharing arrangements ("CSAs"), or acquired through "step-out" transactions. T. Rowe Price may obtain third-party research from broker-dealers or nonbroker-dealers by entering into CSAs. Under a CSA, the executing broker-dealer agrees that part of the commissions it earns on certain equity trades for T. Rowe Price will be allocated to one or more research providers, as directed by T. Rowe Price as payment for research. The use of CSAs allows T. Rowe Price to direct broker-dealers to pool commissions that are generated from orders executed at that broker-dealer (for equity transactions on behalf of the T. Rowe Price Funds and other client accounts), and then periodically direct the broker-dealer to pay third party research providers for research. All such uses of CSAs by T. Rowe Price are subject to applicable law and their best execution obligations.
Allocation of Brokerage Commissions
T. Rowe Price has a policy of not pre-committing a specific amount of business to any broker-dealer over any specific time period. Historically, brokerage placement has been determined, as appropriate, by the needs of a specific transaction such as market-making, availability of a buyer or seller of a particular security, or specialized execution skills. T. Rowe Price may choose to allocate brokerage among several broker-dealers that are able to meet the needs of the transaction. Each quarter, T. Rowe Price assesses the contributions of the equity brokerage and research services provided by broker-dealers and creates a ranking of broker-dealers in response to these assessments. Portfolio managers, research analysts, and the trading department each evaluate the brokerage, execution, and research services they receive from broker-dealers and make judgments as to the quality of such services. Actual business received by a particular firm may not directly reflect its ranking in the voting process. It may be less than the suggested target but can, and often does, exceed the suggestions because the total business is allocated on the basis of all the considerations described above. Allocation of brokerage business is monitored on a periodic basis by the Equity and Fixed Income Brokerage and Trading Control Committees. In no event is a broker-dealer excluded from receiving business from T. Rowe Price because it has not been identified as providing research services. Discount or execution only brokers, as well as ECNs, are used where deemed appropriate.
Trade Allocation Policies
T. Rowe Price has developed written trade allocation guidelines for its trading desks. Generally, when the amount of securities available in a public offering or the secondary markets is insufficient to satisfy the volume or price requirements for the participating client portfolios, the guidelines require a pro-rata allocation based upon the relative sizes of the participating client portfolios or the relative sizes of the participating client orders, depending upon the market involved. In allocating trades made on a combined basis, the trading desks seek to achieve the same net unit price of the securities for each participating client. Because a pro-rata allocation may not always adequately accommodate all facts and circumstances, the guidelines provide for exceptions to allocate trades on an adjusted basis. For example, adjustments may be made: (i) to eliminate de minimis positions; (ii) to give priority to accounts with specialized investment policies and objectives; and (iii) to reallocate in light of a participating portfolio's characteristics (e.g., available cash, industry or issuer concentration, duration, credit exposure). With respect to any private placement transactions, conditions imposed by the issuer may limit availability of allocations to client accounts.
Miscellaneous
It is the policy of T. Rowe Price not to favor one client over another in making recommendations or in placing orders. T. Rowe Price frequently follows the practice of grouping orders of various clients for execution. Clients should be aware, however, that the grouping of their orders with other clients' orders may sometimes result in a more favorable price and at other times may result in a less favorable price than if the client orders had not been grouped. Where an aggregate order is executed in a series of transactions at various prices on a given day, each participating client's proportionate share of such order will reflect the average price paid or received with respect to the total order.
Commissions Paid
A fund may pay compensation including both commissions and spreads in connection with the placement of portfolio transactions. The amount of brokerage commissions paid by a fund may change from year to year because of, among other things, changing asset levels, shareholder activity, and/or portfolio turnover.
<R>For the fiscal periods ended May 31, 2012 and 2011, the fund's portfolio turnover rates were 64% and 54%, respectively. Variations in turnover rate may be due to a fluctuating volume of shareholder purchase and redemption orders, market conditions, and/or changes in Strategic Advisers' investment outlook.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund held securities issued by one or more of its regular brokers or dealers or a parent company of its regular brokers or dealers. The following table shows the aggregate value of the securities of the regular broker or dealer or parent company held by the fund as of the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012.</R>
<R> Fund |
Regular Broker or Dealer |
Aggregate Value of
|
<R>Strategic Advisers Core Fund |
Bank of America Corp. |
$ 16,688,175</R> |
<R> |
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. |
$ 9,081,930</R> |
<R> |
JPMorgan Chase & Co. |
$ 44,614,596</R> |
<R> |
Morgan Stanley |
$ 7,264,674</R> |
<R> |
The Toronto-Dominion Bank |
$ 2,177,604</R> |
<R>The following table shows the total amount of brokerage commissions paid by the fund, comprising commissions paid on securities and/or futures transactions, as applicable, for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2012, 2011, and 2010. The total amount of brokerage commissions paid is stated as a dollar amount and a percentage of the fund's average net assets.</R>
<R>Fiscal Year
|
|
Dollar
|
Percentage of
|
<R>2012 |
|
$ 5,037,898 |
0.06%</R> |
<R>2011 |
|
$ 4,170,096 |
0.06%</R> |
<R>2010 A |
|
$ 1,145,346 |
0.05%</R> |
<R> A Fund commenced operations on December 30, 2009.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012 the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2011 the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R> Broker |
Affiliated With |
Commissions</R> |
<R>NFS |
FMR LLC/Strategic Advisers |
$ 100,227</R> |
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2010 the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R> Broker |
Affiliated With |
Commissions</R> |
<R>NFS |
FMR LLC/Strategic Advisers |
$ 23,391</R> |
<R>Brokerage commissions may vary significantly from year to year due to a variety of factors, including the types of investments selected by the sub-adviser(s), changes in transaction costs, and market conditions.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid $3,136,329 in brokerage commissions to firms that may have provided research or brokerage services involving approximately $4,618,697,214 of transactions.</R>
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. The NAV of the fund is computed by adding the value of the fund's investments, cash, and other assets, subtracting its liabilities, and dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding.
The Board of Trustees has ultimate responsibility for pricing, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers has established the Strategic Advisers Fair Value Committee (Strategic Advisers Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities. The Strategic Advisers Committee may rely on information and recommendations provided by affiliates of Strategic Advisers in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, including the fair valuation of securities.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) held by the fund are valued at their respective NAVs. If an underlying fund's NAV is unavailable, shares of that underlying fund will be fair valued in good faith by the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Generally, other portfolio securities and assets held by the fund, as well as portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity non-money market fund, are valued as follows:
Most equity securities (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued at the official closing price or the last reported sale price or, if no sale has occurred, at the last quoted bid price on the primary market or exchange on which they are traded.
Debt securities and other assets for which market quotations are readily available may be valued at market values in the principal market in which they normally are traded, as furnished by recognized dealers in such securities or assets. Or, debt securities and convertible securities may be valued on the basis of information furnished by a pricing service that uses a valuation matrix which incorporates both dealer-supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Use of pricing services has been approved by the Board of Trustees. A number of pricing services are available, and the fund may use various pricing services or discontinue the use of any pricing service.
Short-term securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less for which market quotations and information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available are valued at amortized cost, which approximates current value.
Futures contracts are valued at the settlement or closing price. Options are valued at their market quotations, if available. Swaps are valued daily using quotations received from independent pricing services or recognized dealers.
Independent brokers or quotation services provide prices of foreign securities in their local currency. Fidelity Service Company, Inc. (FSC) gathers all exchange rates daily at the close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) using the last quoted bid price on the local currency and then translates the value of foreign securities from their local currencies into U.S. dollars. Any changes in the value of forward contracts due to exchange rate fluctuations and days to maturity are included in the calculation of NAV.
The Board of Trustees of the underlying Fidelity funds has ultimate responsibility for pricing portfolio securities and assets held by those funds, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to FMR. FMR has established the FMR Fair Value Committee (FMR Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities.
Other portfolio securities and assets for which market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available or, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, are deemed unreliable will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before a fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, that security will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. In fair valuing a security, the FMR Committee and the Strategic Advisers Committee may consider factors including price movements in futures contracts and ADRs, market and trading trends, the bid/ask quotes of brokers, and off-exchange institutional trading.
Portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity money market fund are valued on the basis of amortized cost. This technique involves initially valuing an instrument at its cost as adjusted for amortization of premium or accretion of discount rather than its current market value. The amortized cost value of an instrument may be higher or lower than the price a money market fund would receive if it sold the instrument.
At such intervals as they deem appropriate, the Trustees of an underlying Fidelity money market fund consider the extent to which NAV calculated using market valuations would deviate from the $1.00 per share calculated using amortized cost valuation. If the Trustees believe that a deviation from a money market fund's amortized cost per share may result in material dilution or other unfair results to shareholders, the Trustees have agreed to take such corrective action, if any, as they deem appropriate to eliminate or reduce, to the extent reasonably practicable, the dilution or unfair results. Such corrective action could include selling portfolio instruments prior to maturity to realize capital gains or losses or to shorten average portfolio maturity; withholding dividends; redeeming shares in kind; establishing NAV by using available market quotations; and such other measures as the Trustees may deem appropriate.
BUYING AND SELLING INFORMATION
Shares of the fund are offered only to certain clients of Strategic Advisers that have granted Strategic Advisers discretionary investment authority. If you are not currently a Strategic Advisers client, please call 1-800-544-3455 for more information.
Investors participating in a Strategic Advisers discretionary investment program are charged an annual advisory fee based on a percentage of the average market value of assets in their account. The stated fee is then reduced by a credit reflecting the amount of fees, if any, received by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates from mutual funds for investment management or certain other services.
The fund may make redemption payments in whole or in part in readily marketable securities or other property pursuant to procedures approved by the Trustees if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund. Such securities or other property will be valued for this purpose as they are valued in computing the fund's NAV. Shareholders that receive securities or other property will realize, upon receipt, a gain or loss for tax purposes, and will incur additional costs and be exposed to market risk prior to and upon the sale of such securities or other property.
The fund, in its discretion, may determine to issue its shares in kind in exchange for securities held by the purchaser having a value, determined in accordance with the fund's policies for valuation of portfolio securities, equal to the purchase price of the fund shares issued. The fund will accept for in-kind purchases only securities or other instruments that are appropriate under its investment objective and policies. In addition, the fund generally will not accept securities of any issuer unless they are liquid, have a readily ascertainable market value, and are not subject to restrictions on resale. All dividends, distributions, and subscription or other rights associated with the securities become the property of the fund, along with the securities. Shares purchased in exchange for securities in kind generally cannot be redeemed for fifteen days following the exchange to allow time for the transfer to settle.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
Dividends. A portion of the fund's income may qualify for the dividends-received deduction available to corporate shareholders, but it is unlikely that all of the fund's income will qualify for the deduction. A portion of the fund's dividends, when distributed to individual shareholders, may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
Capital Gain Distributions. The fund's long-term capital gain distributions, including amounts attributable to an underlying fund's long-term capital gain distributions, are federally taxable to shareholders generally as capital gains.
Returns of Capital. If the fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
Foreign Tax Credit or Deduction. Foreign governments may impose withholding taxes on dividends and interest earned by the fund with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. Foreign governments may also impose taxes on other payments or gains with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. As a general matter, if, at the close of its fiscal year, more than 50% of the fund's total assets is invested in securities of foreign issuers, the fund may elect to pass through eligible foreign taxes paid and thereby allow shareholders to take a deduction or, if they meet certain holding period requirements with respect to fund shares, a credit on their individual tax returns. In addition, if at the close of each quarter of its fiscal year at least 50% of the fund's total assets is represented by interests in other regulated investment companies, the same rules will apply to any foreign tax credits that underlying funds pass through to the fund. The amount of foreign taxes paid by the fund will be reduced to the extent that the fund lends securities over the dividend record date. Special rules may apply to the credit for individuals who receive dividends qualifying for the long-term capital gains tax rate.
Tax Status of the Fund. The fund intends to qualify each year as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code so that it will not be liable for federal tax on income and capital gains distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify as a regulated investment company, and avoid being subject to federal income or excise taxes at the fund level, the fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains within each calendar year as well as on a fiscal year basis (if the fiscal year is other than the calendar year), and intends to comply with other tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies.
Other Tax Information. The information above is only a summary of some of the tax consequences generally affecting the fund and its shareholders, and no attempt has been made to discuss individual tax consequences. It is up to you or your tax preparer to determine whether the sale of shares of the fund resulted in a capital gain or loss or other tax consequence to you. In addition to federal income taxes, shareholders may be subject to state and local taxes on fund distributions, and shares may be subject to state and local personal property taxes. Investors should consult their tax advisers to determine whether the fund is suitable to their particular tax situation.
<R>The Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and executive officers of the trust and fund, as applicable, are listed below. The Board of Trustees governs the fund and is responsible for protecting the interests of shareholders. The Trustees are experienced executives who meet periodically throughout the year to oversee the fund's activities, review contractual arrangements with companies that provide services to the fund, oversee management of the risks associated with such activities and contractual arrangements, and review the fund's performance. If the interests of the fund and an underlying Fidelity fund were to diverge, a conflict of interest could arise and affect how the Trustees and Member of the Advisory Board fulfill their fiduciary duties to the affected funds. Strategic Advisers has structured the fund to avoid these potential conflicts, although there may be situations where a conflict of interest is unavoidable. In such instances, Strategic Advisers, the Trustees, and Member of the Advisory Board would take reasonable steps to minimize and, if possible, eliminate the conflict. Each of the Trustees oversees 26 funds advised by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate.</R>
The Trustees hold office without limit in time except that (a) any Trustee may resign; (b) any Trustee may be removed by written instrument, signed by at least two-thirds of the number of Trustees prior to such removal; (c) any Trustee who requests to be retired or who has become incapacitated by illness or injury may be retired by written instrument signed by a majority of the other Trustees; and (d) any Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of shareholders by a two-thirds vote of the outstanding voting securities of the trust. The executive officers and Advisory Board Member hold office without limit in time, except that any officer and Advisory Board Member may resign or may be removed by a vote of a majority of the Trustees at any regular meeting or any special meeting of the Trustees. Except as indicated, each individual has held the office shown or other offices in the same company for the past five years.
Each Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) is referred to herein as an Independent Trustee.
Experience, Skills, Attributes, and Qualifications of the Fund's Trustees. The Governance and Nominating Committee has adopted a statement of policy that describes the experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills that are necessary and desirable for potential Independent Trustee candidates (Statement of Policy). The Board believes that each Trustee satisfied at the time he or she was initially elected or appointed a Trustee, and continues to satisfy, the standards contemplated by the Statement of Policy. The Governance and Nominating Committee may also engage professional search firms to help identify potential Independent Trustee candidates with experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills consistent with the Statement of Policy. Additional criteria based on the composition and skills of the current Independent Trustees, as well as experience or skills that may be appropriate in light of future changes to board composition, business conditions, and regulatory or other developments, may be considered by the professional search firms and the Governance and Nominating Committee. In addition, the Board takes into account the Trustees' commitment and participation in Board and committee meetings, as well as their leadership of standing and ad hoc committees throughout their tenure.
In determining that a particular Trustee was and continues to be qualified to serve as a Trustee, the Board has considered a variety of criteria, none of which, in isolation, was controlling. The Board believes that, collectively, the Trustees have balanced and diverse experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills, which allow the Board to operate effectively in governing the fund and protecting the interests of shareholders. Information about the specific experience, skills, attributes, and qualifications of each Trustee, which in each case led to the Board's conclusion that the Trustee should serve (or continue to serve) as a trustee of the fund, is provided below.
Board Structure and Oversight Function. Roger T. Servison is an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) and currently serves as Chairman. The Trustees have determined that an interested Chairman is appropriate and benefits shareholders because an interested Chairman has a personal and professional stake in the quality and continuity of services provided to the fund. Independent Trustees exercise their informed business judgment to appoint an individual of their choosing to serve as Chairman, regardless of whether the Trustee happens to be independent or a member of management. The Independent Trustees have determined that they can act independently and effectively without having an Independent Trustee serve as Chairman and that a key structural component for assuring that they are in a position to do so is for the Independent Trustees to constitute a substantial majority for the Board. The Independent Trustees also regularly meet in executive session. Ralph F. Cox serves as the lead Independent Trustee and as such (i) acts as a liaison between the Independent Trustees and management with respect to matters important to the Independent Trustees and (ii) with management prepares agendas for Board meetings.
<R>Fidelity funds are overseen by different Boards of Trustees. The fund's Board oversees asset allocation funds as well as the Fidelity enhanced index funds. Other boards oversee Fidelity's investment-grade bond, money market, and asset allocation funds and Fidelity's equity and high income funds. The fund may invest in Fidelity funds overseen by such other Boards. The use of separate Boards, each with its own committee structure, allows the Trustees of each group of Fidelity funds to focus on the unique issues of the funds they oversee, including common research, investment, and operational issues.</R>
<R>The Trustees primarily operate as a full Board, but also operate in committees, to facilitate the timely and efficient consideration of all matters of importance to the Trustees, the fund, and fund shareholders and to facilitate compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and oversight of the fund's activities and associated risks. The Board has charged Strategic Advisers and its affiliates with (i) identifying events or circumstances the occurrence of which could have demonstrably adverse effects on the fund's business and/or reputation; (ii) implementing processes and controls to lessen the possibility that such events or circumstances occur or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur; and (iii) creating and maintaining a system designed to evaluate continuously business and market conditions in order to facilitate the identification and implementation processes described in (i) and (ii) above. Because the day-to-day operations and activities of the fund are carried out by or through Strategic Advisers, its affiliates and other service providers, the fund's exposure to risks is mitigated but not eliminated by the processes overseen by the Trustees. Board oversight of different aspects of the fund's activities is exercised primarily through the full Board, but also through the Audit and Compliance Committee. Appropriate personnel, including but not limited to the fund's Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), FMR's internal auditor, the independent accountants, the fund's Treasurer and portfolio management personnel, make periodic reports to the Board's committees, as appropriate. The responsibilities of each committee, including their oversight responsibilities, are described further under "Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees."</R>
Interested Trustees *:
Correspondence intended for each Trustee who is an interested person may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience +</R> |
|
<R>Roger T. Servison (66)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Servison is Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Servison serves as President of Strategic New Business Development for Fidelity Investments and serves as a Director of Strategic Advisers. Previously, Mr. Servison oversaw Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company (2005-2006) and Strategic Advisers (2005-2007). Mr. Servison also served as President and a Director of Fidelity Brokerage Services (Japan), LLC (1994-2004). |
<R>Derek L. Young (47)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Mr. Young is Vice President of Fidelity's Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present), President and a Director of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011-present), President of Fidelity Global Asset Allocation (GAA) (2011-present), and Vice Chairman of Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (2011-present). Previously, Mr. Young served as Chief Investment Officer of GAA (2009-2011) and as a portfolio manager. |
<R>* Trustees have been determined to be "Interested Trustees" by virtue of, among other things, their affiliation with the trust or various entities under common control with Strategic Advisers.</R>
<R> + The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.</R>
Independent Trustees :
Correspondence intended for each Independent Trustee (that is, the Trustees other than the Interested Trustees) may be sent to Fidelity Investments, P.O. Box 55235, Boston, Massachusetts 02205-5235.
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience +</R> |
|
<R>Peter C. Aldrich (68)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Aldrich is a Director of the National Bureau of Economic Research and a Director of the funds of BlackRock Realty Group (2006-present). Previously, Mr. Aldrich served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010), a Managing Member of Poseidon, LLC (foreign private investment, 1998-2004), and Chairman and Managing Member of AEGIS, LLC (foreign private investment, 1997-2004). Mr. Aldrich also served as Faculty Chairman of The Research Council on Global Investment of The Conference Board (business and professional education non-profit, 1999-2004). Mr. Aldrich is a Member of the Boards of Trustees of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. |
<R>Amy Butte Liebowitz (44)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Ms. Butte Liebowitz is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of TILE Financial (financial internet service, 2008-present). Previously, Ms. Butte Liebowitz served as the Chief Financial Officer and member of the Board of Directors of MF Global (broker-dealer, 2006-2008), and Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the New York Stock Exchange (2004-2006). Ms. Butte Liebowitz is a member of the Boards of Directors of Accion International and the New York Women's Forum, as well as a selected participant in the World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader program. |
<R>Ralph F. Cox (79)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Cox is President of RABAR Enterprises (management consulting for the petroleum industry). Mr. Cox is a Director of Abraxas Petroleum (exploration and production). Mr. Cox is a member of the Advisory Boards of the Business and Engineering Schools of Texas A&M University and the Engineering School of University of Texas at Austin. Previously, Mr. Cox served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010) and as an Advisory Director of CH2M Hill Companies (engineering, 1981-2011). Mr. Ralph F. Cox and Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. are not related. |
<R>Karen Kaplan (52)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Ms. Kaplan is President of Hill Holliday (advertising and specialized marketing, 2007-present). Ms. Kaplan is a Director of DSM (dba Delta Dental, Doral, and DentaQuest) (2004-present), Member of the Board of Governors of the Chief Executives' Club of Boston (2010-present), Member of the Board of the Massachusetts Conference for Women (2008-present), and Director of the Executive Committee of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce (2006-present). She is also a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, an action oriented community of the most effective CEOs, heads of state, Nobel Prize winners, and non-governmental leaders in the world. Previously, Ms. Kaplan served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010), President of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2008-2010), Treasurer of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2002-2006), Vice Chair of the Board of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (2003-2010), Director of United Way of Massachusetts Bay (2004-2006), Director of ADVO (direct mail marketing, 2003-2007), and Director of Tweeter Home Entertainment Group (2006-2007). |
<R> + The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.</R>
Advisory Board Member and Executive Officers :
Correspondence intended for each executive officer and Howard E. Cox, Jr. may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupation</R> |
|
<R>Howard E. Cox, Jr. (68)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Member of the Advisory Board of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II. Mr. Cox is a Member of the Advisory Board of Devonshire Investors (2009-present). Mr. Cox serves as an Advisory Partner of Greylock (venture capital) and a Director of Stryker Corporation (medical products and services). Previously, Mr. Cox served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010) and a Member of the Secretary of Defense's Business Board of Directors (2008-2010). Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. and Mr. Ralph F. Cox are not related. |
<R>Kenneth B. Robins (42)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> President and Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Robins also serves as President and Treasurer of other Fidelity Equity and High Income Funds (2008-present) and Assistant Treasurer of other Fidelity Fixed Income and Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present). Mr. Robins is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). Previously, Mr. Robins served as Deputy Treasurer of the Fidelity funds (2005-2008) and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2006-2008). |
<R>Marc Bryant (46)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010</R> Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of the fund. Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Fidelity Investments. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments, Mr. Bryant served as a Senior Vice President and the Head of Global Retail Legal for AllianceBernstein L.P. (2006-2010), and as the General Counsel for ProFund Advisors LLC (2001-2006). |
<R>Elizabeth Paige Baumann (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Officer of the fund. Ms. Baumann also serves as AML Officer of the Fidelity funds (2012-present) and The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2012-present), Chief AML Officer of FMR LLC (2012-present), and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Ms. Baumann served as Vice President and Deputy Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2007-2012). |
<R>Nicholas E. Steck (48)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Financial Officer of the fund. Mr. Steck serves as Senior Vice President of Fidelity Pricing and Cash Management Services (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. During the period 2002 to 2009, Mr. Steck served as a Compliance Officer of FMR, Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc., FMR LLC, Fidelity Research & Analysis (U.K.) Inc., Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc. |
<R>Laura M. Doherty (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Compliance Officer of the fund. Ms. Doherty also serves as Senior Vice President of the Office of the Chief Compliance Officer (2008-present). Previously, Ms. Doherty served as a Vice President in Fidelity's Corporate Audit department (1998-2008). |
<R>Adrien E. Deberghes (44)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Deberghes also serves as Assistant Treasurer (2010-present) and Deputy Treasurer (2008-present) of other Fidelity funds and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2008-present). Previously, Mr. Deberghes served as Senior Vice President of Mutual Fund Administration at State Street Corporation (2007-2008), Senior Director of Mutual Fund Administration at Investors Bank & Trust (2005-2007), and Director of Finance for Dunkin' Brands (2000-2005). |
<R>Jonathan Davis (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Davis is also Assistant Treasurer of certain Fidelity funds. Mr. Davis is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Mr. Davis served as Vice President and Associate General Counsel of FMR LLC (2003-2010). |
<R>Margaret A. Carey (38)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 </R> Assistant Secretary of the fund. Ms. Carey is also Assistant Secretary of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). |
Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees. The Board of Trustees has established two committees to supplement the work of the Board as a whole. The members of each committee are Independent Trustees.
<R>The Audit and Compliance Committee is composed of Ms. Butte Liebowitz (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Ralph Cox, and Ms. Kaplan. All committee members must be able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including a company's balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. The committee determines whether at least one member of the committee is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined in rules promulgated by the SEC under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The committee normally meets in conjunction with in person meetings of the Board of Trustees, or more frequently as called by the Chair. The committee meets separately periodically with the fund's Treasurer, the fund's Chief Financial Officer, the fund's CCO, personnel responsible for the internal audit function of FMR LLC, and the fund's outside auditors. The committee has direct responsibility for the appointment, compensation, and oversight of the work of the outside auditors employed by the fund for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or related work. The committee assists the Trustees in overseeing and monitoring: (i) the systems of internal accounting and financial controls of the fund and the fund's service providers, (ii) the financial reporting processes of the fund, (iii) the independence, objectivity and qualification of the auditors to the fund, (iv) the annual audits of the fund's financial statements, and (v) the accounting policies and disclosures of the fund. The committee considers and acts upon (i) the provision by any outside auditor of any non-audit services for any fund, and (ii) the provision by any outside auditor of certain non-audit services to fund service providers and their affiliates to the extent that such approval (in the case of this clause (ii)) is required under applicable regulations (Auditor Independence Regulations) of the SEC. In furtherance of the foregoing, the committee has adopted (and may from time to time amend or supplement) and provides oversight of policies and procedures for non-audit engagements by outside auditors of the fund. It is responsible for approving all audit engagement fees and terms for the fund and for resolving disagreements between the fund and any outside auditor regarding the fund's financial reporting, and has sole authority to hire and fire any auditor. Auditors of the fund report directly to the committee. The committee will obtain assurance of independence and objectivity from the outside auditors, including a formal written statement delineating all relationships between the auditor and the fund and any service providers consistent with Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Ethics and Independence Rule 3526, Communication with Audit Committees Concerning Independence. The committee will discuss with the outside auditors any such disclosed relationships and their impact on the auditor's independence and objectivity. The committee will receive reports of compliance with provisions of the Auditor Independence Regulations relating to the hiring of employees or former employees of the outside auditors. It oversees and receives reports on the fund's service providers' internal controls and reviews with management, internal auditors, and outside auditors the adequacy and effectiveness of the fund's and service providers' accounting and financial controls, including: (i) any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting that are reasonably likely to adversely affect the fund's ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial data; (ii) any change in the fund's internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the fund's internal control over financial reporting; and (iii) any fraud, whether material or not, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the fund's or service provider's internal controls over financial reporting. The committee will review with counsel any legal matters that may have a material impact on the fund's financial statements and any material reports or inquiries received from regulators or governmental agencies. The committee reviews at least annually a report from the outside auditor describing (i) any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality control review, peer review, or PCAOB examination of the auditing firm and (ii) any material issues raised by any inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional authorities of the auditing firm since the most recent report and in each case any steps taken to deal with such issues. The committee will oversee and receive reports on the fund's financial reporting process and will receive reports from an outside auditor relating to (i) critical accounting policies and practices used by the fund, (ii) alternative accounting treatments that the auditor has discussed with Strategic Advisers, and (iii) other material written communications between the auditor and Strategic Advisers (as determined by the auditor). The committee will discuss with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors and, if appropriate, internal audit personnel of FMR LLC, their qualitative judgments about the appropriateness and acceptability of accounting principles and financial disclosure practices used or proposed for adoption by the fund. The committee will review with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors, and internal audit personnel of FMR LLC (to the extent relevant) the results of audits of the fund's financial statements. The committee will review periodically the fund's major internal controls exposures and the steps that have been taken to monitor and control such exposures. The committee also oversees the administration and operation of the compliance policies and procedures of the fund and its service providers as required by Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act. The committee is responsible for the review and approval of policies and procedures relating to (i) provisions of the Code of Ethics, (ii) anti-money laundering requirements, (iii) compliance with investment restrictions and limitations, (iv) privacy, (v) recordkeeping, and (vi) other compliance policies and procedures which are not otherwise delegated to another committee of the Board of Trustees or reserved to the Board itself. The committee has responsibility for recommending to the Board the designation of a CCO of the fund. The committee serves as the primary point of contact between the CCO and the Board, it oversees the annual performance review and compensation of the CCO and, if required, makes recommendations to the Board with respect to the removal of the appointed CCO. The committee receives reports on significant correspondence with regulators or governmental agencies, employee complaints or published reports which raise concerns regarding compliance matters, and copies of significant non-routine correspondence with the SEC. The committee receives reports from the CCO including the annual report concerning the fund's compliance policies as required by Rule 38a-1 and quarterly reports in respect of any breaches of fiduciary duty or violations of federal securities laws. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The Governance and Nominating Committee is composed of Mr. Ralph Cox (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, and Mses. Butte Liebowitz and Kaplan. The committee meets as called by the Chair. With respect to fund governance and board administration matters, the committee periodically reviews procedures of the Board of Trustees and its committees (including committee charters) and periodically reviews compensation of Independent Trustees. The committee monitors corporate governance matters and makes recommendations to the Board of Trustees on the frequency and structure of the Board of Trustee meetings and on any other aspect of Board procedures. It reviews the performance of legal counsel employed by the funds and the Independent Trustees. On behalf of the Independent Trustees, the committee will make such findings and determinations as to the independence of counsel for the Independent Trustees as may be necessary or appropriate under applicable regulations or otherwise. The committee is also responsible for Board administrative matters applicable to Independent Trustees, such as expense reimbursement policies and compensation for attendance at meetings, conferences and other events. The committee monitors compliance with, acts as the administrator of, and makes determinations in respect of, the provisions of the code of ethics and any supplemental policies regarding personal securities transactions applicable to the Independent Trustees. The committee monitors the functioning of each Board committee and makes recommendations for any changes, including the creation or elimination of standing or ad hoc Board committees. The committee monitors regulatory and other developments to determine whether to recommend modifications to the committee's responsibilities or other Trustee policies and procedures in light of rule changes, reports concerning "best practices" in corporate governance and other developments in mutual fund governance. The committee recommends that the Board establish such special or ad hoc Board committees as may be desirable or necessary from time to time in order to address ethical, legal, or other matters that may arise. The committee also oversees the annual self-evaluation of the Board of Trustees and establishes procedures to allow it to exercise this oversight function. In conducting this oversight, the committee shall address all matters that it considers relevant to the performance of the Board of Trustees and shall report the results of its evaluation to the Board of Trustees, including any recommended amendments to the principles of governance, and any recommended changes to the fund's or the Board of Trustees' policies, procedures, and structures. The committee reviews periodically the size and composition of the Board of Trustees as a whole and recommends, if necessary, measures to be taken so that the Board of Trustees reflects the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and diversity required for the Board as a whole and contains at least the minimum number of Independent Trustees required by law. The committee makes nominations for the election or appointment of Independent Trustees and for membership on committees. The committee shall have authority to retain and terminate any third-party advisers, including authority to approve fees and other retention terms. Such advisers may include search firms to identify Independent Trustee candidates and board compensation consultants. The committee may conduct or authorize investigations into or studies of matters within the committee's scope of responsibilities, and may retain, at the fund's expense, such independent counsel or other advisers as it deems necessary. The committee will consider nominees to the Board of Trustees recommended by shareholders based upon the criteria applied to candidates presented to the committee by a search firm or other source. Recommendations, along with appropriate background material concerning the candidate that demonstrates his or her ability to serve as an Independent Trustee of the fund, should be submitted to the Chair of the committee at the address maintained for communications with Independent Trustees. If the committee retains a search firm, the Chair will generally forward all such submissions to the search firm for evaluation. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by each Trustee in the fund and in all funds in the aggregate within the same fund family overseen by the Trustee for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011 (or as of March 31, 2012 for Mr. Young, Trustee as of March 1, 2012).</R>
<R>Interested Trustees</R> |
||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Roger T. Servison |
Derek L. Young</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Core Fund |
none |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none</R> |
<R>Independent Trustees</R> |
||||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Peter C. Aldrich |
Amy Butte Liebowitz |
Ralph F. Cox |
Karen Kaplan</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Core Fund |
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none</R> |
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the compensation of each Trustee and Member of the Advisory Board for his or her services for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, or calendar year ended December 31, 2011, as applicable.</R>
<R>Compensation Table 1</R> |
|||||
<R>
AGGREGATE
|
Peter C.
|
Amy
|
Ralph F.
|
Karen
|
</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Core Fund |
$ 16,688 |
$ 12,932 |
$ 16,688 |
$ 16,688 |
</R> |
<R>
TOTAL COMPENSATION
|
$ 95,000 |
$ 23,750 |
$ 95,000 |
$ 95,000 |
</R> |
<R> 1 Roger T. Servison, Howard E. Cox, Jr., and Derek L. Young are interested persons and are compensated by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate (including FMR).</R>
<R> 2 Effective September 8, 2011, Ms. Butte Liebowitz serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.</R>
<R> A Reflects compensation received for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011, for 22 funds of two trusts.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and officers of the fund owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the fund's total outstanding shares.</R>
CONTROL OF INVESTMENT ADVISERS
FMR LLC, as successor by merger to FMR Corp., is the ultimate parent company of Strategic Advisers and Pyramis. The voting common shares of FMR LLC are divided into two series. Series B is held predominantly by members of the Edward C. Johnson 3d and Abigail P. Johnson family, directly or through trust and limited liability companies, and is entitled to 49% of the vote on any matter acted upon by the voting common shares. Series A is held predominantly by non-Johnson family member employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates and is entitled to 51% of the vote on any such matter. The Johnson family group and all other Series B shareholders have entered into a shareholders' voting agreement under which all Series B shares will be voted in accordance with the majority vote of Series B shares. Under the 1940 Act, control of a company is presumed where one individual or group of individuals owns more than 25% of the voting securities of that company. Therefore, through their ownership of voting common shares and the execution of the shareholders' voting agreement, members of the Johnson family may be deemed, under the 1940 Act, to form a controlling group with respect to FMR LLC.
At present, the primary business activities of FMR LLC and its subsidiaries are: (i) the provision of investment advisory, management, shareholder, investment information and assistance and certain fiduciary services for individual and institutional investors; (ii) the provision of securities brokerage services; (iii) the management and development of real estate; and (iv) the investment in and operation of a number of emerging businesses.
First Eagle is a subsidiary of Arnhold and S. Bleichroeder Holdings, Inc., a privately owned Delaware holding company. First Eagle's primary offices are located 1345 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10105.
Lazard is a Delaware limited liability company registered with the SEC. It is a subsidiary of Lazard Frères & Co. LLC (LF&Co.), a New York limited liability company with one member, Lazard Group LLC, a Delaware limited liability company. Interests of Lazard Group LLC are held by Lazard Ltd., which is a Bermuda corporation with shares that are publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "LAZ." These interests are held by public stockholders as well as by current and former Managing Directors of Lazard Group LLC. Lazard Asset Management LLC is owned by LF&Co.
<R>OppenheimerFunds is wholly owned by Oppenheimer Acquisition Corp., a holding company primarily owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, a global, diversified insurance and financial services company.</R>
<R>Pyramis is a registered investment adviser. FMR LLC is the ultimate parent company of Pyramis. Information regarding the ownership of FMR LLC is disclosed above.</R>
T. Rowe Price Group, Inc., a publicly-traded (NASDAQ: TROW) financial services holding company, owns 100% of the stock of T. Rowe Price and all of its subsidiaries.
<R>Strategic Advisers, First Eagle, Lazard, OppenheimerFunds, Pyramis, T. Rowe Price (the Investment Advisers), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and the fund have adopted codes of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act that set forth employees' fiduciary responsibilities regarding the fund, establish procedures for personal investing, and restrict certain transactions. Employees subject to the codes of ethics, including the Investment Advisers' investment personnel, may invest in securities for their own investment accounts, including securities that may be purchased or held by the fund.</R>
The fund has entered into a management contract with Strategic Advisers, pursuant to which Strategic Advisers furnishes investment advisory and other services.
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
<R>Strategic Advisers has retained First Eagle, Lazard, OppenheimerFunds, Pyramis, and T. Rowe Price to serve as sub-advisers for the fund. The sub-advisers do not sponsor the fund.</R>
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
Management and Sub-Advisory Services. Under the terms of its management contract with the fund, Strategic Advisers acts as investment adviser and, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, directs the investments of the fund in accordance with its investment objective, policies and limitations. Strategic Advisers is authorized, in its discretion, to allocate the fund's assets pursuant to its investment strategy. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates provide the fund with all necessary office facilities and personnel for servicing the fund's investments, compensate all officers of the fund and all Trustees who are interested persons of the trust or of Strategic Advisers, and compensate all personnel of the fund or Strategic Advisers performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities.
In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, provide the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the fund. These services include providing facilities for maintaining the fund's organization; supervising relations with custodians, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, underwriters and other persons dealing with the fund; preparing all general shareholder communications and conducting shareholder relations; maintaining the fund's records and the registration of the fund's shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws; developing management and shareholder services for the fund; and furnishing reports, evaluations and analyses on a variety of subjects to the Trustees.
Under its respective sub-advisory agreement, and subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, each sub-adviser directs the investment of its allocated portion of the fund's assets in accordance with the fund's investment objective, policies and limitations.
Management-Related Expenses. Under the terms of the fund's management contract, Strategic Advisers, either itself or through an affiliate, is responsible for payment of all operating expenses of the fund with certain exceptions. Specific expenses payable by Strategic Advisers include expenses for typesetting, printing, and mailing proxy materials to shareholders, legal expenses, fees of the custodian, auditor, and interested Trustees, the fund's proportionate share of insurance premiums and Investment Company Institute dues, and the costs of registering shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws. The fund's management contract further provides that Strategic Advisers will pay for typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, notices, and reports to shareholders; however, under the terms of the fund's transfer agent agreement, the transfer agent bears these costs. Strategic Advisers also pays all fees associated with transfer agency services and pricing and bookkeeping services.
Strategic Advisers pays all other expenses of the fund with the following exceptions: fees and expenses of the Independent Trustees, interest on borrowings, taxes, brokerage commissions (if any), shareholder charges (if any) associated with investing in the underlying funds, prime brokerage fees and expenses, including margin interest and payments in lieu of dividends associated with short sale transactions, and such non-recurring expenses as may arise, including costs of any litigation to which the fund may be a party, and any obligation it may have to indemnify its officers and Trustees with respect to litigation.
Management Fees. For the services of Strategic Advisers under the management contract, the fund pays Strategic Advisers a monthly management fee calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.25% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets; provided, however, that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.00% of the fund's average daily net assets and that the fee, so computed, will be reduced by the compensation, including reimbursement of expenses, paid by the fund to the Independent Trustees.
<R>In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to waive a portion of the fund's management fee in an amount equal to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the fund until September 30, 2014. The fee waiver by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns</R>
The following table shows the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers for the past three fiscal years, the amount of credits reducing management fees for the fund, and the amount of waivers reducing management fees for the fund.
<R>* After reduction of fees and expenses paid by the fund to the Independent Trustees.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on December 30, 2009.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, voluntarily reimburse all or a portion of the fund's operating expenses. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid for these expense reimbursements in the amount that expenses fall below the limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Expense reimbursements by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns, and repayment of the reimbursement by the fund will decrease its returns.
<R> Sub-Adviser - First Eagle. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with First Eagle pursuant to which First Eagle may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays First Eagle fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by First Eagle pursuant to a separately negotiated investment mandate (a "Strategy"). The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by First Eagle under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by First Eagle pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - Lazard. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Lazard pursuant to which Lazard may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Lazard fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Lazard pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Lazard under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Lazard pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - OppenheimerFunds. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with OppenheimerFunds pursuant to which OppenheimerFunds may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays OppenheimerFunds fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by OppenheimerFunds pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by OppenheimerFunds under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by OppenheimerFunds pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - Pyramis. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Pyramis pursuant to which Pyramis may provide investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R>Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Pyramis fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Pyramis pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Pyramis under a particular Strategy based on the following rate schedule:</R>
<R> Dividend Growth:</R> |
|||||
<R>0.45% of the first $250 million of assets;</R> |
|||||
<R>0.35% of the next $500 million of assets; and</R> |
|||||
<R>0.30% on any amount in excess of $750 million of assets</R> |
<R>Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Pyramis pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - T. Rowe Price. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with T. Rowe Price pursuant to which T. Rowe Price may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays T. Rowe Price fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by T. Rowe Price pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by T. Rowe Price under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by T. Rowe Price pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R>The following table shows the amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to Pyramis for the past three fiscal years.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on December 30, 2009.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
<R>The following table shows the aggregate amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to unaffiliated sub-advisers for the past three fiscal years.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on December 30, 2009.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Strategic Advisers.
John A. Stone and Niall Devitt are employees of Strategic Advisers, a subsidiary of FMR LLC and an affiliate of FMR. Strategic Advisers is the adviser to the fund.
<R>Mr. Stone is lead portfolio manager and Mr. Devitt is co-portfolio manager of the fund and each receives compensation for their services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of each portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by Strategic Advisers or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
<R>Each portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The primary components of each portfolio manager's bonus are based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of each portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account, and (ii) the investment performance of a broad range of Strategic Advisers funds and accounts, including the fund. Accounts may include model portfolios designed for asset allocation, retirement planning, or tax-sensitive goals. The pre-tax investment performance of each portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to his tenure on those fund(s) and account(s), and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over his tenure. Each component is calculated separately over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with each portfolio manager's tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a benchmark index and peer group. A subjective component of the bonus is based on each portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of Strategic Advisers. </R>
The portion of each portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the fund is based on the fund's pre-tax investment performance measured against the S&P 500 ® Index, and the pre-tax investment performance of the fund within the Morningstar ® Large Blend peer group. Each portfolio manager may be compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, Strategic Advisers' parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement, and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.
A portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in a fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, a portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. A portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as a portfolio manager must allocate his time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate. A portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Stone as of May 31, 2012: </R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($8,062 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Stone was $50,001 - $100,000.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Devitt as of May 31, 2012: </R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($8,062 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Devitt was $10,001 - $50,000.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - First Eagle.
<R>Colin Morris and Phillip Marriott are portfolio managers for First Eagle's portion of the fund's assets and they receive compensation for their services. Messrs. Morris and Marriott serve as portfolio managers to certain clients and private investment funds that may utilize an investment program that is substantially similar to that of the fund, including proprietary and related accounts. First Eagle and its affiliates may give advice or take action with respect to the other clients that differs from the advice given with respect to the fund. At times, a portfolio manager may determine that an investment opportunity may be appropriate for only some of the funds and/or accounts for which he or she exercises investment responsibility, or may decide that certain of the funds and/or accounts should take differing positions with respect to a particular security. In these cases, the portfolio manager may place separate transactions for one or more funds or accounts which may affect the market price of the security or the execution of the transaction, or both, to the detriment or benefit of one or more other funds and/or accounts. In addition, First Eagle and its affiliates currently serve, and may in the future serve, as investment adviser to other registered investment companies, private investment funds or accounts (including proprietary accounts), some of which provide for incentive compensation (such as performance fees). Consequently, First Eagle's and its affiliates' investment management activities may present conflicts between the interests of the Fund and those of First Eagle and its affiliates and potentially among the interests of various accounts managed by the Adviser and/or its affiliates. Although First Eagle and its affiliates have adopted allocation procedures intended to provide for equitable treatment of all accounts over time, it is possible that circumstances may arise requiring case-by-case treatment and that each client account will not necessarily participate in the same transaction. The allocation procedures generally contemplate similar treatment for like accounts, with exceptions for various special considerations, including priority allocations based on an account's investment guidelines and restrictions, tax position, cash management requirements, concentration tolerance or minimum investment size policies.</R>
Conflicts also may be presented by Messrs. Morris and Marriott's portfolio manager compensation arrangements. Messrs. Morris and Marriott's compensation, respectively, consists of salary, a performance bonus and participation in a company-funded retirement plan, with the performance bonus representing an important portion of total compensation. The bonus is based on, among other things, assets and revenue attributable to accounts managed by Mr. Morris and Mr. Marriott, respectively. Additionally, Messrs. Morris and Marriott each received profit interests in First Eagle, which make each of them eligible, subject to customary vesting arrangements and other conditions, for a share of the profits of First Eagle. Profits for this purpose are calculated firm-wide and therefore relate to investment products and business lines beyond those managed by Messrs. Morris and Marriott.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Morris as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($797 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Morris was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Marriott as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($797 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Marriott was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Lazard.
<R>Andrew Lacey, Richard Tutino, and Ronald Temple are members of the portfolio management team assigned Lazard's portion of the fund's assets and they receive compensation for their services. Lazard compensates portfolio managers by a competitive salary and bonus structure, which is determined both quantitatively and qualitatively. Salary and bonus are paid in cash, stock and restricted interests in funds managed by Lazard or its affiliates. Portfolio managers are compensated on the performance of the aggregate group of portfolios managed by them rather than for a specific fund or account. Various factors are considered in the determination of a portfolio manager's compensation. All of the portfolios managed by a portfolio manager are comprehensively evaluated to determine his or her positive and consistent performance contribution over time. Further factors include the amount of assets in the portfolios as well as qualitative aspects that reinforce Lazard's investment philosophy such as leadership, teamwork, and commitment.</R>
Total compensation is not fixed, but rather is based on the following factors: (1) maintenance of current knowledge and opinions on companies owned in the portfolio; (2) generation and development of new investment ideas, including the quality of security analysis and identification of appreciation catalysts; (3) ability and willingness to develop and share ideas on a team basis; and (4) the performance results of the portfolios managed by the investment team.
<R>Variable bonus is based on the portfolio manager's quantitative performance as measured by his or her ability to make investment decisions that contribute to the pre-tax absolute and relative returns of the accounts managed by them, by comparison of each account to a predetermined benchmark, over the current fiscal year and the longer-term performance (3-, 5-, or 10-year, if applicable) of such account, as well as performance of the account relative to peers. In addition, the portfolio manager's bonus can be influenced by subjective measurement of the manager's ability to help others make investment decisions.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Lacey as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($786 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Lacey was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Tutino as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($786 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Tutino was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Temple as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($786 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Temple was none.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - OppenheimerFunds. </R>
<R>Manind ("Mani") Govil and Benjamin Ram are employed and compensated by OppenheimerFunds, not the fund. Under OppenheimerFunds' compensation program for its portfolio managers and portfolio analysts, compensation is based primarily on the relative investment performance results of the funds or accounts they manage, rather than on the financial success of OppenheimerFunds. This is intended to align the interests of the portfolio managers and analysts with the success of the funds and accounts of their shareholders. OppenheimerFunds' compensation structure is designed to attract and retain highly qualified investment management professionals and to reward individual and team contributions toward creating shareholder value. The portfolio managers' compensation consisted of three elements: a base salary, an annual bonus (comprised of both a formulaic performance component and a discretionary component) and eligibility to participate in long-term awards. Long-term award grants may consist of appreciation rights in regard to the common stock of OppenheimerFunds' holding company parent, restricted shares of such common stock, as well as deferred notional investments in the Oppenheimer Fund(s) managed by the Portfolio Manager. </R>
<R>A portfolio manager's compensation is not directly based on the total value of assets they manage; however, higher total compensation potential is likely to align with greater assets under management. The compensation structure is intended to be internally and externally equitable and serve to reduce potential conflict of interest arising from a portfolio manager's responsibilities managing different funds or accounts. The base pay component of each portfolio manager is reviewed regularly to ensure that it reflects the performance of the individual, is commensurate with the requirements of the particular portfolio, reflects any specific competence or specialty of the individual manager, and is competitive with other comparable positions. The formulaic performance component of the annual bonus is measured against the one, three and five year performance of the fund(s) relative to an appropriate Lipper or Morningstar peer group category selected by senior management of OppenheimerFunds. The compensation structure is weighted towards long-term performance of the funds which best aligns the interests of the portfolio manager and the shareholder. Below median performance in all three periods results in an extremely low, and in some cases no, performance based bonus. The annual discretionary bonus is determined by senior management of OppenheimerFunds and is based on a number of factors, including, management quality (such as style consistency, risk management, sector coverage, team leadership and coaching), contributions to marketing efforts and organizational development. </R>
<R>The compensation structure of other funds and accounts managed by a portfolio manager is generally the same as the compensation structure described above. A portfolio manager's compensation with regard to other portfolios may be based on the performance of those portfolios compared to a peer group category that may be different from those described below.</R>
<R>The Lipper and Morningstar peer group categories with respect to the fund are Large-Cap Core Funds and Large Blend, respectively.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Govil as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($339 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R> 1 Does not include personal accounts of the portfolio managers and their families, which are subject to the Code of Ethics.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Govil was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Ram as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($339 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R> 1 Does not include personal accounts of the portfolio managers and their families, which are subject to the Code of Ethics.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Ram was none.</R>
<R> Conflicts Statement. The portfolio managers may also manage other funds and accounts. At different times, the portfolio managers may manage other funds or accounts with investment objectives and strategies similar to those of the portion of the fund sub-advised by OppenheimerFunds, or they may manage funds or accounts with different investment objectives and strategies. At times, those responsibilities could potentially conflict with the interests of the fund. That may occur whether the investment objectives and strategies of the other funds and accounts are the same as, or different from, the investment objectives and strategies of the portion of the fund sub-advised by OppenheimerFunds. For example, the portfolio managers may need to allocate investment opportunities between the fund and another fund or account having similar objectives or strategies, or they may need to execute transactions for another fund or account that could have a negative impact on the value of securities held by the portion of the fund sub-advised by OppenheimerFunds. Not all funds and accounts advised by OppenheimerFunds have the same management fee. If the management fee structure of another fund or account is more advantageous to OppenheimerFunds than the fee structure of the fund, OppenheimerFunds could have an incentive to favor the other fund or account. However, OppenheimerFunds' compliance procedures and Code of Ethics recognize its obligation to treat all of its clients, including the fund, fairly and equitably, and are designed to preclude the portfolio managers from favoring one client over another. It is possible, of course, that those compliance procedures and the Code of Ethics may not always be adequate to do so.</R>
<R> Portfolio Manager Compensation - Pyramis. </R>
<R>Lawrence Rakers is a portfolio manager for Strategic Advisers Core Fund and receives compensation for his services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of the portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by FMR or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
<R>The portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at FMR or its affiliates. The primary components of the portfolio manager's bonus are based on the pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account. The pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) is weighted according to his tenure on those fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) and the average asset size of those fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) over his tenure. Each component is calculated separately over the portfolio manager's tenure on those fund(s), account(s), and master account(s) over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with his tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to five years for the comparison to a benchmark index and rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a peer group. A smaller, subjective component of the portfolio manager's bonus is based on the portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of FMR. The portion of the portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the portion of the Strategic Advisers Core Fund's assets that he manages is based on the fund's pre-tax investment performance measured against the S&P 500 ® Index, and the fund's pre-tax investment performance (based on the performance of the fund's retail class) within the Morningstar ® Large Blend Category. The portfolio manager also is compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, FMR Co.'s parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement, and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.</R>
<R>The portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in the fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, the portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. The portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as the portfolio manager must allocate his time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by FMR Co. or an affiliate. The portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Rakers as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($562 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Rakers was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - T. Rowe Price.
T. Rowe Price portfolio manager compensation consists primarily of a base salary, a cash bonus, and an equity incentive that usually comes in the form of a stock option grant. Occasionally, portfolio managers will also have the opportunity to participate in venture capital partnerships. Compensation is variable and is determined based on the following factors.
<R>Investment performance over 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year periods is the most important input. The weightings for these time periods are generally balanced and are applied consistently across similar strategies. T. Rowe Price evaluates performance in absolute, relative, and risk-adjusted terms. Relative performance and risk-adjusted performance are determined with reference to the broad-based index (e.g., S&P 500) and the Lipper index (e.g., Large-Cap Growth) set forth in the total returns table in a fund's prospectus, although other benchmarks may be used as well. Investment results are also measured against comparably managed funds of competitive investment management firms. The selection of comparable funds is approved by the applicable investment steering committee and are the same as those presented to the directors of the T. Rowe Price Funds in their regular review of fund performance. Performance is primarily measured on a pretax basis though tax efficiency is considered and is especially important for a tax-efficient fund.</R>
Compensation is viewed with a long-term time horizon. The more consistent a manager's performance over time, the higher the compensation opportunity. The increase or decrease in a fund's assets due to the purchase or sale of fund shares is not considered a material factor. In reviewing relative performance for fixed-income funds, a fund's expense ratio is usually taken into account. Contribution to our overall investment process is an important consideration as well. Sharing ideas with other portfolio managers, working effectively with and mentoring our younger analysts, and being good corporate citizens are important components of our long-term success and are highly valued.
All employees of T. Rowe Price, including portfolio managers, participate in a 401(k) plan sponsored by T. Rowe Price Group. In addition, all employees are eligible to purchase T. Rowe Price common stock through an employee stock purchase plan that features a limited corporate matching contribution. Eligibility for and participation in these plans is on the same basis as for all employees. Finally, all vice presidents of T. Rowe Price Group, including all portfolio managers, receive supplemental medical/hospital reimbursement benefits.
This compensation structure is used for all portfolios managed by the portfolio manager.
Conflicts of Interests
Portfolio managers at T. Rowe Price typically manage multiple accounts. These accounts may include, among others, mutual funds, separate accounts (assets managed on behalf of institutions such as pension funds, colleges and universities, foundations), offshore funds and commingled trust accounts. Portfolio managers make investment decisions for each portfolio based on the investment objectives, policies, practices, and other relevant investment considerations that the managers believe are applicable to that portfolio. Consequently, portfolio managers may purchase (or sell) securities for one portfolio and not another portfolio. T. Rowe Price has adopted brokerage and trade allocation policies and procedures which they believe are reasonably designed to address any potential conflicts associated with managing multiple accounts for multiple clients.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Ms. Dopkin as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Core Fund ($2,273 (in millions) assets managed). </R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Core Fund beneficially owned by Ms. Dopkin was none.</R>
Proxy Voting - Strategic Advisers.
The following Proxy Voting Guidelines were established by the Board of Trustees of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of the fund, after consultation with Strategic Advisers. (The guidelines are reviewed periodically by Strategic Advisers and its affiliates and by the Independent Trustees of the fund, and, accordingly, are subject to change.)
I. General Principles
A. The funds in the trust generally intend to vote shares of underlying funds using echo voting procedures (that is, in the same proportion as the holders of all other shares of the particular underlying fund).
B. Any proposals not covered by paragraph A above or other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate Strategic Advisers analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review and approval by the General Counsel or Compliance Officer of FMR or the General Counsel of FMR LLC.
Sub-Advisers:
Proxy voting policies and procedures are used by a sub-adviser to determine how to vote proxies relating to the securities held by its allocated portion of the fund's assets. The proxy voting policies and procedures used by the sub-advisers are described below.
Proxy Voting - First Eagle.
First Eagle has adopted policies and procedures (the "Policies") regarding the voting of proxies. It is the policy of First Eagle to vote client proxies in a manner that serves the best interest of the client. The Policies provide for procedures that address conflicts of interest between First Eagle and a client with respect to voting proxies. With regard to First Eagle this may involve review of a proposed vote by compliance personnel. First Eagle may abstain from voting from time to time when it determines that the costs associated with voting a proxy outweigh the benefits derived from exercising the right to vote. First Eagle relies on Institutional Shareholder Services, Inc. ("Proxy Provider"), a third party proxy voting service, for recommendations as to voting on particular issues and for technical assistance in tracking proxy votes and in transmitting voting instructions to the relevant corporate issuer or its proxy tabulation agents. There may be instances where First Eagle determines to vote a proxy in a manner other than the manner recommended by its proxy voting service provider. General information about ISS voting recommendations is available on its website at http://www.issgovernance.com.
Proxy Voting - Lazard.
To avoid conflicts of interest, Lazard votes proxies where a material conflict has been deemed to exist in accordance with specific proxy voting guidelines regarding various standard proxy proposals ("Approved Guidelines") or, if the Approved Guideline is to vote case-by-case, in accordance with the recommendation of an independent source.
Lazard also may determine not to vote proxies in respect of securities of any issuer if it determines that it would be in the client's overall best interests not to vote. The Voting Guidelines address how it will vote proxies on particular types of matters such as the election for directors, adoption of option plans and anti-takeover proposals. For example, Lazard generally will:
<R> Proxy Voting - OppenheimerFunds.</R>
<R> Portfolio Proxy Voting. OppenheimerFunds has adopted Portfolio Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures, which include Proxy Voting Guidelines, under which the Fund votes proxies relating to securities held by the Fund ("portfolio proxies"). OppenheimerFunds generally undertakes to vote portfolio proxies with a view to enhancing the value of the company's stock held by the Funds. OppenheimerFunds has retained an independent, third party proxy voting agent to vote portfolio proxies in accordance with the OppenheimerFunds' Proxy Voting Guidelines and to maintain records of such portfolio proxy voting. The OppenheimerFunds' internal Proxy Voting Committee is responsible for monitoring the third party proxy voting agent.</R>
<R>The Portfolio Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures include provisions to address conflicts of interest that may arise between the fund and OppenheimerFunds or OppenheimerFunds' affiliates or business relationships. Such a conflict of interest may arise, for example, where OppenheimerFunds or an affiliate of OppenheimerFunds manages or administers the assets of a pension plan or other investment account of the portfolio company soliciting the proxy or seeks to serve in that capacity. OppenheimerFunds and its affiliates generally seek to avoid such material conflicts of interest by maintaining separate investment decision making processes to prevent the sharing of business objectives with respect to proposed or actual actions regarding portfolio proxy voting decisions. Additionally, OppenheimerFunds employs the following procedures, as long as OppenheimerFunds determines that the course of action is consistent with the best interests of the fund and its shareholders:</R>
<R>If none of the previous procedures provides an appropriate voting recommendation, the Proxy Voting Committee may: (i) determine how to vote on the proposal; (ii) recommend that OppenheimerFunds retain an independent fiduciary to advise OppenheimerFunds on how to vote the proposal; or (iii) determine that voting on the particular proposal is impracticable and/or is outweighed by the cost of voting and direct OppenheimerFunds to abstain from voting.</R>
<R>The Proxy Voting Guidelines' provisions with respect to certain routine and non-routine proxy proposals are summarized below:</R>
<R> Proxy Voting - Pyramis. </R>
<R>I. General Principles</R>
A. <R>Voting of shares will be conducted in a manner consistent with the best interests of clients as follows: (i) securities of a portfolio company will generally be voted in a manner consistent with the Guidelines; and (ii) voting will be done without regard to any other Pyramis or Fidelity companies' relationship, business or otherwise, with that portfolio company.</R>
B. <R>FMR Investment Proxy Research votes proxies on behalf of Pyramis' clients. Like other Pyramis employees, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees have a fiduciary duty to never place their own personal interest ahead of the interests of Pyramis's clients and are instructed to avoid actual and apparent conflicts of interest. In the event of a conflict of interest, FMR Investment Proxy Research employees, like other Pyramis employees, will escalate to their managers or the Ethics Office, as appropriate, in accordance with Fidelity's corporate policy on conflicts of interest. A conflict of interest arises when there are factors that may prompt one to question whether a Fidelity and/or Pyramis employee is acting solely on the best interests of Pyramis, Fidelity and their customers. Employees are expected to avoid situations that could present even the appearance of a conflict between their interests and the interests of Pyramis and its customers.</R>
C. <R>Except as set forth herein, Pyramis will generally vote in favor of routine management proposals.</R>
D. <R>Non-routine proposals will generally be voted in accordance with the Guidelines.</R>
E. <R>Non-routine proposals not covered by the Guidelines or involving other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review by an attorney within FMR's General Counsel's office and a member of senior management within FMR Investment Proxy Research. A significant pattern of such proposals or other special circumstances will be referred to Pyramis' Senior Compliance Officer or his designee.</R>
F. <R>Pyramis will vote on shareholder proposals not specifically addressed by the Guidelines based on an evaluation of a proposal's likelihood to enhance the economic returns or profitability of the portfolio company or to maximize shareholder value. Where information is not readily available to analyze the economic impact of the proposal, Pyramis will generally abstain.</R>
G. <R>Many Pyramis accounts invest in voting securities issued by companies that are domiciled outside the United States and are not listed on a U.S. securities exchange. Corporate governance standards, legal or regulatory requirements and disclosure practices in foreign countries can differ from those in the United States. When voting proxies relating to non-U.S. securities, Pyramis will generally evaluate proposals in the context of the Guidelines and where applicable and feasible, take into consideration differing laws, regulations and practices in the relevant foreign market in determining how to vote shares.</R>
H. <R>In certain non-U.S. jurisdictions, shareholders voting shares of a portfolio company may be restricted from trading the shares for a period of time around the shareholder meeting date. Because such trading restrictions can hinder portfolio management and could result in a loss of liquidity for a client, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in circumstances where such restrictions apply. In addition, certain non-U.S. jurisdictions require voting shareholders to disclose current share ownership on a fund-by-fund basis. When such disclosure requirements apply, Pyramis will generally not vote proxies in order to safeguard fund holdings information.</R>
I. <R>Where a management-sponsored proposal is inconsistent with the Guidelines, Pyramis may receive a company's commitment to modify the proposal or its practice to conform to the Guidelines, and Pyramis will generally support management based on this commitment. If a company subsequently does not abide by its commitment, Pyramis will generally withhold authority for the election of directors at the next election.</R>
<R>II. Definitions (as used in this document)</R>
A. <R>Anti-Takeover Provision - includes fair price amendments; classified boards; "blank check" preferred stock; Golden Parachutes; supermajority provisions; Poison Pills; restricting the right to call special meetings; and any other provision that eliminates or limits shareholder rights.</R>
B. <R>Golden Parachute - Employment contracts, agreements, or policies that include an excise tax gross-up provision; single trigger for cash incentives; or may result in a lump sum payment of cash and acceleration of equity that may total more than three times annual compensation (salary and bonus) in the event of a termination following a change in control.</R>
C. <R>Greenmail - payment of a premium to repurchase shares from a shareholder seeking to take over a company through a proxy contest or other means.</R>
D. <R>Sunset Provision - a condition in a charter or plan that specifies an expiration date.</R>
E. <R>Permitted Bid Feature - a provision suspending the application of a Poison Pill, by shareholder referendum, in the event a potential acquirer announces a bona fide offer for all outstanding shares.</R>
F. <R>Poison Pill - a strategy employed by a potential take-over/target company to make its stock less attractive to an acquirer. Poison Pills are generally designed to dilute the acquirer's ownership and value in the event of a take-over.</R>
G. <R>Large-Capitalization Company - a company included in the Russell 1000 ® index.</R>
H. <R>Small-Capitalization Company - a company not included in the Russell 1000 ® index that is not a Micro-Capitalization Company.</R>
I. <R>Micro-Capitalization Company - a company with a market capitalization under US $300 million.</R>
J. <R>Evergreen Provision - a feature which provides for an automatic increase in the shares available for grant under an equity award plan on a regular basis.</R>
<R>III. Directors</R>
A. <R>Incumbent Directors</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of incumbent and nominee directors except where one or more such directors clearly appear to have failed to exercise reasonable judgment. Pyramis will also generally withhold authority for the election of all directors or directors on responsible committees if:</R>
1. <R>An Anti-Takeover Provision was introduced, an Anti-Takeover Provision was extended, or a new Anti-Takeover Provision was adopted upon the expiration of an existing Anti-Takeover Provision, without shareholder approval except as set forth below.</R>
<R>With respect to Poison Pills, however, Pyramis will consider not withholding authority on the election of directors if all of the following conditions are met when a Poison Pill is introduced, extended, or adopted:</R>
<R>a. The Poison Pill includes a Sunset Provision of less than five years;</R>
<R>b. The Poison Pill includes a Permitted Bid Feature;</R>
<R>c. The Poison Pill is linked to a business strategy that will result in greater value for the shareholders; and</R>
<R>d. Shareholder approval is required to reinstate the Poison Pill upon expiration.</R>
<R>Pyramis will also consider not withholding authority on the election of directors when one or more of the conditions above are not met if a board is willing to strongly consider seeking shareholder ratification of, or adding above conditions noted a. and b. to an existing Poison Pill. In such a case, if the company does not take appropriate action prior to the next annual shareholder meeting, Pyramis will withhold authority on the election of directors.</R>
2. <R>The company refuses, upon request by Pyramis, to amend the Poison Pill to allow Pyramis to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.</R>
3. <R>Within the last year and without shareholder approval, a company's board of directors or compensation committee has repriced outstanding options, exchanged outstanding options for equity, or tendered cash for outstanding options.</R>
4. <R>Executive compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as: (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether the company has admitted to or settled a regulatory proceeding relating to options backdating; (iv) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (v) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (vi) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.</R>
5. <R>To gain Pyramis' support on a proposal, the company made a commitment to modify a proposal or practice to conform to the Guidelines and the company has failed to act on that commitment.</R>
6. <R>The director attended fewer than 75% of the aggregate number of meetings of the board or its committees on which the director served during the company's prior fiscal year, absent extenuating circumstances.</R>
7. <R>The board is not composed of a majority of independent directors.</R>
B. <R>Indemnification</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of charter and by-law amendments expanding the indemnification of directors and/or limiting their liability for breaches of care unless Pyramis is otherwise dissatisfied with the performance of management or the proposal is accompanied by Anti-Takeover Provisions.</R>
C. <R>Independent Chairperson</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote against shareholder proposals calling for or recommending the appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson. However, Pyramis will consider voting for such proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, appointment of a non-executive or independent chairperson appears likely to further the interests of shareholders and to promote effective oversight of management by the board of directors.</R>
D. <R>Majority Director Elections</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals calling for directors to be elected by an affirmative majority of votes cast in a board election, provided that the proposal allows for plurality voting standard in the case of contested elections (i.e., where there are more nominees than board seats). Pyramis may consider voting against such shareholder proposals where a company's board has adopted an alternative measure, such as a director resignation policy, that provides a meaningful alternative to the majority voting standard and appropriately addresses situations where an incumbent director fails to receive the support of a majority of the votes cast in an uncontested election.</R>
<R>IV. Compensation</R>
A. <R>Executive Compensation</R>
1. <R>Advisory votes on executive compensation</R>
<R>a. Pyramis will generally vote for proposals to ratify executive compensation unless such compensation appears misaligned with shareholder interests or otherwise problematic, taking into account such factors as, among other things, (i) whether the company has an independent compensation committee; (ii) whether the compensation committee engaged independent compensation consultants; (iii) whether, in the case of stock awards, the restriction period was less than three years for non-performance-based awards, and less than one year for performance-based awards; (iv) whether the compensation committee has lapsed or waived equity vesting restrictions; and (v) whether the company has adopted or extended a Golden Parachute without shareholder approval.</R>
<R>b. Pyramis will generally vote against proposals to ratify Golden Parachutes.</R>
2. <R>Frequency of advisory vote on executive compensation</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally support annual advisory votes on executive compensation.</R>
B. <R>Equity Award Plans (including stock options, restricted stock awards, and other stock awards).</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote against equity award plans or amendments to authorize additional shares under such plans if:</R>
1. <R>(a) The company's average three year burn rate is greater than 1.5% for a Large-Capitalization Company, 2.5% for a Small-Capitalization Company or 3.5% for a Micro-Capitalization Company; and (b) there were no circumstances specific to the company or the plans that lead Pyramis to conclude that the burn rate is acceptable.</R>
2. <R>In the case of stock option plans, (a) the offering price of options is less than 100% of fair market value on the date of grant, except that the offering price may be as low as 85% of fair market value if the discount is expressly granted in lieu of salary or cash bonus; (b) the plan's terms allow repricing of underwater options; or (c) the board/committee has repriced options outstanding under the plan in the past two years without shareholder approval.</R>
3. <R>The plan includes an Evergreen Provision.</R>
4. <R>The plan provides for the acceleration of vesting of equity awards even though an actual change in control may not occur.</R>
C. <R>Equity Exchanges and Repricing</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a management proposal to exchange, reprice or tender for cash, outstanding options if the proposed exchange, repricing, or tender offer is consistent with the interests of shareholders, taking into account such factors as:</R>
1. <R>Whether the proposal excludes senior management and directors;</R>
2. <R>Whether the exchange or repricing proposal is value neutral to shareholders based upon an acceptable pricing model;</R>
3. <R>The company's relative performance compared to other companies within the relevant industry or industries;</R>
4. <R>Economic and other conditions affecting the relevant industry or industries in which the company competes; and</R>
5. <R>Any other facts or circumstances relevant to determining whether an exchange or repricing proposal is consistent with the interests of shareholders.</R>
D. <R>Employee Stock Purchase Plans</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of employee stock purchase plans if the minimum stock purchase price is equal to or greater than 85% of the stock's fair market value and the plan constitutes a reasonable effort to encourage broad based participation in the company's equity. In the case of non-U.S. company stock purchase plans, Pyramis may permit a lower minimum stock purchase price equal to the prevailing "best practices" in the relevant non-U.S. market, provided that the minimum stock purchase price must be at least 75% of the stock's fair market value.</R>
E. <R>Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs)</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of non-leveraged ESOPs. For leveraged ESOPs, Pyramis may examine the company's state of incorporation, existence of supermajority vote rules in the charter, number of shares authorized for the ESOP, and number of shares held by insiders. Pyramis may also examine where the ESOP shares are purchased and the dilution effect of the purchase. Pyramis will generally vote against leveraged ESOPs if all outstanding loans are due immediately upon change in control.</R>
F. <R>Bonus Plans and Tax Deductibility Proposals</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of cash and stock incentive plans that are submitted for shareholder approval in order to qualify for favorable tax treatment under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code, provided that the plan includes well defined and appropriate performance criteria, and with respect to any cash component, that the maximum award per participant is clearly stated and is not unreasonable or excessive.</R>
<R>V. Anti-Takeover Provisions</R>
<R> Pyramis will generally vote against a proposal to adopt or approve the adoption of an Anti-Takeover Provision unless:</R>
A. <R>The Poison Pill includes the following features:</R>
1. <R>A Sunset Provision of no greater than five years;</R>
2. <R>Linked to a business strategy that is expected to result in greater value for the shareholders;</R>
3. <R>Requires shareholder approval to be reinstated upon expiration or if amended;</R>
4. <R>Contains a Permitted Bid Feature; and</R>
5. <R>Allows Pyramis accounts to hold an aggregate position of up to 20% of a company's total voting securities and of any class of voting securities.</R>
B. <R>An Anti-Greenmail proposal that does not include other Anti-Takeover Provisions; or</R>
C. <R>It is a fair price amendment that considers a two-year price history or less.</R>
<R> Pyramis will generally vote in favor of a proposal to eliminate an Anti-Takeover Provisions unless:</R>
D. <R>In the case of proposals to declassify a board of directors, Pyramis will generally vote against such a proposal if the issuer's Articles of Incorporation or applicable statutes include a provision whereby a majority of directors may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by written consent, or other reasonable procedures, by a majority of shareholders entitled to vote for the election of directors.</R>
E. <R>In the case of shareholder proposals regarding shareholders' right to call special meetings, Pyramis generally will vote against each proposal if the threshold required to call a special meeting is less than 25% of the outstanding stock.</R>
F. <R>In the case of proposals regarding shareholders' right to act by written consent, Pyramis will generally vote against each proposal if it does not include appropriate mechanisms for implementation including, among other things, that at least 25% of the outstanding stock request that the company establish a record date determining which shareholders are entitled to act and that consents be solicited from all shareholders.</R>
<R>VI. Capital Structure/Incorporation</R>
A. <R>Increases in Common Stock</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote against a provision to increase a company's common stock if such increase will result in a total number of authorized shares greater than three times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares, including stock options, except in the case of real estate investment trusts, where an increase that will result in a total number of authorized shares up to five times the current number of outstanding and scheduled to be issued shares is generally acceptable.</R>
B. <R>New Classes of Shares</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction of new classes of stock with differential voting rights.</R>
C. <R>Cumulative Voting Rights</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote against the introduction and in favor of the elimination of cumulative voting rights.</R>
D. <R>Acquisition or Business Combination Statutes</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposed amendments to a company's certificate of incorporation or by-laws that enable the company to opt out of the control shares acquisition or business combination statutes.</R>
E. <R>Incorporation or Reincorporation in Another State or Country</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote for management proposals calling for, or recommending that, a portfolio company reincorporate in another state or country if, on balance, the economic and corporate governance factors in the proposed jurisdiction appear reasonably likely to be better aligned with shareholder interests, taking into account the corporate laws of the current and proposed jurisdictions and any changes to the company's current and proposed governing documents. Pyramis will consider supporting such shareholder proposals in limited cases if, based upon particular facts and circumstances, remaining incorporated in the current jurisdiction appears misaligned with shareholder interests.</R>
<R>VII. Shares of Investment Companies</R>
A. <R>If applicable, when a Pyramis account invests in an underlying Fidelity Fund with public shareholders, an exchange traded fund (ETF), or non-affiliated fund, Pyramis will vote in the same proportion as all other voting shareholders of such underlying fund or class ("echo voting"). Pyramis may choose not to vote if "echo voting" is not operationally feasible.</R>
B. <R>Certain Pyramis accounts may invest in shares of underlying Fidelity Funds, which are held exclusively by Fidelity Funds or accounts managed by FMR or an affiliate. Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals recommended by the underlying funds' Board of Trustees.</R>
<R>VIII. Other</R>
A. <R>Voting Process</R>
<R>Pyramis will generally vote in favor of proposals to adopt confidential voting and independent vote tabulation practices.</R>
B. <R>Regulated Industries</R>
<R>Voting of shares in securities of any regulated industry (e.g. U.S. banking) organization shall be conducted in a manner consistent with conditions that may be specified by the industry's regulator (e.g. the Federal Reserve Board) for a determination under applicable law (e.g. federal banking law) that no client or group of clients has acquired control of such organization.</R>
Proxy Voting - T. Rowe Price.
RESPONSIBILITY TO VOTE PROXIES
T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., T. Rowe Price International Ltd, T. Rowe Price Hong Kong Limited, T. Rowe Price Singapore Private Ltd and T. Rowe Price (Canada), Inc. ("T. Rowe Price") recognize and adhere to the principle that one of the privileges of owning stock in a company is the right to vote in the election of the company's directors and on matters affecting certain important aspects of the company's structure and operations that are submitted to shareholder vote. As an investment adviser with a fiduciary responsibility to its clients, T. Rowe Price analyzes the proxy statements of issuers whose stock is owned by the U.S.-registered investment companies which it sponsors and serves as investment adviser ("T. Rowe Price Funds") and by institutional and private counsel clients who have requested that T. Rowe Price be involved in the proxy process. T. Rowe Price has assumed the responsibility for voting proxies on behalf of the T. Rowe Price Funds and certain counsel clients who have delegated such responsibility to T. Rowe Price. In addition, T. Rowe Price makes recommendations regarding proxy voting to counsel clients who have not delegated the voting responsibility but who have requested voting advice. T. Rowe Price reserves the right to decline to vote proxies in accordance with client-specific voting guidelines.
T. Rowe Price has adopted these Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures ("Policies and Procedures") for the purpose of establishing formal policies and procedures for performing and documenting its fiduciary duty with regard to the voting of client proxies.
Fiduciary Considerations. It is the policy of T. Rowe Price that decisions with respect to proxy issues will be made in light of the anticipated impact of the issue on the desirability of investing in the portfolio company from the viewpoint of the particular client or Price Fund. Proxies are voted solely in the interests of the client, Price Fund shareholders or, where employee benefit plan assets are involved, in the interests of plan participants and beneficiaries. Our intent has always been to vote proxies, where possible to do so, in a manner consistent with our fiduciary obligations and responsibilities. Practicalities and costs involved with international investing may make it impossible at times, and at other times disadvantageous, to vote proxies in every instance.
Other Considerations. One of the primary factors T. Rowe Price considers when determining the desirability of investing in a particular company is the quality and depth of its management. We recognize that a company's management is entrusted with the day-to-day operations of the company, as well as its long-term direction and strategic planning, subject to the oversight of the company's board of directors. Accordingly, our proxy voting guidelines are not intended to substitute our judgment for management's with respect to the company's day-to-day operations. Rather, our voting guidelines are designed to promote accountability of a company's management and board of directors to its shareholders; to align the interests of management with those of shareholders; and, to encourage companies to adopt best practices in terms of their corporate governance. In addition to our voting guidelines, we rely on a company's disclosures, its board's recommendations, a company's track record, country-specific best practices codes, our research providers and, most importantly, our investment professionals' views, in making voting decisions.
ADMINISTRATION OF POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Proxy Committee. T. Rowe Price's Proxy Committee ("Proxy Committee") is responsible for establishing positions with respect to corporate governance and other proxy issues, including those involving corporate social responsibility issues. The Proxy Committee also reviews questions and responds to inquiries from clients and mutual fund shareholders pertaining to proxy issues. While the Proxy Committee sets voting guidelines and serves as a resource for T. Rowe Price portfolio management, it does not have proxy voting authority for any Price Fund or counsel client. Rather, this responsibility is held by the Chairperson of the Fund's Investment Advisory Committee or counsel client's portfolio manager.
Proxy Services Group. The Proxy Services Group is responsible for administering the proxy voting process as set forth in the Policies and Procedures.
Proxy Administrator. The Proxy Services Group will assign a Proxy Administrator who will be responsible for ensuring that all meeting notices are reviewed and important proxy matters are communicated to the portfolio managers for consideration.
<R> Global Corporate Governance Analyst. Our Global Corporate Governance Analyst is responsible for reviewing the proxy agendas for all upcoming meetings and making company-specific recommendations to our global industry analysts and portfolio managers with regard to the voting decisions in their portfolios. </R>
HOW PROXIES ARE REVIEWED, PROCESSED AND VOTED
<R>In order to facilitate the proxy voting process, T. Rowe Price has retained ISS, as an expert in the proxy voting and corporate governance area. ISS specializes in providing a variety of fiduciary-level proxy advisory and voting services. These services include voting recommendations as well as vote execution, reporting, auditing and consulting assistance for the handling of proxy voting responsibility. In order to reflect T. Rowe Price's issue-by-issue voting guidelines as approved each year by the Proxy Committee, ISS maintains and implements a custom voting policy for the Price Funds and other client accounts.</R>
Meeting Notification
<R>T. Rowe Price utilizes ISS's voting agent services to notify us of upcoming shareholder meetings for portfolio companies held in client accounts and to transmit votes to the various custodian banks of our clients. ISS tracks and reconciles T. Rowe Price holdings against incoming proxy ballots. If ballots do not arrive on time, ISS procures them from the appropriate custodian or proxy distribution agent. Meeting and record date information is updated daily, and transmitted to T. Rowe Price through Proxy Exchange, ISS's web-based application.</R>
Vote Determination
<R>Each day, ISS delivers into T. Rowe Price's proprietary proxy research platform a comprehensive summary of upcoming meetings, proxy proposals, publications discussing key proxy voting issues, and custom vote recommendations to assist us with proxy research and processing. The final authority and responsibility for proxy voting decisions remains with T. Rowe Price. Decisions with respect to proxy matters are made primarily in light of the anticipated impact of the issue on the desirability of investing in the company from the perspective of our clients.</R>
Portfolio managers may decide to vote their proxies consistent with T. Rowe Price's policies as set by the Proxy Committee and instruct our Proxy Administrator to vote all proxies accordingly. Alternatively, portfolio managers may request to review the vote recommendations and sign off on all proxies before the votes are cast, or they may choose only to sign off on those votes cast against management. The portfolio managers are also given the option of reviewing and determining the votes on all proxies without utilizing the vote guidelines of the Proxy Committee. In all cases, the portfolio managers may elect to receive current reports summarizing all proxy votes in their client accounts. Portfolio managers who vote their proxies inconsistent with T. Rowe Price guidelines are required to document the rationale for their votes. The Proxy Administrator is responsible for maintaining this documentation and assuring that it adequately reflects the basis for any vote which is cast contrary to T. Rowe Price guidelines.
T. Rowe Price Voting Policies
Specific voting guidelines have been adopted by the Proxy Committee for all regularly occurring categories of management and shareholder proposals. A detailed set of voting guidelines is available on the T. Rowe Price web site, www.troweprice.com. The following is a summary of our guidelines on the most significant proxy voting topics:
<R> Election of Directors - T. Rowe Price generally supports slates with a majority of independent directors. Outside the U.S., we expect companies to adhere to the minimum independence standard established by regional corporate governance codes. T. Rowe Price votes against outside directors who do not meet certain criteria relating to their independence but who serve on key board committees. We vote against directors who are unable to dedicate sufficient time to their board duties due to their commitments to other boards. We may vote against certain directors who have served on company boards where we believe there has been a gross failure in governance or oversight. We may also vote against compensation committee members who approve excessive executive compensation arrangements. We support efforts to elect all board members annually because boards with staggered terms lessen directors' accountability to shareholders and act as deterrents to takeover proposals. To strengthen boards' accountability, T. Rowe Price supports proposals calling for a majority vote threshold for the election of directors.</R>
Anti-takeover, Capital Structure and Corporate Governance Issues - T. Rowe Price generally opposes anti-takeover measures since they adversely impact shareholder rights and limit the ability of shareholders to act on potential value-enhancing transactions. Such anti-takeover mechanisms include classified boards, supermajority voting requirements, dual share classes, and poison pills. We also oppose proposals that give management a "blank check" to create new classes of stock with disparate rights and privileges. When voting on capital structure proposals, T. Rowe Price will consider the dilutive impact to shareholders and the effect on shareholder rights. We generally support shareholder proposals that call for the separation of the Chairman and CEO positions unless there are sufficient governance safeguards already in place.
<R> Executive Compensation Issues - T. Rowe Price's goal is to assure that a company's equity-based compensation plan is aligned with shareholders' long-term interests. We evaluate plans on a case-by-case basis, using a proprietary, scorecard-based approach that employs a number of factors, including dilution to shareholders, problematic plan features, burn rate, and the equity compensation mix. Plans that are constructed to effectively and fairly align executives' and shareholders' incentives generally earn our approval. Conversely, we oppose compensation packages that provide what we view as excessive awards to few senior executives, contain the potential for excessive dilution relative to the company's peers, or rely on an inappropriate mix of options and full-value awards. We also may oppose equity plans at any company where we deem the overall compensation practices to be problematic. We generally oppose efforts to reprice options in the event of a decline in value of the underlying stock unless such plans appropriately balance shareholder and employee interests. For companies with particularly egregious pay practices such as excessive severance packages, executive perks, and bonuses that are not adequately linked to performance, we may vote against compensation committee members. We analyze management proposals requesting ratification of a company's executive compensation practices ("Say-on-Pay" proposals) on a case-by-case basis, using a proprietary scorecard-based approach that assesses the long-term linkage between executive compensation and company performance as well as the presence of objectionable structural features in compensation plans. With respect to the frequency in which companies should seek advisory votes on compensation, we believe shareholders should be offered the opportunity to vote annually. </R>
<R> Mergers and Acquisitions - T. Rowe Price considers takeover offers, mergers, and other extraordinary corporate transactions on a case-by-case basis to determine if they are beneficial to shareholders' current and future earnings stream and to ensure that our Price Funds and clients are receiving fair consideration for their securities. We generally oppose proposals for the ratification of executive severance packages ("Say on Golden Parachute" proposals) in conjunction with merger transactions because we believe these arrangements are, by and large, unnecessary, and they reduce the alignment of executives' incentives with shareholders' interests.</R>
<R> Corporate Social Responsibility Issues - Vote recommendations for corporate responsibility issues are generated by the Global Corporate Governance Analyst using ISS's proxy research. T. Rowe Price generally votes with a company's management on social, environmental and corporate responsibility issues unless the issue has substantial investment implications for the company's business or operations which have not been adequately addressed by management. T. Rowe Price supports well-targeted shareholder proposals on environmental and other public policy issues that are particularly relevant to a company's businesses.</R>
<R> Global Portfolio Companies - ISS applies a two-tier approach to determining and applying global proxy voting policies. The first tier establishes baseline policy guidelines for the most fundamental issues, which span the corporate governance spectrum without regard to a company's domicile. The second tier takes into account various idiosyncrasies of different countries, making allowances for standard market practices, as long as they do not violate the fundamental goals of good corporate governance. The goal is to enhance shareholder value through effective use of the shareholder franchise, recognizing that application of policies developed for U.S. corporate governance issues are not appropriate for all markets. The Proxy Committee has reviewed ISS's general global policies and has developed international proxy voting guidelines which in most instances are consistent with ISS recommendations.</R>
Index and Passively Managed Accounts - Proxy voting for index and other passively-managed portfolios is administered by the Proxy Services Group using T. Rowe Price's policies as set by the Proxy Committee. If a portfolio company is held in both an actively managed account and an index account, the index account will default to the vote as determined by the actively managed proxy voting process.
Divided Votes - In situations where a decision is made which is contrary to the policies established by the Proxy Committee, or differs from the vote for any other client or T. Rowe Price Fund, the Proxy Services Group advises the portfolio managers involved of the divided vote. The persons representing opposing views may wish to confer to discuss their positions. In such instances, it is the normal practice for the portfolio manager to document the reasons for the vote if it is against T. Rowe Price policy. The Proxy Administrator is responsible for assuring that adequate documentation is maintained to reflect the basis for any vote which is cast in opposition to T. Rowe Price policy.
Shareblocking - Shareblocking is the practice in certain foreign countries of "freezing" shares for trading purposes in order to vote proxies relating to those shares. In markets where shareblocking applies, the custodian or sub-custodian automatically freezes shares prior to a shareholder meeting once a proxy has been voted. Shareblocking typically takes place between one and fifteen (15) days before the shareholder meeting, depending on the market. In markets where shareblocking applies, there is a potential for a pending trade to fail if trade settlement takes place during the blocking period. T. Rowe Price's policy is generally to abstain from voting shares in shareblocking countries unless the matter has compelling economic consequences that outweigh the loss of liquidity in the blocked shares.
Securities on Loan - The T. Rowe Price Funds and our institutional clients may participate in securities lending programs to generate income. Generally, the voting rights pass with the securities on loan; however, lending agreements give the lender the right to terminate the loan and pull back the loaned shares provided sufficient notice is given to the custodian bank in advance of the voting deadline. T. Rowe Price's policy is generally not to vote securities on loan unless the portfolio manager has knowledge of a material voting event that could affect the value of the loaned securities. In this event, the portfolio manager has the discretion to instruct the Proxy Administrator to pull back the loaned securities in order to cast a vote at an upcoming shareholder meeting.
Monitoring and Resolving Conflicts of Interest
The Proxy Committee is also responsible for monitoring and resolving possible material conflicts between the interests of T. Rowe Price and those of its clients with respect to proxy voting. We have adopted safeguards to ensure that our proxy voting is not influenced by interests other than those of our fund shareholders. While membership on the Proxy Committee is diverse, it does not include individuals whose primary duties relate to client relationship management, marketing, or sales. Since T. Rowe Price's voting guidelines are pre-determined by the Proxy Committee, application of the guidelines by fund portfolio managers to vote fund proxies should in most instances adequately address any possible conflicts of interest. However, the Proxy Committee reviews all proxy votes that are inconsistent with T. Rowe Price guidelines to determine whether the portfolio manager's voting rationale appears reasonable. The Proxy Committee also assesses whether any business or other relationships between T. Rowe Price and a portfolio company could have influenced an inconsistent vote on that company's proxy. Issues raising possible conflicts of interest are referred to designated members of the Proxy Committee for immediate resolution prior to the time T. Rowe Price casts its vote. With respect to personal conflicts of interest, T. Rowe Price's Code of Ethics and Conduct requires all employees to avoid placing themselves in a "compromising position" in which their interests may conflict with those of our clients and restricts their ability to engage in certain outside business activities. Portfolio managers or Proxy Committee members with a personal conflict of interest regarding a particular proxy vote must recuse themselves and not participate in the voting decisions with respect to that proxy.
Specific Conflict of Interest Situations - Voting of T. Rowe Price Group, Inc. common stock (sym: TROW) by certain T. Rowe Price Index Funds will be done in all instances in accordance with T. Rowe Price policy, and votes inconsistent with policy will not be permitted. In addition, T. Rowe Price has voting authority for proxies of the holdings of certain T. Rowe Price funds that invest in other T. Rowe Price funds. In cases where the underlying fund of a T. Rowe Price fund-of-funds holds a proxy vote, T. Rowe Price will mirror vote the fund shares held by the fund-of-funds in the same proportion as the votes cast by the shareholders of the underlying funds.
REPORTING AND RECORD RETENTION
Vote Summary Reports will be generated for each client that requests T. Rowe Price to furnish proxy voting records. The report specifies the portfolio companies, meeting dates, proxy proposals, and votes which have been cast for the client during the period and the position taken with respect to each issue. Reports normally cover quarterly or annual periods and are provided to clients upon request.
T. Rowe Price retains proxy solicitation materials, memoranda regarding votes cast in opposition to the position of a company's management, and documentation on shares voted differently. In addition, any document which is material to a proxy voting decision such as the T. Rowe Price voting guidelines, Proxy Committee meeting materials, and other internal research relating to voting decisions will be kept. All proxy voting materials and supporting documentation are retained for six years (except for proxy statements available on the SEC's EDGAR database).
To view a fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30, visit www.fidelity.com/proxyvotingresults or visit the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.
<R>The fund has entered into a distribution agreement with FDC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. The principal business address of FDC is 100 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917. FDC is a broker-dealer registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. The distribution agreement calls for FDC to use all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of the fund, which are continuously offered at NAV. Promotional and administrative expenses in connection with the offer and sale of shares are paid by Strategic Advisers.</R>
The Trustees have approved a Distribution and Service Plan with respect to shares of the fund (the Plan) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the Rule). The Rule provides in substance that a mutual fund may not engage directly or indirectly in financing any activity that is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund except pursuant to a plan approved on behalf of the fund under the Rule. The Plan, as approved by the Trustees, allows the fund and Strategic Advisers to incur certain expenses that might be considered to constitute indirect payment by the fund of distribution expenses.
Under the Plan, if the payment of management fees by the fund to Strategic Advisers is deemed to be indirect financing by the fund of the distribution of its shares, such payment is authorized by the Plan. The Plan specifically recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. In addition, the Plan provides that Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers or FDC), that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Prior to approving the Plan, the Trustees carefully considered all pertinent factors relating to the implementation of the Plan, and determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit the fund and its shareholders. In particular, the Trustees noted that the Plan does not authorize payments by the fund other than those made to Strategic Advisers under its management contract with the fund. To the extent that the Plan gives Strategic Advisers and FDC greater flexibility in connection with the distribution of shares of the fund, additional sales of shares of the fund or stabilization of cash flows may result. Furthermore, certain shareholder support services may be provided more effectively under the Plan by local entities with whom shareholders have other relationships.
TRANSFER AND SERVICE AGENT AGREEMENTS
The fund has entered into a transfer agent agreement with Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC), an affiliate of Strategic Advisers, which is located at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. Under the terms of the agreement, FIIOC (or an agent, including an affiliate) performs transfer agency services for the fund.
For providing transfer agency services, FIIOC receives no fees from the fund; however, each underlying Fidelity fund pays its respective transfer agent (either FIIOC or an affiliate of FIIOC) fees based, in part, on the number of positions in and assets of the fund invested in such underlying Fidelity fund. Strategic Advisers or an affiliate of Strategic Advisers will bear the costs of the transfer agency services with respect to assets managed by one or more sub-advisers and assets invested in non-affiliated ETFs under the terms of Strategic Advisers' management contract with the fund.
FIIOC also may collect fees charged in connection with providing certain types of services such as exchanges, closing out fund balances, maintaining fund positions with low balances, checkwriting, wire transactions, and providing historical account research.
FIIOC bears the expense of typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, and all other reports, notices, and statements to existing shareholders, with the exception of proxy statements.
The fund has entered into a service agent agreement with FSC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers (or an agent, including an affiliate). Under the terms of the agreement, FSC calculates the NAV and dividends for the fund and maintains the fund's portfolio and general accounting records.
For providing pricing and bookkeeping services, FSC receives a monthly fee based on the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month.
Strategic Advisers bears the cost of pricing and bookkeeping services under the terms of its management contract with the fund.
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRUST
<R> Trust Organization. Strategic Advisers Core Fund is a fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, an open-end management investment company created under an initial trust instrument dated March 8, 2006. Currently, there are 20 funds offered in the trust: Strategic Advisers Core Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund. The Trustees are permitted to create additional funds in the trust and to create additional classes of the fund.</R>
The assets of the trust received for the issue or sale of shares of each of its funds and all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, subject to the rights of creditors, are allocated to such fund, and constitute the underlying assets of such fund. The underlying assets of each fund in the trust shall be charged with the liabilities and expenses attributable to such fund. Any general expenses of the trust shall be allocated between or among any one or more of the funds.
Shareholder Liability. The trust is a statutory trust organized under Delaware law. Delaware law provides that, except to the extent otherwise provided in the Trust Instrument, shareholders shall be entitled to the same limitations of personal liability extended to stockholders of private corporations for profit organized under the general corporation law of Delaware. The courts of some states, however, may decline to apply Delaware law on this point. The Trust Instrument contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for the debts, liabilities, obligations, and expenses of the trust. The Trust Instrument provides that the trust shall not have any claim against shareholders except for the payment of the purchase price of shares and requires that each agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the trust or the Trustees relating to the trust or to a fund shall include a provision limiting the obligations created thereby to the trust or to one or more funds and its or their assets. The Trust Instrument further provides that shareholders of a fund shall not have a claim on or right to any assets belonging to any other fund.
The Trust Instrument provides for indemnification out of each fund's property of any shareholder or former shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the fund solely by reason of his or her being or having been a shareholder and not because of his or her acts or omissions or for some other reason. The Trust Instrument also provides that each fund shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which Delaware law does not apply, no contractual limitation of liability was in effect, and a fund is unable to meet its obligations. Strategic Advisers believes that, in view of the above, the risk of personal liability to shareholders is extremely remote.
Voting Rights. The fund's capital consists of shares of beneficial interest. As a shareholder, you are entitled to one vote for each dollar of net asset value you own. The voting rights of shareholders can be changed only by a shareholder vote. Shares may be voted in the aggregate, by fund, and by class.
The shares have no preemptive or conversion rights. Shares are fully paid and nonassessable, except as set forth under the heading "Shareholder Liability" above.
On matters submitted for consideration by shareholders of any underlying fund, the fund will vote its shares in proportion to the vote of all other holders of the same class of shares of that underlying fund.
The trust or a fund or a class may be terminated upon the sale of its assets to, or merger with, another open-end management investment company, series, or class thereof, or upon liquidation and distribution of its assets. The Trustees may reorganize, terminate, merge, or sell all or a portion of the assets of the trust or a fund or a class without prior shareholder approval. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the trust, shareholders of each of its funds are entitled to receive the underlying assets of such fund available for distribution. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of a fund or a class, shareholders of that fund or that class are entitled to receive the underlying assets of the fund or class available for distribution.
Custodians. The Bank of New York Mellon, 1 Wall Street, New York, New York, is custodian of the assets of the fund. The custodian is responsible for the safekeeping of the fund's assets and the appointment of any subcustodian banks and clearing agencies. JPMorgan Chase Bank, headquartered in New York, also may serve as a special purpose custodian of certain assets in connection with repurchase agreement transactions.
Strategic Advisers, its officers and directors, its affiliated companies, Member of the Advisory Board, and Members of the Board of Trustees may, from time to time, conduct transactions with various banks, including banks serving as custodians for certain funds advised by Strategic Advisers. Transactions that have occurred to date include mortgages and personal and general business loans. In the judgment of Strategic Advisers, the terms and conditions of those transactions were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other fund relationships.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 125 High Street, Boston, Massachusetts, independent registered public accounting firm, audits financial statements for the fund and provides other audit, tax, and related services.
<R></R>
The fund views holdings information as sensitive and limits its dissemination. The Board authorized Strategic Advisers, in consultation with FMR, to establish and administer guidelines for the dissemination of fund holdings information, which may be amended at any time without prior notice. FMR's Disclosure Policy Committee (comprising executive officers of FMR) evaluates disclosure policy with the goal of serving the fund's best interests by striking an appropriate balance between providing information about the fund's portfolio and protecting the fund from potentially harmful disclosure. The Board reviews the administration and modification of these guidelines and receives reports from the fund's chief compliance officer periodically.
Other registered investment companies that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be subject to different portfolio holdings disclosure policies, and neither Strategic Advisers nor the Board exercises control over such policies or disclosure. In addition, separate account clients of Strategic Advisers and the sub-advisers have access to their portfolio holdings and are not subject to the fund's portfolio holdings disclosure policies. Some of the funds that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser and some of the separate accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser have investment objectives and strategies that are substantially similar or identical to the fund's and, therefore, potentially substantially similar, and in certain cases nearly identical, portfolio holdings as the fund.
The fund will provide a full list of holdings monthly on www.fidelity.com 30 days after the month-end (excluding high income security holdings, which generally will be presented collectively monthly and included in a list of full holdings 60 days after its fiscal quarter-end).
Unless otherwise indicated, this information will be available on the web site until updated for the next applicable period.
The fund may also from time to time provide or make available to the Board or third parties upon request specific fund level performance attribution information and statistics. Third parties may include fund shareholders or prospective fund shareholders, members of the press, consultants, and ratings and ranking organizations.
<R> The Use of Holdings In Connection With Fund Operations. Material non-public holdings information may be provided as part of the investment activities of the fund to: entities which, by explicit agreement or by virtue of their respective duties to the fund, are required to maintain the confidentiality of the information disclosed; other parties if legally required; or persons Strategic Advisers believes will not misuse the disclosed information. These entities, parties, and persons include, but are not limited to: the fund's trustees; the fund's manager, its sub-advisers, if any, and their affiliates whose access persons are subject to a code of ethics; contractors who are subject to a confidentiality agreement; the fund's auditors; the fund's custodians; proxy voting service providers; financial printers; pricing service vendors; broker-dealers in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or requests for price quotations or bids on one or more securities; counsel to the fund or its Independent Trustees; regulatory authorities; stock exchanges and other listing organizations; parties to litigation; third parties in connection with a bankruptcy proceeding relating to a fund holding; and third parties who have submitted a standing request to a money market fund for daily holdings information. Non-public holdings information may also be provided to an issuer regarding the number or percentage of its shares that are owned by the fund and in connection with redemptions in kind.</R>
<R> Other Uses Of Holdings Information. In addition, the fund may provide material non-public holdings information to (i) third parties that calculate information derived from holdings for use by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, (ii) ratings and rankings organizations, and (iii) an investment adviser, trustee, or their agents to whom holdings are disclosed for due diligence purposes or in anticipation of a merger involving the fund. Each individual request is reviewed by the Disclosure Policy Committee which must find, in its sole discretion that, based on the specific facts and circumstances, the disclosure appears unlikely to be harmful to the fund. Entities receiving this information must have in place control mechanisms to reasonably ensure or otherwise agree that, (a) the holdings information will be kept confidential, (b) no employee shall use the information to effect trading or for their personal benefit, and (c) the nature and type of information that they, in turn, may disclose to third parties is limited. Strategic Advisers relies primarily on the existence of non-disclosure agreements and/or control mechanisms when determining that disclosure is not likely to be harmful to the fund.</R>
At this time, the entities receiving information described in the preceding paragraph are: Factset Research Systems Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day) and Anacomp Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day).
<R>Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, or the fund will not enter into any arrangements with third parties from which they derive consideration for the disclosure of material non-public holdings information. If, in the future, Strategic Advisers desired to make such an arrangement, it would seek prior Board approval and any such arrangements would be disclosed in the fund's SAI.</R>
There can be no assurance that the fund's policies and procedures with respect to disclosure of fund portfolio holdings will prevent the misuse of such information by individuals and firms that receive such information.
<R>The fund's financial statements and financial highlights for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012 and report of the independent registered public accounting firm, are included in the fund's annual report and are incorporated herein by reference. Total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table may differ from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the financial highlights because total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table include any acquired fund fees and expenses, whereas the ratios of expenses in the financial highlights do not. Acquired funds include other investment companies in which the fund has invested, if and to the extent it is permitted to do so. Total annual operating expenses in the prospectus fee table and the financial highlights do not include any expenses associated with investments in certain structured or synthetic products that may rely on the exception from the definition of "investment company" provided by section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act.</R>
Strategic Advisers is a registered service mark of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
Fund /Ticker
Strategic Advisers ® Value Multi-Manager Fund /FKMOX
Prospectus
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
<R> Fund Summary |
Strategic Advisers ® Value Multi-Manager Fund </R> |
|
<R> Fund Basics |
Investment Details </R> |
|
<R> |
Valuing Shares </R> |
|
<R> Shareholder Information |
Additional Information about the Purchase and Sale of Shares </R> |
|
<R> |
Exchanging Shares </R> |
|
<R> |
Features and Policies </R> |
|
<R> |
Dividends and Capital Gain Distributions </R> |
|
<R> |
Tax Consequences </R> |
|
<R> Fund Services |
Fund Management </R> |
|
<R> |
Fund Distribution </R> |
|
<R> Appendix |
Financial Highlights </R> |
Prospectus
Fund:
Strategic Advisers
®
Value Multi-Manager Fund
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The following table describes the fees and expenses that may be incurred when you buy and hold shares of the fund.
Shareholder fees
|
None |
Annual fund operating expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a % of the value of your investment)
<R> Management fee (fluctuates based on the fund's allocation among underlying funds and sub-advisers) B |
0.53% </R> |
<R> Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) fees |
None </R> |
<R> Other expenses |
1.09% </R> |
<R> Acquired fund fees and expenses (fees and expenses of underlying funds) |
0.02% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses A |
1.64% </R> |
<R> Fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement B |
0.65% </R> |
<R> Total annual fund operating expenses after fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement A |
0.99% </R> |
<R> A Differs from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the Financial Highlights section of the prospectus because of acquired fund fees and expenses. As a result, the total annual fund operating expenses after fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement in the fee table exceed the contractual expense limitation of the fund. </R>
<R> B Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) has contractually agreed that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.00% of the fund's average daily net assets. In addition, Strategic Advisers has contractually agreed to reimburse the fund to the extent that total operating expenses (excluding interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, extraordinary expenses, and acquired fund fees and expenses, if any), as a percentage of its average net assets, exceed 0.97%. This arrangement will remain in effect through July 31, 2013. Strategic Advisers may not discontinue or modify this arrangement without the approval of the Board of Trustees. </R>
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
This example helps compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
Let's say, hypothetically, that the annual return for shares of the fund is 5% and that your shareholder fees and the annual operating expenses for shares of the fund are exactly as described in the fee table. This example illustrates the effect of fees and expenses, but is not meant to suggest actual or expected fees and expenses or returns, all of which may vary. For every $10,000 you invested, here's how much you would pay in total expenses if you sell all of your shares at the end of each time period indicated:
<R> 1 year |
$ 101 </R> |
<R> 3 years |
$ 442 </R> |
<R> 5 years |
$ 820 </R> |
<R> 10 years |
$ 1,879 </R> |
<R>The fund will not incur transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells shares of affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it will incur transaction costs when it buys and sells other types of securities (including non-affiliated exchange traded funds) directly (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 annual operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund's performance. For the period from November 16, 2011 to May 31, 2012, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 14% (annualized) of the average value of its portfolio.</R>
Prospectus
Pursuant to an exemptive order granted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) is permitted, subject to the approval of the Board of Trustees, to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement.
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
<R></R>
In addition, the fund is considered non-diversified and can invest a greater portion of assets in securities of a smaller number of individual issuers than a diversified fund. As a result, changes in the market value of a single investment could cause greater fluctuations in share price than would occur in a more diversified fund.
<R>An investment in the fund is not a deposit of a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. You could lose money by investing in the fund.</R>
Performance history will be available for the fund after the fund has been in operation for one calendar year.
<R>Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC (Brandywine Global), Cohen & Steers Capital Management, Inc. (Cohen & Steers), LSV Asset Management (LSV), and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis) have been retained to serve as sub-advisers for the fund. Pyramis has not currently been allocated a portion of the fund's assets to manage.</R>
<R>John A. Stone (lead portfolio manager) has managed the fund since November 2011.</R>
<R>Joseph J. Kirby (co-manager), Henry F. Otto (co-manager), and Steven M. Tonkovich (co-manager) have managed Brandywine Global's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
<R>Rick Helm (portfolio manager) has managed Cohen & Steers' portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
<R>Josef Lakonishok (co-manager), Puneet Mansharamani (co-manager), and Menno Vermeulen (co-manager) have managed LSV's portion of the fund's assets since November 2011.</R>
Prospectus
Shares of the fund generally are available only to: (i) employer-sponsored retirement plans (including profit sharing, 401(k), 403(b), 457(b), and similar plans) for which an affiliate of Strategic Advisers provides recordkeeping services; and (ii) Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund accounts held by individuals who currently own shares of the fund originally held in an employer sponsored retirement plan. You may buy or sell shares in various ways:
The price to buy one share of the fund is its net asset value per share (NAV). Your shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after your investment is received in proper form.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV. Your shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after your order is received in proper form.
The fund is open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open.
There is no purchase minimum for fund shares.
Distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax and generally will be taxed as ordinary income or capital gains, and may also be subject to state or local taxes, unless you are investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account (in which case you may be taxed later, upon withdrawal of your investment from such account).
Prospectus
Fund Summary - continued
The fund, Strategic Advisers, Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and/or their affiliates may pay intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, or service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR, or FDC), for the sale of fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing your intermediary and your investment professional to recommend the fund over another investment. Ask your investment professional or visit your intermediary's web site for more information.
Prospectus
Investment Objective
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies
The fund normally invests primarily in common stocks.
The fund invests in companies that are believed to be undervalued in the marketplace in relation to factors such as the company's assets, sales, earnings, growth potential, or cash flow, or in relation to securities of other companies in the same industry. Companies with these characteristics tend to have lower than average price/book (P/B), price/sales (P/S), or price/earnings (P/E) ratios. The stocks of these companies are often called "value" stocks.
The fund normally invests primarily in securities of companies with large market capitalizations. Although a universal definition of large market capitalization companies does not exist, for purposes of this fund, large market capitalization companies generally are defined as those companies with market capitalizations similar to those of companies included in the Russell 1000 ® Value Index. A company's market capitalization is based on its current market capitalization or its market capitalization at the time of the fund's investment. The size of the companies in the index changes with market conditions and the composition of the index.
The fund may invest in securities of foreign issuers in addition to securities of domestic issuers.
The fund implements its investment strategies by investing directly in securities through one or more sub-advisers or indirectly in securities through one or more underlying funds, which in turn invest directly in securities.
Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of underlying funds or sub-advisers at any time.
Strategic Advisers pursues a disciplined, benchmark-driven approach to portfolio construction, and monitors and adjusts allocations to underlying funds and sub-advisers as necessary to favor those underlying funds and sub-advisers that Strategic Advisers believes will provide the most favorable outlook for achieving the fund's investment objective.
<R>When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among underlying funds, Strategic Advisers relies on proprietary fundamental and quantitative fund research in its fund selection process. Factors considered when investing in underlying funds include fund performance, a fund manager's experience and investment style, fund company infrastructure, and fund characteristics such as expense ratio, asset size, and portfolio turnover.</R>
<R>The fund may invest in affiliated funds ( i.e., Fidelity funds) and non-affiliated funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork ® and in non-affiliated ETFs. Underlying funds include both funds managed by FMR (an affiliated company that, together with Strategic Advisers, is part of Fidelity Investments) or an affiliate and funds managed by investment advisers other than Fidelity. Fidelity may receive service fees that typically are at an annual rate of up to 0.40% of a non-affiliated underlying fund's average daily net assets attributable to purchases through Fidelity's FundsNetwork, though such fees may be higher or lower, or may be charged as transaction and/or account fees. In addition, the fund may invest in ETFs in transactions not occurring through Fidelity's FundsNetwork.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Strategic Advisers may actively adjust the allocation of the fund's assets at any time. For current information on fund holdings, please call 1-800-835-5095 (plan accounts) or 1-800-544-3455 (all other accounts) or visit the web site at www.401k.com (plan accounts) or www.fidelity.com (all other accounts). For information on the underlying funds, see the underlying funds' prospectuses. A copy of any underlying Fidelity fund's prospectus is available at www.fidelity.com or www.advisor.fidelity.com. For a copy of any other underlying fund's prospectus, visit the web site of the company that manages or sponsors that underlying fund.</R>
When determining how to allocate the fund's assets among sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers considers a variety of factors including, but not limited to, a sub-adviser's investment approach, the characteristics of a sub-adviser's typical investment portfolio, and a sub-adviser's performance patterns in different market environments.
Common types of investment approaches that a sub-adviser may use in selecting investments for a fund include, but are not limited to, quantitative analysis, fundamental analysis, or a combination of both approaches. Quantitative analysis refers to programmatic models that analyze such factors as growth potential, valuation, liquidity, and investment risk based on data inputs. Fundamental analysis involves a bottom-up assessment of a company's potential for success in light of factors including its financial condition, earnings outlook, strategy, management, industry position, and economic and market conditions.
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
The fund may also use various techniques, such as buying and selling futures contracts, to increase or decrease its exposure to changing security prices or other factors that affect security values. In addition, the fund may have indirect exposure to derivatives through its investments in underlying funds.
Because the fund is considered non-diversified, a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund.
<R> The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment. </R>
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Description of Principal Security Types
In addition to investing in underlying funds, the fund may invest directly in the following principal security types:
Equity securities represent an ownership interest, or the right to acquire an ownership interest, in an issuer. Different types of equity securities provide different voting and dividend rights and priority in the event of the bankruptcy of the issuer. Equity securities include common stocks, preferred stocks, convertible securities, and warrants.
Principal Investment Risks
<R>Many factors affect the fund's performance. The fund's share price changes daily based on the performance of the underlying funds and securities in which it invests and on changes in market conditions and interest rates and in response to other economic, political, or financial developments. The fund's reaction to these developments will be affected by the types of underlying funds and securities in which the fund invests, the financial condition, industry and economic sector, and geographic location of an issuer, and the fund's level of investment in the securities of that underlying fund or issuer. In addition, because a significant percentage of the fund's assets may be invested in a single issuer or a single underlying fund, the fund's performance could be closely tied to that one issuer or underlying fund and could be more volatile than the performance of more diversified funds.</R>
If Strategic Advisers' or a sub-adviser's allocation strategies do not work as intended, the fund may not achieve its objective. The portfolio managers' evaluations and assumptions in selecting underlying funds or individual securities may be incorrect in view of actual market conditions.
When your shares are sold they may be worth more or less than what you paid for them, which means that you could lose money by investing in the fund.
The following factors can significantly affect the fund's performance:
Multiple Sub-Adviser Risk. Because each sub-adviser manages its allocated portion independently from another sub-adviser, it is possible that the sub-advisers' security selection processes may not complement one another. As a result, the fund's aggregate exposure to a particular industry or group of industries, or to a single issuer, could unintentionally be larger or smaller than intended. Because each sub-adviser directs the trading for its own portion of the fund, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisers, the fund may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were managing the entire fund.
Prospectus
<R> Investing in Other Funds. Regulatory restrictions may limit the amount that one fund can invest in another, and in certain cases further limit investments to the extent a fund's shares are already held by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The fund bears all risks of investment strategies employed by the underlying funds. The fund does not control the investments of the underlying funds, which may have different investment objectives and may engage in investment strategies that the fund would not engage in directly. Aggregation of underlying fund holdings may result in indirect concentration of assets in a particular industry or group of industries, or in a single issuer, which may increase volatility.</R>
<R> Stock Market Volatility. The value of equity securities fluctuates in response to issuer, political, market, and economic developments. Fluctuations can be dramatic over the short as well as long term, and different parts of the market and different types of equity securities can react differently to these developments. For example, large cap stocks can react differently from small cap stocks, "growth" stocks can react differently from "value" stocks, and stocks selected using quantitative or technical analysis can react differently than stocks selected using fundamental analysis. Issuer, political, or economic developments can affect a single issuer, issuers within an industry or economic sector or geographic region, or the market as a whole. Changes in the financial condition of a single issuer can impact the market as a whole. Terrorism and related geo-political risks have led, and may in the future lead, to increased short-term market volatility and may have adverse long-term effects on world economies and markets generally.</R>
Foreign Exposure. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations can involve additional risks relating to political, economic, or regulatory conditions in foreign countries. These risks include fluctuations in foreign currencies; withholding or other taxes; trading, settlement, custodial, and other operational risks; and the less stringent investor protection and disclosure standards of some foreign markets. All of these factors can make foreign investments, especially those in emerging markets, more volatile and potentially less liquid than U.S. investments. In addition, foreign markets can perform differently from the U.S. market.
Global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region.
<R> Industry Exposure. Market conditions, interest rates, and economic, regulatory, or financial developments could significantly affect a single industry or a group of related industries, and the securities of companies in that industry or group of industries could react similarly to these or other developments. In addition, from time to time, a small number of companies may represent a large portion of a single industry or a group of related industries as a whole, and these companies can be sensitive to adverse economic, regulatory, or financial developments.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Basics - continued
Issuer-Specific Changes. Changes in the financial condition of an issuer or counterparty, changes in specific economic or political conditions that affect a particular type of security or issuer, and changes in general economic or political conditions can increase the risk of default by an issuer or counterparty, which can affect a security's or instrument's value. The value of securities of smaller, less well-known issuers can be more volatile than that of larger issuers.
<R> Investing in ETFs. ETFs may trade in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) at prices below the value of their underlying portfolios and may not be liquid. An ETF that is not actively managed cannot sell poorly performing stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in its index or other benchmark. ETFs that track an index are subject to tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to its index or other benchmark).</R>
<R></R>
"Value" Investing. "Value" stocks can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole and other types of stocks. "Value" stocks tend to be inexpensive relative to their earnings or assets compared to other types of stocks. However, "value" stocks can continue to be inexpensive for long periods of time and may not ever realize their full value.
Quantitative Investing. The value of securities selected using quantitative analysis can react differently to issuer, political, market, and economic developments than the market as a whole or securities selected using only fundamental analysis. The factors used in quantitative analysis and the weight placed on those factors may not be predictive of a security's value. In addition, factors that affect a security's value can change over time and these changes may not be reflected in the quantitative model.
In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
The following policy is fundamental, that is, subject to change only by shareholder approval:
The fund seeks capital appreciation.
The fund is open for business each day the NYSE is open.
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. Fidelity normally calculates the fund's NAV as of the close of business of the NYSE, normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The fund's assets normally are valued as of this time for the purpose of computing the fund's NAV.
Prospectus
NAV is not calculated and the fund will not process purchase and redemption requests submitted on days when the fund is not open for business. The time at which shares are priced and until which purchase and redemption orders are accepted may be changed as permitted by the SEC.
To the extent that the fund's assets are traded in other markets on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of the fund's assets may be affected on those days. In addition, trading in some of the fund's assets may not occur on days when the fund is open for business.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) are valued at their respective NAVs. For an explanation of the circumstances under which the underlying funds will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing, see the underlying funds' prospectuses and statements of additional information (SAIs). The fund's NAV is calculated using the values of the underlying funds in which it invests. Other assets (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued primarily on the basis of market quotations or official closing prices. Certain short-term securities are valued on the basis of amortized cost. If market quotations or official closing prices are not readily available or, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, are deemed unreliable for a security, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before the fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, then that security will be fair valued in good faith by Strategic Advisers in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Arbitrage opportunities may exist when trading in a portfolio security or securities is halted and does not resume before a fund calculates its NAV. These arbitrage opportunities may enable short-term traders to dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Securities trading in overseas markets present time zone arbitrage opportunities when events affecting portfolio security values occur after the close of the overseas markets but prior to the close of the U.S. market. Fair valuation of a fund's portfolio securities can serve to reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders, but there is no assurance that fair value pricing policies will prevent dilution of a fund's NAV by short-term traders.
Although the fund has policies regarding excessive trading, these too may not be effective to prevent short-term NAV arbitrage trading, particularly in regard to omnibus accounts.
Fair value pricing is based on subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value of a security may differ materially from the value that would be realized if the security were sold.
Prospectus
THE FUND IS AVAILABLE ONLY TO CERTAIN EMPLOYER-SPONSORED RETIREMENT PLANS AND FIDELITY BROKERAGE OR MUTUAL FUND ACCOUNTS. PLEASE SEE "FUND SUMMARY - PURCHASE AND SALE OF SHARES" ABOVE FOR ADDITIONAL DETAILS.
Fidelity Investments was established in 1946 to manage one of America's first mutual funds. Today, Fidelity is one of the world's largest providers of financial services.
In addition to its mutual fund business, the company operates one of America's leading brokerage firms, Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC. Fidelity is also a leader in providing tax-advantaged retirement plans for individuals investing on their own or through their employer.
Subject to the purchase and sale requirements stated above, you may buy or sell shares of a fund through a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account. If you buy or sell shares of a fund (other than by exchange) through a Fidelity brokerage account, your transactions generally involve your Fidelity brokerage core (a settlement vehicle included as part of your Fidelity brokerage account).
If you do not currently have a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account and would like to invest in a fund, you may need to complete an application. For more information about a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account, please visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com, call 1-800-FIDELITY, or visit a Fidelity Investor Center (call 1-800-544-9797 for the center nearest you).
<R>You may also buy or sell shares of the fund through a retirement account (such as an IRA or an account funded through salary deduction) or an investment professional. Retirement specialists are available at 1-800-544-4774 to answer your questions about Fidelity retirement products. If you buy or sell shares of a fund through a retirement account or an investment professional, the procedures for buying, selling, and exchanging shares of the fund and the account features and policies may differ from those discussed in this prospectus. Fees in addition to those discussed in this prospectus may also apply. For example, you may be charged a transaction fee if you buy or sell shares of the fund through a non-Fidelity broker or other investment professional.</R>
You should include the following information with any order to buy, sell, or exchange shares:
Certain methods of contacting Fidelity, such as by telephone or electronically, may be unavailable or delayed (for example, during periods of unusual market activity). In addition, the level and type of service available may be restricted based on criteria established by Fidelity.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
The fund may reject for any reason, or cancel as permitted or required by law, any purchase or exchange, including transactions deemed to represent excessive trading, at any time.
Excessive trading of fund shares can harm shareholders in various ways, including reducing the returns to long-term shareholders by increasing costs to the fund (such as brokerage commissions), disrupting portfolio management strategies, and diluting the value of the shares in cases in which fluctuations in markets are not fully priced into the fund's NAV.
The Board of Trustees has adopted policies designed to discourage excessive trading of fund shares. Excessive trading activity in the fund is measured by the number of roundtrip transactions in a shareholder's account. A roundtrip transaction occurs when a shareholder sells fund shares (including exchanges) within 30 days of the purchase date.
<R>Shareholders with two or more roundtrip transactions in a single fund within a rolling 90-day period will be blocked from making additional purchases or exchange purchases of the fund for 85 days. Shareholders with four or more roundtrip transactions across all Fidelity funds within any rolling 12-month period will be blocked for at least 85 days from additional purchases or exchange purchases across all Fidelity funds. Any roundtrip within 12 months of the expiration of a multi-fund block will initiate another multi-fund block. Repeat offenders may be subject to long-term or permanent blocks on purchase or exchange purchase transactions in any account under the shareholder's control at any time. In addition to enforcing these roundtrip limitations, the fund may in its discretion restrict, reject, or cancel any purchases or exchanges that, in Strategic Advisers' opinion, may be disruptive to the management of the fund or otherwise not be in the fund's interests.</R>
The following transactions are exempt from the fund's excessive trading policy described above: (i) transactions of $1,000 or less, (ii) systematic withdrawal and/or contribution programs, (iii) mandatory retirement distributions, and (iv) transactions initiated by a plan sponsor or sponsors of certain employee benefit plans or other related accounts. In addition, the fund's excessive trading policy does not apply to transactions initiated by the trustee or adviser to a donor-advised charitable gift fund, qualified fund of fund(s), or other strategy funds. A qualified fund of fund(s) is a mutual fund, qualified tuition program, or other strategy fund consisting of qualified plan assets that either applies the fund's excessive trading policies to shareholders at the fund of fund(s) level, or demonstrates that the fund of fund(s) has an investment strategy coupled with policies designed to control frequent trading that are reasonably likely to be effective as determined by the fund's Treasurer.
Prospectus
Omnibus accounts, in which shares are held in the name of an intermediary on behalf of multiple investors, are a common form of holding shares among retirement plans and financial intermediaries such as brokers, advisers, and third-party administrators. Individual trades in omnibus accounts are often not disclosed to the fund, making it difficult to determine whether a particular shareholder is engaging in excessive trading. Excessive trading in omnibus accounts is likely to go undetected by the fund and may increase costs to the fund and disrupt its portfolio management.
Under policies adopted by the Board of Trustees, intermediaries will be permitted to apply the fund's excessive trading policy (described above), or their own excessive trading policy if approved by Strategic Advisers. In these cases, the fund will typically not request or receive individual account data but will rely on the intermediary to monitor trading activity in good faith in accordance with its or the fund's policies. Reliance on intermediaries increases the risk that excessive trading may go undetected. For other intermediaries, the fund will generally monitor trading activity at the omnibus account level to attempt to identify disruptive trades. The fund may request transaction information, as frequently as daily, from any intermediary at any time, and may apply the fund's policy to transactions that exceed thresholds established by the Board of Trustees. The fund may prohibit purchases of fund shares by an intermediary or by some or all of any intermediary's clients. There is no assurance that Strategic Advisers will request data with sufficient frequency to detect or deter excessive trading in omnibus accounts effectively.
If you purchase or sell fund shares through a financial intermediary, you may wish to contact the intermediary to determine the policies applicable to your account.
For employer-sponsored retirement plans, only participant directed exchanges count toward the roundtrip limits. Employer-sponsored retirement plan participants whose activity triggers a purchase or exchange block will be permitted one trade every calendar quarter. In the event of a block, employer and participant contributions and loan repayments by the participant may still be invested in the fund.
The fund will monitor aggregate trading activity of adviser transactions to attempt to identify excessive trading in qualified wrap programs, as defined below. Excessive trading by an adviser will lead to fund blocks and the wrap program will lose its qualified status. Adviser transactions will not be matched with client-directed transactions unless the wrap program ceases to be a qualified wrap program (but all client-directed transactions will be subject to the fund's excessive trading policy). A qualified wrap program is: (i) a program whose adviser certifies that it has investment discretion over $100 million or more in client assets invested in mutual funds at the time of the certification, (ii) a program in which the adviser directs transactions in the accounts participating in the program in concert with changes in a model portfolio, and (iii) managed by an adviser who agrees to give Strategic Advisers sufficient information to permit Strategic Advisers to identify the individual accounts in the wrap program.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
The fund reserves the right at any time to restrict purchases or exchanges or impose conditions that are more restrictive on excessive or disruptive trading than those stated in this prospectus. The fund's Treasurer is authorized to suspend the fund's policies during periods of severe market turbulence or national emergency. The fund reserves the right to modify its policies at any time without prior notice.
The fund does not knowingly accommodate frequent purchases and redemptions of fund shares by investors, except to the extent permitted by the policies described above.
As described in "Valuing Shares," the fund also uses fair value pricing to help reduce arbitrage opportunities available to short-term traders. There is no assurance that the fund's excessive trading policy will be effective, or will successfully detect or deter excessive or disruptive trading.
The price to buy one share of the fund is its NAV. The fund's shares are sold without a sales charge.
Your shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after your investment is received in proper form.
The fund has authorized certain intermediaries to accept orders to buy shares on its behalf. When authorized intermediaries receive an order in proper form, the order is considered as being placed with the fund, and shares will be bought at the NAV next calculated after the order is received by the authorized intermediary. Orders by funds of funds for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment manager will be treated as received by the fund at the same time that the corresponding orders are received in proper form by the funds of funds.
There is no minimum balance or purchase minimum for investments through Portfolio Advisory Services, a mutual fund or a qualified tuition program for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment manager, certain Fidelity retirement accounts funded through salary deduction, or fund positions opened with the proceeds of distributions from such retirement accounts or from a Fidelity systematic withdrawal service. In addition, the fund may waive or lower purchase minimums in other circumstances.
The fund may stop offering shares completely or may offer shares only on a limited basis, for a period of time or permanently.
If your payment is not received and collected, your purchase may be canceled and you could be liable for any losses or fees the fund or Fidelity has incurred.
Certain financial institutions that have entered into sales agreements with FDC may enter confirmed purchase orders on behalf of customers by phone, with payment to follow no later than the time when fund shares are priced on the following business day. If payment is not received by that time, the order will be canceled and the financial institution could be held liable for resulting fees or losses.
Prospectus
Under applicable anti-money laundering regulations and other federal regulations, purchase orders may be suspended, restricted, or canceled and the monies may be withheld.
The price to sell one share of the fund is its NAV.
Your shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after your order is received in proper form. Normally, redemptions will be processed by the next business day, but it may take up to seven days to pay the redemption proceeds if making immediate payment would adversely affect the fund.
<R>The fund has authorized certain intermediaries to accept orders to sell shares on its behalf. When authorized intermediaries receive an order in proper form, the order is considered as being placed with the fund, and shares will be sold at the NAV next calculated after the order is received by the authorized intermediary. Orders by funds of funds for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment manager will be treated as received by the fund at the same time that the corresponding orders are received in proper form by the funds of funds.</R>
A signature guarantee is designed to protect you and Fidelity from fraud. Fidelity may require that your request be made in writing and include a signature guarantee in certain circumstances, such as:
You should be able to obtain a signature guarantee from a bank, broker (including Fidelity Investor Centers), dealer, credit union (if authorized under state law), securities exchange or association, clearing agency, or savings association. A notary public cannot provide a signature guarantee.
When you place an order to sell shares, note the following:
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
An exchange involves the redemption of all or a portion of the shares of one fund and the purchase of shares of another fund.
If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, your shares of the fund may be exchanged into shares of any class of a Fidelity fund available through your plan. If you hold your shares of the fund through a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, your shares of the fund may be exchanged into shares of other Fidelity funds.
However, you should note the following policies and restrictions governing exchanges:
Prospectus
The fund may terminate or modify exchange privileges in the future.
Other funds may have different exchange restrictions and minimums, and may impose redemption fees of up to 2.00% of the amount exchanged. Check each fund's prospectus for details.
The following features may be available to buy and sell shares of the fund or to move money to and from your account, if you are investing through a Fidelity brokerage account or a Fidelity mutual fund account. Please visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com or call 1-800-544-6666 for more information.
Electronic Funds Transfer: electronic money movement through the Automated Clearing House • To transfer money between a bank account and a Fidelity brokerage account or Fidelity mutual fund account. • You can use electronic funds transfer to: - Make periodic (automatic) purchases of Fidelity fund shares or payments to your Fidelity brokerage account. - Make periodic (automatic) redemptions of Fidelity fund shares or withdrawals from your Fidelity brokerage account. |
||
Wire: electronic money movement through the Federal Reserve wire system • To transfer money between a bank account and a Fidelity brokerage account or Fidelity mutual fund account. |
||
Automatic Transactions: periodic (automatic) transactions • To directly deposit all or a portion of your compensation from your employer (or the U.S. Government, in the case of Social Security) into a Fidelity brokerage account or Fidelity mutual fund account. • To make contributions from a Fidelity mutual fund account to a Fidelity mutual fund IRA. • To sell shares of a Fidelity money market fund and simultaneously to buy shares of another Fidelity fund in a Fidelity mutual fund account. |
The following policies apply to you as a shareholder.
Statements that Fidelity sends to you include the following:
<R>To reduce expenses, only one copy of most financial reports and prospectuses may be mailed to households, even if more than one person in a household holds shares of the fund. Call Fidelity at 1-800-835-5095 (for employer-sponsored retirement plans) or 1-800-544-8544 (for all other accounts) if you need additional copies of financial reports or prospectuses. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, contact Fidelity in writing at P.O. Box 770001, Cincinnati, Ohio 45277-0002.</R>
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
Electronic copies of most financial reports and prospectuses are available at Fidelity's web site. To participate in Fidelity's electronic delivery program, call Fidelity or visit Fidelity's web site for more information.
<R>You may initiate many transactions by telephone or electronically. Fidelity will not be responsible for any loss, cost, expense, or other liability resulting from unauthorized transactions if it follows reasonable security procedures designed to verify the identity of the investor. Fidelity will request personalized security codes or other information, and may also record calls. For transactions conducted through the Internet, Fidelity recommends the use of an Internet browser with 128-bit encryption. You should verify the accuracy of your confirmation statements upon receipt and notify Fidelity immediately of any discrepancies in your account activity. If you do not want the ability to sell and exchange by telephone, call Fidelity for instructions. Additional documentation may be required from corporations, associations, and certain fiduciaries.</R>
You may also be asked to provide additional information in order for Fidelity to verify your identity in accordance with requirements under anti-money laundering regulations. Accounts may be restricted and/or closed, and the monies withheld, pending verification of this information or as otherwise required under these and other federal regulations.
If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, Fidelity may deduct a small balance maintenance fee of $12.00 from a fund balance with a value of less than $2,000 in shares. It is expected that fund balances will be valued after November 1 but prior to December 31 of each calendar year. Fund positions opened after September 30 will not be subject to the fee for that calendar year. The fee, which is payable to Fidelity, is designed to offset in part the relatively higher costs of servicing smaller fund positions. This fee will not be deducted from fund positions opened after January 1 of that calendar year if those positions use certain regular investment plans.
If your fund balance falls below $2,000 worth of shares ($500 for fund balances in Fidelity Simplified Employee Pension-IRA and Keogh accounts, and Non-Fidelity Prototype Retirement accounts) for any reason, including solely due to declines in NAV, and you do not increase your balance, Fidelity may sell all of your shares and send the proceeds to you after providing you with at least 30 days' notice to reestablish the minimum balance. Your shares will be sold at the NAV on the day Fidelity closes your fund position. Certain fund positions are not subject to these balance requirements and will not be closed for failure to maintain a minimum balance.
Prospectus
Fidelity may charge a fee for certain services, such as providing historical account documents.
The fund earns dividends, interest, and other income from its investments, and distributes this income (less expenses) to shareholders as dividends. The fund also realizes capital gains from its investments, and distributes these gains (less any losses) to shareholders as capital gain distributions.
The fund normally pays dividends and capital gain distributions in July and December.
If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, all dividends and capital gains distributions paid will be automatically reinvested. If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, when you open an account, specify on your application how you want to receive your distributions. The following distribution options are available for shares of the fund:
1. Reinvestment Option. Your dividends and capital gain distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the fund. If you do not indicate a choice on your application, you will be assigned this option.
2. Income-Earned Option. Your capital gain distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional shares of the fund. Your dividends will be paid in cash.
3. Cash Option. Your dividends and capital gain distributions will be paid in cash.
4. Directed Dividends ® Option. Your dividends will be automatically invested in shares of another identically registered Fidelity fund. Your capital gain distributions will be automatically invested in shares of another identically registered Fidelity fund, automatically reinvested in additional shares of the fund, or paid in cash.
If the distribution option you prefer is not listed on your account application, or if you want to change your current distribution option, visit Fidelity's web site at www.fidelity.com or call 1-800-544-6666 for more information.
If you elect to receive distributions paid in cash by check and the U.S. Postal Service does not deliver your checks, your distribution option may be converted to the Reinvestment Option. You will not receive interest on amounts represented by uncashed distribution checks.
If your dividend check(s) remains uncashed for more than six months, your check(s) may be invested in additional shares of the fund at the NAV next calculated on the day of the investment.
As with any investment, your investment in the fund could have tax consequences for you. If you are not investing through a tax-advantaged retirement account, you should consider these tax consequences.
Prospectus
Shareholder Information - continued
Taxes on distributions. If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, distributions by the fund to tax-advantaged retirement plan accounts are not taxable currently. If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, distributions you receive from the fund are subject to federal income tax, and may also be subject to state or local taxes.
For federal tax purposes, certain of the fund's distributions, including dividends and distributions of short-term capital gains, are taxable to you as ordinary income, while certain of the fund's distributions, including distributions of long-term capital gains, are taxable to you generally as capital gains. A percentage of certain distributions of dividends may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).
<R>If you buy shares when a fund has realized but not yet distributed income or capital gains, you will be "buying a dividend" by paying the full price for the shares and then receiving a portion of the price back in the form of a taxable distribution.</R>
Any taxable distributions you receive from the fund will normally be taxable to you when you receive them, regardless of your distribution option.
Taxes on transactions. If you hold your shares of the fund through an employer-sponsored retirement plan, exchanges within a tax-advantaged retirement plan account will not result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. Please consult your tax advisor regarding the tax treatment of distributions from a tax-advantaged retirement plan account. If you hold your shares of the fund in a Fidelity brokerage or mutual fund account, your redemptions, including exchanges, may result in a capital gain or loss for federal tax purposes. A capital gain or loss on your investment in the fund generally is the difference between the cost of your shares and the price you receive when you sell them.
Prospectus
The fund is a mutual fund, an investment that pools shareholders' money and invests it toward a specified goal.
The fund employs a multi-manager and a fund of funds investment structure. Strategic Advisers may allocate the fund's assets among any number of sub-advisers or underlying funds.
Strategic Advisers is the fund's manager. The address of Strategic Advisers and its affiliates, unless otherwise indicated below, is 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R>As of December 31, 2011, Strategic Advisers had approximately $261.7 billion in discretionary assets under management.</R>
As the manager, Strategic Advisers has overall responsibility for directing the fund's investments and handling its business affairs.
<R> Brandywine Global , at 2929 Arch Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of May 31, 2012, Brandywine Global had approximately $37.4 billion in discretionary assets under management. Brandywine Global provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Cohen & Steers , at 280 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10017, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of March 31, 2012, Cohen & Steers had approximately $44.9 billion in discretionary assets under management. Cohen & Steers provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> LSV , at 155 North Wacker Drive, Suite 4600, Chicago, Illinois 60606, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. As of June 30, 2012, LSV had approximately $58.9 billion in discretionary assets under management. LSV provides investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R> Pyramis , at 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917, has been retained to serve as a sub-adviser for the fund. Pyramis is an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. As of December 31, 2011, Pyramis had approximately $40.2 billion in discretionary assets under management. Pyramis has not currently been allocated a portion of the fund's assets to manage.</R>
Strategic Advisers
<R>John A. Stone is lead portfolio manager of the fund, which he has managed since November 2011. He also manages other funds. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments in 2008 as a portfolio manager, Mr. Stone worked as a portfolio manager and a Principal at Mercer Global Investments beginning in 2006.</R>
<R> Brandywine Global </R>
<R>Joseph J. Kirby serves as a portfolio manager for Brandywine Global's portion of the fund's assets which he has managed since November 2011. Mr. Kirby is lead portfolio manager for Brandywine Global's Diversified Large Cap Value Equity and Diversified Large Cap 130/30 strategies. He serves as a portfolio manager and securities analyst on Brandywine Global's Diversified Value Equity team. Mr. Kirby contributes to the quantitative and fundamental analysis of securities for the Diversified Value Equity portfolios by consistently applying Brandywine Global's disciplined management exclusionary process. Since joining Brandywine Global and its Diversified Team in 1994, Mr. Kirby has been involved in each aspect of the portfolio process, including leading the trading efforts for all Diversified portfolios from 1997 through 2000. Prior to joining Brandywine Global, he was with CoreStates Financial Corporation as an auditor (1992-1994). Mr. Kirby earned a B.S. in Finance from DeSales University.</R>
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
<R>Henry F. Otto serves as a portfolio manager for Brandywine Global's portion of the fund's assets which he has managed since November 2011. Mr. Otto is the founder and co-lead portfolio manager of Brandywine Global's Diversified Value Equity strategies. Prior to joining Brandywine Global in 1988, he was with Dimensional Fund Advisors, Inc., where he managed and traded small cap portfolios and developed computer systems to structure portfolios and analyze performance (1984-1987), and the Chicago Board of Trade as a financial economist developing financial-based futures and options (1982-1984). He earned both an M.B.A. in Finance and Economics and a B.A. in Economics from the University of Chicago. Mr. Otto is a member of Brandywine Global's Executive Board.</R>
<R>Steven M. Tonkovich serves as a portfolio manager for Brandywine Global's portion of the fund's assets which he has managed since November 2011. Mr. Tonkovich is co-lead portfolio manager of Brandywine Global's Diversified Value Equity strategies. He plays an integral role in the team's continual refinement of the Diversified Value Equity investment process and the firm's ongoing research into value investing. Prior to joining Brandywine Global in 1989, he was with the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania as a research analyst in the Finance Department (1987-1989) and the Moore School of Electrical Engineering of the University of Pennsylvania as a research assistant (1986-1987). Mr. Tonkovich earned a B.S.E in Finance and Regional Science from the Wharton School. He is a member of Brandywine Global's Executive Board.</R>
Cohen & Steers
<R>Rick Helm serves as portfolio manager for Cohen & Steers' portion of the fund's assets which he has managed since November 2011. Mr. Helm is Senior Vice President of Cohen & Steers since August 2005 and is head of its large cap value portfolio management team. Prior to that, Mr. Helm was a senior portfolio manager of WM Advisors Inc. since 2001. From 1999 to 2001, Mr. Helm was Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager of Northwestern Trust and Investors Advisory Company.</R>
LSV
<R>Josef Lakonishok serves as a portfolio manager for LSV's portion of the fund's assets which he has managed since November 2011. Dr. Lakonishok has served as CEO, CIO, Partner and portfolio manager for LSV since its founding in 1994. He has more than 30 years of investment and research experience.</R>
Prospectus
<R>Puneet Mansharamani, CFA, serves as a portfolio manager for LSV's portion of the fund's assets which he has managed since November 2011. Mr. Mansharamani has served as a Partner and portfolio manager since 2006 and a Quantitative Analyst of LSV since 2000. He has more than 12 years of investment experience.</R>
<R>Menno Vermeulen, CFA, serves as a portfolio manager for LSV's portion of the fund's assets which he has managed since November 2011. Mr. Vermeulen has served as a portfolio manager and senior quantitative analyst of LSV since 1995 and a Partner since 1998. He has more than 19 years of investment and research experience.</R>
The SAI provides additional information about the compensation of, any other accounts managed by, and any fund shares held by the portfolio managers.
From time to time a manager, analyst, or other Fidelity employee may express views regarding a particular company, security, industry, or market sector. The views expressed by any such person are the views of only that individual as of the time expressed and do not necessarily represent the views of Fidelity or any other person in the Fidelity organization. Any such views are subject to change at any time based upon market or other conditions and Fidelity disclaims any responsibility to update such views. These views may not be relied on as investment advice and, because investment decisions for a Fidelity fund are based on numerous factors, may not be relied on as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any Fidelity fund.
The fund pays a management fee to Strategic Advisers. The management fee is calculated and paid to Strategic Advisers every month.
The fund's management fee is calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.30% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets. Because the fund's management fee rate may fluctuate, the fund's management fee may be higher or lower in the future. The fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.00% of the fund's average daily net assets.
In return for the services of the fund's sub-advisers, Strategic Advisers will pay each of the fund's sub-advisers the fee (as described above) payable to that sub-adviser.
<R>The basis for the Board of Trustees approving the management contract and sub-advisory agreements for the fund is available in the fund's semi-annual report for the fiscal period ended November 30, 2011.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, agree to reimburse the fund for, or waive, management fees and other expenses above a specified limit. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid by the fund if expenses fall below the specified limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Reimbursement or waiver arrangements can decrease expenses and boost performance.
Prospectus
Fund Services - continued
<R>As of May 31, 2012, approximately 97.14% of the fund's total outstanding shares was held by Strategic Advisers and/or another entity or entities of which FMR LLC is the ultimate parent.</R>
FDC distributes the fund's shares.
<R>Intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers, FMR or FDC), may receive from Strategic Advisers, FMR, FDC, and/or their affiliates compensation for providing recordkeeping and administrative services, as well as other retirement plan expenses, and compensation for services intended to result in the sale of fund shares. These payments are described in more detail in this section and in the SAI.</R>
The fund has adopted a Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act) with respect to its shares that recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenues, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other source, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, service-providers, and administrators, that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees of the fund has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Affiliates of Strategic Advisers may receive service fees or distribution fees or both with respect to underlying funds that participate in Fidelity's FundsNetwork.
If payments made by Strategic Advisers to FDC or to intermediaries under the Distribution and Service Plan were considered to be paid out of the fund's assets on an ongoing basis, they might increase the cost of your investment and might cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
<R>From time to time, FDC may offer special promotional programs to investors who purchase shares of Fidelity funds. For example, FDC may offer merchandise, discounts, vouchers, or similar items to investors who purchase shares of certain Fidelity funds during certain periods. To determine if you qualify for any such programs, contact Fidelity or visit our web site at www.fidelity.com.</R>
No dealer, sales representative, or any other person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representations, other than those contained in this prospectus and in the related SAI, in connection with the offer contained in this prospectus. If given or made, such other information or representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by the fund or FDC. This prospectus and the related SAI do not constitute an offer by the fund or by FDC to sell shares of the fund to or to buy shares of the fund from any person to whom it is unlawful to make such offer.
Prospectus
<R>The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the financial history of the fund's shares for the period of the fund's operations. Certain information reflects financial results for a single share of the fund. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in shares of the fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, whose report, along with the fund's financial highlights and financial statements, is included in the fund's annual report. A free copy of the annual report is available upon request.</R>
<R> Year ended May 31, |
2012 E </R> |
<R> Selected Per-Share Data |
</R> |
<R> Net asset value, beginning of period |
$ 10.00 </R> |
<R> Income from Investment Operations |
</R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) D |
.08 </R> |
<R> Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) |
.59 </R> |
<R> Total from investment operations |
.67 </R> |
<R> Distributions from net investment income |
(.02 ) </R> |
<R> Net asset value, end of period |
$ 10.65 </R> |
<R> Total Return B,C |
6.71% </R> |
<R> Ratios to Average Net Assets F |
</R> |
<R> Expenses before reductions |
1.62% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of fee waivers, if any |
.97% A </R> |
<R> Expenses net of all reductions |
.97% A </R> |
<R> Net investment income (loss) |
1.41% A </R> |
<R> Supplemental Data |
</R> |
<R> Net assets, end of period (000 omitted) |
$ 11,031 </R> |
<R> Portfolio turnover rate G |
14% A </R> |
<R> A Annualized </R>
<R> B Total returns for periods of less than one year are not annualized. </R>
<R> C Total returns would have been lower if certain expenses had not been reduced during the applicable periods shown. </R>
<R> D Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period. </R>
<R> E For the period November 16, 2011 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2012. </R>
<R> F Expense ratios reflect operating expenses of the Fund. Expenses before reductions do not reflect amounts reimbursed by the investment adviser or reductions from brokerage service arrangements or reductions from other expense offset arrangements and do not represent the amount paid by the Fund during periods when reimbursements or reductions occur. Expense ratios before reductions for start-up periods may not be representative of longer term operating periods. Expenses net of fee waivers reflect expenses after reimbursement by the investment adviser but prior to reductions from brokerage service arrangements or other expense offset arrangements. Expenses net of all reductions represent the net expenses paid by the Fund. Fees and expenses of the Underlying Funds are not included in the Fund's annualized ratios. The Fund indirectly bears its proportionate share of the expenses of the Underlying Funds. </R>
<R> G Amounts do not include the portfolio activity of any Underlying Funds. </R>
Prospectus
Notes
IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT OPENING A NEW ACCOUNT To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT ACT), requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or entity that opens an account. For individual investors opening an account: When you open an account, you will be asked for your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will allow Fidelity to identify you. You may also be asked to provide documents that may help to establish your identity, such as your driver's license. For investors other than individuals: When you open an account, you will be asked for the name of the entity, its principal place of business and taxpayer identification number (TIN) and may be requested to provide information on persons with authority or control over the account such as name, residential address, date of birth and social security number. You may also be asked to provide documents, such as drivers' licenses, articles of incorporation, trust instruments or partnership agreements and other information that will help Fidelity identify the entity. |
<R>You can obtain additional information about the fund. A description of the fund's policies and procedures for disclosing its holdings is available in its SAI and on Fidelity's web sites. The SAI also includes more detailed information about the fund and its investments. The SAI is incorporated herein by reference (legally forms a part of the prospectus). The fund's annual and semi-annual reports also include additional information. The fund's annual report includes a discussion of the fund's holdings and recent market conditions and the fund's investment strategies that affected performance.</R>
<R>For a free copy of any of these documents or to request other information or ask questions about the fund, call 1-800-835-5095 (plan accounts) or 1-800-544-3455 (all other accounts). In addition, you may visit the web site at www.401k.com (plan accounts) or www.fidelity.com (all other accounts) for a free copy of a prospectus, SAI, or annual or semi-annual report or to request other information.</R>
The SAI, the fund's annual and semi-annual reports and other related materials are available from the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval (EDGAR) Database on the SEC's web site (http://www.sec.gov). You can obtain copies of this information, after paying a duplicating fee, by sending a request by e-mail to publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You can also review and copy information about the fund, including the fund's SAI, at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Call 1-202-551-8090 for information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference Room. Investment Company Act of 1940, File Number, 811-21991 |
FDC is a member of the Securities Investor Protection Corporation (SIPC). You may obtain information about SIPC, including the SIPC brochure, by visiting www.sipc.org or calling SIPC at 202-371-8300.
Strategic Advisers and FundsNetwork are registered service marks of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
<R>1.931568.102 MMV-PRO-0712</R>
Strategic Advisers ® Value Multi-Manager Fund (FKMOX)
A Fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
<R> July 30, 2012 </R>
<R>This statement of additional information (SAI) is not a prospectus. Portions of the fund's annual report are incorporated herein. The annual report is supplied with this SAI.</R>
<R>To obtain a free additional copy of the prospectus or SAI, dated July 30, 2012, or an annual report, please call Fidelity at 1-800-835-5095 (plan accounts) or 1-800-544-3455 (all other accounts) or visit the web site at www.401k.com (plan accounts) or www.fidelity.com (all other accounts).</R>
<R>MMV-PTB-0712
1.931569.102</R>
<R> |
PAGE </R> |
<R>Investment Policies and Limitations |
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<R>Portfolio Transactions |
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<R>Valuation |
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<R>Buying, Selling, and Exchanging Information |
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<R>Distributions and Taxes |
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<R>Trustees and Officers |
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<R>Control of Investment Advisers |
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<R>Management Contract |
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<R>Proxy Voting Guidelines |
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<R>Distribution Services |
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<R>Transfer and Service Agent Agreements |
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<R>Description of the Trust |
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<R>Fund Holdings Information |
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<R>Financial Statements |
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<R>Appendix |
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS
The following policies and limitations supplement those set forth in the prospectus. Unless otherwise noted, whenever an investment policy or limitation states a maximum percentage of the fund's assets that may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy regarding quality standards, such standard or percentage limitation will be determined immediately after and as a result of the fund's acquisition of such security or other asset. Accordingly, any subsequent change in values, net assets, or other circumstances will not be considered when determining whether the investment complies with the fund's investment policies and limitations.
The fund's fundamental investment policies and limitations cannot be changed without approval by a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (1940 Act)) of the fund. However, except for the fundamental investment limitations listed below, the investment policies and limitations described in this SAI are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
The following are the fund's fundamental investment limitations set forth in their entirety.
Senior Securities
The fund may not issue senior securities, except in connection with the insurance program established by the fund pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission or as otherwise permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Borrowing
The fund may not borrow money, except that the fund may borrow money for temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging or investment) in an amount not exceeding 33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). Any borrowings that come to exceed this amount will be reduced within three days (not including Sundays and holidays) to the extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation.
Underwriting
The fund may not underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933 in the disposition of restricted securities or in connection with investments in other investment companies.
Concentration
The fund may not purchase the securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or 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.
<R>For purposes of the fund's concentration limitation discussed above, Strategic Advisers, Inc. (Strategic Advisers) or an affiliate may analyze the characteristics of a particular issuer and security and assign an industry or sector classification consistent with those characteristics in the event that the third-party classification provider used by Strategic Advisers does not assign a classification.</R>
Real Estate
The fund may not purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from investing in securities or other instruments backed by real estate or securities of companies engaged in the real estate business).
Commodities
The fund may not purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not prevent the fund from purchasing or selling options and futures contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed by physical commodities).
Loans
The fund may not lend any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, but this limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities or to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.
The following investment limitations are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
Diversification
In order to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, the fund currently intends to comply with certain diversification limits imposed by Subchapter M.
<R>Subchapter M generally requires the fund to invest no more than 25% of its total assets in securities of any one issuer and to invest at least 50% of its total assets so that (a) no more than 5% of the fund's total assets are invested in securities of any one issuer, and (b) the fund does not hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of that issuer. However, Subchapter M allows unlimited investments in cash, cash items, government securities (as defined in Subchapter M) and securities of other regulated investment companies. These tax requirements are generally applied at the end of each quarter of the fund's taxable year.</R>
Short Sales
The fund does not currently intend to sell securities short, unless it owns or has the right to obtain securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short, and provided that transactions in futures contracts and options are not deemed to constitute selling securities short.
Margin Purchases
The fund does not currently intend to purchase securities on margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of transactions, and provided that margin payments in connection with futures contracts and options on futures contracts shall not constitute purchasing securities on margin.
Borrowing
The fund may borrow money only (a) from a bank or from a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) by engaging in reverse repurchase agreements with any party (reverse repurchase agreements are treated as borrowings for purposes of the fundamental borrowing investment limitation).
Illiquid Securities
The fund does not currently intend to purchase any security if, as a result, more than 10% of its net assets would be invested in securities that are deemed to be illiquid because they are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale or because they cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued.
For purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation discussed above, if through a change in values, net assets, or other circumstances, the fund were in a position where more than 10% of its net assets were invested in illiquid securities, it would consider appropriate steps to protect liquidity.
<R>To the extent that the fund acquires the shares of an underlying fund in accordance with Section 12(d)(1)(F) of the 1940 Act, the underlying fund is not obligated to redeem its shares in an amount exceeding 1% of its shares outstanding during any period of less than 30 days. Those underlying fund shares will not be treated as illiquid securities for purposes of the fund's illiquid securities limitation described above to the extent that the fund is able to dispose of such securities by distributing them in kind to redeeming shareholders. (See "Securities of Other Investment Companies" on page 16.)</R>
Loans
The fund does not currently intend to lend assets other than securities to other parties, except by (a) lending money (up to 15% of the fund's net assets) to a registered investment company or portfolio for which Strategic Advisers or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) assuming any unfunded commitments in connection with the acquisition of loans, loan participations, or other forms of debt instruments. (This limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities, to repurchase agreements, or to acquisitions of loans, loan participations or other forms of debt instruments.)
In addition to the fund's fundamental and non-fundamental investment limitations discussed above:
For the fund's limitations on futures and options transactions, see the section entitled "Futures, Options, and Swaps" on page (Click Here).
Notwithstanding the foregoing investment limitations, the underlying funds in which the fund may invest have adopted certain investment limitations that may be more or less restrictive than those listed above, thereby permitting the fund to engage indirectly in investment strategies that are prohibited under the investment limitations listed above. The investment limitations of each underlying fund are set forth in its registration statement.
In accordance with its investment program as set forth in the prospectus, the fund may invest more than 25% of its assets in any one underlying Fidelity fund. Although the fund does not intend to concentrate its investments in a particular industry, the fund may indirectly concentrate in a particular industry or group of industries through its investments in one or more underlying funds.
The following pages contain more detailed information about types of instruments in which the fund may invest, techniques the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may employ in pursuit of the fund's investment objective, and a summary of related risks. The fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) may not buy all of these instruments or use all of these techniques unless it believes that doing so will help the fund achieve its goal. However, the fund's adviser (or a sub-adviser) is not required to buy any particular instrument or use any particular technique even if to do so might benefit the fund.
<R>Strategic Advisers ® Value Multi-Manager Fund may have exposure to instruments, techniques, and risks either directly or indirectly through an investment in an underlying fund. An underlying fund may invest in the same or other types of instruments and its adviser may employ the same or other types of techniques. Strategic Advisers ® Value Multi-Manager Fund's performance will be affected by the instruments, techniques, and risks associated with an underlying fund, in proportion to the amount of assets that the fund allocates to that underlying fund.</R>
On the following pages in this section titled "Investment Policies and Limitations," and except as otherwise indicated, references to "a fund" or "the fund" may relate to Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund or an underlying fund, and references to "an adviser" or "the adviser" may relate to Strategic Advisers (or its affiliates) or a sub-adviser of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund, or an adviser of an underlying fund.
Borrowing. If a fund borrows money, its share price may be subject to greater fluctuation until the borrowing is paid off. If a fund makes additional investments while borrowings are outstanding, this may be considered a form of leverage.
<R> Cash Management. A fund may hold uninvested cash or may invest it in cash equivalents such as money market securities, repurchase agreements, or shares of short-term bond or money market funds, including (for Fidelity funds and other advisory clients only) shares of Fidelity central funds. Generally, these securities offer less potential for gains than other types of securities.</R>
<R> Common Stock represents an equity or ownership interest in an issuer. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock take precedence over the claims of those who own common stock, although related proceedings can take time to resolve and results can be unpredictable.</R>
Convertible Securities are bonds, debentures, notes, or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances (including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible security held by a fund is called for redemption or conversion, the fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.
Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield, convertible securities generally sell at prices above their "conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stocks and interest rates. When the underlying common stocks decline in value, convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities. However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the underlying common stocks rise in value, the value of convertible securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time, however, the difference between the market value of convertible securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because convertible securities may also be interest-rate sensitive, their value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk, and are often lower-quality securities.
Debt Securities are used by issuers to borrow money. The issuer usually pays a fixed, variable, or floating rate of interest, and must repay the amount borrowed, usually at the maturity of the security. Some debt securities, such as zero coupon bonds, do not pay interest but are sold at a deep discount from their face values. Debt securities include corporate bonds, government securities, repurchase agreements, and mortgage and other asset-backed securities.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are shares of other investment companies, commodity pools, or other entities that are traded on an exchange. Typically, assets underlying the ETF shares are stocks, though they may also be commodities or other instruments, selected to track a particular index or other benchmark.
Typically, ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark increases. However, in the case of inverse ETFs (also called "short ETFs" or "bear ETFs"), ETF shares are expected to increase in value as the value of the underlying benchmark decreases. Inverse ETFs seek to deliver the opposite of the performance of the benchmark they track and are often marketed as a way for investors to profit from, or at least hedge their exposure to, downward moving markets. Investments in inverse ETFs are similar to holding short positions in the underlying benchmark.
ETF shares are redeemable only in large blocks (typically, 50,000 shares) often called "creation units" by persons other than a fund, and are redeemed principally in-kind at each day's next calculated net asset value per share (NAV). ETFs typically incur fees that are separate from those fees incurred directly by a fund. A fund's purchase of ETFs results in the layering of expenses, such that the fund would indirectly bear a proportionate share of any ETF's operating expenses. Further, while traditional investment companies are continuously offered at NAV, ETFs are traded in the secondary market ( e.g., on a stock exchange) on an intra-day basis at prices that may be above or below the value of their underlying portfolios.
<R>Some of the risks of investing in an ETF that tracks an index are similar to those of investing in an indexed mutual fund, including tracking error risk (the risk of errors in matching the ETF's underlying assets to the index or other benchmark); and the risk that because an ETF is not actively managed, it cannot sell stocks or other assets as long as they are represented in the index or other benchmark. Other ETF risks include the risk that ETFs may trade in the secondary market at a discount from their NAV and the risk that the ETFs may not be liquid. ETFs also may be leveraged. Leveraged ETFs seek to deliver multiples of the performance of the index or other benchmark they track and use derivatives in an effort to amplify the returns (or decline, in the case of inverse ETFs) of the underlying index or benchmark. While leveraged ETFs may offer the potential for greater return, the potential for loss and the speed at which losses can be realized also are greater. Most leveraged and inverse ETFs "reset" daily, meaning they are designed to achieve their stated objectives on a daily basis. Leveraged and inverse ETFs can deviate substantially from the performance of their underlying benchmark over longer periods of time, particularly in volatile periods.</R>
Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs) are a type of senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt security issued by financial institutions that combines aspects of both bonds and ETFs. An ETN's returns are based on the performance of a market index or other reference asset minus fees and expenses. Similar to ETFs, ETNs are listed on an exchange and traded in the secondary market. However, unlike an ETF, an ETN can be held until the ETN's maturity, at which time the issuer will pay a return linked to the performance of the market index or other reference asset to which the ETN is linked minus certain fees. Unlike regular bonds, ETNs typically do not make periodic interest payments and principal typically is not protected.
<R>ETNs also incur certain expenses not incurred by their applicable index. The market value of an ETN is determined by supply and demand, the current performance of the index or other reference asset, and the credit rating of the ETN issuer. The market value of ETN shares may differ from their intraday indicative value. The value of an ETN may also change due to a change in the issuer's credit rating. As a result, there may be times when an ETN share trades at a premium or discount to its NAV. Some ETNs that use leverage in an effort to amplify the returns of an underlying index or other reference asset can, at times, be relatively illiquid and, thus, they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Leveraged ETNs may offer the potential for greater return, but the potential for loss and speed at which losses can be realized also are greater.</R>
Exposure to Foreign and Emerging Markets. Foreign securities, foreign currencies, and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks inherent in U.S. investments.
Foreign investments involve risks relating to local political, economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments, and may be affected by actions of foreign governments adverse to the interests of U.S. investors. Such actions may include expropriation or nationalization of assets, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on U.S. investment or on the ability to repatriate assets or convert currency into U.S. dollars, or other government intervention. Additionally, governmental issuers of foreign debt securities may be unwilling to pay interest and repay principal when due and may require that the conditions for payment be renegotiated. There is no assurance that a fund's adviser will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their effects. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies and of dividends and interest paid with respect to such securities will fluctuate based on the relative strength of the U.S. dollar.
<R>It is anticipated that in most cases the best available market for foreign securities will be on an exchange or in over-the-counter (OTC) markets located outside of the United States. Foreign stock markets, while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as developed as those in the United States, and securities of some foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. issuers. Foreign security trading, settlement and custodial practices (including those involving securities settlement where fund assets may be released prior to receipt of payment) are often less developed than those in U.S. markets, and may result in increased investment or valuation risk or substantial delays in the event of a failed trade or the insolvency of, or breach of duty by, a foreign broker-dealer, securities depository, or foreign subcustodian. In addition, the costs associated with foreign investments, including withholding taxes, brokerage commissions, and custodial costs, are generally higher than with U.S. investments.</R>
Foreign markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. markets. Foreign issuers are generally not bound by uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements and standards of practice comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers. Adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available, and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding corporate actions on a timely basis. In general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States. OTC markets tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain countries, may be totally unregulated. Regulatory enforcement may be influenced by economic or political concerns, and investors may have difficulty enforcing their legal rights in foreign countries.
Some foreign securities impose restrictions on transfer within the United States or to U.S. persons. Although securities subject to such transfer restrictions may be marketable abroad, they may be less liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject to such restrictions.
American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) as well as other "hybrid" forms of ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), are certificates evidencing ownership of shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the United States or elsewhere. The underlying shares are held in trust by a custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home country. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. However, ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities. These risks include foreign exchange risk as well as the political and economic risks of the underlying issuer's country.
The risks of foreign investing may be magnified for investments in emerging markets. Security prices in emerging markets can be significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets, reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets may have relatively unstable governments, may present the risks of nationalization of businesses, restrictions on foreign ownership and prohibitions on the repatriation of assets, and may have less protection of property rights than more developed countries. The economies of countries with emerging markets may be based on only a few industries, may be highly vulnerable to changes in local or global trade conditions, and may suffer from extreme and volatile debt burdens or inflation rates. Local securities markets may trade a small number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of holdings difficult or impossible at times.
Foreign Currency Transactions. A fund may conduct foreign currency transactions on a spot ( i.e., cash) or forward basis ( i.e., by entering into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies). Although foreign exchange dealers generally do not charge a fee for such conversions, they do realize a profit based on the difference between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the counterparty desire to resell that currency to the dealer. Forward contracts are customized transactions that require a specific amount of a currency to be delivered at a specific exchange rate on a specific date or range of dates in the future. Forward contracts are generally traded in an interbank market directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. The parties to a forward contract may agree to offset or terminate the contract before its maturity, or may hold the contract to maturity and complete the contemplated currency exchange.
<R>The following discussion summarizes the principal currency management strategies involving forward contracts that could be used by a fund. A fund may also use swap agreements, indexed securities, and options and futures contracts relating to foreign currencies for the same purposes. Forward contracts not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying currency. All of these instruments and transactions are subject to the risk that the counterparty will default.</R>
A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect a fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the U.S. dollar price of the security. Forward contracts to purchase or sell a foreign currency may also be used by a fund in anticipation of future purchases or sales of securities denominated in foreign currency, even if the specific investments have not yet been selected.
A fund may also use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. For example, if a fund owned securities denominated in pounds sterling, it could enter into a forward contract to sell pounds sterling in return for U.S. dollars to hedge against possible declines in the pound's value. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge," would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations, but would not offset changes in security values caused by other factors. A fund could also hedge the position by selling another currency expected to perform similarly to the pound sterling. This type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S. dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged securities are denominated.
A fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment exposure from one currency into another. This may include shifting exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that is purchased, much as if a fund had sold a security denominated in one currency and purchased an equivalent security denominated in another. A fund may cross-hedge its U.S. dollar exposure in order to achieve a representative weighted mix of the major currencies in its benchmark index and/or to cover an underweight country or region exposure in its portfolio. Cross-hedges protect against losses resulting from a decline in the hedged currency, but will cause a fund to assume the risk of fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases.
Successful use of currency management strategies will depend on an adviser's skill in analyzing currency values. Currency management strategies may substantially change a fund's investment exposure to changes in currency exchange rates and could result in losses to a fund if currencies do not perform as an adviser anticipates. For example, if a currency's value rose at a time when a fund had hedged its position by selling that currency in exchange for dollars, the fund would not participate in the currency's appreciation. If a fund hedges currency exposure through proxy hedges, the fund could realize currency losses from both the hedge and the security position if the two currencies do not move in tandem. Similarly, if a fund increases its exposure to a foreign currency and that currency's value declines, the fund will realize a loss. Foreign currency transactions involve the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted and that a fund's hedging strategies will be ineffective. A fund may be required to limit its hedging transactions in foreign currency forwards, futures, and options in order to maintain its classification as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code (Code). Hedging transactions could result in the application of the mark-to-market provisions of the Code, which may cause an increase (or decrease) in the amount of taxable dividends paid by a fund and could affect whether dividends paid by a fund are classified as capital gains or ordinary income. A fund will cover its exposure to foreign currency transactions with liquid assets in compliance with applicable requirements. There is no assurance that an adviser's use of currency management strategies will be advantageous to a fund or that it will employ currency management strategies at appropriate times.
Options and Futures Relating to Foreign Currencies. Currency futures contracts are similar to forward currency exchange contracts, except that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency futures contracts call for payment or delivery in U.S. dollars. The underlying instrument of a currency option may be a foreign currency, which generally is purchased or delivered in exchange for U.S. dollars, or may be a futures contract. The purchaser of a currency call obtains the right to purchase the underlying currency, and the purchaser of a currency put obtains the right to sell the underlying currency.
The uses and risks of currency options and futures are similar to options and futures relating to securities or indices, as discussed below. A fund may purchase and sell currency futures and may purchase and write currency options to increase or decrease its exposure to different foreign currencies. Currency options may also be purchased or written in conjunction with each other or with currency futures or forward contracts. Currency futures and options values can be expected to correlate with exchange rates, but may not reflect other factors that affect the value of a fund's investments. A currency hedge, for example, should protect a Yen-denominated security from a decline in the Yen, but will not protect a fund against a price decline resulting from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value of a fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the fund's investments exactly over time.
Foreign Repurchase Agreements. Foreign repurchase agreements involve an agreement to purchase a foreign security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price in either U.S. dollars or foreign currency. Unlike typical U.S. repurchase agreements, foreign repurchase agreements may not be fully collateralized at all times. The value of a security purchased by a fund may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to repurchase the security. In the event of default by the counterparty, a fund may suffer a loss if the value of the security purchased is less than the agreed-upon repurchase price, or if the fund is unable to successfully assert a claim to the collateral under foreign laws. As a result, foreign repurchase agreements may involve higher credit risks than repurchase agreements in U.S. markets, as well as risks associated with currency fluctuations. In addition, as with other emerging market investments, repurchase agreements with counterparties located in emerging markets or relating to emerging markets may involve issuers or counterparties with lower credit ratings than typical U.S. repurchase agreements.
Fund's Rights as an Investor. Fidelity funds do not intend to direct or administer the day-to-day operations of any company. A fund may, however, exercise its rights as a shareholder or lender and may communicate its views on important matters of policy to a company's management, board of directors, and shareholders, and holders of a company's other securities when such matters could have a significant effect on the value of the fund's investment in the company. The activities in which a fund may engage, either individually or in conjunction with others, may include, among others, supporting or opposing proposed changes in a company's corporate structure or business activities; seeking changes in a company's directors or management; seeking changes in a company's direction or policies; seeking the sale or reorganization of the company or a portion of its assets; supporting or opposing third-party takeover efforts; supporting the filing of a bankruptcy petition; or foreclosing on collateral securing a security. This area of corporate activity is increasingly prone to litigation and it is possible that a fund could be involved in lawsuits related to such activities. Such activities will be monitored with a view to mitigating, to the extent possible, the risk of litigation against a fund and the risk of actual liability if a fund is involved in litigation. No guarantee can be made, however, that litigation against a fund will not be undertaken or liabilities incurred. The fund's proxy voting guidelines are included in this SAI.
Futures, Options, and Swaps. The success of any strategy involving futures, options, and swaps depends on an adviser's analysis of many economic and mathematical factors and a fund's return may be higher if it never invested in such instruments. Additionally, some of the contracts discussed below are new instruments without a trading history and there can be no assurance that a market for the instruments will continue to exist. Government legislation or regulation could affect the use of such instruments and could limit a fund's ability to pursue its investment strategies.
Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund will not: (a) sell futures contracts, purchase put options, or write call options if, as a result, more than 25% of the fund's total assets would be hedged with futures and options under normal conditions; (b) purchase futures contracts or write put options if, as a result, the fund's total obligations upon settlement or exercise of purchased futures contracts and written put options would exceed 25% of its total assets under normal conditions; or (c) purchase call options if, as a result, the current value of option premiums for call options purchased by the fund would exceed 5% of the fund's total assets. These limitations do not apply to options attached to or acquired or traded together with their underlying securities, and do not apply to structured notes.
<R>The limitations on the fund's investments in futures contracts, options, and swaps, and the fund's policies regarding futures contracts, options, and swaps may be changed as regulatory agencies permit.</R>
The requirements for qualification as a regulated investment company may limit the extent to which a fund may enter into futures, options on futures, and forward contracts.
<R> Futures Contracts. In purchasing a futures contract, the buyer agrees to purchase a specified underlying instrument at a specified future date. In selling a futures contract, the seller agrees to sell a specified underlying instrument at a specified date. The price at which the purchase and sale will take place is fixed when the buyer and seller enter into the contract. Some currently available futures contracts are based on specific securities, some are based on commodities or commodities indices (for funds that seek commodities exposure), and some are based on indices of securities prices (including foreign indices for funds that seek foreign exposure). Futures on indices and futures not calling for physical delivery of the underlying instrument will be settled through cash payments rather than through delivery of the underlying instrument. Futures can be held until their delivery dates, or can be closed out by offsetting purchases or sales of futures contracts before then if a liquid market is available. A fund may realize a gain or loss by closing out its futures contracts.</R>
The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in tandem with the value of its underlying instrument. Therefore, purchasing futures contracts will tend to increase a fund's exposure to positive and negative price fluctuations in the underlying instrument, much as if it had purchased the underlying instrument directly. When a fund sells a futures contract, by contrast, the value of its futures position will tend to move in a direction contrary to the market. Selling futures contracts, therefore, will tend to offset both positive and negative market price changes, much as if the underlying instrument had been sold.
The purchaser or seller of a futures contract or an option for a futures contract is not required to deliver or pay for the underlying instrument or the final cash settlement price, as applicable, unless the contract is held until the delivery date. However, both the purchaser and seller are required to deposit "initial margin" with a futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant (FCM), when the contract is entered into. If the value of either party's position declines, that party will be required to make additional "variation margin" payments to settle the change in value on a daily basis. This process of "marking to market" will be reflected in the daily calculation of open positions computed in a fund's NAV. The party that has a gain is entitled to receive all or a portion of this amount. Initial and variation margin payments do not constitute purchasing securities on margin for purposes of a fund's investment limitations. In the event of the bankruptcy or insolvency of an FCM that holds margin on behalf of a fund, the fund may be entitled to return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received by the FCM's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the fund. A fund is required to segregate liquid assets equivalent to the fund's outstanding obligations under the contract in excess of the initial margin and variation margin, if any.
Although futures exchanges generally operate similarly in the United States and abroad, foreign futures exchanges may follow trading, settlement, and margin procedures that are different from those for U.S. exchanges. Futures contracts traded outside the United States may involve greater risk of loss than U.S.-traded contracts, including potentially greater risk of losses due to insolvency of a futures broker, exchange member, or other party that may owe initial or variation margin to a fund. Because initial and variation margin payments may be measured in foreign currency, a futures contract traded outside the United States may also involve the risk of foreign currency fluctuation.
There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular futures contract at any particular time. Exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for futures contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or other market conditions, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its futures positions could also be impaired. These risks may be heightened for commodity futures contracts, which have historically been subject to greater price volatility than exists for instruments such as stocks and bonds.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded futures contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in futures contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the futures position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Futures prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Futures prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell futures contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's futures positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments. In addition, the price of a commodity futures contract can reflect the storage costs associated with the purchase of the physical commodity.
Options. By purchasing a put option, the purchaser obtains the right (but not the obligation) to sell the option's underlying instrument at a fixed strike price. In return for this right, the purchaser pays the current market price for the option (known as the option premium). Options have various types of underlying instruments, including specific assets or securities, indices of securities or commodities prices, and futures contracts (including commodity futures contracts). The purchaser may terminate its position in a put option by allowing it to expire or by exercising the option. If the option is allowed to expire, the purchaser will lose the entire premium. If the option is exercised, the purchaser completes the sale of the underlying instrument at the strike price. A purchaser may also terminate a put option position by closing it out in the secondary market at its current price, if a liquid secondary market exists.
The buyer of a typical put option can expect to realize a gain if the underlying instrument's price falls substantially. However, if the underlying instrument's price does not fall enough to offset the cost of purchasing the option, a put buyer can expect to suffer a loss (limited to the amount of the premium, plus related transaction costs).
The features of call options are essentially the same as those of put options, except that the purchaser of a call option obtains the right to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the option's strike price. A call buyer typically attempts to participate in potential price increases of the underlying instrument with risk limited to the cost of the option if the underlying instrument's price falls. At the same time, the buyer can expect to suffer a loss if the underlying instrument's price does not rise sufficiently to offset the cost of the option.
The writer of a put or call option takes the opposite side of the transaction from the option's purchaser. In return for receipt of the premium, the writer assumes the obligation to pay or receive the strike price for the option's underlying instrument if the other party to the option chooses to exercise it. The writer may seek to terminate a position in a put option before exercise by closing out the option in the secondary market at its current price. If the secondary market is not liquid for a put option, however, the writer must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option is outstanding, regardless of price changes. When writing an option on a futures contract, a fund will be required to make margin payments to an FCM as described above for futures contracts.
If the underlying instrument's price rises, a put writer would generally expect to profit, although its gain would be limited to the amount of the premium it received. If the underlying instrument's price remains the same over time, it is likely that the writer will also profit, because it should be able to close out the option at a lower price. If the underlying instrument's price falls, the put writer would expect to suffer a loss. This loss should be less than the loss from purchasing the underlying instrument directly, however, because the premium received for writing the option should mitigate the effects of the decline.
Writing a call option obligates the writer to sell or deliver the option's underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, upon exercise of the option. The characteristics of writing call options are similar to those of writing put options, except that writing calls generally is a profitable strategy if prices remain the same or fall. Through receipt of the option premium, a call writer mitigates the effects of a price increase. At the same time, because a call writer must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument or make a net cash settlement payment, as applicable, in return for the strike price, even if its current value is greater, a call writer gives up some ability to participate in security price increases.
There is no assurance a liquid market will exist for any particular options contract at any particular time. Options may have relatively low trading volume and liquidity if their strike prices are not close to the underlying instrument's current price. In addition, exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for options contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or otherwise, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's access to other assets held to cover its options positions could also be impaired.
Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract size, and strike price, the terms of OTC options (options not traded on exchanges) generally are established through negotiation with the other party to the option contract. While this type of arrangement allows the purchaser or writer greater flexibility to tailor an option to its needs, OTC options generally are less liquid and involve greater credit risk than exchange-traded options, which are backed by the clearing organization of the exchanges where they are traded.
Combined positions involve purchasing and writing options in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall position. For example, purchasing a put option and writing a call option on the same underlying instrument would construct a combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures contract. Another possible combined position would involve writing a call option at one strike price and buying a call option at a lower price, to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
A fund may also buy and sell options on swaps. Options on interest rate swaps are known as swaptions. An option on a swap gives a party the right to enter into a new swap agreement or to extend, shorten, cancel or modify an existing swap contract at a specific date in the future in exchange for a premium.
Because there are a limited number of types of exchange-traded options contracts, it is likely that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in options contracts based on securities with different issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the options position will not track the performance of the fund's other investments.
Options prices can also diverge from the prices of their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a fund's investments well. Options prices are affected by such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates, changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the options and futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how options and futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell options contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a fund's options positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not offset by gains in other investments.
Swap Agreements. Swaps are individually negotiated and structured to include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or market factors. Swap agreements are two party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors. Swap agreements can vary in term like other fixed-income investments. Most swap agreements are traded over-the-counter. In a standard "swap" transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments (such as securities, commodities, or indices). The gross returns to be exchanged or swapped between the parties are calculated with respect to a notional amount, which is the predetermined dollar principal of the trade representing the hypothetical underlying quantity upon which payment obligations are computed.
Swap agreements can take many different forms and are known by a variety of names. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may increase or decrease the overall volatility of a fund's investments and its share price and, if applicable, its yield. Swap agreements are subject to liquidity risk, meaning that a fund may be unable to sell a swap contract to a third party at a favorable price.
A total return swap is a contract whereby one party agrees to make a series of payments to another party based on the change in the market value of the assets underlying such contract (which can include a security, commodity, index or baskets thereof) during the specified period. In exchange, the other party to the contract agrees to make a series of payments calculated by reference to an interest rate and/or some other agreed-upon amount (including the change in market value of other underlying assets). A fund may use total return swaps to gain exposure to an asset without owning it or taking physical custody of it. For example, a fund investing in total return commodity swaps will receive the price appreciation of a commodity, commodity index or portion thereof in exchange for payment of an agreed-upon fee.
In a credit default swap, the credit default protection buyer makes periodic payments, known as premiums, to the credit default protection seller. In return the credit default protection seller will make a payment to the credit default protection buyer upon the occurrence of a specified credit event. A credit default swap can refer to a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets, each known as the reference entity or underlying asset. A fund may act as either the buyer or the seller of a credit default swap. A fund may buy or sell credit default protection on a basket of issuers or assets, even if a number of the underlying assets referenced in the basket are lower-quality debt securities. In an unhedged credit default swap, a fund buys credit default protection on a single issuer or asset, a basket of issuers or assets or index of assets without owning the underlying asset or debt issued by the reference entity. Credit default swaps involve greater and different risks than investing directly in the referenced asset, because, in addition to market risk, credit default swaps include liquidity, counterparty and operational risk.
Credit default swaps allow a fund to acquire or reduce credit exposure to a particular issuer, asset or basket of assets. If a swap agreement calls for payments by a fund, the fund must be prepared to make such payments when due. If a fund is the credit default protection seller, the fund will experience a loss if a credit event occurs and the credit of the reference entity or underlying asset has deteriorated. If a fund is the credit default protection buyer, the fund will be required to pay premiums to the credit default protection seller.
If the creditworthiness of a fund's swap counterparty declines, the risk that the counterparty may not perform could increase, potentially resulting in a loss to the fund. To limit the counterparty risk involved in swap agreements, a Fidelity fund will enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness.
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<R>If a counterparty to a swap transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in exercising its right to the return of related fund assets under an action against the counterparty.</R>
<R>The trust, on behalf of the Fidelity fund to which this SAI relates, has filed with the National Futures Association a notice claiming an exclusion from the definition of the term "commodity pool operator" (CPO) under the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended, and the rules of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) promulgated thereunder, with respect to the fund's operation. Accordingly, the trust is not subject to registration or regulation as a commodity pool or a CPO. However, the CFTC has adopted certain rule amendments that significantly affect the continued availability of this exclusion, and may subject advisers to funds to regulation by the CFTC. The scope of application and the effective date of these amendments is still uncertain. As of the date of this SAI, there is no certainty that a fund or its adviser will be able to rely on an exclusion in the future. A fund may determine not to use investment strategies that trigger additional CFTC regulation or may determine to operate subject to CFTC regulation, if applicable. If a fund or its adviser operates subject to CFTC regulation, it may incur additional expenses.</R>
Illiquid Securities cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at which they are valued. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or may be costly to a fund.
Under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, a Fidelity fund's adviser determines the liquidity of the fund's investments and, through reports from the fund's adviser, the Board monitors investments in illiquid securities.
Various factors may be considered in determining the liquidity of a fund's investments, including (1) the frequency and volume of trades and quotations, (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and the market in which it trades (including any demand, put or tender features, the mechanics and other requirements for transfer, any letters of credit or other credit enhancement features, any ratings, the number of holders, the method of soliciting offers, the time required to dispose of the security, and the ability to assign or offset the rights and obligations of the security).
<R> Increasing Government Debt. The total public debt of the United States and other countries around the globe as a percent of gross domestic product has grown rapidly since the beginning of the 2008 financial downturn. Although high debt levels do not necessarily indicate or cause economic problems, they may create certain systemic risks if sound debt management practices are not implemented.</R>
A high national debt level may increase market pressures to meet government funding needs, which may drive debt cost higher and cause a country to sell additional debt, thereby increasing refinancing risk. A high national debt also raises concerns that a government will not be able to make principal or interest payments when they are due. In the worst case, unsustainable debt levels can decline the valuation of currencies, and can prevent a government from implementing effective counter-cyclical fiscal policy in economic downturns.
<R>On August 5, 2011, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services lowered its long-term sovereign credit rating on the United States one level to "AA+" from "AAA." While Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed the United States' short-term sovereign credit rating as "A-1+," there is no guarantee that Standard & Poor's Ratings Services will not decide to lower this rating in the future. Standard & Poor's Ratings Services stated that its decision was prompted by its view on the rising public debt burden and its perception of greater policymaking uncertainty. The market prices and yields of securities supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government may be adversely affected by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services decisions to downgrade the long-term sovereign credit rating of the United States.</R>
Indexed Securities are instruments whose prices are indexed to the prices of other securities, securities indices, or other financial indicators. Indexed securities typically, but not always, are debt securities or deposits whose values at maturity or coupon rates are determined by reference to a specific instrument, statistic, or measure.
Indexed securities also include commercial paper, certificates of deposit, and other fixed-income securities whose values at maturity or coupon interest rates are determined by reference to the returns of particular stock indices. Indexed securities can be affected by stock prices as well as changes in interest rates and the creditworthiness of their issuers and may not track the indexes as accurately as direct investments in the indexes.
Indexed securities may have principal payments as well as coupon payments that depend on the performance of one or more interest rates. Their coupon rates or principal payments may change by several percentage points for every 1% interest rate change.
Mortgage-indexed securities, for example, could be structured to replicate the performance of mortgage securities and the characteristics of direct ownership.
Inflation-protected securities, for example, can be indexed to a measure of inflation, such as the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Commodity-indexed securities, for example, can be indexed to a commodities index such as the Dow Jones-UBS Commodity Index Total Return.
Gold-indexed securities typically provide for a maturity value that depends on the price of gold, resulting in a security whose price tends to rise and fall together with gold prices.
Currency-indexed securities typically are short-term to intermediate-term debt securities whose maturity values or interest rates are determined by reference to the values of one or more specified foreign currencies, and may offer higher yields than U.S. dollar-denominated securities. Currency-indexed securities may be positively or negatively indexed; that is, their maturity value may increase when the specified currency value increases, resulting in a security that performs similarly to a foreign-denominated instrument, or their maturity value may decline when foreign currencies increase, resulting in a security whose price characteristics are similar to a put on the underlying currency. Currency-indexed securities may also have prices that depend on the values of a number of different foreign currencies relative to each other.
The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the instrument or measure to which they are indexed, and may also be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying instruments or measures. Indexed securities are also subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's creditworthiness deteriorates. Recent issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. Government agencies.
<R> Insolvency of Issuers, Counterparties, and Intermediaries. Issuers of fund portfolio securities or counterparties to fund transactions that become insolvent or declare bankruptcy can pose special investment risks. In each circumstance, risk of loss, valuation uncertainty, increased illiquidity, and other unpredictable occurrences may negatively impact an investment. Each of these risks may be amplified in foreign markets, where security trading, settlement, and custodial practices can be less developed than those in the U.S. markets, and bankruptcy laws differ from those of the U.S.</R>
<R>As a general matter, if the issuer of a fund portfolio security is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of bonds and preferred stock have priority over the claims of common stock owners. These events can negatively impact the value of the issuer's securities and the results of related proceedings can be unpredictable.</R>
<R>If a counterparty to a fund transaction, such as a swap transaction, a short sale, a borrowing, or other complex transaction becomes insolvent, the fund may be limited in its ability to exercise rights to obtain the return of related fund assets or in exercising other rights against the counterparty. In addition, insolvency and liquidation proceedings take time to resolve, which can limit or preclude a fund's ability to terminate a transaction or obtain related assets or collateral in a timely fashion. Uncertainty may also arise upon the insolvency of a securities or commodities intermediary such as a broker-dealer or futures commission merchant with which a fund has pending transactions. If an intermediary becomes insolvent, while securities positions and other holdings may be protected by U.S. or foreign laws, it is sometimes difficult to determine whether these protections are available to specific trades based on the circumstances. Receiving the benefit of these protections can also take time to resolve, which may result in illiquid positions.</R>
Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program. Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a Fidelity fund may lend money to, and borrow money from, other funds advised by Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR) or its affiliates. A Fidelity fund will borrow through the program only when the costs are equal to or lower than the costs of bank loans. A Fidelity fund will lend through the program only when the returns are higher than those available from an investment in repurchase agreements. Interfund loans and borrowings normally extend overnight, but can have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one day's notice. A Fidelity fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional borrowing costs.
Investment-Grade Debt Securities. Investment-grade debt securities include all types of debt instruments that are of medium and high-quality. Investment-grade debt securities include repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. Government securities as well as repurchase agreements collateralized by equity securities, non-investment-grade debt, and all other instruments in which a fund can perfect a security interest, provided the repurchase agreement counterparty has an investment-grade rating. Some investment-grade debt securities may possess speculative characteristics and may be more sensitive to economic changes and to changes in the financial conditions of issuers. An investment-grade rating means the security or issuer is rated investment-grade by a credit rating agency registered as a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (NRSRO) with the SEC (for example, Moody's Investors Service, Inc.), or is unrated but considered to be of equivalent quality by a fund's adviser. For purposes of determining the maximum maturity of an investment-grade debt security, an adviser may take into account normal settlement periods.
Investments by Large Shareholders. A fund may experience large redemptions or investments due to transactions in fund shares by large shareholders. While it is impossible to predict the overall effect of these transactions over time, there could be an adverse impact on a fund's performance. In the event of such redemptions or investments, a fund could be required to sell securities or to invest cash at a time when it may not otherwise desire to do so. Such transactions may increase a fund's brokerage and/or other transaction costs. In addition, when investors own a substantial portion of a fund's shares, a large redemption could cause actual expenses to increase, or could result in the fund's current expenses being allocated over a smaller asset base, leading to an increase in the fund's expense ratio. Redemptions of fund shares could also accelerate the realization of taxable capital gains in the fund if sales of securities result in capital gains. The impact of these transactions is likely to be greater when a significant investor purchases, redeems, or owns a substantial portion of the fund's shares. When possible, Fidelity will consider how to minimize these potential adverse effects, and may take such actions as it deems appropriate to address potential adverse effects, including redemption of shares in-kind rather than in cash or carrying out the transactions over a period of time, although there can be no assurance that such actions will be successful.
<R> Loans and Other Direct Debt Instruments. Direct debt instruments are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments involve a risk of loss in case of default or insolvency of the borrower and may offer less legal protection to the purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation, or there may be a requirement that a fund supply additional cash to a borrower on demand. A fund may acquire loans by buying an assignment of all or a portion of the loan from a lender or by purchasing a loan participation from a lender or other purchaser of a participation.</R>
<R>Lenders and purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of interest and repayment of principal. If scheduled interest or principal payments are not made, the value of the instrument may be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured provide more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of failure to make scheduled interest or principal payments. However, there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the borrower's obligation, or that the collateral could be liquidated. Indebtedness of borrowers whose creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks and may be highly speculative. Borrowers that are in bankruptcy or restructuring may never pay off their indebtedness, or may pay only a small fraction of the amount owed. Direct indebtedness of foreign countries also involves a risk that the governmental entities responsible for the repayment of the debt may be unable, or unwilling, to pay interest and repay principal when due.</R>
<R>Direct lending and investments in loans through direct assignment of a financial institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the lender/purchaser could become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of lender liability, a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender. Direct debt instruments may also involve a risk of insolvency of the lending bank or other intermediary. </R>
A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms of the loan or other indebtedness, the purchaser has direct recourse against the borrower, the purchaser may have to rely on the agent to apply appropriate credit remedies against a borrower. If assets held by the agent for the benefit of a purchaser were determined to be subject to the claims of the agent's general creditors, the purchaser might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or interest.
<R>Direct indebtedness may include letters of credit, revolving credit facilities, or other standby financing commitments that obligate lenders/purchasers to make additional cash payments on demand. These commitments may have the effect of requiring a lender/purchaser to increase its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise have done so, even if the borrower's condition makes it unlikely that the amount will ever be repaid.</R>
For a Fidelity fund that limits the amount of total assets that it will invest in any one issuer or in issuers within the same industry, the fund generally will treat the borrower as the "issuer" of indebtedness held by the fund. In the case of loan participations where a bank or other lending institution serves as financial intermediary between a fund and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the fund the direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC interpretations require a fund, in appropriate circumstances, to treat both the lending bank or other lending institution and the borrower as "issuers" for these purposes. Treating a financial intermediary as an issuer of indebtedness may restrict a fund's ability to invest in indebtedness related to a single financial intermediary, or a group of intermediaries engaged in the same industry, even if the underlying borrowers represent many different companies and industries.
Lower-Quality Debt Securities. Lower-quality debt securities include all types of debt instruments that have poor protection with respect to the payment of interest and repayment of principal, or may be in default. These securities are often considered to be speculative and involve greater risk of loss or price changes due to changes in the issuer's capacity to pay. The market prices of lower-quality debt securities may fluctuate more than those of higher-quality debt securities and may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty, which may follow periods of rising interest rates.
The market for lower-quality debt securities may be thinner and less active than that for higher-quality debt securities, which can adversely affect the prices at which the former are sold. Adverse publicity and changing investor perceptions may affect the liquidity of lower-quality debt securities and the ability of outside pricing services to value lower-quality debt securities.
Because the risk of default is higher for lower-quality debt securities, research and credit analysis are an especially important part of managing securities of this type. Such analysis may focus on relative values based on factors such as interest or dividend coverage, asset coverage, earnings prospects, and the experience and managerial strength of the issuer, in an attempt to identify those issuers of high-yielding securities whose financial condition is adequate to meet future obligations, has improved, or is expected to improve in the future.
A fund may choose, at its expense or in conjunction with others, to pursue litigation or otherwise to exercise its rights as a security holder to seek to protect the interests of security holders if it determines this to be in the best interest of the fund's shareholders.
Precious Metals. Precious metals, such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, at times have been subject to substantial price fluctuations over short periods of time and may be affected by unpredictable monetary and political policies such as currency devaluations or revaluations, economic and social conditions within a country, trade imbalances, or trade or currency restrictions between countries. The prices of gold and other precious metals, however, are less subject to local and company-specific factors than securities of individual companies. As a result, precious metals may be more or less volatile in price than securities of companies engaged in precious metals-related businesses. Investments in precious metals can present concerns such as delivery, storage and maintenance, possible illiquidity, and the unavailability of accurate market valuations. Although precious metals can be purchased in any form, including bullion and coins, a Fidelity fund intends to purchase only those forms of precious metals that are readily marketable and that can be stored in accordance with custody regulations applicable to mutual funds. A fund may incur higher custody and transaction costs for precious metals than for securities. Also, precious metals investments do not pay income.
For a fund to qualify as a regulated investment company under current federal tax law, gains from selling precious metals may not exceed 10% of the fund's gross income for its taxable year. This tax requirement could cause a fund to hold or sell precious metals or securities when it would not otherwise do so.
Preferred Stock represents an equity or ownership 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.
Real Estate Investment Trusts. Equity real estate investment trusts own real estate properties, while mortgage real estate investment trusts make construction, development, and long-term mortgage loans. Their value may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property of the trusts, the creditworthiness of the issuer, property taxes, interest rates, and tax and regulatory requirements, such as those relating to the environment. Both types of trusts are dependent upon management skill, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status of income under the Internal Revenue Code and failing to maintain exemption from the 1940 Act.
<R> Reforms and Government Intervention in the Financial Markets. Economic downturns can trigger various economic, legal, budgetary, tax, and regulatory reforms across the globe. Instability in the financial markets in the wake of the 2008 economic downturn led the U.S. Government and other governments to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that experienced extreme volatility, and in some cases, a lack of liquidity. Reforms are ongoing and their effects are uncertain. Federal, state, local, foreign, and other governments, their regulatory agencies, or self-regulatory organizations may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which a fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Reforms may also change the way in which a fund is regulated and could limit or preclude a fund's ability to achieve its investment objective or engage in certain strategies. Also, while reforms generally are intended to strengthen markets, systems, and public finances, they could affect fund expenses and the value of fund investments.</R>
<R>The value of a fund's holdings is also generally subject to the risk of future local, national, or global economic disturbances based on unknown weaknesses in the markets in which a fund invests. In the event of such a disturbance, the issuers of securities held by a fund may experience significant declines in the value of their assets and even cease operations, or may receive government assistance accompanied by increased restrictions on their business operations or other government intervention. In addition, it is not certain that the U.S. Government or foreign governments will intervene in response to a future market disturbance and the effect of any such future intervention cannot be predicted.</R>
<R> Repurchase Agreements involve an agreement to purchase a security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price. The resale price reflects the purchase price plus an agreed-upon incremental amount which is unrelated to the coupon rate or maturity of the purchased security. As protection against the risk that the original seller will not fulfill its obligation, the securities are held in a separate account at a bank, marked-to-market daily, and maintained at a value at least equal to the sale price plus the accrued incremental amount. The value of the security purchased may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to purchase the security. In addition, delays or losses could result if the other party to the agreement defaults or becomes insolvent. A fund may be limited in its ability to exercise its right to liquidate assets related to a repurchase agreement with an insolvent counterparty. A Fidelity fund may engage in repurchase agreement transactions with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser.</R>
Restricted Securities are subject to legal restrictions on their sale. Difficulty in selling securities may result in a loss or be costly to a fund. Restricted securities generally can be sold in privately negotiated transactions, pursuant to an exemption from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (1933 Act), or in a registered public offering. Where registration is required, the holder of a registered security may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expense and a considerable period may elapse between the time it decides to seek registration and the time it may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the holder might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed when it decided to seek registration of the security.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. In a reverse repurchase agreement, a fund sells a security to another party, such as a bank or broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that security at an agreed-upon price and time. A Fidelity fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by the fund's adviser. Such transactions may increase fluctuations in the market value of a fund's assets and, if applicable, a fund's yield, and may be viewed as a form of leverage.
Securities Lending. Securities lending allows a fund to retain ownership of the securities loaned and, at the same time, earn additional income. The borrower provides the fund with collateral in an amount at least equal to the value of the securities loaned. The fund seeks to maintain the ability to obtain the right to vote or consent on proxy proposals involving material events affecting securities loaned. If the borrower defaults on its obligation to return the securities loaned because of insolvency or other reasons, a fund could experience delays and costs in recovering the securities loaned or in gaining access to the collateral. These delays and costs could be greater for foreign securities. If a fund is not able to recover the securities loaned, the fund may sell the collateral and purchase a replacement investment in the market. The value of the collateral could decrease below the value of the replacement investment by the time the replacement investment is purchased.
<R> Securities of Other Investment Companies, including shares of closed-end investment companies (which include business development companies (BDCs)), unit investment trusts, and open-end investment companies, represent interests in professionally managed portfolios that may invest in any type of instrument. Investing in other investment companies involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, but may involve additional expenses at the investment company-level, such as portfolio management fees and operating expenses. For certain investment companies, such as BDCs, these expenses may be significant. Certain types of investment companies, such as closed-end investment companies, issue a fixed number of shares that trade on a stock exchange or over-the-counter at a premium or a discount to their NAV. Others are continuously offered at NAV, but may also be traded in the secondary market.</R>
<R>The securities of closed-end funds may be leveraged. As a result, a fund may be indirectly exposed to leverage through an investment in such securities. An investment in securities of closed-end funds that use leverage may expose a fund to higher volatility in the market value of such securities and the possibility that the fund's long-term returns on such securities will be diminished.</R>
The extent to which a fund can invest in securities of other investment companies may be limited by federal securities laws.
Short Sales. Short sales involve the market sale of a security a fund has borrowed from a prime broker with which it has a contractual relationship, with the expectation that the security will underperform either the market or the securities that the fund holds long. A fund closes a short sale by purchasing the same security at the current market price and delivering it to the prime broker.
Until a fund closes out a short position, the fund is obligated to pay the prime broker (from which it borrowed the security sold short) interest as well as any dividends that accrue during the period of the loan. While a short position is outstanding, a fund must also pledge a portion of its assets to the prime broker as collateral for the borrowed security. The collateral will be marked to market daily.
Short positions create a risk that a fund will be required to cover them by buying the security at a time when the security has appreciated in value, thus resulting in a loss to the fund. A short position in a security poses more risk than holding the same security long. Because a short position loses value as the security's price increases, the loss on a short sale is theoretically unlimited. The loss on a long position is limited to what a fund originally paid for the security together with any transaction costs. A fund may not always be able to borrow a security the fund seeks to sell short at a particular time or at an acceptable price. As a result, a fund may be unable to fully implement its investment strategy due to a lack of available stocks or for other reasons. It is possible that the market value of the securities a fund holds in long positions will decline at the same time that the market value of the securities the fund has sold short increases, thereby increasing the fund's potential volatility. Because a fund may be required to pay dividends, interest, premiums and other expenses in connection with a short sale, any benefit for the fund resulting from the short sale will be decreased, and the amount of any ultimate gain will be decreased or of any loss will be increased, by the amount of such expenses.
A fund may also enter into short sales against the box. Short sales "against the box" are short sales of securities that a fund owns or has the right to obtain (equivalent in kind or amount to the securities sold short). If a fund enters into a short sale against the box, it will be required to set aside securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short (or securities convertible or exchangeable into such securities) and will be required to hold such securities while the short sale is outstanding. A fund will incur transaction costs, including interest expenses, in connection with opening, maintaining, and closing short sales against the box.
Sources of Liquidity or Credit Support. Issuers may employ various forms of credit and liquidity enhancements, including letters of credit, guarantees, swaps, puts, and demand features, and insurance provided by domestic or foreign entities such as banks and other financial institutions. An adviser and its affiliates may rely on their evaluation of the credit of the issuer or the credit of the liquidity or credit enhancement provider in determining whether to purchase or hold a security supported by such enhancement. In evaluating the credit of a foreign bank or other foreign entities, factors considered may include whether adequate public information about the entity is available and whether the entity may be subject to unfavorable political or economic developments, currency controls, or other government restrictions that might affect its ability to honor its commitment. Changes in the credit quality of the issuer and/or entity providing the enhancement could affect the value of the security or a fund's share price.
Sovereign Debt Obligations are issued or guaranteed by foreign governments or their agencies, including debt of Latin American nations or other developing countries. Sovereign debt may be in the form of conventional securities or other types of debt instruments such as loans or loan participations. Sovereign debt of developing countries may involve a high degree of risk, and may be in default or present the risk of default. Governmental entities responsible for repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal and pay interest when due, and may require renegotiation or rescheduling of debt payments. In addition, prospects for repayment of principal and payment of interest may depend on political as well as economic factors. Although some sovereign debt, such as Brady Bonds, is collateralized by U.S. Government securities, repayment of principal and payment of interest is not guaranteed by the U.S. Government.
Structured Securities (also called "structured notes") are derivative debt securities, the interest rate on or principal of which is determined by an unrelated indicator. The value of the interest rate on and/or the principal of structured securities is determined by reference to changes in the value of a reference instrument ( e.g., a security or other financial instrument, asset, currency, interest rate, commodity, or index) or the relative change in two or more reference instruments. A structured security may be positively, negatively, or both positively and negatively indexed; that is, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument increases. Similarly, its value or interest rate may increase or decrease if the value of the reference instrument decreases. Further, the change in the principal amount payable with respect to, or the interest rate of, a structured security may be calculated as a multiple of the percentage change (positive or negative) in the value of the underlying reference instrument(s); therefore, the value of such structured security may be very volatile. Structured securities may entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt securities because the investor bears the risk of the reference instrument. Structured securities may also be more volatile, less liquid, and more difficult to accurately price than less complex securities or more traditional debt securities. In addition, because structured securities generally are traded over-the-counter, structured securities are subject to the creditworthiness of the counterparty of the structured security, and their values may decline substantially if the counterparty's creditworthiness deteriorates.
Temporary Defensive Policies. In response to market, economic, political, or other conditions, a fund may temporarily use a different investment strategy for defensive purposes. If a fund does so, different factors could affect the fund's performance and the fund may not achieve its investment objective.
Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund reserves the right to invest without limitation in preferred stocks and investment-grade debt instruments for temporary, defensive purposes.
Transfer Agent Bank Accounts. Proceeds from shareholder purchases of a Fidelity fund may pass through a series of demand deposit bank accounts before being held at the fund's custodian. Redemption proceeds may pass from the custodian to the shareholder through a similar series of bank accounts.
If a bank account is registered to the transfer agent or an affiliate, who acts as an agent for the fund when opening, closing, and conducting business in the bank account, the transfer agent or an affiliate may invest overnight balances in the account in repurchase agreements. Any balances that are not invested in repurchase agreements remain in the bank account overnight. Any risks associated with such an account are investment risks of the fund. The fund faces the risk of loss of these balances if the bank becomes insolvent.
Warrants. Warrants are instruments which entitle the holder to buy an equity security at a specific price for a specific period of time. Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss.
Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
Zero Coupon Bonds do not make interest payments; instead, they are sold at a discount from their face value and are redeemed at face value when they mature. Because zero coupon bonds do not pay current income, their prices can be more volatile than other types of fixed-income securities when interest rates change. In calculating a fund's dividend, a portion of the difference between a zero coupon bond's purchase price and its face value is considered income.
To the extent that Strategic Advisers grants investment management authority over an allocated portion of the fund's assets to a sub-adviser (see the section entitled "Management Contract"), that sub-adviser is authorized to provide the services described in the respective sub-advisory agreement, and in accordance with the policies described in this section.
Orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities are placed on behalf of the fund by Strategic Advisers (either directly or through its affiliates) or a sub-adviser, pursuant to authority contained in the management contract and the respective sub-advisory agreement.
Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be responsible for the placement of portfolio securities transactions for other investment companies and investment accounts for which it has or its affiliates have investment discretion.
The fund will not incur any commissions or sales charges when it invests in affiliated funds and non-affiliated funds, but it may incur such costs when it invests directly in other types of securities, including ETFs.
Purchases and sales of equity securities on a securities exchange or OTC are effected through brokers who receive compensation for their services. Generally, compensation relating to securities traded on foreign exchanges will be higher than compensation relating to securities traded on U.S. exchanges and may not be subject to negotiation. Compensation may also be paid in connection with principal transactions (in both OTC securities and securities listed on an exchange) and agency OTC transactions executed with an electronic communications network (ECN) or an alternative trading system. Equity securities may be purchased from underwriters at prices that include underwriting fees.
Purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally made with an issuer or a primary market-maker acting as principal. Although there is no stated brokerage commission paid by the fund for any fixed-income security, the price paid by the fund to an underwriter includes the disclosed underwriting fee and prices in secondary trades usually include an undisclosed dealer commission or markup reflecting the spread between the bid and ask prices of the fixed-income security. New issues of equity and fixed-income securities may also be purchased in underwritten fixed price offerings.
<R>The Trustees of the fund periodically review Strategic Advisers' and its affiliates' and each sub-adviser's performance of their respective responsibilities in connection with the placement of portfolio securities transactions on behalf of the fund. The Trustees also review the compensation paid by the fund over representative periods of time to determine if it was reasonable in relation to the benefits to the fund.</R>
Strategic Advisers.
The Selection of Securities Brokers and Dealers
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates generally have authority to select securities brokers (whether acting as a broker or a dealer) with which to place the fund's portfolio securities transactions. In selecting securities brokers, including affiliates of Strategic Advisers, to execute the fund's portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates consider the factors they deem relevant in the context of a particular trade and in regard to Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and other investment accounts, including any instructions from the fund's portfolio manager, which may emphasize, for example, speed of execution over other factors. Based on the factors considered, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute an order using ECNs, including algorithmic trading, crossing networks, direct market access and program trading, or by actively working an order. Other possibly relevant factors may include, but are not limited to, the following: price; the size and type of the securities transaction; the reasonableness of compensation to be paid, including spreads and commission rates; the speed and certainty of trade executions, including broker willingness to commit capital; the nature and characteristics of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold, including the degree of specialization of the broker in such markets or securities; the availability of liquidity in the security, including the liquidity and depth afforded by a market center or market-maker; the reliability of a market center or broker; the broker's overall trading relationship with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates; the trader's assessment of whether and how closely the broker likely will follow the trader's instructions to the broker; the degree of anonymity that a particular broker or market can provide; the potential for avoiding or lessening market impact; the execution services rendered on a continuing basis; the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial condition of the firm; arrangements for payment of fund expenses, if applicable; and the provision of additional brokerage and research products and services, if applicable.
The trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities.
In seeking best qualitative execution for portfolio securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may select a broker that uses a trading method, including algorithmic trading, for which the broker may charge a higher commission than its lowest available commission rate. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates also may select a broker that charges more than the lowest available commission rate available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute an entire securities transaction with a broker and allocate all or a portion of the transaction and/or related commissions to a second broker where a client does not permit trading with an affiliate of Strategic Advisers or in other limited situations. In those situations, the commission rate paid to the second broker may be higher than the commission rate paid to the executing broker. For futures transactions, the selection of an FCM is generally based on the overall quality of execution and other services provided by the FCM. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may choose to execute futures transactions electronically.
The Acquisition of Brokerage and Research Products and Services
Brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) that execute transactions for the fund may receive higher compensation from the fund than other brokers might have charged the fund, in recognition of the value of the brokerage or research products and services they provide to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Products and Services. These products and services may include: economic, industry, company, municipal, sovereign (U.S. and non-U.S.), legal, or political research reports; market color; company meeting facilitation; compilation of securities prices, earnings, dividends and similar data; quotation services, data, information and other services; analytical computer software and services; and investment recommendations. In addition to receiving brokerage and research products and services via written reports and computer-delivered services, such reports may also be provided by telephone and in-person meetings with securities analysts, corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives and others with relevant professional expertise. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service. Some of these brokerage and research products and services supplement Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' own research activities in providing investment advice to the fund.
Execution Services. In addition, brokerage and research products and services may include those that assist in the execution, clearing, and settlement of securities transactions, as well as other incidental functions (including, but not limited to, communication services related to trade execution, order routing and algorithmic trading, post-trade matching, exchange of messages among brokers or dealers, custodians and institutions, and the use of electronic confirmation and affirmation of institutional trades).
Mixed-Use Products and Services. Although Strategic Advisers or its affiliates do not use fund commissions to pay for products or services that do not qualify as brokerage and research products and services, they may use commission dollars to obtain certain products or services that are not used exclusively in Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' investment decision-making process (mixed-use products or services). In those circumstances, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates will make a good faith judgment to evaluate the various benefits and uses to which they intend to put the mixed-use product or service, and will pay for that portion of the mixed-use product or service that does not qualify as brokerage and research products and services with their own resources (referred to as "hard dollars").
Benefit to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' expenses likely would be increased if they attempted to generate these additional brokerage and research products and services through their own efforts, or if they paid for these brokerage and research products or services with their own resources. To minimize the potential for conflicts of interest, the trading desks through which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may execute trades are instructed to execute portfolio transactions on behalf of the fund based on the quality of execution without any consideration of brokerage and research products and services the broker or dealer may provide. The administration of brokerage and research products and services is managed separately from the trading desks, which means that traders have no responsibility for administering soft dollar activities. Furthermore, certain of the brokerage and research products and services Strategic Advisers or its affiliates receive are furnished by brokers on their own initiative, either in connection with a particular transaction or as part of their overall services. Some of these brokerage and research products or services may be provided at no additional cost to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates or have no explicit cost associated with them. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may request that a broker provide a specific proprietary or third-party product or service, certain of which third-party products or services may be provided by a broker that is not a party to a particular transaction and is not connected with the transacting broker's overall services.
Strategic Advisers' Decision-Making Process. In connection with the allocation of fund brokerage, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates make a good faith determination that the compensation paid to brokers and dealers is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research products and services provided to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, viewed in terms of the particular transaction for the fund or Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' overall responsibilities to the fund or other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion; however, each brokerage and research product or service received in connection with the fund's brokerage may not benefit the fund. While Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may take into account the brokerage and/or research products and services provided by a broker or dealer in determining whether compensation paid is reasonable, neither Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, nor the fund incur an obligation to any broker, dealer, or third party to pay for any brokerage and research product or service (or portion thereof) by generating a specific amount of compensation or otherwise. Typically, these brokerage and research products and services assist Strategic Advisers or its affiliates in terms of their overall investment responsibilities to the fund or any other investment companies and investment accounts for which Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have investment discretion. Certain funds or investment accounts may use brokerage commissions to acquire brokerage and research products and services that may also benefit other funds or accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates.
Research Contracts. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates have arrangements with certain third-party research providers and brokers through whom Strategic Advisers or its affiliates effect fund trades, whereby Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may pay with fund commissions or hard dollars for all or a portion of the cost of research products and services purchased from such research providers or brokers. If hard dollar payments are used, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may still cause the fund to pay more for execution than the lowest commission rate available from the broker providing research products and services to Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, or that may be available from another broker. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates view hard dollar payments for research products and services as likely to reduce the fund's total commission costs even though it is expected that in such hard dollar arrangements the commissions available for recapture and used to pay fund expenses, as described below, will decrease. Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' determination to pay for research products and services separately, rather than bundled with fund commissions, is wholly voluntary on Strategic Advisers' or its affiliates' part and may be extended to additional brokers or discontinued with any broker participating in this arrangement.
Commission Recapture
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may allocate brokerage transactions to brokers (who are not affiliates of Strategic Advisers) who have entered into arrangements with Strategic Advisers or its affiliates under which the broker, using a predetermined methodology, rebates a portion of the compensation paid by a fund to offset that fund's expenses. Not all brokers with whom the fund trades have been asked to participate in brokerage commission recapture.
Affiliated Transactions
Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with certain brokers, including National Financial Services LLC (NFS), with whom they are under common control, provided Strategic Advisers or its affiliates determine that these affiliates' trade execution abilities and costs are comparable to those of non-affiliated, qualified brokerage firms. In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may place trades with brokers that use NFS as a clearing agent.
<R>The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the adviser or certain other affiliates participate. In addition, for underwritings where such an affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the fund could purchase in the underwritings.</R>
<R> Non-U.S. Transactions</R>
To facilitate trade settlement and related activities in non-United States securities transactions, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates may effect spot foreign currency transactions with foreign currency dealers.
Trade Allocation
<R>Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the same as those of certain other funds managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of other funds or investment accounts (including proprietary accounts) managed by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The same security is often held in the portfolio of more than one of these funds or investment accounts. Simultaneous transactions are inevitable when several funds and investment accounts are managed by the same investment adviser, or an affiliate thereof, particularly when the same security is suitable for the investment objective of more than one fund or investment account.</R>
When two or more funds or investment accounts are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or sale of the same security, including a futures contract, the prices and amounts are allocated in accordance with procedures believed by Strategic Advisers to be appropriate and equitable to each fund or investment account. In some cases this could have a detrimental effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and prices for the fund.
Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC (Brandywine Global).
As a sub-advisor to the fund, Brandywine Global seeks to obtain the most favorable total cost or proceeds in the execution of portfolio transactions. Brandywine Global considers a number of factors in determining broker selection including but not limited to: order size, price of the security, execution difficulty of the transaction, liquidity of the security, market and exchange conditions, order flow information, speed of execution desired, value if brokerage and research services provided and commission cost. The commission paid may not always reflect the lowest commission available in the market at a given point of time. Brandywine Global may receive research services from a broker in connection with initiating portfolio transactions for the fund. Such research may be available for the benefit of other accounts managed by Brandywine Global. Brandywine Global utilizes research, research-related products and other brokerage services provided to the firm on a third party research commission basis. Brandywine Global seeks to operate within the safe harbor of Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. In accordance with that safe harbor, Brandywine Global may execute client portfolio transactions through broker-dealers who provide research and brokerage services to Brandywine Global if Brandywine Global determines that the commissions paid are reasonable in relation to the research or brokerage services received. Trading strategy is determined on Brandywine Global's trading desk after order review by portfolio manager and trader. The portfolio managers and traders analyze brokerage and execution results through review of trading reports available through proprietary Brandywine Global systems and a third-party transaction review provider.
Cohen & Steers Capital Management, Inc. (Cohen & Steers).
In selecting a broker to execute each particular transaction, Cohen & Steers generally will take the following into consideration (if and as relevant to the transaction): the best net price available; the reliability, integrity and financial condition of the broker; the size and difficulty in executing the order; and the value of the expected contribution of the broker to the investment performance of the fund on a continuing basis. Accordingly, the cost of the brokerage commissions to a fund in any transaction may be greater than that available from other brokers if the difference is reasonably justified by other aspects of the portfolio execution and other services offered. In addition, Cohen & Steers may receive research services from a broker in connection with initiating portfolio transactions for a fund. Research services include pricing and market data services. Cohen & Steers shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached any duty solely by reason of its having caused a fund to pay a broker an amount of commission for effecting a portfolio investment transaction in excess of the amount of commission another broker would have charged solely for execution services for that transaction if Cohen & Steers, as the case may be, determines in good faith that the commission was reasonable in relation to the value of the research service provided. Research and investment information may be provided by brokers at no cost to Cohen & Steers and available for the benefit of other accounts advised by Cohen & Steers and their affiliates, and not all of the information will be used in connection with a fund. While this information may be useful in varying degrees and may tend to reduce Cohen & Steers' expenses, it is not possible to estimate its value and in the opinion of Cohen & Steers it does not reduce Cohen & Steers' expenses in a determinable amount. The extent to which Cohen & Steers makes use of statistical, research and other services furnished by brokers is considered by Cohen & Steers in the allocation of brokerage business but there is no formula by which such business is allocated. Cohen & Steers does so in accordance with its judgment of the best interests of a fund. Cohen & Steers may also take into account payments made by brokers effecting transactions for a fund to other persons on behalf of a fund for services provided to it for which it would be obligated to pay (such as custodial and professional fees). Pursuant to its internal procedures, Cohen & Steers regularly evaluates the brokerage and research services provided by each broker-dealer that it uses.
LSV Asset Management (LSV).
In selecting brokers for transactions, LSV uses its best judgment to choose the broker most capable of providing the brokerage services necessary to obtain the best available price and most favorable execution, i.e., the price and commission which provides the most favorable total cost and proceeds reasonably obtainable under the circumstances. The full range and quality of brokerage services available will be considered in making these determinations. For example, brokers may be selected on the basis of their ability to provide certain services related to the requirements of the specific transaction, such as the following: the ability to match up natural order flow; the ability to control anonymity; timing or price limits; the quality of the back office; commission rates; use of automation; or the ability to provide information relating to the particular transaction. LSV periodically evaluates the quality of these brokerage services as provided by various firms.
LSV does not consider itself obligated to choose the broker offering the lowest available commission rate if, in its best judgment, there is a risk that the total cost or proceeds from the transaction might be less favorable than obtainable elsewhere. LSV keeps informed of rate structures offered by the brokerage community. In the selection of brokers, LSV does not solicit competitive bids or "shop" the order for a lower rate if this would, in its best judgment, be harmful to the execution process and not in the best interest of its clients.
<R>LSV may be in the position of buying or selling the same security for a number of its clients at roughly the same time. When effecting trades on an aggregated basis, LSV is required to allocate aggregated trades promptly and fairly. Securities purchased or proceeds of securities sold through aggregated orders on a particular trading day shall be allocated to the account of each portfolio managed by LSV that bought or sold such securities at the average execution price achieved on that particular trading day. If less than the total of the aggregated orders is executed on a particular trading day, purchased securities or proceeds are generally allocated pro rata among the participating portfolios in proportion to their planned participation in the aggregated orders subject to change at the trader's discretion, to take into consideration cash balances, the use of round lots, the completion of small orders or the reduction of settlement fees. Further, in the event the entire order is not filled, it is possible the client's portfolio will be deemed to have purchased or sold less than the entire number of securities sought to be purchased or sold on behalf of the client's portfolio. Aggregation may work on some occasions to the client's disadvantage.</R>
Commissions Paid
A fund may pay compensation including both commissions and spreads in connection with the placement of portfolio transactions. The amount of brokerage commissions paid by a fund may change from year to year because of, among other things, changing asset levels, shareholder activity, and/or portfolio turnover.
<R>For the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012, the fund's portfolio turnover rate was 14% (annualized). Variations in turnover rate may be due to a fluctuating volume of shareholder purchase and redemption orders, market conditions, and/or changes in Strategic Advisers' investment outlook.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund held securities issued by one or more of its regular brokers or dealers or a parent company of its regular brokers or dealers. The following table shows the aggregate value of the securities of the regular broker or dealer or parent company held by the fund as of the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012.</R>
<R>The following table shows the total amount of brokerage commissions paid by the fund, comprising commissions paid on securities and/or futures transactions, as applicable, for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012. The total amount of brokerage commissions paid is stated as a dollar amount and a percentage of the fund's average net assets.</R>
|
Dollar
|
Percentage of
|
|
<R>2012 A |
|
$ 4,083 |
0.04%</R> |
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012 the following brokerage commissions were paid to affiliated brokers:</R>
<R> Broker |
Affiliated With |
Commissions |
Percentage of
|
Percentage of
|
<R>Wunderlich Securities |
Brandywine Global |
$ 30 |
0.73% |
0.18%</R> |
<R>The fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011 and, therefore, does not have any affiliated brokerage commissions to report for fiscal years ended May 31, 2011 and 2010.</R>
<R>During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the fund paid $788 in brokerage commissions to firms that may have provided research or brokerage services involving approximately $956,670 of transactions.</R>
The fund's NAV is the value of a single share. The NAV of the fund is computed by adding the value of the fund's investments, cash, and other assets, subtracting its liabilities, and dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding.
The Board of Trustees has ultimate responsibility for pricing, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to Strategic Advisers. Strategic Advisers has established the Strategic Advisers Fair Value Committee (Strategic Advisers Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities. The Strategic Advisers Committee may rely on information and recommendations provided by affiliates of Strategic Advisers in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, including the fair valuation of securities.
Shares of underlying funds (other than ETFs) held by the fund are valued at their respective NAVs. If an underlying fund's NAV is unavailable, shares of that underlying fund will be fair valued in good faith by the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies.
Generally, other portfolio securities and assets held by the fund, as well as portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity non-money market fund, are valued as follows:
Most equity securities (including securities issued by ETFs) are valued at the official closing price or the last reported sale price or, if no sale has occurred, at the last quoted bid price on the primary market or exchange on which they are traded.
Debt securities and other assets for which market quotations are readily available may be valued at market values in the principal market in which they normally are traded, as furnished by recognized dealers in such securities or assets. Or, debt securities and convertible securities may be valued on the basis of information furnished by a pricing service that uses a valuation matrix which incorporates both dealer-supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Use of pricing services has been approved by the Board of Trustees. A number of pricing services are available, and the fund may use various pricing services or discontinue the use of any pricing service.
Short-term securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less for which market quotations and information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available are valued at amortized cost, which approximates current value.
Futures contracts are valued at the settlement or closing price. Options are valued at their market quotations, if available. Swaps are valued daily using quotations received from independent pricing services or recognized dealers.
Independent brokers or quotation services provide prices of foreign securities in their local currency. Fidelity Service Company, Inc. (FSC) gathers all exchange rates daily at the close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) using the last quoted bid price on the local currency and then translates the value of foreign securities from their local currencies into U.S. dollars. Any changes in the value of forward contracts due to exchange rate fluctuations and days to maturity are included in the calculation of NAV.
The Board of Trustees of the underlying Fidelity funds has ultimate responsibility for pricing portfolio securities and assets held by those funds, but has delegated day-to-day valuation oversight responsibilities to FMR. FMR has established the FMR Fair Value Committee (FMR Committee) to fulfill these oversight responsibilities.
Other portfolio securities and assets for which market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing service are not readily available or, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, are deemed unreliable will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. For example, if, in the opinion of the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee, a security's value has been materially affected by events occurring before a fund's pricing time but after the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded, that security will be fair valued in good faith by the FMR Committee or the Strategic Advisers Committee in accordance with applicable fair value pricing policies. In fair valuing a security, the FMR Committee and the Strategic Advisers Committee may consider factors including price movements in futures contracts and ADRs, market and trading trends, the bid/ask quotes of brokers, and off-exchange institutional trading.
Portfolio securities and assets held by an underlying Fidelity money market fund are valued on the basis of amortized cost. This technique involves initially valuing an instrument at its cost as adjusted for amortization of premium or accretion of discount rather than its current market value. The amortized cost value of an instrument may be higher or lower than the price a money market fund would receive if it sold the instrument.
At such intervals as they deem appropriate, the Trustees of an underlying Fidelity money market fund consider the extent to which NAV calculated using market valuations would deviate from the $1.00 per share calculated using amortized cost valuation. If the Trustees believe that a deviation from a money market fund's amortized cost per share may result in material dilution or other unfair results to shareholders, the Trustees have agreed to take such corrective action, if any, as they deem appropriate to eliminate or reduce, to the extent reasonably practicable, the dilution or unfair results. Such corrective action could include selling portfolio instruments prior to maturity to realize capital gains or losses or to shorten average portfolio maturity; withholding dividends; redeeming shares in kind; establishing NAV by using available market quotations; and such other measures as the Trustees may deem appropriate.
<R> BUYING, SELLING, AND EXCHANGING INFORMATION</R>
The fund may make redemption payments in whole or in part in readily marketable securities or other property pursuant to procedures approved by the Trustees if Strategic Advisers determines it is in the best interests of the fund. Such securities or other property will be valued for this purpose as they are valued in computing the fund's NAV. Shareholders that receive securities or other property will realize, upon receipt, a gain or loss for tax purposes, and will incur additional costs and be exposed to market risk prior to and upon the sale of such securities or other property.
The fund, in its discretion, may determine to issue its shares in kind in exchange for securities held by the purchaser having a value, determined in accordance with the fund's policies for valuation of portfolio securities, equal to the purchase price of the fund shares issued. The fund will accept for in-kind purchases only securities or other instruments that are appropriate under its investment objective and policies. In addition, the fund generally will not accept securities of any issuer unless they are liquid, have a readily ascertainable market value, and are not subject to restrictions on resale. All dividends, distributions, and subscription or other rights associated with the securities become the property of the fund, along with the securities. Shares purchased in exchange for securities in kind generally cannot be redeemed for fifteen days following the exchange to allow time for the transfer to settle.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
<R> Dividends. Distributions by the fund to tax-advantaged retirement plan accounts are not taxable currently. For all other accounts, a portion of the fund's income may qualify for the dividends-received deduction available to corporate shareholders, but it is unlikely that all of the fund's income will qualify for the deduction. A portion of the fund's dividends, when distributed to individual shareholders, may qualify for taxation at long-term capital gains rates (provided certain holding period requirements are met).</R>
Capital Gain Distributions. Unless your shares of the fund are held in a tax-advantaged retirement plan, the fund's long-term capital gain distributions, including amounts attributable to an underlying fund's long-term capital gain distributions, are federally taxable to shareholders generally as capital gains.
Returns of Capital. If the fund's distributions exceed its taxable income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder's cost basis in the fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.
Foreign Tax Credit or Deduction. Foreign governments may impose withholding taxes on dividends and interest earned by the fund with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. Foreign governments may also impose taxes on other payments or gains with respect to foreign securities held directly by the fund. As a general matter, if, at the close of its fiscal year, more than 50% of the fund's total assets is invested in securities of foreign issuers, the fund may elect to pass through eligible foreign taxes paid and thereby allow shareholders to take a deduction or, if they meet certain holding period requirements with respect to fund shares, a credit on their individual tax returns. In addition, if at the close of each quarter of its fiscal year at least 50% of the fund's total assets is represented by interests in other regulated investment companies, the same rules will apply to any foreign tax credits that underlying funds pass through to the fund. The amount of foreign taxes paid by the fund will be reduced to the extent that the fund lends securities over the dividend record date. Special rules may apply to the credit for individuals who receive dividends qualifying for the long-term capital gains tax rate.
Tax Status of the Fund. The fund intends to qualify each year as a "regulated investment company" under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code so that it will not be liable for federal tax on income and capital gains distributed to shareholders. In order to qualify as a regulated investment company, and avoid being subject to federal income or excise taxes at the fund level, the fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net realized capital gains within each calendar year as well as on a fiscal year basis (if the fiscal year is other than the calendar year), and intends to comply with other tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies.
Other Tax Information. The information above is only a summary of some of the tax consequences generally affecting the fund and its shareholders, and no attempt has been made to discuss individual tax consequences. It is up to you or your tax preparer to determine whether the sale of shares of the fund resulted in a capital gain or loss or other tax consequence to you. In addition to federal income taxes, shareholders may be subject to state and local taxes on fund distributions, and shares may be subject to state and local personal property taxes. Investors should consult their tax advisers to determine whether the fund is suitable to their particular tax situation.
<R>The Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and executive officers of the trust and fund, as applicable, are listed below. The Board of Trustees governs the fund and is responsible for protecting the interests of shareholders. The Trustees are experienced executives who meet periodically throughout the year to oversee the fund's activities, review contractual arrangements with companies that provide services to the fund, oversee management of the risks associated with such activities and contractual arrangements, and review the fund's performance. If the interests of the fund and an underlying Fidelity fund were to diverge, a conflict of interest could arise and affect how the Trustees and Member of the Advisory Board fulfill their fiduciary duties to the affected funds. Strategic Advisers has structured the fund to avoid these potential conflicts, although there may be situations where a conflict of interest is unavoidable. In such instances, Strategic Advisers, the Trustees, and Member of the Advisory Board would take reasonable steps to minimize and, if possible, eliminate the conflict. Each of the Trustees oversees 26 funds advised by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate.</R>
The Trustees hold office without limit in time except that (a) any Trustee may resign; (b) any Trustee may be removed by written instrument, signed by at least two-thirds of the number of Trustees prior to such removal; (c) any Trustee who requests to be retired or who has become incapacitated by illness or injury may be retired by written instrument signed by a majority of the other Trustees; and (d) any Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of shareholders by a two-thirds vote of the outstanding voting securities of the trust. The executive officers and Advisory Board Member hold office without limit in time, except that any officer and Advisory Board Member may resign or may be removed by a vote of a majority of the Trustees at any regular meeting or any special meeting of the Trustees. Except as indicated, each individual has held the office shown or other offices in the same company for the past five years.
Each Trustee who is not an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) is referred to herein as an Independent Trustee.
Experience, Skills, Attributes, and Qualifications of the Fund's Trustees. The Governance and Nominating Committee has adopted a statement of policy that describes the experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills that are necessary and desirable for potential Independent Trustee candidates (Statement of Policy). The Board believes that each Trustee satisfied at the time he or she was initially elected or appointed a Trustee, and continues to satisfy, the standards contemplated by the Statement of Policy. The Governance and Nominating Committee may also engage professional search firms to help identify potential Independent Trustee candidates with experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills consistent with the Statement of Policy. Additional criteria based on the composition and skills of the current Independent Trustees, as well as experience or skills that may be appropriate in light of future changes to board composition, business conditions, and regulatory or other developments, may be considered by the professional search firms and the Governance and Nominating Committee. In addition, the Board takes into account the Trustees' commitment and participation in Board and committee meetings, as well as their leadership of standing and ad hoc committees throughout their tenure.
In determining that a particular Trustee was and continues to be qualified to serve as a Trustee, the Board has considered a variety of criteria, none of which, in isolation, was controlling. The Board believes that, collectively, the Trustees have balanced and diverse experience, qualifications, attributes, and skills, which allow the Board to operate effectively in governing the fund and protecting the interests of shareholders. Information about the specific experience, skills, attributes, and qualifications of each Trustee, which in each case led to the Board's conclusion that the Trustee should serve (or continue to serve) as a trustee of the fund, is provided below.
Board Structure and Oversight Function. Roger T. Servison is an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) and currently serves as Chairman. The Trustees have determined that an interested Chairman is appropriate and benefits shareholders because an interested Chairman has a personal and professional stake in the quality and continuity of services provided to the fund. Independent Trustees exercise their informed business judgment to appoint an individual of their choosing to serve as Chairman, regardless of whether the Trustee happens to be independent or a member of management. The Independent Trustees have determined that they can act independently and effectively without having an Independent Trustee serve as Chairman and that a key structural component for assuring that they are in a position to do so is for the Independent Trustees to constitute a substantial majority for the Board. The Independent Trustees also regularly meet in executive session. Ralph F. Cox serves as the lead Independent Trustee and as such (i) acts as a liaison between the Independent Trustees and management with respect to matters important to the Independent Trustees and (ii) with management prepares agendas for Board meetings.
<R>Fidelity funds are overseen by different Boards of Trustees. The fund's Board oversees asset allocation funds as well as the Fidelity enhanced index funds. Other boards oversee Fidelity's investment-grade bond, money market, and asset allocation funds and Fidelity's equity and high income funds. The fund may invest in Fidelity funds overseen by such other Boards. The use of separate Boards, each with its own committee structure, allows the Trustees of each group of Fidelity funds to focus on the unique issues of the funds they oversee, including common research, investment, and operational issues.</R>
<R>The Trustees primarily operate as a full Board, but also operate in committees, to facilitate the timely and efficient consideration of all matters of importance to the Trustees, the fund, and fund shareholders and to facilitate compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and oversight of the fund's activities and associated risks. The Board has charged Strategic Advisers and its affiliates with (i) identifying events or circumstances the occurrence of which could have demonstrably adverse effects on the fund's business and/or reputation; (ii) implementing processes and controls to lessen the possibility that such events or circumstances occur or to mitigate the effects of such events or circumstances if they do occur; and (iii) creating and maintaining a system designed to evaluate continuously business and market conditions in order to facilitate the identification and implementation processes described in (i) and (ii) above. Because the day-to-day operations and activities of the fund are carried out by or through Strategic Advisers, its affiliates and other service providers, the fund's exposure to risks is mitigated but not eliminated by the processes overseen by the Trustees. Board oversight of different aspects of the fund's activities is exercised primarily through the full Board, but also through the Audit and Compliance Committee. Appropriate personnel, including but not limited to the fund's Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), FMR's internal auditor, the independent accountants, the fund's Treasurer and portfolio management personnel, make periodic reports to the Board's committees, as appropriate. The responsibilities of each committee, including their oversight responsibilities, are described further under "Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees."</R>
<R> Interested Trustees *:</R>
<R>Correspondence intended for each Trustee who is an interested person may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.</R>
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience +</R> |
|
<R>Roger T. Servison (66)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Servison is Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Mr. Servison serves as President of Strategic New Business Development for Fidelity Investments and serves as a Director of Strategic Advisers. Previously, Mr. Servison oversaw Fidelity Investments Life Insurance Company (2005-2006) and Strategic Advisers (2005-2007). Mr. Servison also served as President and a Director of Fidelity Brokerage Services (Japan), LLC (1994-2004). |
<R>Derek L. Young (47)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Mr. Young is Vice President of Fidelity's Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present), President and a Director of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011-present), President of Fidelity Global Asset Allocation (GAA) (2011-present), and Vice Chairman of Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (2011-present). Previously, Mr. Young served as Chief Investment Officer of GAA (2009-2011) and as a portfolio manager. |
<R>* Trustees have been determined to be "Interested Trustees" by virtue of, among other things, their affiliation with the trust or various entities under common control with Strategic Advisers.</R>
<R> + The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.</R>
Independent Trustees :
Correspondence intended for each Independent Trustee (that is, the Trustees other than the Interested Trustees) may be sent to Fidelity Investments, P.O. Box 55235, Boston, Massachusetts 02205-5235.
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupations and Other Relevant Experience +</R> |
|
<R>Peter C. Aldrich (68)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Aldrich is a Director of the National Bureau of Economic Research and a Director of the funds of BlackRock Realty Group (2006-present). Previously, Mr. Aldrich served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010), a Managing Member of Poseidon, LLC (foreign private investment, 1998-2004), and Chairman and Managing Member of AEGIS, LLC (foreign private investment, 1997-2004). Mr. Aldrich also served as Faculty Chairman of The Research Council on Global Investment of The Conference Board (business and professional education non-profit, 1999-2004). Mr. Aldrich is a Member of the Boards of Trustees of the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary. |
<R>Amy Butte Liebowitz (44)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Ms. Butte Liebowitz is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of TILE Financial (financial internet service, 2008-present). Previously, Ms. Butte Liebowitz served as the Chief Financial Officer and member of the Board of Directors of MF Global (broker-dealer, 2006-2008), and Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President of the New York Stock Exchange (2004-2006). Ms. Butte Liebowitz is a member of the Boards of Directors of Accion International and the New York Women's Forum, as well as a selected participant in the World Economic Forum's Young Global Leader program. |
<R>Ralph F. Cox (79)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Mr. Cox is President of RABAR Enterprises (management consulting for the petroleum industry). Mr. Cox is a Director of Abraxas Petroleum (exploration and production). Mr. Cox is a member of the Advisory Boards of the Business and Engineering Schools of Texas A&M University and the Engineering School of University of Texas at Austin. Previously, Mr. Cox served as a Trustee for the Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2005-2010) and as an Advisory Director of CH2M Hill Companies (engineering, 1981-2011). Mr. Ralph F. Cox and Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. are not related. |
<R>Karen Kaplan (52)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2006</R> Ms. Kaplan is President of Hill Holliday (advertising and specialized marketing, 2007-present). Ms. Kaplan is a Director of DSM (dba Delta Dental, Doral, and DentaQuest) (2004-present), Member of the Board of Governors of the Chief Executives' Club of Boston (2010-present), Member of the Board of the Massachusetts Conference for Women (2008-present), and Director of the Executive Committee of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce (2006-present). She is also a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, an action oriented community of the most effective CEOs, heads of state, Nobel Prize winners, and non-governmental leaders in the world. Previously, Ms. Kaplan served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010), President of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2008-2010), Treasurer of the Massachusetts Women's Forum (2002-2006), Vice Chair of the Board of the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (2003-2010), Director of United Way of Massachusetts Bay (2004-2006), Director of ADVO (direct mail marketing, 2003-2007), and Director of Tweeter Home Entertainment Group (2006-2007). |
+ The information above includes each Trustee's principal occupation during the last five years and other information relating to the experience, attributes, and skills relevant to each Trustee's qualifications to serve as a Trustee, which led to the conclusion that each Trustee should serve as a Trustee for the fund.
Advisory Board Member and Executive Officers :
Correspondence intended for each executive officer and Howard E. Cox, Jr. may be sent to Fidelity Investments, 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
<R> Name, Age; Principal Occupation</R> |
|
<R>Howard E. Cox, Jr. (68)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Member of the Advisory Board of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II. Mr. Cox is a Member of the Advisory Board of Devonshire Investors (2009-present). Mr. Cox serves as an Advisory Partner of Greylock (venture capital) and a Director of Stryker Corporation (medical products and services). Previously, Mr. Cox served as an Advisory Board Member of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust (2006-2010) and a Member of the Secretary of Defense's Business Board of Directors (2008-2010). Mr. Howard E. Cox, Jr. and Mr. Ralph F. Cox are not related. |
<R>Kenneth B. Robins (42)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> President and Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Robins also serves as President and Treasurer of other Fidelity Equity and High Income Funds (2008-present) and Assistant Treasurer of other Fidelity Fixed Income and Asset Allocation Funds (2009-present). Mr. Robins is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). Previously, Mr. Robins served as Deputy Treasurer of the Fidelity funds (2005-2008) and Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2006-2008). |
<R>Marc Bryant (46)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010</R> Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of the fund. Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Fidelity Investments. Prior to joining Fidelity Investments, Mr. Bryant served as a Senior Vice President and the Head of Global Retail Legal for AllianceBernstein L.P. (2006-2010), and as the General Counsel for ProFund Advisors LLC (2001-2006). |
<R>Elizabeth Paige Baumann (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2012</R> Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Officer of the fund. Ms. Baumann also serves as AML Officer of the Fidelity funds (2012-present) and The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2012-present), Chief AML Officer of FMR LLC (2012-present), and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Ms. Baumann served as Vice President and Deputy Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2007-2012). |
<R>Nicholas E. Steck (48)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Financial Officer of the fund. Mr. Steck serves as Senior Vice President of Fidelity Pricing and Cash Management Services (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments. During the period 2002 to 2009, Mr. Steck served as a Compliance Officer of FMR, Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc., FMR LLC, Fidelity Research & Analysis (U.K.) Inc., Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc. |
<R>Laura M. Doherty (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009</R> Chief Compliance Officer of the fund. Ms. Doherty also serves as Senior Vice President of the Office of the Chief Compliance Officer (2008-present). Previously, Ms. Doherty served as a Vice President in Fidelity's Corporate Audit department (1998-2008). |
<R>Adrien E. Deberghes (44)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2011</R> Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Deberghes also serves as Assistant Treasurer (2010-present) and Deputy Treasurer (2008-present) of other Fidelity funds and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2008-present). Previously, Mr. Deberghes served as Senior Vice President of Mutual Fund Administration at State Street Corporation (2007-2008), Senior Director of Mutual Fund Administration at Investors Bank & Trust (2005-2007), and Director of Finance for Dunkin' Brands (2000-2005). |
<R>Jonathan Davis (43)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2010 </R> Assistant Treasurer of the fund. Mr. Davis is also Assistant Treasurer of certain Fidelity funds. Mr. Davis is an employee of Fidelity Investments. Previously, Mr. Davis served as Vice President and Associate General Counsel of FMR LLC (2003-2010). |
<R>Margaret A. Carey (38)</R> |
|
<R> |
Year of Election or Appointment: 2009 </R> Assistant Secretary of the fund. Ms. Carey is also Assistant Secretary of The North Carolina Capital Management Trust: Cash and Term Portfolios (2008-present) and is an employee of Fidelity Investments (2004-present). |
Standing Committees of the Fund's Trustees. The Board of Trustees has established two committees to supplement the work of the Board as a whole. The members of each committee are Independent Trustees.
<R>The Audit and Compliance Committee is composed of Ms. Butte Liebowitz (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, Mr. Ralph Cox, and Ms. Kaplan. All committee members must be able to read and understand fundamental financial statements, including a company's balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. The committee determines whether at least one member of the committee is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined in rules promulgated by the SEC under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. The committee normally meets in conjunction with in person meetings of the Board of Trustees, or more frequently as called by the Chair. The committee meets separately periodically with the fund's Treasurer, the fund's Chief Financial Officer, the fund's CCO, personnel responsible for the internal audit function of FMR LLC, and the fund's outside auditors. The committee has direct responsibility for the appointment, compensation, and oversight of the work of the outside auditors employed by the fund for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or related work. The committee assists the Trustees in overseeing and monitoring: (i) the systems of internal accounting and financial controls of the fund and the fund's service providers, (ii) the financial reporting processes of the fund, (iii) the independence, objectivity and qualification of the auditors to the fund, (iv) the annual audits of the fund's financial statements, and (v) the accounting policies and disclosures of the fund. The committee considers and acts upon (i) the provision by any outside auditor of any non-audit services for any fund, and (ii) the provision by any outside auditor of certain non-audit services to fund service providers and their affiliates to the extent that such approval (in the case of this clause (ii)) is required under applicable regulations (Auditor Independence Regulations) of the SEC. In furtherance of the foregoing, the committee has adopted (and may from time to time amend or supplement) and provides oversight of policies and procedures for non-audit engagements by outside auditors of the fund. It is responsible for approving all audit engagement fees and terms for the fund and for resolving disagreements between the fund and any outside auditor regarding the fund's financial reporting, and has sole authority to hire and fire any auditor. Auditors of the fund report directly to the committee. The committee will obtain assurance of independence and objectivity from the outside auditors, including a formal written statement delineating all relationships between the auditor and the fund and any service providers consistent with Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB) Ethics and Independence Rule 3526, Communication with Audit Committees Concerning Independence. The committee will discuss with the outside auditors any such disclosed relationships and their impact on the auditor's independence and objectivity. The committee will receive reports of compliance with provisions of the Auditor Independence Regulations relating to the hiring of employees or former employees of the outside auditors. It oversees and receives reports on the fund's service providers' internal controls and reviews with management, internal auditors, and outside auditors the adequacy and effectiveness of the fund's and service providers' accounting and financial controls, including: (i) any significant deficiencies or material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal controls over financial reporting that are reasonably likely to adversely affect the fund's ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial data; (ii) any change in the fund's internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the fund's internal control over financial reporting; and (iii) any fraud, whether material or not, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the fund's or service provider's internal controls over financial reporting. The committee will review with counsel any legal matters that may have a material impact on the fund's financial statements and any material reports or inquiries received from regulators or governmental agencies. The committee reviews at least annually a report from the outside auditor describing (i) any material issues raised by the most recent internal quality control review, peer review, or PCAOB examination of the auditing firm and (ii) any material issues raised by any inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional authorities of the auditing firm since the most recent report and in each case any steps taken to deal with such issues. The committee will oversee and receive reports on the fund's financial reporting process and will receive reports from an outside auditor relating to (i) critical accounting policies and practices used by the fund, (ii) alternative accounting treatments that the auditor has discussed with Strategic Advisers, and (iii) other material written communications between the auditor and Strategic Advisers (as determined by the auditor). The committee will discuss with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors and, if appropriate, internal audit personnel of FMR LLC, their qualitative judgments about the appropriateness and acceptability of accounting principles and financial disclosure practices used or proposed for adoption by the fund. The committee will review with Strategic Advisers, the fund's Treasurer, outside auditors, and internal audit personnel of FMR LLC (to the extent relevant) the results of audits of the fund's financial statements. The committee will review periodically the fund's major internal controls exposures and the steps that have been taken to monitor and control such exposures. The committee also oversees the administration and operation of the compliance policies and procedures of the fund and its service providers as required by Rule 38a-1 of the 1940 Act. The committee is responsible for the review and approval of policies and procedures relating to (i) provisions of the Code of Ethics, (ii) anti-money laundering requirements, (iii) compliance with investment restrictions and limitations, (iv) privacy, (v) recordkeeping, and (vi) other compliance policies and procedures which are not otherwise delegated to another committee of the Board of Trustees or reserved to the Board itself. The committee has responsibility for recommending to the Board the designation of a CCO of the fund. The committee serves as the primary point of contact between the CCO and the Board, it oversees the annual performance review and compensation of the CCO and, if required, makes recommendations to the Board with respect to the removal of the appointed CCO. The committee receives reports on significant correspondence with regulators or governmental agencies, employee complaints or published reports which raise concerns regarding compliance matters, and copies of significant non-routine correspondence with the SEC. The committee receives reports from the CCO including the annual report concerning the fund's compliance policies as required by Rule 38a-1 and quarterly reports in respect of any breaches of fiduciary duty or violations of federal securities laws. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The Governance and Nominating Committee is composed of Mr. Ralph Cox (Chair), Mr. Aldrich, and Mses. Butte Liebowitz and Kaplan. The committee meets as called by the Chair. With respect to fund governance and board administration matters, the committee periodically reviews procedures of the Board of Trustees and its committees (including committee charters) and periodically reviews compensation of Independent Trustees. The committee monitors corporate governance matters and makes recommendations to the Board of Trustees on the frequency and structure of the Board of Trustee meetings and on any other aspect of Board procedures. It reviews the performance of legal counsel employed by the funds and the Independent Trustees. On behalf of the Independent Trustees, the committee will make such findings and determinations as to the independence of counsel for the Independent Trustees as may be necessary or appropriate under applicable regulations or otherwise. The committee is also responsible for Board administrative matters applicable to Independent Trustees, such as expense reimbursement policies and compensation for attendance at meetings, conferences and other events. The committee monitors compliance with, acts as the administrator of, and makes determinations in respect of, the provisions of the code of ethics and any supplemental policies regarding personal securities transactions applicable to the Independent Trustees. The committee monitors the functioning of each Board committee and makes recommendations for any changes, including the creation or elimination of standing or ad hoc Board committees. The committee monitors regulatory and other developments to determine whether to recommend modifications to the committee's responsibilities or other Trustee policies and procedures in light of rule changes, reports concerning "best practices" in corporate governance and other developments in mutual fund governance. The committee recommends that the Board establish such special or ad hoc Board committees as may be desirable or necessary from time to time in order to address ethical, legal, or other matters that may arise. The committee also oversees the annual self-evaluation of the Board of Trustees and establishes procedures to allow it to exercise this oversight function. In conducting this oversight, the committee shall address all matters that it considers relevant to the performance of the Board of Trustees and shall report the results of its evaluation to the Board of Trustees, including any recommended amendments to the principles of governance, and any recommended changes to the fund's or the Board of Trustees' policies, procedures, and structures. The committee reviews periodically the size and composition of the Board of Trustees as a whole and recommends, if necessary, measures to be taken so that the Board of Trustees reflects the appropriate balance of knowledge, experience, skills, expertise, and diversity required for the Board as a whole and contains at least the minimum number of Independent Trustees required by law. The committee makes nominations for the election or appointment of Independent Trustees and for membership on committees. The committee shall have authority to retain and terminate any third-party advisers, including authority to approve fees and other retention terms. Such advisers may include search firms to identify Independent Trustee candidates and board compensation consultants. The committee may conduct or authorize investigations into or studies of matters within the committee's scope of responsibilities, and may retain, at the fund's expense, such independent counsel or other advisers as it deems necessary. The committee will consider nominees to the Board of Trustees recommended by shareholders based upon the criteria applied to candidates presented to the committee by a search firm or other source. Recommendations, along with appropriate background material concerning the candidate that demonstrates his or her ability to serve as an Independent Trustee of the fund, should be submitted to the Chair of the committee at the address maintained for communications with Independent Trustees. If the committee retains a search firm, the Chair will generally forward all such submissions to the search firm for evaluation. During the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, the committee held four meetings.</R>
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by each Trustee in the fund and in all funds in the aggregate within the same fund family overseen by the Trustee for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011 (or as of March 31, 2012 for Mr. Young, Trustee as of March 1, 2012).</R>
<R>Interested Trustees</R> |
||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Roger T. Servison |
Derek L. Young</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund |
none |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none</R> |
<R>Independent Trustees</R> |
||||
<R>
DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
Peter C. Aldrich |
Amy Butte Liebowitz |
Ralph F. Cox |
Karen Kaplan</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund |
none |
none |
none |
none</R> |
<R>
AGGREGATE DOLLAR RANGE OF
|
none |
none |
over $100,000 |
none</R> |
<R>The following table sets forth information describing the compensation of each Trustee and Member of the Advisory Board for his or her services for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2012, or calendar year ended December 31, 2011, as applicable.</R>
<R>Compensation Table 1</R> |
|||||
<R>
AGGREGATE
|
Peter C.
|
Amy Butte
|
Ralph F.
|
Karen
|
</R> |
<R> Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund + |
$ 25 |
$ 25 |
$ 25 |
$ 25 |
</R> |
<R>
TOTAL COMPENSATION
|
$ 95,000 |
$ 23,750 |
$ 95,000 |
$ 95,000 |
</R> |
<R> 1 Roger T. Servison, Howard E. Cox, Jr., and Derek L. Young are interested persons and are compensated by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate (including FMR).</R>
<R> 2 Effective September 8, 2011, Ms. Butte Liebowitz serves as a member of the Board of Trustees.</R>
<R> + Estimated for the fund's first full year.</R>
<R> A Reflects compensation received for the calendar year ended December 31, 2011, for 22 funds of two trusts.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the Trustees, Member of the Advisory Board, and officers of the fund owned, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the fund's total outstanding shares.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the following owned of record and/or beneficially 5% or more (up to and including 25%) of the fund's outstanding shares:</R>
<R> Fund Name |
Owner Name |
City |
State |
Ownership %</R> |
<R>Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund |
FIMM LLC |
Boston |
MA |
97.14%</R> |
<R>As of May 31, 2012, approximately 97.14% of the fund's total outstanding shares was held by Strategic Advisers and/or another entity or entities of which FMR LLC is the ultimate parent.</R>
<R>A shareholder owning of record or beneficially more than 25% of a fund's outstanding shares may be considered a controlling person. That shareholder's vote could have a more significant effect on matters presented at a shareholders' meeting than votes of other shareholders.</R>
CONTROL OF INVESTMENT ADVISERS
FMR LLC, as successor by merger to FMR Corp., is the ultimate parent company of Strategic Advisers and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (Pyramis). The voting common shares of FMR LLC are divided into two series. Series B is held predominantly by members of the Edward C. Johnson 3d and Abigail P. Johnson family, directly or through trust and limited liability companies, and is entitled to 49% of the vote on any matter acted upon by the voting common shares. Series A is held predominantly by non-Johnson family member employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates and is entitled to 51% of the vote on any such matter. The Johnson family group and all other Series B shareholders have entered into a shareholders' voting agreement under which all Series B shares will be voted in accordance with the majority vote of Series B shares. Under the 1940 Act, control of a company is presumed where one individual or group of individuals owns more than 25% of the voting securities of that company. Therefore, through their ownership of voting common shares and the execution of the shareholders' voting agreement, members of the Johnson family may be deemed, under the 1940 Act, to form a controlling group with respect to FMR LLC.
At present, the primary business activities of FMR LLC and its subsidiaries are: (i) the provision of investment advisory, management, shareholder, investment information and assistance and certain fiduciary services for individual and institutional investors; (ii) the provision of securities brokerage services; (iii) the management and development of real estate; and (iv) the investment in and operation of a number of emerging businesses.
Brandywine Global, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 2929 Arch Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104. Brandywine Global is a wholly owned, independently operated subsidiary of Legg Mason, Inc.
Cohen & Steers, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 280 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10017. Cohen & Steers is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cohen & Steers, Inc. (CNS).
<R></R>
<R>LSV, a registered investment adviser, has its principal office at 155 North Wacker Drive, Suite 4600, Chicago, IL 60606. LSV is a Delaware general partnership between its employees (59%) and SEI Funds, Inc. (41%), a wholly-owned subsidiary of SEI Investments Company.</R>
<R>Pyramis is a registered investment adviser. FMR LLC is the ultimate parent company of Pyramis. Information regarding the ownership of FMR LLC is disclosed above.</R>
<R>Strategic Advisers, Brandywine Global, Cohen & Steers, LSV, Pyramis (the Investment Advisers), Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC), and the fund have adopted codes of ethics under Rule 17j-1 of the 1940 Act that set forth employees' fiduciary responsibilities regarding the fund, establish procedures for personal investing, and restrict certain transactions. Employees subject to the codes of ethics, including the Investment Advisers' investment personnel, may invest in securities for their own investment accounts, including securities that may be purchased or held by the fund.</R>
The fund has entered into a management contract with Strategic Advisers, pursuant to which Strategic Advisers furnishes investment advisory and other services.
The fund's initial shareholder approved a proposal permitting Strategic Advisers to enter into new or amended sub-advisory agreements with one or more unaffiliated sub-advisers without obtaining shareholder approval of such agreements, subject to conditions of an exemptive order that has been granted by the SEC (Exemptive Order). One of the conditions of the Exemptive Order requires the Board of Trustees to approve any such agreement. Subject to oversight by the Board of Trustees, Strategic Advisers has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the fund's sub-advisers and recommend their hiring, termination, and replacement. In the event the Board of Trustees approves a sub-advisory agreement with a new unaffiliated sub-adviser, shareholders will be provided with information about the new sub-adviser and sub-advisory agreement within ninety days of appointment.
<R>Strategic Advisers has retained Brandywine Global, Cohen & Steers, LSV, and Pyramis to serve as sub-advisers for the fund. The sub-advisers do not sponsor the fund.</R>
It is not possible to predict the extent to which the fund's assets will be invested by a particular sub-adviser at any given time and one or more sub-advisers may not be managing any assets for the fund at any given time.
Management and Sub-Advisory Services. Under the terms of its management contract with the fund, Strategic Advisers acts as investment adviser and, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, directs the investments of the fund in accordance with its investment objective, policies and limitations. Strategic Advisers is authorized, in its discretion, to allocate the fund's assets pursuant to its investment strategy. Strategic Advisers or its affiliates provide the fund with all necessary office facilities and personnel for servicing the fund's investments, compensate all officers of the fund and all Trustees who are interested persons of the trust or of Strategic Advisers, and compensate all personnel of the fund or Strategic Advisers performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities.
In addition, Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, provide the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the fund. These services include providing facilities for maintaining the fund's organization; supervising relations with custodians, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, underwriters and other persons dealing with the fund; preparing all general shareholder communications and conducting shareholder relations; maintaining the fund's records and the registration of the fund's shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws; developing management and shareholder services for the fund; and furnishing reports, evaluations and analyses on a variety of subjects to the Trustees.
Under its respective sub-advisory agreement, and subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, each sub-adviser directs the investment of its allocated portion of the fund's assets in accordance with the fund's investment objective, policies and limitations.
Management-Related Expenses. In addition to the management fee payable to Strategic Advisers and the fees payable to the transfer agent and pricing and bookkeeping agent, the fund pays all of its expenses that are not assumed by those parties. The fund pays for the typesetting, printing, and mailing of its proxy materials to shareholders, legal expenses, and the fees of the custodian, auditor, and Independent Trustees. The fund's management contract further provides that the fund will pay for typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, notices, and reports to shareholders; however, under the terms of the fund's transfer agent agreement, the transfer agent bears these costs. Other expenses paid by the fund include interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, the fund's proportionate share of insurance premiums and Investment Company Institute dues, and the costs of registering shares under federal securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities laws. The fund is also liable for such non-recurring expenses as may arise, including costs of any litigation to which the fund may be a party, and any obligation it may have to indemnify its officers and Trustees with respect to litigation.
Management Fees. For the services of Strategic Advisers under the management contract, the fund pays Strategic Advisers a monthly management fee calculated by adding the annual rate of 0.30% of the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month plus the total fees payable monthly to the fund's sub-advisers based upon each sub-adviser's respective allocated portion of the fund's assets; provided, however, that the fund's maximum aggregate annual management fee will not exceed 1.00% of the fund's average daily net assets.
<R>The following table shows the amount of management fees paid by the fund to Strategic Advisers for the past fiscal year.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Strategic Advisers may, from time to time, voluntarily reimburse all or a portion of the fund's operating expenses. Strategic Advisers retains the ability to be repaid for these expense reimbursements in the amount that expenses fall below the limit prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Expense reimbursements by Strategic Advisers will increase the fund's returns, and repayment of the reimbursement by the fund will decrease its returns.
<R> Sub-Adviser - Brandywine Global. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Brandywine Global pursuant to which Brandywine Global may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Brandywine Global fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Brandywine Global pursuant to a separately negotiated investment mandate (a "Strategy"). The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Brandywine Global under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Brandywine Global pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - Cohen & Steers. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Cohen & Steers pursuant to which Cohen & Steers may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Cohen & Steers fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Cohen & Steers pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Cohen & Steers under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Cohen & Steers pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - LSV. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with LSV pursuant to which LSV may provide investment advisory services for the fund. Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays LSV fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by LSV pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by LSV under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by LSV pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
<R> Sub-Adviser - Pyramis. The fund and Strategic Advisers have entered into a sub-advisory agreement with Pyramis pursuant to which Pyramis may provide investment advisory services for the fund.</R>
<R>Under the terms of the sub-advisory agreement, for providing investment management services to the fund, Strategic Advisers pays Pyramis fees based on the net assets of the portion of the fund managed by Pyramis pursuant to a separately negotiated Strategy. The fees are calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed by Pyramis under a particular Strategy. Aggregated Assets for a particular Strategy means the assets of all registered investment companies managed by Strategic Advisers that are managed by Pyramis pursuant to that Strategy.</R>
Pyramis has not currently been allocated a portion of the fund's assets to manage.
<R>The following table shows the aggregate amount of sub-advisory fees paid by Strategic Advisers, on behalf of the fund, to unaffiliated sub-advisers for the past fiscal year.</R>
<R> A Fund commenced operations on November 16, 2011.</R>
<R> B Annualized.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Strategic Advisers. John A. Stone is an employee of Strategic Advisers, a subsidiary of FMR LLC and an affiliate of FMR. Strategic Advisers is the adviser to the fund.
<R>Mr. Stone is the lead portfolio manager of the fund and receives compensation for his services. As of May 31, 2012, portfolio manager compensation generally consists of a fixed base salary determined periodically (typically annually), a bonus, in certain cases, participation in several types of equity-based compensation plans, and, if applicable, relocation plan benefits. A portion of the portfolio manager's compensation may be deferred based on criteria established by Strategic Advisers or at the election of the portfolio manager.</R>
The portfolio manager's base salary is determined by level of responsibility and tenure at Strategic Advisers or its affiliates. The primary components of the portfolio manager's bonus are based on (i) the pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) measured against a benchmark index and within a defined peer group assigned to each fund or account, and (ii) the investment performance of a broad range of Strategic Advisers funds and accounts, including the fund. Accounts may include model portfolios designed for asset allocation, retirement planning, or tax-sensitive goals. The pre-tax investment performance of the portfolio manager's fund(s) and account(s) is weighted according to his tenure on those fund(s) and account(s), and the average asset size of those fund(s) and account(s) over his tenure. Each component is calculated separately over a measurement period that initially is contemporaneous with the portfolio manager's tenure, but that eventually encompasses rolling periods of up to three years for the comparison to a benchmark index and peer group. A subjective component of the bonus is based on the portfolio manager's overall contribution to management of Strategic Advisers.
<R>The portion of the portfolio manager's bonus that is linked to the investment performance of the fund is based on the fund's pre-tax investment performance measured against the Russell 1000 ® Value Index, and the pre-tax investment performance of the fund within the Morningstar ® Large Value peer group. The portfolio manager may be compensated under equity-based compensation plans linked to increases or decreases in the net asset value of the stock of FMR LLC, Strategic Advisers' parent company. FMR LLC is a diverse financial services company engaged in various activities that include fund management, brokerage, retirement, and employer administrative services. If requested to relocate their primary residence, portfolio managers also may be eligible to receive benefits, such as home sale assistance and payment of certain moving expenses, under relocation plans for most full-time employees of FMR LLC and its affiliates.</R>
The portfolio manager's compensation plan may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. Although investors in a fund may invest through either tax-deferred accounts or taxable accounts, the portfolio manager's compensation is linked to the pre-tax performance of the fund, rather than its after-tax performance. The portfolio manager's base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management and a portion of the bonus relates to marketing efforts, which together indirectly link compensation to sales. When a portfolio manager takes over a fund or an account, the time period over which performance is measured may be adjusted to provide a transition period in which to assess the portfolio. The management of multiple funds and accounts (including proprietary accounts) may give rise to potential conflicts of interest if the funds and accounts have different objectives, benchmarks, time horizons, and fees as a portfolio manager must allocate his time and investment ideas across multiple funds and accounts. In addition, a fund's trade allocation policies and procedures may give rise to conflicts of interest if the fund's orders do not get fully executed due to being aggregated with those of other accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or an affiliate. The portfolio manager may execute transactions for another fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a fund. Securities selected for other funds or accounts may outperform the securities selected for the fund. Portfolio managers may be permitted to invest in the funds they manage, even if a fund is closed to new investors. Trading in personal accounts, which may give rise to potential conflicts of interest, is restricted by a fund's Code of Ethics.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Stone as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R> |
Registered
|
Other Pooled
|
Other
|
<R>Number of Accounts Managed |
6 |
134 |
none</R> |
<R>Number of Accounts Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees |
none |
none |
none</R> |
<R>Assets Managed (in millions) |
$ 22,647 |
$ 29,632 |
none</R> |
<R>Assets Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees (in millions) |
none |
none |
none</R> |
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund ($11 (in millions) assets managed). The amount of assets managed of the fund reflects trades and other assets as of the close of the business day prior to the fund's fiscal year-end.</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Stone was $10,001-$50,000.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Brandywine Global. All Portfolio Managers receive a competitive base salary. In addition, from the firm's profits, a bonus is paid quarterly and based on the performance of their investment strategies relative to a relevant peer-group universe over one-quarter, one-, three- and five-year time periods. After this performance-based incentive compensation is allocated, profits associated with individual product groups are allocated as follows: a majority is retained within the product group and the remainder is allocated to a pool shared by all product groups. More subjective measurements of an individual's contributions to the success of their product group and to the overall success of the firm are considered as part of the individual allocation decision. Finally, all investment professionals are eligible for options on Legg Mason stock, provided from time-to-time at Legg Mason's discretion to its investment management subsidiaries. Brandywine Global believes this system achieves the goal of retaining top-quality investment professionals, as it provides extremely competitive compensation with entrepreneurial potential, and of fostering excellent performance, growth, and teamwork.
Conflicts of Interest. Brandywine Global believes that there are no material conflicts of interest that arise in connection with its simultaneous management of its various portfolios. All portfolios within a given investment style are treated in a similar fashion for all investment decisions, unless a client provides specific investment restrictions. All trade executions of a given investment decision are allocated in an unbiased manner to avoid any conflict over allocation of investment opportunities.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Otto as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund ($4 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Otto was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Tonkovich as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund ($4 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Tonkovich was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Kirby as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund ($4 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Kirby was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - Cohen & Steers. Compensation of Cohen & Steers portfolio managers and other investment professionals has three primary components: (1) a base salary, (2) an annual cash bonus and (3) long-term stock-based compensation consisting generally of restricted stock units of Cohen & Steers' parent, CNS. Cohen & Steers' investment professionals, including the portfolio managers, also receive certain retirement, insurance and other benefits that are broadly available to all of its employees. Compensation of investment professionals is reviewed primarily on an annual basis. Cash bonuses, stock-based compensation awards, and adjustments in base salary are typically paid or put into effect in the January following the fiscal year-end of CNS.
Cohen & Steers compensates its portfolio managers based primarily on the scale and complexity of their portfolio responsibilities and the total return performance of funds and accounts managed by the portfolio manager compared with appropriate peer groups or benchmarks. In evaluating the performance of a portfolio manager, primary emphasis is normally placed on one- and three-year performance. Performance is evaluated on a pre-tax and pre-expense basis. In addition to rankings within peer groups of funds on the basis of absolute performance, consideration may also be given to risk-adjusted performance. For managers responsible for multiple funds and accounts, investment performance is evaluated on an aggregate basis. Portfolio managers are also evaluated on the basis of their success in managing their dedicated team of analysts. Base compensation for portfolio managers of Cohen & Steers varies in line with the portfolio manager's seniority and position with the firm.
Salaries, bonuses and stock-based compensation are also influenced by the operating performance of Cohen & Steers and CNS. While the annual salaries of the Cohen & Steers' portfolio managers are fixed, cash bonuses and stock based compensation may fluctuate significantly from year-to-year, based on changes in manager performance and other factors.
In addition, Mr. Helm, the Portfolio Manager for the Fund at Cohen & Steers, and the Cohen & Steers investment team that is assembled in Seattle, Washington to manage large cap value portfolios are entitled to additional compensation based on a percentage of revenues, less allocated expenses, associated with fees paid to Cohen & Steers with respect to large cap value portfolios.
Conflicts of Interests. Although the potential for conflicts of interest exist when an investment adviser and portfolio managers manage other accounts that invest in securities in which a fund may invest or that may pursue a strategy similar to one of the fund's strategies (collectively, "Similar Accounts"), Cohen & Steers has procedures in place that are designed to ensure that all accounts are treated fairly and that the fund is not disadvantaged.
For example, a portfolio manager may have conflicts of interest in allocating management time, resources and investment opportunities among a fund and the other accounts or vehicles he advises. In addition, due to differences in the investment strategies or restrictions among a fund and the other accounts, a portfolio manager may take action with respect to another account that differs from the action taken with respect to a fund. In some cases, another account managed by a portfolio manager may provide more revenue to Cohen & Steers. While this may appear to create additional conflicts of interest for the portfolio manager in the allocation of management time, resources and investment opportunities, Cohen & Steers strives to ensure that portfolio managers endeavor to exercise their discretion in a manner that is equitable to all interested persons. In this regard, in the absence of specific account-related limitations (such as client-imposed restrictions or lack of available cash), it is the general policy of Cohen & Steers to allocate investment ideas pro rata to all accounts with the same primary investment strategy, except where an allocation would not produce a meaningful position size. In addition, a fund, as a registered investment company, is subject to different regulations than certain of the other accounts, and, consequently, may not be permitted to engage in all the investment techniques or transactions, or to engage in such techniques or transactions to the same degree, as the other accounts.
Certain Cohen & Steers portfolio managers may from time to time manage one or more accounts on behalf of Cohen & Steers and its affiliated companies (the "CNS Accounts"). Certain securities held and traded in the CNS Accounts also may be held and traded in one or more client accounts. It is the policy of Cohen & Steers; however, not to put the interests of the CNS Accounts ahead of the interests of client accounts. Cohen & Steers may aggregate orders of client accounts with those of the CNS Accounts; however, under no circumstances will preferential treatment be given to the CNS Accounts. For all orders involving the CNS Accounts, purchases or sales will be allocated prior to trade placement, and orders that are only partially filled will be allocated across all accounts in proportion to the shares each account, including the CNS Accounts, was designated to receive prior to trading, except as noted below. As a result, it is expected that the CNS Accounts will receive the same average price as other accounts included in the aggregated order. Shares will not normally be allocated or re-allocated to the CNS Accounts after trade execution or after the average price is known. However, in the event so few shares of an order are executed that a pro-rata allocation is not practical, a rotational system of allocation may be used; however, the CNS Accounts will never be part of that rotation or receive shares of a partially filled order other than on a pro-rata basis.
Because certain CNS Accounts are managed with a cash management objective, it is possible that a security will be sold out of the CNS Accounts but continue to be held for one or more client accounts. In situations when this occurs, such security will remain in a client account only if Cohen & Steers, acting in their reasonable judgment and consistent with its fiduciary duties, believes this is appropriate for, and consistent with the objectives and profile of, the client account.
Certain accounts managed by Cohen & Steers may compensate Cohen & Steers using performance based fees. Orders for these accounts will be aggregated, to the extent possible, with any other account managed by Cohen & Steers, regardless of the method of compensation. In the event such orders are aggregated, allocation of partially-filled orders will be made on a pro-rata basis in accordance with pre-trade indications. An account's fee structure is not considered when making allocation decisions.
Finally, the structure of a portfolio manager's compensation may give rise to potential conflicts of interest. A portfolio manager's base pay and bonus tend to increase with additional and more complex responsibilities that include increased assets under management. As such, there may be an indirect relationship between a portfolio manager's marketing or sales efforts and his or her bonus.
Cohen & Steers has adopted certain compliance procedures that are designed to address the above conflicts as well as other types of conflicts of interests. However, there is no guarantee that such procedures will detect each and every situation where a conflict arises.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Helm as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R> |
Registered
|
Other Pooled
|
Other
|
<R>Number of Accounts Managed |
5 |
2 |
17</R> |
<R>Number of Accounts Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees |
none |
none |
1</R> |
<R>Assets Managed (in millions) |
$ 2,155 |
$ 368 |
$ 753</R> |
<R>Assets Managed with Performance-Based Advisory Fees (in millions) |
none |
none |
$ 71</R> |
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Helm was none.</R>
Portfolio Manager Compensation - LSV. The portfolio managers' compensation consists of a salary and discretionary bonus. Each of the portfolio managers is a partner of LSV and thereby receives a portion of the overall profit of LSV as part of his ownership interests. The bonus is based upon the profitability of LSV and individual performance. Individual performance is subjective and may be based on a number of factors, such as the individual's leadership and contribution to the strategic planning and development of the investment group.
Conflicts of Interest. The same team of portfolio managers is responsible for the day-to-day management of all of LSV's accounts. A potential conflict of interest could arise in relation to accounts with a performance-based fee relative to other accounts in the same strategy without a performance-based fee and accounts in which employees may be invested. LSV has policies and procedures to monitor for this potential conflict and designed to ensure that investment opportunities are fairly allocated to all clients.
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Lakonishok as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Lakonishok was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Vermeulen as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Vermeulen was none.</R>
<R>The following table provides information relating to other accounts managed by Mr. Mansharamani as of May 31, 2012:</R>
<R>* Includes Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund ($3 (in millions) assets managed).</R>
<R>As of May 31, 2012, the dollar range of shares of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund beneficially owned by Mr. Mansharamani was none.</R>
Proxy Voting - Strategic Advisers.
The following Proxy Voting Guidelines were established by the Board of Trustees of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of the fund, after consultation with Strategic Advisers. (The guidelines are reviewed periodically by Strategic Advisers and its affiliates and by the Independent Trustees of the fund, and, accordingly, are subject to change.)
I. General Principles
A. The funds in the trust generally intend to vote shares of underlying funds using echo voting procedures (that is, in the same proportion as the holders of all other shares of the particular underlying fund).
B. Any proposals not covered by paragraph A above or other special circumstances will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis with input from the appropriate Strategic Advisers analyst or portfolio manager, as applicable, subject to review and approval by the General Counsel or Compliance Officer of FMR or the General Counsel of FMR LLC.
Sub-Advisers:
Proxy voting policies and procedures are used by a sub-adviser to determine how to vote proxies relating to the securities held by its allocated portion of the fund's assets. The proxy voting policies and procedures used by the sub-advisers are described below.
Proxy Voting - Brandywine Global.
Policy. Brandywine Global has a responsibility to its clients for voting proxies for portfolio securities consistent with the best economic interests of its clients. Brandywine Global maintains written policies and procedures as to the handling, research, voting and reporting of proxy voting and makes appropriate disclosures about our firm's proxy policies and practices. The policy and practice includes the fact that the firm has a responsibility to monitor corporate actions, receive and vote client proxies and disclose any potential conflicts of interest as well as making information available to clients about the voting of proxies for their portfolio securities and maintaining relevant and required records.
Background. Proxy voting is an important right of shareholders and reasonable care and diligence must be undertaken to ensure that such rights are properly and timely exercised.
Investment advisers registered with the SEC, and which exercise voting authority with respect to client securities, are required by Rule 206(4)-6 of the Advisers Act to (a) adopt and implement written policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to ensure that client securities are voted in the best interests of clients, which must include how an adviser addresses material conflicts that may arise between an adviser's interests and those of its clients; (b) to disclose to clients how they may obtain information from the adviser with respect to the voting of proxies for their securities; (c) to describe to clients a summary of its proxy voting policies and procedures and, upon request, furnish a copy to its clients; and (d) maintain certain records relating to the adviser's proxy voting activities when the adviser does have proxy voting authority.
Responsibility. Compliance has the responsibility for the implementation and monitoring of the firm's proxy voting policy, practices, disclosures and record keeping, including outlining voting guidelines in the procedures.
Procedures. Brandywine Global has implemented policies and procedures that we believe are reasonably designed to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interest of clients, in accordance with our fiduciary duties and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 ("Advisers Act"). Our authority to vote the proxies of our clients is established through investment management agreements or comparable documents.
In exercising its voting authority, Brandywine Global will not consult or enter into agreements with officers, directors or employees of its parent, Legg Mason Inc., or any of its affiliates, regarding the voting of any securities owned by its clients.
While the guidelines included in the procedures are intended to provide a benchmark for voting standards, each vote is ultimately cast on a case-by-case basis, taking into consideration Brandywine Global's contractual obligations to our clients and all other relevant facts and circumstances at the time of the vote (such that these guidelines may be overridden to the extent Brandywine Global believes appropriate).
Voting Authority
Voting Guidelines
Voting Records & Client Notification
A proxy log shall be maintained by Brandywine Global that includes the issuer name, exchange ticker symbol, CUSIP number, shareholder meeting date, brief identification of the matter voted on, whether the matter was proposed by the issuer or by a shareholder of the issuer, whether a vote was cast on the matter, record of how the vote was cast, and whether the vote was cast for or against the recommendation of the issuer's management team.
In addition, a description of these Policies shall be provided to new clients prior to the inception of their account, simultaneous with the provision of Brandywine Global's Disclosure Brochure whenever possible.
Administration of Proxies
Administration of Client Requests
Identifying Potential Conflict of interest
Personal Conflicts
1. any potential personal conflict with regard to a specific proxy; and
2. any potential conflict of which they become aware relating to another voting person.
1 17 CFR Part 275 [Release No. IA-2106; File No. S7-38-02], RIN 3235-AI65
Professional Conflicts
<R> Proxy Voting - Cohen & Steers. </R>
<R>A. General Proxy Voting Guidelines </R>
<R>Voting rights are an important component of corporate governance. Cohen & Steers has three overall objectives in exercising voting rights:</R>
<R> Responsibility. Cohen & Steers shall seek to ensure that there is an effective means in place to hold companies accountable for their actions. While management must be accountable to its board, the board must be accountable to a company's shareholders. Although accountability can be promoted in a variety of ways, protecting shareholder voting rights may be among our most important tools.</R>
<R> Rationalizing Management and Shareholder Concerns. Cohen & Steers seeks to ensure that the interests of a company's management and board are aligned with those of the company's shareholders. In this respect, compensation must be structured to reward the creation of shareholder value.</R>
<R> Shareholder Communication. Since companies are owned by their shareholders, Cohen & Steers seeks to ensure that management effectively communicates with its owners about the company's business operations and financial performance. It is only with effective communication that shareholders will be able to assess the performance of management and to make informed decisions on when to buy, sell or hold a company's securities.</R>
<R>In exercising voting rights, Cohen & Steers shall conduct itself in accordance with the general principles set forth below.</R>
<R>The ability to exercise a voting right with respect to a security is a valuable right and, therefore, must be viewed as part of the asset itself.</R>
<R>In exercising voting rights, Cohen & Steers shall engage in a careful evaluation of issues that may materially affect the rights of shareholders and the value of the security.</R>
<R>Consistent with general fiduciary principles, the exercise of voting rights shall always be conducted with reasonable care, prudence and diligence.</R>
<R>In exercising voting rights on behalf of clients, Cohen & Steers shall conduct itself in the same manner as if Cohen & Steers were the constructive owner of the securities.</R>
<R>To the extent reasonably possible, Cohen & Steers shall participate in each shareholder voting opportunity. </R>
<R>Voting rights shall not automatically be exercised in favor of management-supported proposals.</R>
<R>Cohen & Steers, and its officers and employees, shall never accept any item of value in consideration of a favorable proxy voting decision.</R>
<R>Set forth below are general guidelines that Cohen & Steers shall follow in exercising proxy voting rights:</R>
<R> Prudence. In making a proxy voting decision, Cohen & Steers shall give appropriate consideration to all relevant facts and circumstances, including the value of the securities to be voted and the likely effect any vote may have on that value. Since voting rights must be exercised on the basis of an informed judgment, investigation shall be a critical initial step.</R>
<R> Third Party Views. While Cohen & Steers may consider the views of third parties, Cohen & Steers shall never base a proxy voting decision solely on the opinion of a third party. Rather, decisions shall be based on a reasonable and good faith determination as to how best to maximize shareholder value. </R>
<R> Shareholder Value. Just as the decision whether to purchase or sell a security is a matter of judgment, determining whether a specific proxy resolution will increase the market value of a security is a matter of judgment as to which informed parties may differ. In determining how a proxy vote may affect the economic value of a security, Cohen & Steers shall consider both short-term and long-term views about a company's business and prospects, especially in light of our projected holding period on the stock (e.g., Cohen & Steers may discount long-term views on a short-term holding).</R>
<R>B. Specific Guidelines </R>
<R> Uncontested Director Elections </R>
<R>Votes on director nominees should be made on a case-by-case basis using a "mosaic" approach, where all factors are considered in director elections and where no single issue is deemed to be determinative. For example, a nominee's experience and business judgment may be critical to the long-term success of the portfolio company, notwithstanding the fact that he or she may serve on the board of more than four public companies. In evaluating nominees, we consider the following factors:</R>
<R>Whether the nominee attended less than 75 percent of the board and committee meetings without a valid excuse for the absences;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is an inside or affiliated outside director and sits on the audit, compensation, or nominating committees;</R>
<R>Whether the board ignored a significant shareholder proposal that was approved by a (i) majority of the shares outstanding or (ii) majority of the votes cast for two consecutive years;</R>
<R>Whether the board, without shareholder approval, to our knowledge instituted a new poison pill plan, extended an existing plan, or adopted a new plan upon the expiration of an existing plan during the past year;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is an inside or affiliated outside director and the full board serves as the audit, compensation, or nominating committee or the company does not have one of these committees;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is an insider or affiliated outsider on boards that are not at least majority independent;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is the CEO of a publicly-traded company who serves on more than two public boards;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee is the chairperson of more than one publicly-traded company;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee serves on more than four public company boards;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee serves on the audit committee where there is evidence (such as audit reports or reports mandated under the Sarbanes Oxley Act) that there exists material weaknesses in the company's internal controls;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee serves on the compensation committee if that director was present at the time of the grant of backdated options or options the pricing or the timing of which we believe may have been manipulated to provide additional benefits to executives;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee has a material related party transaction or is believed by us to have a material conflict of interest with the portfolio company;</R>
<R>Whether the nominee (or the overall board) in our view has a record of making poor corporate or strategic decisions or has demonstrated an overall lack of good business judgment, including, among other things, whether the company's total shareholder return is in the bottom 25% of its peer group over the prior five years;</R>
<R>Material failures of governance, stewardship, risk oversight, or fiduciary responsibilities at the company; </R>
<R>Failure to replace management as appropriate; and </R>
<R>Egregious actions related to a director's service on other boards that raise substantial doubt about his or her ability to effectively oversee management and serve the best interests of shareholders at any company.</R>
<R>We recognize the importance of shareholder access to the ballot process as a means to ensure that boards do not become self-perpetuating and self-serving. However, we are also aware that some proposals may promote certain interest groups and could be disruptive to the nomination process. We will generally vote against proxy access except in instances where companies have displayed a lack of shareholder accountability and where the proposal is specifically defined ( i.e. minimum ownership threshold, duration, etc.). </R>
<R> Director Nominees in a Contested Election </R>
<R>By definition, this type of board candidate or slate runs for the purpose of seeking a significant change in corporate policy or control. Therefore, the economic impact of the vote in favor of or in opposition to that director or slate must be analyzed using a higher standard such as is normally applied to changes in control. Criteria for evaluating director nominees as a group or individually should also include: the underlying reason why the new slate (or individual director) is being proposed; performance; compensation; corporate governance provisions and takeover activity; criminal activity; attendance at meetings; investment in the company; interlocking directorships; inside, outside and independent directors; number of other board seats; and other experience. It is impossible to have a general policy regarding director nominees in a contested election.</R>
<R> Reimbursement of Proxy Solicitation Expenses </R>
<R>Decisions to provide full reimbursement for dissidents waging a proxy contest should be made on a case-by-case basis. </R>
<R> Ratification of Auditors </R>
<R>We vote for proposals to ratify auditors, unless an auditor has a financial interest in or association with the company, and is therefore not independent; or there is reason to believe that the independent auditor has rendered an opinion that is neither accurate nor indicative of the company's financial position. </R>
<R>Generally, we vote against auditor ratification and withhold votes from audit committee members if non-audit fees exceed audit fees.</R>
<R>We vote on a case-by-case basis on auditor rotation proposals. Criteria for evaluating the rotation proposal include, but are not limited to: tenure of the audit firm; establishment and disclosure of a renewal process whereby the auditor is regularly evaluated for both audit quality and competitive price; length of the rotation period advocated in the proposal; and any significant audit related issues.</R>
<R>Generally, we vote against auditor indemnification and limitation of liability; however we recognize there may be situations where indemnification and limitations on liability may be appropriate. </R>
<R>While we recognize that a takeover attempt can be a significant distraction for the board and management to deal with, the simple fact is that the possibility of a corporate takeover keeps management focused on maximizing shareholder value. As a result, Cohen & Steers opposes measures that are designed to prevent or obstruct corporate takeovers because they can entrench current management. The following are our guidelines on change of control issues:</R>
<R> Shareholder Rights Plans </R>
<R>We acknowledge that there are arguments for and against shareholder rights plans, also known as "poison pills." Companies should put their case for rights plans to shareholders. </R>
<R>We review on a case-by-case basis management proposals to ratify a poison pill. We generally look for shareholder friendly features including a two- to three-year sunset provision, a permitted bid provision and a 20 percent or higher flip-in provision. </R>
<R> Greenmail</R>
<R>We vote for proposals to adopt anti-greenmail charter or bylaw amendments or otherwise restrict a company's ability to make greenmail payments. </R>
<R> Unequal Voting Rights </R>
<R>Generally, we vote against dual-class recapitalizations as they offer an effective way for a firm to thwart hostile takeovers by concentrating voting power in the hands of management or other insiders. </R>
<R> Classified Boards </R>
<R>We generally vote in favor of shareholder proposals to declassify a board of directors, although we acknowledge that a classified board may be in the long-term best interests of a company in certain situations, such as continuity of a strong board and management team or for certain types of companies. In voting on shareholder proposals to declassify a board of directors, we evaluate all facts and circumstances surrounding such proposal, including whether the shareholder proposing the de-classification has an agenda in making such proposal that may be at odds with the long-term best interests of the company or whether it would be in the best interests of the company to thwart a shareholder's attempt to control the board of directors.</R>
<R> Cumulative Voting</R>
<R>Having the ability to cumulate our votes for the election of directors - that is, cast more than one vote for a director about whom they feel strongly - generally increases shareholders' rights to effect change in the management of a corporation. However, we acknowledge that cumulative voting promotes special candidates who may not represent the interests of all, or even a majority, of shareholders. In voting on proposals to institute cumulative voting, we therefore evaluate all facts and circumstances surrounding such proposal and we generally vote against cumulative voting where the company has good corporate governance practices in place, including majority voting for board elections and de-staggered boards.</R>
<R> Shareholder Ability to Call Special Meeting </R>
<R>Cohen & Steers votes on a case-by-case basis for shareholder proposals requesting companies to amend their governance documents (bylaws and/or charter) in order to allow shareholders to call special meetings. We recognize the importance on shareholder ability to call a special meeting and generally will vote for such shareholder proposals where the shareholder(s) making such proposal hold at least 20% of the company's outstanding shares. However, we are also aware that some proposals are put forth in order to promote the agenda(s) of certain special interest groups and could be disruptive to the management of the company, and in those cases we will vote against such shareholder proposals. </R>
<R> Shareholder Ability to Act by Written Consent </R>
<R>We generally vote against proposals to allow or facilitate shareholder action by written consent. The requirement that all shareholders be given notice of a shareholders' meeting and matters to be discussed therein seems to provide a reasonable protection of minority shareholder rights. </R>
<R> Shareholder Ability to Alter the Size of the Board </R>
<R>We generally vote for proposals that seek to fix the size of the board and vote against proposals that give management the ability to alter the size of the board without shareholder approval. While we recognize the importance of such proposals, we are however also aware that these proposals are sometimes put forth in order to promote the agenda(s) of certain special interest groups and could be disruptive to the management of the company.</R>
<R> Miscellaneous Board Provisions </R>
<R> Board Committees </R>
<R>Boards should delegate key oversight functions, such as responsibility for audit, nominating and compensation issues, to independent committees. The chairman and members of any committee should be clearly identified in the annual report. Any committee should have the authority to engage independent advisors where appropriate at the company's expense. </R>
<R>Audit, nominating and compensation committees should consist solely of non-employee directors, who are independent of management. </R>
<R> Separate Chairman and CEO Positions </R>
<R>We will generally vote for proposals looking to separate the CEO and Chairman roles. We do acknowledge, however, that under certain circumstances, it may be reasonable for the CEO and Chairman roles to be held by a single person. </R>
<R> Lead Directors and Executive Sessions </R>
<R>In cases where the CEO and Chairman roles are combined, we will vote for the appointment of a "lead" (non-insider) director and for regular "executive" sessions (board meetings taking place without the CEO/Chairman present).</R>
<R> Majority of Independent Directors </R>
<R>We vote for proposals that call for the board to be composed of a majority of independent directors. We believe that a majority of independent directors can be an important factor in facilitating objective decision making and enhancing accountability to shareholders.</R>
<R> Independent Committees</R>
<R>We vote for shareholder proposals requesting that the board's audit, compensation, and nominating committees consist exclusively of independent directors. </R>
<R> Stock Ownership Requirements </R>
<R>We support measures requiring senior executives to hold a minimum amount of stock in a company (often expressed as a percentage of annual compensation), which may include restricted stock or restricted stock units.</R>
<R> Term of Office</R>
<R>We vote against shareholder proposals to limit the tenure of outside directors. Term limits pose artificial and arbitrary impositions on the board and could harm shareholder interests by forcing experienced and knowledgeable directors off the board.</R>
<R> Director and Officer Indemnification and Liability Protection</R>
<R>Proposals concerning director and officer indemnification and liability protection should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.</R>
<R> Board Size</R>
<R>We generally vote for proposals to limit the size of the board to 15 members or less.</R>
<R> Majority Vote Standard</R>
<R>We generally vote for proposals asking for the board to initiate the appropriate process to amend the company's governance documents (charter or bylaws) to provide that director nominees shall be elected by the affirmative vote of the majority of votes cast at an annual meeting of shareholders. We would generally review on a case-by-case basis proposals that address alternative approaches to a majority vote requirement.</R>
<R> Confidential Voting</R>
<R>We vote for shareholder proposals requesting that companies adopt confidential voting, use independent tabulators, and use independent inspectors of election as long as the proposals include clauses for proxy contests as follows: in the case of a contested election, management should be permitted to request that the dissident group honor its confidential voting policy. If the dissidents agree, the policy remains in place. If the dissidents do not agree, the confidential voting policy is waived.</R>
<R>We also vote for management proposals to adopt confidential voting.</R>
<R>We review on a case-by-case basis bundled or "conditioned" proxy proposals. In the case of items that are conditioned upon each other, we examine the benefits and costs of the packaged items. In instances where the joint effect of the conditioned items is not in shareholders' best interests, we vote against the proposals. If the combined effect is positive, we support such proposals. In the case of bundled director proposals, we will vote for the entire slate only if we would have otherwise voted for each director on an individual basis.</R>
<R> Date/Location of Meeting </R>
<R>We vote against shareholder proposals to change the date or location of the shareholders' meeting. No one site will meet the needs of all shareholders.</R>
<R> Adjourn Meeting if Votes are Insufficient. </R>
<R>Open-end requests for adjournment of a shareholder meeting generally will not be supported. However, where management specifically states the reason for requesting an adjournment and the requested adjournment is necessary to permit a proposal that would otherwise be supported under this policy to be carried out, the adjournment request will be supported. </R>
<R> Disclosure of Shareholder Proponents </R>
<R>We vote for shareholder proposals requesting that companies disclose the names of shareholder proponents. Shareholders may wish to contact the proponents of a shareholder proposal for additional information. </R>
<R> Increase Additional Common Stock </R>
<R>We generally vote for increases in authorized shares, provided that the increase is not greater than three times the number of shares outstanding and reserved for issuance (including shares reserved for stock-related plans and securities convertible into common stock, but not shares reserved for any poison pill plan).</R>
<R>Votes generally are cast in favor of proposals to authorize additional shares of stock except where the proposal:</R>
<R>creates a blank check preferred stock; or</R>
<R>establishes classes of stock with superior voting rights.</R>
<R> Blank Check Preferred Stock </R>
<R>Votes generally are cast in opposition to management proposals authorizing the creation of new classes of preferred stock with unspecific voting, conversion, distribution and other rights, and management proposals to increase the number of authorized blank check preferred shares. We may vote in favor of this type of proposal when we receive assurances to our reasonable satisfaction that (i) the preferred stock was authorized by the board for the use of legitimate capital formation purposes and not for anti-takeover purposes, and (ii) no preferred stock will be issued with voting power that is disproportionate to the economic interests of the preferred stock. These representations should be made either in the proxy statement or in a separate letter from the company to Cohen & Steers.</R>
<R> Pre-emptive Rights </R>
<R>We believe that the governance and regulation of public equity markets allow for adequate shareholder protection against dilution. Further, we believe that companies should have more flexibility to issue shares without costly and time constraining rights offerings. As such, we do not believe that pre-emptive rights are necessary and as such, we generally vote for the issuance of equity shares without pre-emptive rights. On a limited basis, we will vote for shareholder pre-emptive rights where such pre-emptive rights are necessary, taking into account the best interests of the company's shareholders.</R>
<R>We acknowledge that international local practices typically call for shareholder pre-emptive rights when a company seeks authority to issue shares (e.g., UK authority for the issuance of only up to 5% of outstanding shares without pre-emptive rights). While we would prefer that companies be permitted to issue shares without pre-emptive rights, in deference to international local practices, in markets outside the US we will approve issuance requests without pre-emptive rights for up to 100% of a company's outstanding capital.</R>
<R> Dual Class Capitalizations </R>
<R>Because classes of common stock with unequal voting rights limit the rights of certain shareholders, we vote against adoption of a dual or multiple class capitalization structure.</R>
<R> Restructurings/Recapitalizations </R>
<R>We review proposals to increase common and/or preferred shares and to issue shares as part of a debt restructuring plan on a case-by-case basis. In voting, we consider the following issues: </R>
<R>dilution - how much will ownership interest of existing shareholders be reduced, and how extreme will dilution to any future earnings be?</R>
<R>change in control - will the transaction result in a change in control of the company?</R>
<R>bankruptcy - generally, approve proposals that facilitate debt restructurings unless there are clear signs of self-dealing or other abuses.</R>
<R> Share Repurchase Programs </R>
<R>Boards may institute share repurchase or stock buy-back programs for a number of reasons. Cohen & Steers will generally vote in favor of such programs where the repurchase would be in the long-term best interests of shareholders, and where the company is not thought to be able to use the cash in a more useful way.</R>
<R>We will vote against such programs when shareholders' interests could be better served by deployment of the cash for alternative uses, or where the repurchase is a defensive maneuver or an attempt to entrench management.</R>
<R> Targeted Share Placements </R>
<R>These shareholder proposals ask companies to seek stockholder approval before placing 10% or more of their voting stock with a single investor. The proposals are typically in reaction to the placement by various companies of a large block of their voting stock in an ESOP, parent capital fund or with a single friendly investor, with the aim of protecting themselves against a hostile tender offer. These proposals are voted on a case-by-case basis after reviewing the individual situation of the company receiving the proposal.</R>
<R> Executive and Director Compensation </R>
<R> Executive Compensation ("Say on Pay") </R>
<R>Votes regarding shareholder "say on pay" are determined on a case-by-case basis. Generally, we believe that executive compensation should be tied to the long-term performance of the executive and the company both in absolute and relative to the peer group. We therefore monitor the compensation practices of portfolio companies to determine whether compensation to these executives is commensurate to the company's total shareholder return (TSR) ( i.e., we generally expect companies that pay their executives at the higher end of the pay range to also be performing commensurately well).</R>
<R>Further, pay elements that are not directly based on performance are generally evaluated on a case-by-case basis considering the context of a company's overall pay program and demonstrated pay-for-performance philosophy. The following list highlights certain negative pay practices that carry significant weight in this overall consideration and may result in adverse vote recommendations:</R>
<R>Repricing or replacing of underwater stock options/SARS without prior shareholder approval (including cash buyouts and voluntary surrender of underwater options);</R>
<R>Excessive perquisites or tax gross-ups;</R>
<R>New or extended agreements that provide for:</R>
<R>CIC payments exceeding 3 times base salary and bonus;</R>
<R>CIC severance payments without involuntary job loss or substantial diminution of duties ("single" or "modified single" triggers);</R>
<R>CIC payments with excise tax gross-ups (including "modified" gross-ups).</R>
<R>Also, we generally vote for shareholder proposals that seek additional disclosure of executive and director pay information.</R>
<R> Frequency of Advisory Vote on Executive Compensation ("Say When on Pay") </R>
<R>We generally vote for annual advisory votes on compensation as we note that executive compensation is also evaluated on an annual basis by the company's compensation committee.</R>
<R> Stock-based Incentive Plans </R>
<R>Votes with respect to compensation plans should be determined on a case-by-case basis. The analysis of compensation plans focuses primarily on the transfer of shareholder wealth (the dollar cost of pay plans to shareholders). Other matters included in our analysis are the amount of the company's outstanding stock to be reserved for the award of stock options or restricted stock, whether the exercise price of an option is less than the stock's fair market value at the date of the grant of the options, and whether the plan provides for the exchange of outstanding options for new ones at lower exercise prices. Every award type is valued. An estimated dollar cost for the proposed plan and all continuing plans is derived. This cost, dilution to shareholders' equity, will also be expressed as a percentage figure for the transfer of shareholder wealth and will be considered along with dilution to voting power. Once the cost of the plan is estimated, it is compared to an allowable industry-specific and market cap-based dilution cap. </R>
<R>If the proposed plan cost is above the allowable cap, an against vote is indicated. If the proposed cost is below the allowable cap, a vote for the plan is indicated unless the plan violates the repricing guidelines. If the company has a history of repricing options or has the express ability to reprice underwater stock options without first securing shareholder approval under the proposed plan, the plan receives an against vote - even in cases where the plan cost is considered acceptable based on the quantitative analysis. </R>
<R>We vote against equity plans that have high average three year burn rates, unless the company has publicly committed to reduce the burn rate to a rate that is comparable to its peer group (as determined by Cohen & Steers). </R>
<R> Approval of Cash or Cash-and-Stock Bonus Plans </R>
<R>We vote for cash or cash-and-stock bonus plans to exempt the compensation from limits on deductibility under the provisions of Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code.</R>
<R> Reload/Evergreen Features </R>
<R>We will generally vote against plans that enable the issuance of reload options and that provide an automatic share replenishment ("evergreen") feature.</R>
<R> Golden Parachutes </R>
<R>In general, the guidelines call for voting against "golden parachute" plans because they impede potential takeovers that shareholders should be free to consider. In particular, we oppose the use of employment contracts that result in cash grants of greater than three times annual compensation (salary and bonus) and generally withhold our votes at the next shareholder meeting for directors who to our knowledge approved golden parachutes.</R>
<R> Voting on Golden Parachutes in an Acquisition, Merger, Consolidation, or Proposed Sale </R>
<R>We vote on a case-by-case basis on proposals to approve the company's golden parachute compensation. Features that may lead to a vote against include:</R>
<R>Potentially excessive severance payments (cash grants of greater than three times annual compensation (salary and bonus));</R>
<R>Recently adopted or materially amended agreements that include excessive excise tax gross-up provisions (since prior annual meeting);</R>
<R>Recently adopted or materially amended agreements that include modified single triggers (since prior annual meeting);</R>
<R>Single trigger payments that will happen immediately upon a change in control, including cash payment and such items as the acceleration of performance-based equity despite the failure to achieve performance measures;</R>
<R>Single-trigger vesting of equity based on a definition of change in control that requires only shareholder approval of the transaction (rather than consummation);</R>
<R>Recent amendments or other changes that may make packages so attractive as to influence merger agreements that may not be in the best interests of shareholders;</R>
<R>In the case of a substantial gross-up from pre-existing/grandfathered contract: the element that triggered the gross-up ( i.e., option mega-grants at low point in stock price, unusual or outsized payments in cash or equity made or negotiated prior to the merger); or </R>
<R>The company's assertion that a proposed transaction is conditioned on shareholder approval of the golden parachute advisory vote.</R>
<R> 401(k) Employee Benefit Plans </R>
<R>We vote for proposals to implement a 401(k) savings plan for employees.</R>
<R> Employee Stock Purchase Plans </R>
<R>We support employee stock purchase plans, although we generally believe the discounted purchase price should be at least 85% of the current market price.</R>
<R> Option Expensing </R>
<R>We vote for shareholder proposals to expense fixed-price options.</R>
<R> Vesting </R>
<R>We believe that restricted stock awards normally should vest over at least a two-year period.</R>
<R> Option Repricing </R>
<R>Stock options generally should not be re-priced, and never should be re-priced without shareholder approval. In addition, companies should not issue new options, with a lower strike price, to make up for previously issued options that are substantially underwater. Cohen & Steers will vote against the election of any slate of directors that, to its knowledge, has authorized a company to re-price or replace underwater options during the most recent year without shareholder approval.</R>
<R> Stock Holding Periods </R>
<R>Generally vote against all proposals requiring executives to hold the stock received upon option exercise for a specific period of time.</R>
<R> Transferable Stock Options </R>
<R>Review on a case-by-case basis proposals to grant transferable stock options or otherwise permit the transfer of outstanding stock options, including cost of proposal and alignment with shareholder interests.</R>
<R> Recoup Bonuses </R>
<R>We vote on a case-by-case on shareholder proposals to recoup unearned incentive bonuses or other incentive payments made to senior executives if it is later determined that fraud, misconduct, or negligence significantly contributed to a restatement of financial results that led to the awarding of unearned incentive compensation.</R>
<R> Reincorporation Outside of the United States </R>
<R>Generally, we will vote against companies looking to reincorporate outside of the U.S.</R>
<R> Voting on State Takeover Statutes </R>
<R>We review 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, freezeout provisions, fair price provisions, stakeholder laws, poison pill endorsements, severance pay and labor contract provisions, antigreenmail provisions, and disgorgement provisions). In voting on these shareholder proposals, we evaluate all facts and circumstances surrounding such proposal, including whether the shareholder proposing such measure has an agenda in making such proposal that may be at odds with the long-term best interests of the company or whether it would be in the best interests of the company to thwart a shareholder's attempt to control the board of directors.</R>
<R> Voting on Reincorporation Proposals </R>
<R>Proposals to change a company's state of incorporation are examined on a case-by-case basis. In making our decision, we review management's rationale for the proposal, changes to the charter/bylaws, and differences in the state laws governing the companies.</R>
<R> Mergers and Corporate Restructurings </R>
<R> Mergers and Acquisitions </R>
<R>Votes on mergers and acquisitions should be considered on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors including the following: anticipated financial and operating benefits; offer price (cost vs. premium); prospects of the combined companies; how the deal was negotiated; and changes in corporate governance and their impact on shareholder rights.</R>
<R>We vote against proposals that require a super-majority of shareholders to approve a merger or other significant business combination. We support proposals that seek to lower super-majority voting requirements.</R>
<R> Nonfinancial Effects of a Merger or Acquisition </R>
<R>Some companies have proposed a charter provision which specifies that the board of directors may examine the nonfinancial effect of a merger or acquisition on the company. This provision would allow the board to evaluate the impact a proposed change in control would have on employees, host communities, suppliers and/or others. We generally vote against proposals to adopt such charter provisions. We feel it is the directors' fiduciary duty to base decisions solely on the financial interests of the shareholders.</R>
<R> Corporate Restructuring </R>
<R>Votes on corporate restructuring proposals, including minority squeezeouts, leveraged buyouts, "going private" proposals, spin-offs, liquidations, and asset sales, should be considered on a case-by-case basis.</R>
<R> Spin-offs </R>
<R>Votes on spin-offs should be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the tax and regulatory advantages, planned use of sale proceeds, market focus, and managerial incentives.</R>
<R> Asset Sales </R>
<R>Votes on asset sales should be made on a case-by-case basis after considering the impact on the balance sheet/working capital, value received for the asset, and potential elimination of diseconomies.</R>
<R> Liquidations </R>
<R>Votes on liquidations should be made on a case-by-case basis after reviewing management's efforts to pursue other alternatives, appraisal value of assets, and the compensation plan for executives managing the liquidation.</R>
<R> Appraisal Rights </R>
<R>We vote for proposals to restore, or provide shareholders with, rights of appraisal. Rights of appraisal provide shareholders who are not satisfied with the terms of certain corporate transactions the right to demand a judicial review in order to determine a fair value for their shares.</R>
<R> Changing Corporate Name </R>
<R>We vote for changing the corporate name.</R>
<R> Shareholder Rights </R>
<R>Our position on the rights of shareholders is as follows:</R>
<R>Shareholders should be given the opportunity to exercise their rights. Notification of opportunities for the exercise of voting rights should be given in good time.</R>
<R>Shareholders are entitled to submit questions to company management.</R>
<R>Minority shareholders should be protected as far as possible from the exercise of voting rights by majority shareholders.</R>
<R>Shareholders are entitled to hold company management as well as the legal person or legal entity accountable for any action caused by the company or company management for which the company, company management or legal entity should bear responsibility.</R>
<R> Environmental and Social Issues </R>
<R>We recognize that the companies in which we invest can enhance shareholder value and long-term profitability by adopting policies and procedures that promote corporate social and environmental responsibility. Because of the diverse nature of environmental and social shareholder proposals and the myriad ways companies deal with them, these proposals should be considered on a case-by-case basis. All such proposals are scrutinized based on whether they contribute to the creation of shareholder value, are reasonable and relevant, and provide adequate disclosure of key issues to shareholders. When evaluating social and environmental shareholder proposals, we tend to focus on the financial aspects of the social and environmental proposals, and we consider the following factors (in the order of importance as set forth below):</R>
<R>Whether adoption of the proposal is likely to have significant economic benefit for the company, such that shareholder value is enhanced or protected by the adoption of the proposal;</R>
<R>Whether the issues presented are more appropriately/effectively dealt with through governmental or company-specific action, as many social and environmental issues are more properly the province of government and broad regulatory action;</R>
<R>Whether the subject of the proposal is best left to the discretion of the board;</R>
<R>Whether the company has already responded in some appropriate manner to the request embodied in the proposal;</R>
<R>Whether the information requested concerns business issues that relate to a meaningful percentage of the company's business as measured by sales, assets, and earnings;</R>
<R>The degree to which the company's stated position on the issues raised in the proposal could affect its reputation or sales, or leave it vulnerable to a boycott or selective purchasing;</R>
<R>Whether implementation of the proposal's request would achieve the proposal's objectives;</R>
<R>Whether the requested information is available to shareholders either from the company or from a publicly available source; and</R>
<R>Whether providing this information would reveal proprietary or confidential information that would place the company at a competitive disadvantage.</R>
Proxy Voting - LSV.
Voting Responsibility. LSV's standard investment management agreement expressly authorizes LSV to vote proxies on behalf of the client's account. Therefore, unless the client expressly reserves proxy voting responsibility, it is LSV's responsibility to vote proxies relating to securities held for the client's account.
ERISA Accounts . Unless proxy voting responsibility has been expressly reserved and is being exercised by another fiduciary for an ERISA plan client, LSV, as the investment adviser for the account, must vote all proxies relating to securities held for the plan's account. If LSV is responsible for voting, LSV shall make appropriate arrangements with each account custodian to have proxies forwarded, on a timely basis to the appropriate person, and shall endeavor to correct delays or other problems relating to timely delivery of proxies and proxy materials.
Fiduciary obligations of prudence and loyalty require an investment adviser with proxy voting responsibility to vote proxies on issues that affect the value of the client's investment. Proxy voting decisions must be made solely in the best interests of the client's account. In voting proxies, LSV is required to consider those factors that may affect the value of the client's investment and may not subordinate the interests of the client to unrelated objectives.
LSV has adopted proxy voting guidelines that provide direction in determining how various types of proxy issues are to be voted. LSV will engage an expert independent third party to design guidelines for client accounts that are updated for current corporate governance issues, helping to ensure that clients' best interests are served by voting decisions. Clients are sent a copy of their respective guidelines on an annual basis.
<R>LSV's quantitative investment process does not provide output or analysis that would be functional in analyzing proxy issues. LSV therefore will retain an independent, expert third party, currently Glass Lewis & Co. ("GLC"). GLC will implement LSV's proxy voting process, provide assistance in developing guidelines and provide analysis of proxy issues on a case-by-case basis. LSV is responsible for monitoring GLC to ensure that proxies are appropriately voted. LSV will vote issues contrary to, or issues not covered by, the guidelines only when LSV believes it is in the best interest of the client. Where the client has provided proxy voting guidelines to LSV, those guidelines will be followed, unless it is determined that a different vote would add more value to the client's holding of the security in question. Direction from a client on a particular proxy vote will take precedence over the guidelines. LSV's use of GLC is not a delegation of LSV's fiduciary obligation to vote proxies for clients.</R>
Should a material conflict arise between LSV's interest and that of its clients (e.g., a client bringing a shareholder action has solicited LSV's support; LSV manages a pension plan for a company whose management is soliciting proxies; or an LSV employee has a relative involved in management at an investee company), LSV will vote the proxies in accordance with the recommendation of the independent third party proxy voting service. A written record will be maintained describing the conflict of interest, and an explanation of how the vote taken was in the client's best interest.
LSV may refrain from voting a proxy if the cost of voting the proxy exceeds the expected benefit to the client, for example in the case of voting a foreign security when the proxy must be translated into English or the vote must be cast in person.
Clients may receive a copy of LSV's voting record for their account by request. LSV will additionally provide any mutual fund for which LSV acts as adviser or sub-adviser, a copy of LSV's voting record for the fund so that the fund may fulfill its obligation to report proxy votes to fund shareholders.
Record Keeping. In accordance with the recordkeeping rules, LSV will retain:
(i) Copies of its proxy voting policies and procedures.
(ii) A copy of each proxy statement received regarding client securities (maintained by the proxy voting service and/or available on EDGAR).
(iii) A record of each vote cast on behalf of a client (maintained by the proxy voting service).
(iv) A copy of any document created that was material to the voting decision or that memorializes the basis for that decision (maintained by the proxy voting service).
(v) A copy of clients' written requests for proxy voting information and a copy of LSV's written response to a client's request for proxy voting information for the client's account.
(vi) LSV will ensure that it may obtain access to the proxy voting service's records promptly upon LSV's request.
LSV will maintain required materials in an easily accessible place for not less than five years from the end of the fiscal year during which the last entry took place, the first two years in LSV's principal office.
To view a fund's proxy voting record for the most recent 12-month period ended June 30, visit www.fidelity.com/proxyvotingresults or visit the SEC's web site at www.sec.gov.
<R>The fund has entered into a distribution agreement with FDC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers. The principal business address of FDC is 100 Salem Street, Smithfield, Rhode Island 02917. FDC is a broker-dealer registered under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. The distribution agreement calls for FDC to use all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of the fund, which are continuously offered at NAV. Promotional and administrative expenses in connection with the offer and sale of shares are paid by Strategic Advisers.</R>
The Trustees have approved a Distribution and Service Plan with respect to shares of the fund (the Plan) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the Rule). The Rule provides in substance that a mutual fund may not engage directly or indirectly in financing any activity that is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund except pursuant to a plan approved on behalf of the fund under the Rule. The Plan, as approved by the Trustees, allows the fund and Strategic Advisers to incur certain expenses that might be considered to constitute indirect payment by the fund of distribution expenses.
Under the Plan, if the payment of management fees by the fund to Strategic Advisers is deemed to be indirect financing by the fund of the distribution of its shares, such payment is authorized by the Plan. The Plan specifically recognizes that Strategic Advisers may use its management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with providing services intended to result in the sale of shares of the fund and/or shareholder support services. In addition, the Plan provides that Strategic Advisers, directly or through FDC, may pay significant amounts to intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (who may be affiliated with Strategic Advisers or FDC), that provide those services. Currently, the Board of Trustees has authorized such payments for shares of the fund.
Prior to approving the Plan, the Trustees carefully considered all pertinent factors relating to the implementation of the Plan, and determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit the fund and its shareholders. In particular, the Trustees noted that the Plan does not authorize payments by the fund other than those made to Strategic Advisers under its management contract with the fund. To the extent that the Plan gives Strategic Advisers and FDC greater flexibility in connection with the distribution of shares of the fund, additional sales of shares of the fund or stabilization of cash flows may result. Furthermore, certain shareholder support services may be provided more effectively under the Plan by local entities with whom shareholders have other relationships.
FDC or an affiliate may compensate, or upon direction make payments for certain retirement plan expenses to, intermediaries, including retirement plan sponsors, administrators, and service-providers (including affiliates of FDC). A number of factors are considered in determining whether to pay these additional amounts. Such factors may include, without limitation, the level or type of services provided by the intermediary, the level or expected level of assets or sales of shares, and other factors. In addition to such payments, FDC or an affiliate may offer other incentives such as sponsorship of educational or client seminars relating to current products and issues, payments or reimbursements for travel and related expenses associated with due diligence trips that an intermediary may undertake in order to explore possible business relationships with affiliates of FDC, and/or payments of costs and expenses associated with attendance at seminars, including travel, lodging, entertainment, and meals. Certain of the payments described above may be significant to an intermediary. As permitted by SEC and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority rules and other applicable laws and regulations, FDC or an affiliate may pay or allow other incentives or payments to intermediaries.
The fund's transfer agent or an affiliate may also make payments and reimbursements from its own resources to certain intermediaries (who may be affiliated with the transfer agent) for performing recordkeeping and other services. Please see "Transfer and Service Agent Agreements" in this SAI for more information.
Any of the payments described in this section may represent a premium over payments made by other fund families. Retirement plan sponsors may take these payments into account when deciding whether to include a fund as a plan investment option.
TRANSFER AND SERVICE AGENT AGREEMENTS
The fund has entered into a transfer agent agreement with Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC), an affiliate of Strategic Advisers, which is located at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. Under the terms of the agreement, FIIOC (or an agent, including an affiliate) performs transfer agency services for the fund.
For providing transfer agency services, FIIOC receives an account fee and an asset-based fee with respect to assets managed by one or more sub-advisers and assets invested in non-affiliated ETFs. For retail accounts, these fees are based on fund type. For certain institutional accounts, these fees are based on size of position and fund type. For institutional retirement accounts, these fees are based on account type and fund type. The account fee is billed monthly on a pro rata basis at one-twelfth of the applicable annual rate as of the end of each calendar month. The asset-based fee is calculated and paid monthly on the basis of average daily net assets. For assets invested in underlying Fidelity funds, each underlying Fidelity fund pays its respective transfer agent (either FIIOC or an affiliate of FIIOC) fees based, in part, on the number of positions in and assets of the fund invested in such underlying Fidelity fund.
FIIOC also may collect fees charged in connection with providing certain types of services such as exchanges, closing out fund balances, maintaining fund positions with low balances, checkwriting, wire transactions, and providing historical account research.
FIIOC bears the expense of typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of additional information, and all other reports, notices, and statements to existing shareholders, with the exception of proxy statements.
<R>FIIOC or an affiliate may make payments out of its own resources to intermediaries (including affiliates of FIIOC) for recordkeeping services. Payments may also be made, upon direction, for other plan expenses. FIIOC may also pay an affiliate for providing services that otherwise would have been performed by FIIOC.</R>
The fund has entered into a service agent agreement with FSC, an affiliate of Strategic Advisers (or an agent, including an affiliate). Under the terms of the agreement, FSC calculates the NAV and dividends for the fund and maintains the fund's portfolio and general accounting records.
For providing pricing and bookkeeping services, FSC receives a monthly fee based on the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month.
The annual rates for pricing and bookkeeping services for the fund are 0.0389% of the first $500 million of average net assets, 0.0275% of average net assets between $500 million and $3.5 billion, 0.0041% of average net assets between $3.5 billion and $25 billion, and 0.0019% of average net assets in excess of $25 billion.
<R>Pricing and bookkeeping fees paid by the fund to FSC for the past fiscal year are shown in the following table.</R>
<R> Fund |
2012</R> |
<R>Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund |
$ 2,295 A</R> |
<R> A From November 16, 2011.</R>
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRUST
<R> Trust Organization. Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is a fund of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, an open-end management investment company created under an initial trust instrument dated March 8, 2006. Currently, there are 20 funds offered in the trust: Strategic Advisers Core Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund. The Trustees are permitted to create additional funds in the trust and to create additional classes of the fund.</R>
The assets of the trust received for the issue or sale of shares of each of its funds and all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, subject to the rights of creditors, are allocated to such fund, and constitute the underlying assets of such fund. The underlying assets of each fund in the trust shall be charged with the liabilities and expenses attributable to such fund. Any general expenses of the trust shall be allocated between or among any one or more of the funds.
Shareholder Liability. The trust is a statutory trust organized under Delaware law. Delaware law provides that, except to the extent otherwise provided in the Trust Instrument, shareholders shall be entitled to the same limitations of personal liability extended to stockholders of private corporations for profit organized under the general corporation law of Delaware. The courts of some states, however, may decline to apply Delaware law on this point. The Trust Instrument contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for the debts, liabilities, obligations, and expenses of the trust. The Trust Instrument provides that the trust shall not have any claim against shareholders except for the payment of the purchase price of shares and requires that each agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the trust or the Trustees relating to the trust or to a fund shall include a provision limiting the obligations created thereby to the trust or to one or more funds and its or their assets. The Trust Instrument further provides that shareholders of a fund shall not have a claim on or right to any assets belonging to any other fund.
The Trust Instrument provides for indemnification out of each fund's property of any shareholder or former shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the fund solely by reason of his or her being or having been a shareholder and not because of his or her acts or omissions or for some other reason. The Trust Instrument also provides that each fund shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which Delaware law does not apply, no contractual limitation of liability was in effect, and a fund is unable to meet its obligations. Strategic Advisers believes that, in view of the above, the risk of personal liability to shareholders is extremely remote.
<R> Voting Rights. Each fund's capital consists of shares of beneficial interest. As a shareholder, you are entitled to one vote for each dollar of net asset value you own. The voting rights of shareholders can be changed only by a shareholder vote. Shares may be voted in the aggregate, by fund, and by class.</R>
The shares have no preemptive or conversion rights. Shares are fully paid and nonassessable, except as set forth under the heading "Shareholder Liability" above.
On matters submitted for consideration by shareholders of any underlying fund, the fund will vote its shares in proportion to the vote of all other holders of the same class of shares of that underlying fund.
The trust or a fund or a class may be terminated upon the sale of its assets to, or merger with, another open-end management investment company, series, or class thereof, or upon liquidation and distribution of its assets. The Trustees may reorganize, terminate, merge, or sell all or a portion of the assets of the trust or a fund or a class without prior shareholder approval. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of the trust, shareholders of each of its funds are entitled to receive the underlying assets of such fund available for distribution. In the event of the dissolution or liquidation of a fund or a class, shareholders of that fund or that class are entitled to receive the underlying assets of the fund or class available for distribution.
Custodians. State Street Bank and Trust Company, 1776 Heritage Drive, Quincy, Massachusetts, is custodian of the assets of the fund. The custodian is responsible for the safekeeping of the fund's assets and the appointment of any subcustodian banks and clearing agencies. The Bank of New York Mellon and JPMorgan Chase Bank, each headquartered in New York, also may serve as special purpose custodians of certain assets in connection with repurchase agreement transactions.
Strategic Advisers, its officers and directors, its affiliated companies, Member of the Advisory Board, and Members of the Board of Trustees may, from time to time, conduct transactions with various banks, including banks serving as custodians for certain funds advised by Strategic Advisers. Transactions that have occurred to date include mortgages and personal and general business loans. In the judgment of Strategic Advisers, the terms and conditions of those transactions were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other fund relationships.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 125 High Street, Boston, Massachusetts, independent registered public accounting firm, audits financial statements for the fund and provides other audit, tax, and related services.
The fund views holdings information as sensitive and limits its dissemination. The Board authorized Strategic Advisers, in consultation with FMR, to establish and administer guidelines for the dissemination of fund holdings information, which may be amended at any time without prior notice. FMR's Disclosure Policy Committee (comprising executive officers of FMR) evaluates disclosure policy with the goal of serving the fund's best interests by striking an appropriate balance between providing information about the fund's portfolio and protecting the fund from potentially harmful disclosure. The Board reviews the administration and modification of these guidelines and receives reports from the fund's chief compliance officer periodically.
Other registered investment companies that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser may be subject to different portfolio holdings disclosure policies, and neither Strategic Advisers nor the Board exercises control over such policies or disclosure. In addition, separate account clients of Strategic Advisers and the sub-advisers have access to their portfolio holdings and are not subject to the fund's portfolio holdings disclosure policies. Some of the funds that are advised or sub-advised by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser and some of the separate accounts managed by Strategic Advisers or a sub-adviser have investment objectives and strategies that are substantially similar or identical to the fund's and, therefore, potentially substantially similar, and in certain cases nearly identical, portfolio holdings as the fund.
The fund will provide a full list of holdings monthly on www.fidelity.com 30 days after the month-end (excluding high income security holdings, which generally will be presented collectively monthly and included in a list of full holdings 60 days after its fiscal quarter-end).
Unless otherwise indicated, this information will be available on the web site until updated for the next applicable period.
The fund may also from time to time provide or make available to the Board or third parties upon request specific fund level performance attribution information and statistics. Third parties may include fund shareholders or prospective fund shareholders, members of the press, consultants, and ratings and ranking organizations.
<R> The Use of Holdings In Connection With Fund Operations. Material non-public holdings information may be provided as part of the investment activities of the fund to: entities which, by explicit agreement or by virtue of their respective duties to the fund, are required to maintain the confidentiality of the information disclosed; other parties if legally required; or persons Strategic Advisers believes will not misuse the disclosed information. These entities, parties, and persons include, but are not limited to: the fund's trustees; the fund's manager, its sub-advisers, if any, and their affiliates whose access persons are subject to a code of ethics; contractors who are subject to a confidentiality agreement; the fund's auditors; the fund's custodians; proxy voting service providers; financial printers; pricing service vendors; broker-dealers in connection with the purchase or sale of securities or requests for price quotations or bids on one or more securities; counsel to the fund or its Independent Trustees; regulatory authorities; stock exchanges and other listing organizations; parties to litigation; third parties in connection with a bankruptcy proceeding relating to a fund holding; and third parties who have submitted a standing request to a money market fund for daily holdings information. Non-public holdings information may also be provided to an issuer regarding the number or percentage of its shares that are owned by the fund and in connection with redemptions in kind.</R>
<R> Other Uses Of Holdings Information. In addition, the fund may provide material non-public holdings information to (i) third parties that calculate information derived from holdings for use by Strategic Advisers or its affiliates, (ii) ratings and rankings organizations, and (iii) an investment adviser, trustee, or their agents to whom holdings are disclosed for due diligence purposes or in anticipation of a merger involving the fund. Each individual request is reviewed by the Disclosure Policy Committee which must find, in its sole discretion that, based on the specific facts and circumstances, the disclosure appears unlikely to be harmful to the fund. Entities receiving this information must have in place control mechanisms to reasonably ensure or otherwise agree that, (a) the holdings information will be kept confidential, (b) no employee shall use the information to effect trading or for their personal benefit, and (c) the nature and type of information that they, in turn, may disclose to third parties is limited. Strategic Advisers relies primarily on the existence of non-disclosure agreements and/or control mechanisms when determining that disclosure is not likely to be harmful to the fund.</R>
At this time, the entities receiving information described in the preceding paragraph are: Factset Research Systems Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day) and Anacomp Inc. (full or partial holdings daily, on the next business day).
<R>Strategic Advisers, its affiliates, or the fund will not enter into any arrangements with third parties from which they derive consideration for the disclosure of material non-public holdings information. If, in the future, Strategic Advisers desired to make such an arrangement, it would seek prior Board approval and any such arrangements would be disclosed in the fund's SAI.</R>
There can be no assurance that the fund's policies and procedures with respect to disclosure of fund portfolio holdings will prevent the misuse of such information by individuals and firms that receive such information.
<R>The fund's financial statements and financial highlights for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2012, and report of the independent registered public accounting firm, are included in the fund's annual report and are incorporated herein by reference. Total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table may differ from the ratios of expenses to average net assets in the financial highlights because total annual operating expenses as shown in the prospectus fee table include any acquired fund fees and expenses, whereas the ratios of expenses in the financial highlights do not. Acquired funds include other investment companies in which the fund has invested, if and to the extent it is permitted to do so. Total annual operating expenses in the prospectus fee table and the financial highlights do not include any expenses associated with investments in certain structured or synthetic products that may rely on the exception from the definition of "investment company" provided by section 3(c)(1) or 3(c)(7) of the 1940 Act.</R>
Strategic Advisers is a registered service mark of FMR LLC.
<R>The third-party marks appearing above are the marks of their respective owners.</R>
Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
Post Effective Amendment No. 30 ('33 Act)
Amendment No. 33 ('40 Act)
PART C. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 28. Exhibits
(a) Trust Instrument, dated March 8, 2006, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (a) of the Initial Registration Statement on N-1A.
(b) Bylaws of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, as amended and dated June 4, 2009, are incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (b) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 3.
(c) Not applicable.
(d) (1) Management Contract, dated December 3, 2009, between Fidelity Strategic Advisers Core Fund (currently known as Strategic Advisers Core Fund) and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 4.
(2) Management Contract, dated March 5, 2010, between Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(3) Management Contract, dated June 7, 2012, between Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is filed herein as Exhibit (d)(3)
(4) Management Contract, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(5) Management Contract, dated September 8, 2010, between Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(6) Management Contract, dated March 1, 2012, between Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 23 & 26.
(7) Management Contract, dated March 5, 2010, between Strategic Advisers Growth Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 7.
(8) Management Contract, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(9) Management Contract, dated March 5, 2010, between Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(10) Management Contract, dated June 7, 2012, between Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is filed herein as Exhibit (d)(10).
(11) Management Contract, dated March 5, 2010, between Strategic Advisers International Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(12) Management Contract, dated March 5, 2010, between Strategic Advisers International II Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(13) Management Contract, dated March 1, 2012, between Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(13) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 23 & 26.
(14) Management Contract, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(15) Management Contract, dated March 5, 2010, between Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(16) Management Contract, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(12) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(17) Management Contract, dated March 5, 2010, between Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(18) Management Contract, dated March 5, 2010, between Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(9) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(19) Management Contract, dated March 5, 2010, between Strategic Advisers Value Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(20) Management Contract, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(15) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(21) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and First Eagle Investment Management, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(33) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(22) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Lazard Asset Management LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(39) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(23) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and OppenheimerFunds, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(50) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 26 & 29.
(24) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Fidelity Strategic Advisers Core Fund (currently known as Strategic Advisers Core Fund), is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(14) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos 11 & 14.
(25) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated January 27, 2012, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Fidelity Strategic Advisers Core Fund (currently known as Strategic Advisers Core Fund), is filed herein as Exhibit (d)(25).
(26) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated June 7, 2012, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, is filed herein as Exhibit (d)(26).
(27) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(58) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(28) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and FMR Co., Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(34) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(29) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and Strategic Advisers, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(23) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(30) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, and amended and restated on December 1, 2010 and June 7, 2012, between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and Strategic Advisers, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is to be filed by subsequent amendment.
(31) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, and amended and restated on December 1, 2010 between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and Strategic Advisers, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(14) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(32) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between FMR Co., Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(33) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(33) Schedule A, dated March 5, 2010, to the Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between FMR Co., Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(34) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(34) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(22) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(35) Schedule A, dated March 5, 2010, to the Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(23) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(36) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between FMR Co., Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(35) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(37) Schedule A, dated March 5, 2010, to the Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between FMR Co., Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(36) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(38) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(24) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(39) Schedule A, dated March 5, 2010, to the Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(25) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(40) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between FMR Co., Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(37) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(41) Schedule A, dated March 5, 2010, to the Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between FMR Co., Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(38) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(42) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(26) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(43) Schedule A, dated March 5, 2010, to the Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. and Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(27) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(44) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated June 7, 2012, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, is filed herein as Exhibit (d)(44).
(45) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and First Eagle Investment Management, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(34) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(46) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Lazard Asset Management LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(40) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(47) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and OppenheimerFunds, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(51) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 26 & 29.
(48) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(45) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(49) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(59) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(50) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(46) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(51) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 1, 2012, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, is filed herein as Exhibit (d)(51).
(52) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and ClariVest Asset Management LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(25) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(53) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Morgan Stanley Investment Management, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(46) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 26 & 29.
(54) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(17) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(55) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(60) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(56) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Winslow Capital Management, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(63) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(57) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and ClariVest Asset Management LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(26) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(58) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Morgan Stanley Investment Management, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(47) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 26 & 29.
(59) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(48) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(60) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(61) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(61) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Winslow Capital Management, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(64) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(62) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Causeway Capital Management LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(17) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(63) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 3, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Massachusetts Financial Services Company, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(28) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(64) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(20) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(65) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 3, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and William Blair & Company, L.L.C., on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(39) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(66) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International II Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(21) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(67) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 1, 2012, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Causeway Capital Management LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(29) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 26 & 29.
(68) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 1, 2012, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Massachusetts Financial Services Company, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(65) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 28 & 31.
(69) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 1, 2012, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, is filed herein as Exhibit (d)(69).
(70) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated March 1, 2012, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and William Blair & Company, L.L.C., on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(74) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 26 & 29.
(71) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, is filed herein as Exhibit (d)(71).
(72) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Advisory Research, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(15) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(73) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Fred Alger Management, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(23) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(74) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Invesco Advisers, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(24) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(75) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated June 2, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Neuberger Berman Management LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(77) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 17 & 20.
(76) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(22) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(77) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Systematic Financial Management, L.P., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(36) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(78) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Advisory Research, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(23) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 22 & 25.
(79) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Fred Alger Management, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(39) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 22 & 25.
(80) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Invesco Advisers, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(39) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 23 & 26.
(81) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Neuberger Berman Management LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(51) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 22 & 25.
(82) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, is filed herein as Exhibit (d)(82).
(83) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Systematic Financial Management, L.P., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(67) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos 22 & 25.
(84) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(22) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(85) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Cohen & Steers Capital Management, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(27) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(86) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and LSV Asset Management, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(41) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(87) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2010, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(45) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(88) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(23) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(89) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Cohen & Steers Capital Management, Inc., on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(28) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(90) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and LSV Asset Management, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(42) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(91) Sub-Advisory Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (d)(54) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(e) (1) General Distribution Agreement, dated December 3, 2009, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Fidelity Strategic Advisers Core Fund (currently known as Strategic Advisers Core Fund), is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 4.
(2) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(3) General Distribution Agreement, dated June 7, 2012, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund is filed herein as Exhibit (e)(3)
(4) General Distribution Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(5) General Distribution Agreement, dated September 8, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation on behalf of Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(11) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(6) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 1, 2012, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 23 & 26.
(7) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 7.
(8) General Distribution Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(9) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(10) General Distribution Agreement, dated June 7, 2012, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, is filed herein as Exhibit (e)(10)
(11) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(12) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International II Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(13) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 1, 2012, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(13) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 23 & 26.
(14) General Distribution Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(12) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 22 & 25.
(15) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(16) General Distribution Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(14) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 22 & 25.
(17) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(18) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(9) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(19) General Distribution Agreement, dated March 5, 2010, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(20) General Distribution Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (e)(16) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(f) None.
(g) (1) Custodian Agreement and Appendix C, D, and E, dated April 12, 2007, between Mellon Bank, N.A. (currently known as The Bank of New York Mellon) and Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of Fidelity Strategic Advisers Core Fund (currently known as Strategic Advisers Core Fund), Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, and Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund are incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (g)(1) of Fidelity Commonwealth Trust II's (File No. 333-139428) Post-Effective Amendment No. 3.
(2) Appendix A, dated November 9, 2011, to the Custodian Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, between The Bank of New York Mellon (formerly known as Mellon Bank, N.A.) and Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of Fidelity Strategic Advisers Core Fund (currently known as Strategic Advisers Core Fund), Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, and Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (g)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(3) Appendix B, dated October 30, 2009, to the Custodian Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, between Mellon Bank, N.A. (currently known as The Bank of New York Mellon) and Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of Fidelity Strategic Advisers Core Fund (currently known as Strategic Advisers Core Fund) and Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (g)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 14 & 17.
(4) Custodian Agreement and Appendix C, D, and E, dated April 12, 2007, between State Street Bank & Trust Company and Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (g) of Fidelity Commonwealth Trust II's (File No. 333-139428) Post-Effective Amendment No. 1.
(5) Appendix A, dated December 13, 2011, to the Custodian Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, between State Street Bank & Trust Company and Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (g)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 22 & 25.
(6) Appendix A to the Custodian Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, between State Street Bank & Trust Company and Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, and Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund is to be filed by subsequent amendment.
(7) Appendix B, dated October 20, 2010, to the Custodian Agreement, dated April 12, 2007, between State Street Bank & Trust Company and Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (g)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos 14 & 17.
(h) (1) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Core Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(2) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(3) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated June 7, 2012, between Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is filed herein as Exhibit (h)(3).
(4) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(5) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated March 1, 2012, between Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 23 & 26.
(6) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Growth Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(7) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(8) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated June 7, 2012, between Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is filed herein as Exhibit (h)(8).
(9) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers International Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(10) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers International II Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(11) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated December 1, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(12) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(9) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(13) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(14) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(11) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(15) Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated September 8, 2011, between Strategic Advisers Value Fund and Strategic Advisers, Inc. is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(12) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(i) Legal Opinion of Dechert LLP, dated July 24, 2012, is filed herein as Exhibit (i).
(j) Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, dated July 24, 2012, is filed herein as Exhibit (j).
(k) Not applicable.
(l) Not applicable.
(m) (1) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Fidelity Strategic Advisers Core Fund (currently known as Strategic Advisers Core Fund) is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(1) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 4.
(2) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(3) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(3) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund is filed herein as Exhibit (m)(3).
(4) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Fidelity Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(5) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(11) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 11 & 14.
(6) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 23 & 26.
(7) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Growth Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 6.
(8) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos 18 & 21.
(9) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(10) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds is filed herein as Exhibit (m)(10).
(11) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers International Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(12) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers International II Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(6) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(13) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(13) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 23 & 26.
(14) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(15) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(16) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(12) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(17) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(18) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(9) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(19) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Value Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(10) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(20) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (m)(15) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 18 & 21.
(n) (1) Not applicable.
(p) (1) The 2012 Code of Ethics, adopted by each fund and Strategic Advisers, Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc., FMR Co., Inc., Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited, Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc., Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc., and Fidelity Distributors Corporation pursuant to Rule 17j-1 is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p) of Fidelity Trend Fund's (File No. 002-15063) Post-Effective Amendment No. 127.
(2) Code of Ethics, dated April 23, 2009, adopted by Fred Alger Management, Inc. pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund and Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(3) Code of Ethics, dated February 1, 2005 and revised December 2011 and January 31, 2012, adopted by Advisory Research, Inc. pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund and Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, is filed herein as Exhibit (p)(3).
(4) Code of Ethics, dated August 2009, adopted by William Blair & Company, LLC pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Fund and Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(5) Code of Ethics, dated March 2011, adopted by Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Fund and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(5) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 14 & 17.
(6) Code of Ethics, dated August 10, 2010, adopted by Causeway Capital Management LLC pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Fund and Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 12 & 15.
(7) Code of Ethics, dated March 2011, adopted by ClariVest Asset Management LLC pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund and Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(7) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 14 & 17.
(8) Code of Ethics, dated March 2011, adopted by Cohen & Steers, Inc. pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Fund and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 14 & 17.
(9) Code of Ethics adopted by First Eagle Investment Management, LLC pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund and Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(2) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 4.
(10) Code of Ethics, dated January 1, 2011, adopted by Invesco Advisers, Inc. pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund and Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(12) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 14 & 17.
(11) Code of Ethics adopted by Lazard Asset Management LLC pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund and Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, is filed herein as Exhibit (p)(11).
(12) Code of Ethics, dated June 22, 2011, adopted by LSV Asset Management pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Value Fund and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(14) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(13) Code of Ethics, dated March 27, 2012, adopted by MFS Investment Management pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Fund and Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, is filed herein as Exhibit (p)(13).
(14) Code of Ethics, dated September 28, 2011, adopted by Morgan Stanley Investment Management pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund and Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(18) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 22 & 25.
(15) Code of Ethics, dated September, 2011, adopted by Neuberger Berman Management, LLC pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund and Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(16) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 22 & 25.
(16) Code of Ethics, dated June 1, 2011, adopted by OppenheimerFunds, Inc. pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund and Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(17) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 22 & 25.
(17) Code of Ethics adopted by Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(4) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 4.
(18) Code of Ethics, dated January 2012, adopted by Systematic Financial Management, L.P. pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund and Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, is filed herein as Exhibit (p)(18).
(19) Code of Ethics, dated May 20, 2011, adopted by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund and Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(18) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(20) Code of Ethics, dated May 2011, adopted by Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund and Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(19) of Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 20 & 23.
(21) Code of Ethics, dated February 2005, adopted by Winslow Capital Management pursuant to Rule 17j-1 on behalf of Strategic Advisers Growth Fund and Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manger Fund, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (p)(8) of Post-Effective Amendment No. 7.
Item 29. Trusts Controlled by or Under Common Control with this Trust
The Board of Trustees of the trust is not the same as the board of the other Fidelity funds, each of which has Fidelity Management & Research Company, or an affiliate, as its adviser. The officers of the Trust are elected separately but are substantially similar to those of the other Fidelity funds. The Trust takes the position that it is not under common control with the other Fidelity funds because the power residing in the respective boards and officers arises as the result of an official position with the respective trusts.
Item 30. Indemnification
Pursuant to Del. Code Ann. title 12 § 3817, a Delaware statutory trust may provide in its governing instrument for the indemnification of its officers and trustees from and against any and all claims and demands whatsoever. Article X, Section 10.02 of the Trust Instrument sets forth the reasonable and fair means for determining whether indemnification shall be provided to any past or present Trustee or officer. It states that the Trust shall indemnify any present or past trustee or officer to the fullest extent permitted by law against liability, and all expenses reasonably incurred by him or her in connection with any claim, action, suit or proceeding in which he or she is involved by virtue of his or her service as a trustee or officer and against any amount incurred in settlement thereof. Indemnification will not be provided to a person adjudged by a court or other adjudicatory body to be liable to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or her duties (collectively, "disabling conduct"), or not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that his or her action was in the best interest of the Trust. In the event of a settlement, no indemnification may be provided unless there has been a determination, as specified in the Trust Instrument, that the officer or trustee did not engage in disabling conduct.
Pursuant to Section 11 of the Distribution Agreement, the Trust agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Distributor and each of its directors and officers and each person, if any, who controls the Distributor within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act against any loss, liability, claim, damages or expense (including the reasonable cost of investigating or defending any alleged loss, liability, claim, damages, or expense and reasonable counsel fees incurred in connection therewith) arising by reason of any person acquiring any shares, based upon the ground that the registration statement, Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information, shareholder reports or other information filed or made public by the Trust (as from time to time amended) included an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated or necessary in order to make the statements not misleading under the 1933 Act, or any other statute or the common law. However, the Trust does not agree to indemnify the Distributor or hold it harmless to the extent that the statement or omission was made in reliance upon, and in conformity with, information furnished to the Trust by or on behalf of the Distributor. In no case is the indemnity of the Trust in favor of the Distributor or any person indemnified to be deemed to protect the Distributor or any person against any liability to the Issuer or its security holders to which the Distributor or such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
Pursuant to the agreement by which Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. ("FIIOC") is appointed transfer agent, the Registrant agrees to indemnify and hold FIIOC harmless against any losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (including reasonable counsel fees and expenses) resulting from:
(1) any claim, demand, action or suit brought by any person other than the Registrant, including by a shareholder, which names FIIOC and/or the Registrant as a party and is not based on and does not result from FIIOC's willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence or reckless disregard of duties, and arises out of or in connection with FIIOC's performance under the Transfer Agency Agreement; or
(2) any claim, demand, action or suit (except to the extent contributed to by FIIOC's willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence or reckless disregard of duties) which results from the negligence of the Registrant, or from FIIOC's acting upon any instruction(s) reasonably believed by it to have been executed or communicated by any person duly authorized by the Registrant, or as a result of FIIOC's acting in reliance upon advice reasonably believed by FIIOC to have been given by counsel for the Registrant, or as a result of FIIOC's acting in reliance upon any instrument or stock certificate reasonably believed by it to have been genuine and signed, countersigned or executed by the proper person.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling the Registrant, the Registrant has been informed that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is therefore unenforceable.
(1) STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
Strategic Advisers, Inc. serves as investment adviser to the funds and provides investment supervisory services to individuals, banks, thrifts, pension and profit sharing plans, trusts, estates, charitable organizations, corporations, and other business organizations, and provides a variety of publications on investment and personal finance. The directors and officers of Strategic Advisers have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
(2) FMR CO., INC. (FMRC)
FMRC provides investment advisory services to Fidelity Management & Research Company. The directors and officers of the Sub-Adviser have held the following positions of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.
(3) FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH (HONG KONG) LIMITED (FMR H.K.)
FMR H.K. provides investment advisory services to Fidelity Management & Research Company. The directors and officers of the Sub-Adviser have held the following positions of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.
(4) FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH (JAPAN) INC. (FMR JAPAN)
FMR Japan provides investment advisory services to Fidelity Management & Research Company. The directors and officers of the Sub-Adviser have held the following positions of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.
Christopher S. Bartel |
President (2012), Chief Executive Officer (2012), and Director (2012) of FMR Japan. |
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Scott C. Goebel |
Senior Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel of FMR and FMRC; Secretary of FIMM (2010) and FRAC (2010); Assistant Secretary of FMR Japan and FMR U.K.; Chief Legal Officer of Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited (FMR H.K.). Previously served as Assistant Secretary of FIMM and FRAC (2010). |
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Joseph A. Hanlon |
Compliance Officer of FMR, FMRC, FMR U.K., FRAC, FIMM, FMR H.K., FMR Japan, and Strategic Advisers, Inc. |
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Steven F. Schiffman |
Treasurer of Strategic Advisers, Inc., FDC (2010), and FMR LLC. Assistant Treasurer of FMRC (2011), FMR Japan (2011), FMR U.K. (2011), FRAC (2011), and FIMM (2011). |
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Peter D. Stahl |
Assistant Secretary of FMR, FMRC, FMR Japan, FMR U.K., FRAC, FIMM, FDC, FMR LLC, and Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011). Previously served as Secretary of Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011). |
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Susan Sturdy |
Secretary of FMR Japan (2010) FMR U.K. (2010), FMR LLC (2010), FDC (2010), and Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2011). |
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Takeya Suzuki |
Director of FMR Japan (2010); Managing Director of Research, Japan of FMR Japan. |
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Linda J. Wondrack |
Chief Compliance Officer of FMR (2012), FMRC (2012), FMR H.K. (2012), FMR U.K. (2012), FIMM (2012), FMR Japan (2012), Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (2012) and Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2012). |
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JS Wynant |
Senior Vice President and Treasurer of FMR, FMRC, FRAC and FIMM; Director and Treasurer of FMR U.K. and FMR Japan; Treasurer of FMR H.K. |
(5) FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH (U.K.) INC. (FMR U.K.)
FMR U.K. provides investment advisory services to Fidelity Management & Research Company and Fidelity Management Trust Company. The directors and officers of the Sub-Adviser have held the following positions of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.
(6) FIDELITY INVESTMENTS MONEY MANAGEMENT, INC. (FIMM)
FIMM provides investment advisory services to Fidelity Management & Research Company. The directors and officers of the Sub-Adviser have held the following positions of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.
(7) PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
The directors and officers of Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Kevin Uebelein |
President, CEO and Director (Chairman) of Pyramis Global Advisors Holdings Corp., Director of Pyramis Institutional Funds Manager, Inc., President and Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Pyramis Canada Holdings Corp., Director of Fidelity Real Estate Growth Fund Corp., Director of Fidelity Real Estate Growth Fund II Corp., and Director of Fidelity Real Estate Growth Fund III Corp., the address of each being 82 Devonshire St., Boston, MA 02109; President, CEO and Director (Chairman) of Pyramis Global Advisors Trust Company, the address being One Spartan Way, Merrimack, NH 03054; Director and President of Pyramis Distributors Corporation LLC, the address being 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917; Director of FIC Holdings, LLC, the address being 82 Devonshire St., Boston, MA 02109; Responsible Officer and Executive Director of Pyramis Global Advisors (HK) Limited, the address being 18/F Nexxus Building, 41 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong; Director of Pyramis Canada ULC, the address being 483 Bay St., Suite 300, Toronto, ON, M5G 2N7; Director of Pyramis Global Advisers (UK) Limited, the address being 4th Floor, 10 Paternoster Square, London, EC4M 7LS; Previously served as Chief Investment Officer, international business, Prudential Financial. |
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William Dailey |
Director, Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer of Pyramis Global Advisors Holdings Corp., Director, Treasurer, and Chief Financial Officer of Pyramis Canada Holdings Corp., Vice President of Fidelity Real Estate Growth Fund Corp., Director and President of Pyramis Institutional Funds Manager, Inc., President of Pyramis Global Advisors Fund A LLC, President of Pyramis Global Advisors Fund B LLC President of Pyramis Global Advisors Fund C LLC, and President of Pyramis Global Market Neutral GP LLC, the address of each being 82 Devonshire St., Boston, MA 02109; Director and Treasurer of Pyramis Distributors Corporation LLC, the address being 900 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI 02917; Category A Manager and Chief Financial Officer Pyramis Global Advisors (Luxembourg) S.á.r.l., the address being 121, Avenue de la Faïencerie, L-1511 Luxembourg; Treasurer of Pyramis Global Advisors (HK) Limited, the address being 18/F Nexxus Building, 41 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong; CEO and Director of Pyramis Global Advisors (UK) Limited, the address being 4th Floor, 10 Paternoster Square, London, EC4M 7LS; Director, President and Ultimate Responsible Person of Pyramis Canada ULC, the address being 483 Bay St., Suite 300, Toronto, ON, M5G 2N7; Director and Treasurer of Pyramis Global Advisors Trust Company, the address being One Spartan Way, Merrimack, NH 03054. Previously, Mr. Dailey also served as Chief Administrative Officer for several of the entities set forth above. |
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Michael Barnett |
Director of Pyramis Global Advisors Trust Company and Executive Vice President of Institutional Sales of Pyramis Global Advisors, the address of each being 82 Devonshire St., Boston, MA 02109; formerly Executive Vice President of Institutional Sales and Services of Fidelity Investments Canada ULC |
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Young Chin |
Chairman, Executive Director and Responsible Officer of Pyramis Global Advisors (HK) Limited, the address being 18/F Nexxus Building, 41 Connaught Road, Central, Hong Kong; Director and Chief Investment Officer of Pyramis Global Advisors Trust Company, the address being One Spartan Way, Merrimack, NH 03054; Director and Chief Investment Officer of Pyramis Global Advisors (UK) Limited, the address being 4th Floor, 10 Paternoster Square, London, EC4M 7LS; Director and Chief Investment Officer of Pyramis Canada ULC, the address being 483 Bay St., Suite 300, Toronto, ON, M5G 2N7; Director of Pyramis Global Market Neutral Fund, Ltd. (CI) and Director of Pyramis Global Market Neutral Master Fund, Ltd. (CI), the address of each being the address being Queensgate House, South Church Street, PO Box 1234, Grand Cayman KY1-1108; Director of Fidelity Real Estate Partners II Corp. and Director of Fidelity Real Estate Partners III Corp., the address of each being 82 Devonshire St., Boston, MA 02109 |
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Michael Cappucci |
Assistant Secretary of Pyramis Global Market Neutral GP LLC, Pyramis Global Advisors Fund A LLC, Pyramis Global Advisors Fund B LLC and Pyramis Global Advisors Fund C LLC, the address of each being 82 Devonshire St., Boston, MA 02109 |
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Mark Friebel |
Senior Vice President and the address for Pyramis Global Advisors as being 900 Salem St, Smithfield, RI 02917; Senior Vice President of Pyramis Canada ULC, the address being 483 Bay St., Suite 300, Toronto, ON, M5G 2N7 |
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Robert Swanson |
Senior VP and Head of Asset Allocation and the address for Pyramis Global Advisors as being 900 Salem St, Smithfield, RI 02917 |
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Michael Tabachnick |
Assistant Secretary of Pyramis Global Advisors Trust Company, the address being One Spartan Way, Merrimack, NH 03054; Secretary of Pyramis Global Advisors Fund A LLC, Secretary of Pyramis Global Advisors Fund B LLC, and Secretary of Pyramis Global Advisors Fund C LLC, Assistant Secretary of Pyramis Global Advisors Holdings Corp., and Assistant Secretary of Pyramis Global Market Neutral GP LLC, the address of each being 82 Devonshire St., Boston, MA 02109 |
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Linda J. Wondrack |
Chief Compliance Officer of FMR (2012), FMRC (2012), FMR H.K. (2012), FMR U.K. (2012), FIMM (2012), FMR Japan (2012), Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (2012) and Strategic Advisers, Inc. (2012). |
(8) FRED ALGER MANAGEMENT, INC. (Alger Management)
The directors and officers of Alger Management have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
(9) ADVISORY RESEARCH, INC. (ARI)
The directors and officers of ARI have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Brien Michael O'Brien |
Chief Executive Officer and Chairman |
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Christopher Dyson Crawshaw |
Secretary and Managing Director |
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Cari Ann Hopfensperger |
Chief Compliance Officer |
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Heather L. Calby |
Chief Financial Officer |
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Thomas Gregory Smith |
Board Member |
(10) BRANDYWINE GLOBAL INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LLC
The directors and officers of Brandywine Global Investment Management LLC have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Mark Paul Glassman |
Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer |
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Christopher D. Marzullo |
Senior Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer |
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David Fenno Hoffman |
Executive Vice President |
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Peter H. Nachtwey |
Non-Employee Manager |
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Ronald R. Dewhurst |
Non-Employee Manager |
(11) CAUSEWAY CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, LLC. (Causeway)
The directors and officers of Causeway have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Gracie V. Fermelia |
Chief Operating Officer, Chief Compliance Officer, and Elected Manager |
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Sarah H. Ketterer |
Chief Executive Officer, Portfolio Manager, and Elected Manager |
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Harry W. Hartford |
President, Portfolio Manager, and Elected Manager |
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Mark Cone |
Chief Marketing Officer |
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Turner Swan |
General Counsel, Secretary |
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Robert L. Burch |
Elected Manager |
(12) CLARIVEST ASSET MANAGEMENT LLC
The directors and officers of Clarivest Asset Management LLC have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
(13) COHEN & STEERS CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, INC.
The directors and officers of Cohen & Steers Capital Management, Inc. have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
(14) FIRST EAGLE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT, LLC
The directors and officers of First Eagle Investment Management, LLC have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
(15) INVESCO ADVISERS, INC. (Invesco)
The directors and officers of Invesco have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
(16) LAZARD ASSET MANAGEMENT LLC
The directors and officers of Lazard Asset Management LLC have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Gerald Bruce Mazzari |
Chief Operating Officer |
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Kenneth Marc Jacobs |
Director |
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Alexander Franz Stern |
Director |
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Nathan Abraham Paul |
General Counsel |
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Ashish Bhutani |
Director and Chief Executive Officer |
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Brian David Simon |
Chief Compliance Officer |
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Charles Carroll |
Deputy Chairman |
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Andrew Lacey |
Deputy Chairman |
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John Reinsberg |
Deputy Chairman |
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Robert P. DeConcini |
Chairman USA |
|
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Gabrielle Boyle |
Senior Managing Director |
|
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Andreas Huebner |
Senior Managing Director |
|
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Robert Prugue |
Senior Managing Director |
|
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Bill Smith |
Senior Managing Director |
|
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Jennifer Abate |
Managing Director |
|
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Michael Bennett |
Managing Director |
|
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Maureen Beshar |
Managing Director |
|
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Christopher Blake |
Managing Director |
|
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Nicholas Bratt |
Managing Director |
|
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Charles Burgdorf |
Managing Director |
|
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Irene Cheng |
Managing Director |
|
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Henry Choon |
Managing Director |
|
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David Cleary |
Managing Director |
|
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Kenneth Colton |
Managing Director |
|
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Robert Connin |
Managing Director |
|
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Alex Custis |
Managing Director |
|
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Kun Deng |
Managing Director |
|
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James Donald |
Managing Director |
|
|
Anthony Dote, Jr. |
Managing Director |
|
|
Yury Dubrovsky |
Managing Director |
|
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Michael Fry |
Managing Director |
|
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Kris Haber |
Managing Director |
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William Holzer |
Managing Director |
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Peter Hunsberger |
Managing Director |
|
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Matthias Kruse |
Managing Director |
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John Lee |
Managing Director |
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Mark Little |
Managing Director |
|
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Carmine Lizza |
Managing Director |
|
|
Gerald B. Mazzari |
Managing Director |
|
|
Andrew Norris |
Managing Director |
|
|
Nathan Paul |
Managing Director |
|
|
Brian Pessin |
Managing Director |
|
|
Michael Powers |
Managing Director |
|
|
Sean Reynolds |
Managing Director |
|
|
Susan Roberts |
Managing Director |
|
|
Robert Rowland |
Managing Director |
|
|
Nina Saglimbeni |
Managing Director |
|
|
James Schachtel |
Managing Director |
|
|
Ulrich Schweiger |
Managing Director |
|
|
Durrin Sokol |
Managing Director |
|
|
Jeremy Taylor |
Managing Director |
|
|
Ronald Temple |
Managing Director |
|
|
Richard Tutino |
Managing Director |
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|
Merida Welles |
Managing Director |
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|
Markus van de Weyer |
Managing Director |
|
|
Charles Wilson |
Managing Director |
(17) LSV ASSET MANAGEMENT
The directors and officers of LSV Asset Management have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Tremaine Atkinson |
Chief Operating Officer; Chief Compliance Officer |
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|
Josef Lakonishok |
Chief Executive Officer; Chief Investment Officer |
(18) MASSACHUSETTS FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPANY (MFS)
The directors and officers of MFS have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
(19) MORGAN STANLEY INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT INC (MSIM)
The directors and officers of MSIM have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Gregory J. Fleming |
Managing Director and President of MSIM; President of MSAM Holdings II, Inc. |
|
|
Edmond Moriarty |
Managing Director and Director of MSIM; Managing Director and Director of Morgan Stanley Services Company Inc. and Morgan Stanley Distribution, Inc.; Director of MSAM Holdings II, Inc.; President of other entities affiliated with MSIM. |
|
|
Christopher O'Dell |
Managing Director and Secretary of MSIM; Managing Director and Secretary of Morgan Stanley Distribution, Inc. and Morgan Stanley Services Company Inc.; Secretary of MSAM Holdings II, Inc. and other entities affiliated with MSIM. |
|
|
Mary Ann Picciotto |
Executive Director and Chief Compliance Officer of MSIM; Chief Compliance Officer of the Morgan Stanley Funds. |
|
|
Jeffrey Gelfand |
Managing Director, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of MSIM; Managing Director, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Morgan Stanley Distribution, Inc. and Morgan Stanley Services Company Inc.; Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of MSAM Holdings II, Inc.; Treasurer of other entities affiliated with MSIM. |
|
|
James Janover |
Managing Director and Director of MSIM; Managing Director and Director of Morgan Stanley Investment Advisors Inc.; Director of MSAM Holdings II, Inc. |
(20) NEUBERGER BERMAN MANAGEMENT LLC (Neuberger Berman)
The directors and officers of Neuberger Berman have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
James R. Ainsworth |
Managing Director and Branch Office Manager, Texas of Neuberger Berman |
|
|
Joseph Amato |
Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer - Equities of Neuberger Berman; CEO, Neuberger Berman Holdings LLC; President, CEO and Chief Investment Officer, Neuberger Berman LLC; Director and Managing Director, Neuberger Berman Fixed Income; Trustee of the following: Neuberger Berman Equity Funds, Neuberger Berman Income Funds, Neuberger Berman Advisers Management Trust, Neuberger Berman Intermediate Municipal Fund, Neuberger Berman New York Intermediate Municipal Fund, Neuberger Berman California Intermediate Municipal Fund, Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund, Neuberger Berman Real Estate Securities Income Fund |
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|
Brad E. Cetron |
Managing Director, Chief Compliance Officer, Director of Compliance B/D of Neuberger Berman |
|
|
Robert Conti |
President and Chief Executive Officer of Neuberger Berman; Managing Director, Neuberger Berman LLC; President, Chief Executive Officer and Trustee of the following: Neuberger Berman LLC, Neuberger Berman Equity Funds, Neuberger Berman Income Funds, Neuberger Berman Advisers Management Trust, Neuberger Berman Intermediate Municipal Fund, Neuberger Berman New York Intermediate Municipal Fund, Neuberger Berman California Intermediate Municipal Fund, Neuberger Berman High Yield Strategies Fund, Neuberger Berman Real Estate Securities Income Fund |
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James J. Dempsey |
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Treasurer of Neuberger Berman |
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Maxine L. Gerson |
Managing Director and General Counsel of Neuberger Berman; Managing Director, Deputy General Counsel and Assistant Secretary, Neuberger Berman LLC |
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Bradley Tank |
Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer - Fixed Income of Neuberger Berman; Managing Director, Neuberger Berman LLC; Chief Executive Officer, Chairman of the Board, Chief Investment Officer and Managing Director, Neuberger Berman Fixed Income LLC |
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Chamaine Williams |
Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer, Director of Compliance - I/A of Neuberger Berman; Senior Vice President, Neuberger Berman LLC |
(21) OPPENHEIMERFUNDS, INC (OppenheimerFunds)
The directors and officers of OppenheimerFunds have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Geoffrey Craddock |
Executive Vice President, Risk Management and Asset Allocation |
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Roger W. Crandall |
Director |
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Craig P. Dinsell |
Executive Vice President, Human Resources |
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Ari Gabinet |
Executive Vice President , Legal |
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William F. Glavin, Jr. |
Chief Executive Officer. Previously served as Chairman, President and Director |
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Philipp Hensler |
Chairman and CEO OFDI, Head of Distribution; Executive Vice President |
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David Pfeffer |
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Previously served as Treasurer and Director |
|
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Michael Rollings |
Director |
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Arthur Steinmetz |
Executive Vice Preident and Chief Investment Officer (2012) |
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Darren Walsh |
President, Oppenheimer Funds Services. Previously served as Executive Vice President (2012). |
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Elizabeth Ward |
Director |
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Marty Willis |
Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer |
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|
(22) SYSTEMATIC FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT, L.P. (Systematic)
The directors and officers of Systematic have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Ronald Matthew Mushock |
Portfolio Manager and Limited Partner |
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Karen Elizabeth Kohler |
Chief Operating Officer, Chief Compliance Officer, and Limited Partner |
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D. Kevin McCreesh |
Chief Investment Officer, Portfolio Manager, and Limited Partner |
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Kenneth Burgess |
Limited Partner and Portfolio Manager |
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Gregory Balcom Wood |
Limited Partner and Head Trader |
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Eoin Middaugh |
Limited Partner and Portfolio Manager |
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Roger Chang |
Vice President, Trader |
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Scott Garrett |
Vice President |
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Ron Luraschi |
Senior Vice President |
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Jim Wallerius |
Senior Vice President |
(23) T. ROWE PRICE ASSOCIATES, INC.
The directors and officers of T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
(24) WADDELL & REED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY
The directors and officers of Waddell & Reed Investment Management Company have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Officers |
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Henry J. Herrmann |
President, Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, and Director |
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Michael L. Avery |
Executive Vice President and Director |
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John E. Sundeen, Jr. |
Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, and Director |
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Daniel P. Connealy |
Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, and Director |
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Lawrence J. Cipolla |
Senior Vice President and Chief Operations Officer |
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Daniel C. Schulte |
Senior Vice President and General Counsel |
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Philip J. Sanders |
Senior Vice President, Chief Investment Officer and Director |
|
|
Kristen A. Richards |
Senior Vice President, Chief Compliance Officer, and Associate General Counsel |
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Wendy J. Hills |
Senior Vice President, Secretary, and Associate General Counsel |
|
|
Thomas W. Butch |
Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer |
(25) WILLIAM BLAIR & COMPANY, LLC (William Blair)
The directors and officers of William Blair have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
(26) WINSLOW CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
The directors and officers of Winslow Capital Management have held, during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a substantial nature.
Principal business addresses of the investment adviser, sub-advisers and affiliates.
Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR)
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
FMR Co., Inc. (FMRC)
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Fidelity Management & Research (Hong Kong) Limited (FMR H.K.)
Floor 19, 41 Connaught Road Central
Hong Kong
Fidelity Management & Research (Japan) Inc. (FMR Japan)
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc. (FMR U.K.)
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Fidelity Research & Analysis Company (FRAC)
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. (FIMM)
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
FIL Investment Advisors (FIA)
Pembroke Hall
42 Crow Lane
Pembroke HM19, Bermuda
FIL Investment Advisors (UK) Limited (FIA(UK))
Oakhill House,
130 Tonbridge Road,
Hildenborough, TN11 9DZ, United Kingdom
FIL Investments (Japan) Limited (FIJ)
Shiroyama Trust Tower
4-3-1, Toranomon, Minato-ku,
Tokyo 105-6019, Japan
Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
FMR LLC
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC)
100 Salem Street
Smithfield, RI 02917
Item 32. Principal Underwriters
(a) Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC) acts as distributor for all funds advised by FMR or an affiliate.
(b) |
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|
Name and Principal |
Positions and Offices |
Positions and Offices |
Business Address* |
with Underwriter |
with Fund |
Anthony Castella |
Controller (2010) |
None |
Scott Couto |
President (2011) and Director (2011) |
None |
Natalie Kavanaugh |
Chief Legal Officer (2010) |
None |
Harris Komishane |
Chief Financial Officer (2011) |
None |
William F. Loehning |
Executive Vice President |
None |
Charles M. Morgan |
Assistant Treasurer (2011) |
None |
Steven Schiffman |
Treasurer (2010) |
None |
Richard Siegelman |
Chief Compliance Officer (2011) |
None |
Peter D. Stahl |
Assistant Secretary |
None |
Susan Sturdy |
Secretary (2010) |
None |
* 100 Salem Street, Smithfield, RI
(c) Not applicable.
Item 33. Location of Accounts and Records
All accounts, books, and 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 by Strategic Advisers, Inc. and Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc., 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, MA 02109, or the funds' respective custodians, The Bank of New York Mellon, 1 Wall Street, New York, NY and State Street Bank & Trust Company, 1776 Heritage Drive, Quincy, MA. JPMorgan Chase Bank, headquartered in New York, also may serve as a special purpose custodian of certain assets. The Bank of New York Mellon, headquartered in New York, also may serve as a special purpose custodian of certain assets of Strategic Advisers Core Income Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund, Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund, Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, Strategic Advisers International Fund, Strategic Advisers International II Fund, Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Fund, Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity Fund, Strategic Advisers U.S. Opportunity II Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund in connection with
Item 34. Management Services
Not applicable.
Item 35. Undertakings
Not applicable.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for the effectiveness of this Registration Statement pursuant to Rule 485(b) under the Securities Act of 1933 and has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment Nos. 30 & 33 to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Boston, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, on the 27th day of July 2012.
|
Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II |
||
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By |
/s/Kenneth B. Robins |
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|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||| |
|
Kenneth B. Robins, President |
|
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
(Signature) |
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(Title) |
(Date) |
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/s/Kenneth B. Robins |
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President and Treasurer |
July 27, 2012 |
Kenneth B. Robins |
|
(Principal Executive Officer) |
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/s/Nicholas E. Steck |
|
Chief Financial Officer |
July 27, 2012 |
Nicholas E. Steck |
|
(Principal Financial Officer) |
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/s/Peter C. Aldrich |
* |
Trustee |
July 27, 2012 |
Peter C. Aldrich |
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/s/Amy Butte Liebowitz |
* |
Trustee |
July 27, 2012 |
Amy Butte Liebowitz |
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/s/Ralph F. Cox |
* |
Trustee |
July 27, 2012 |
Ralph F. Cox |
|
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/s/Karen Kaplan |
* |
Trustee |
July 27, 2012 |
Karen Kaplan |
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/s/Roger T. Servison |
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Trustee |
July 27, 2012 |
Roger T. Servison |
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/s/Derek Young |
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Trustee |
July 27, 2012 |
Derek Young |
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* |
By: |
/s/Joseph R. Fleming |
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Joseph R. Fleming, attorney in fact |
POWER OF ATTORNEY
We, the undersigned Trustees of Fidelity Commonwealth Trust II and Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II (the "Trusts"), pursuant to the authority granted to the Trusts' Board of Trustees in Section 4.01(l) of Article IV of the Trusts' Trust Instruments dated September 25, 2006 and March 8, 2006, respectively, hereby constitute and appoint Thomas C. Bogle, Kathryn Cohen, Joseph R. Fleming, and Megan C. Johnson, each of them singly, our true and lawful attorneys-in-fact, with full power of substitution, and with full power to each of them, to sign for us and in our names in the appropriate capacities, all Registration Statements of the Trusts on Form N-1A, or any successors thereto, any and all subsequent Amendments, Pre-Effective Amendments, or Post-Effective Amendments to said Registration Statements or any successors thereto, and any supplements or other instruments in connection therewith, and generally to do all such things in our names and on our behalf in connection therewith as said attorneys-in-fact deem necessary or appropriate, to comply with the provisions of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, and all related requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission. We hereby ratify and confirm all that said attorneys-in-fact or their substitutes may do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. This power of attorney is effective for all documents filed on or after December 1, 2011.
WITNESS our hands on this first day of December, 2011.
/s/Peter C. Aldrich |
/s/Amy Butte Liebowitz |
Peter C. Aldrich
|
Amy Butte Liebowitz |
/s/Ralph F. Cox |
/s/Karen Kaplan |
Ralph F. Cox
|
Karen Kaplan |
Exhibit (d)(3)
MANAGEMENT CONTRACT
between
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
STRATEGIC ADVISERS CORE INCOME MULTI-MANAGER FUND
and
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
AGREEMENT made this 7th day of June, 2012 by and between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, a Delaware statutory trust, which may issue one or more series of shares of beneficial interest (hereinafter called the "Fund"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund (hereinafter called the "Portfolio"), and Strategic Advisers, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation (hereinafter called the "Adviser") as set forth in its entirety below.
1. (a) Investment Advisory Services. The Adviser undertakes to act as investment adviser of the Portfolio and shall, subject to the supervision of the Fund's Board of Trustees, direct the investments of the Portfolio in accordance with the investment objective, policies and limitations as provided in the Portfolio's Prospectus or other governing instruments, as amended from time to time, the Investment Company Act of 1940 and rules thereunder, as amended from time to time (the "1940 Act"), and such other limitations as the Portfolio may impose by notice in writing to the Adviser. The Adviser shall also furnish for the use of the Portfolio office space and all necessary office facilities, equipment and personnel for servicing the investments of the Portfolio; and shall pay the salaries and fees of all officers of the Fund, of all Trustees of the Fund who are "interested persons" of the Fund or of the Adviser and of all personnel of the Fund or the Adviser performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities. The Adviser is authorized, in its discretion and without prior consultation with the Portfolio, to buy, sell, lend and otherwise trade in any stocks, bonds and other securities and investment instruments on behalf of the Portfolio. The investment policies and all other actions of the Portfolio are and shall at all times be subject to the control and direction of the Fund's Board of Trustees.
(b) Management Services. The Adviser shall perform (or arrange for the performance by its affiliates of) the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Adviser shall, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees of the Fund, perform various services for the Portfolio, including but not limited to: (i) providing the Portfolio with office space, equipment and facilities (which may be its own) for maintaining its organization; (ii) on behalf of the Portfolio, supervising relations with, and monitoring the performance of, any sub-advisers, custodians, depositories, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, attorneys, underwriters, brokers and dealers, insurers and other persons in any capacity deemed to be necessary or desirable; (iii) preparing all general shareholder communications, including shareholder reports; (iv) conducting shareholder relations; (v) maintaining the Fund's existence and its records; (vi) during such times as shares are publicly offered, maintaining the registration and qualification of the Portfolio's shares under federal and state law; and (vii) investigating the development of and developing and implementing, if appropriate, management and shareholder services designed to enhance the value or convenience of the Portfolio as an investment vehicle.
The Adviser shall also furnish such reports, evaluations, information or analyses to the Fund as the Fund's Board of Trustees may request from time to time or as the Adviser may deem to be desirable. The Adviser shall make recommendations to the Fund's Board of Trustees with respect to Fund policies, and shall carry out such policies as are adopted by the Trustees. The Adviser shall, subject to review by the Board of Trustees, furnish such other services as the Adviser shall from time to time determine to be necessary or useful to perform its obligations under this Contract.
(c) The Adviser shall place all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities for the Portfolio's account with brokers or dealers selected by the Adviser, which may include brokers or dealers affiliated with the Adviser. The Adviser shall use its best efforts to seek to execute portfolio transactions at prices which are advantageous to the Portfolio and at commission rates which are reasonable in relation to the benefits received. In selecting brokers or dealers qualified to execute a particular transaction, brokers or dealers may be selected who also provide brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) to the Portfolio and/or the other accounts over which the Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. The Adviser is authorized to pay a broker or dealer who provides such brokerage and research services a commission for executing a portfolio transaction for the Portfolio which is in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting that transaction if the Adviser determines in good faith that such amount of commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker or dealer. This determination may be viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities which the Adviser and its affiliates have with respect to accounts over which they exercise investment discretion. The Trustees of the Fund shall periodically review the commissions paid by the Portfolio to determine if the commissions paid over representative periods of time were reasonable in relation to the benefits to the Portfolio.
The Adviser shall, in acting hereunder, be an independent contractor. The Adviser shall not be an agent of the Portfolio.
2. It is understood that the Trustees, officers and shareholders of the Fund are or may be or become interested in the Adviser as directors, officers or otherwise and that directors, officers and stockholders of the Adviser are or may be or become similarly interested in the Fund, and that the Adviser may be or become interested in the Fund as a shareholder or otherwise.
3. (a) For the services and facilities to be furnished hereunder, the Adviser shall receive a monthly management fee equal to the sum of (i) the annual rate of 0.30% of the average daily net assets of the Portfolio (computed in the manner set forth in the Trust Instrument) throughout the month, which is retained by the Adviser and (ii) the total fees payable monthly to the sub-advisers retained by the Fund and the Adviser pursuant to investment sub-advisory agreements, which, for each sub-adviser, is based on the average daily Portfolio Assets; provided however , that the maximum aggregate annual management fee rate payable by the Portfolio shall not exceed 0.65% of the average daily net assets of the Portfolio. For purposes of calculating the fee payable to each sub-adviser, "Portfolio Assets" shall mean the portion of the net assets of the Portfolio managed by the relevant sub-adviser.
(b) The Adviser shall pay the sub-advisers the fees described in clause (a)(ii) above pursuant to, and in accordance with, the investment sub-advisory agreements.
(c) In the case of initiation or termination of this contract during any month, the fee for that month shall be reduced proportionately on the basis of the number of business days during which it is in effect and the fee computed upon the average net assets for the business days it is so in effect for that month.
4. It is understood that the Portfolio will pay all its expenses other than those expressly stated to be payable by the Adviser hereunder, which expenses payable by the Portfolio shall include, without limitation, (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of securities and other investment instruments; (iii) fees and expenses of the Fund's Trustees other than those who are "interested persons" of the Fund or the Adviser; (iv) legal and audit expenses; (v) custodian, registrar and transfer agent fees and expenses; (vi) fees and expenses related to the registration and qualification of the Fund and the Portfolio's shares for distribution under state and federal securities laws; (vii) expenses of printing and mailing reports and notices and proxy material to shareholders of the Portfolio; (viii) all other expenses incidental to holding meetings of the Portfolio's shareholders, including proxy solicitations therefor; (ix) its proportionate share of insurance premiums; (x) its proportionate share of association membership dues; (xi) expenses of typesetting for printing Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information and supplements thereto; (xii) expenses of printing and mailing Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information and supplements thereto sent to existing shareholders; and (xiii) such non-recurring or extraordinary expenses as may arise, including those relating to actions, suits or proceedings to which the Portfolio is a party and the legal obligation which the Portfolio may have to indemnify the Fund's Trustees and officers with respect thereto.
5. The services of the Adviser to the Portfolio are not to be deemed exclusive, the Adviser being free to render services to others and engage in other activities, provided, however , that such other services and activities do not, during the term of this Contract, interfere, in a material manner, with the Adviser's ability to meet all of its obligations with respect to rendering services to the Portfolio hereunder. In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of obligations or duties hereunder on the part of the Adviser, the Adviser shall not be subject to liability to the Portfolio or to any shareholder of the Portfolio for any act or omission in the course of, or connected with, rendering services hereunder or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of any security or other investment instrument.
6. Subject to the prior written approval of the Trustees of the Fund, satisfaction of all applicable requirements under the 1940 Act, and such other terms and conditions as the Trustees may impose, the Adviser may appoint (and may from time to time remove) one or more unaffiliated persons as agent to perform any or all of the services specified hereunder and to carry out such provisions of this Agreement as the Adviser may from time to time direct and may delegate to such unaffiliated persons the authority vested in the Adviser pursuant to this Agreement to the extent necessary to enable such persons to perform the services requested of such person by the Adviser, provided, however , that the appointment of any such agent shall not relieve the Adviser of any of its liabilities hereunder.
7. (a) Subject to prior termination as provided in sub-paragraph (d) of this paragraph 7, this Contract shall continue in force until September 30, 2013 and indefinitely thereafter, but only so long as the continuance after such date shall be specifically approved at least annually by vote of the Trustees of the Fund or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio.
(b) This Contract may be modified by mutual consent subject to the provisions of Section 15 of the 1940 Act, as modified by or interpreted by any applicable order or orders of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") or any rules or regulations adopted by, or interpretative releases or no-action letters of, the Commission or its staff.
(c) In addition to the requirements of sub-paragraphs (a) and (b) of this paragraph 7, the terms of any continuance or modification of this Contract must have been approved by the vote of a majority of those Trustees of the Fund who are not parties to the Contract or interested persons of any such party, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(d) Either party hereto may, at any time on sixty (60) days' prior written notice to the other, terminate this Contract, without payment of any penalty, by action of its Trustees or Board of Directors, as the case may be, or with respect to the Portfolio by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio. This Contract shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment.
8. The Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Fund's Trust Instrument and agrees that the obligations assumed by the Fund pursuant to this Contract shall be limited in all cases to the Portfolio and its assets, and the Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders or any individual shareholder of the Portfolio or any other portfolios of the Fund. In addition, the Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligations from the Trustees or any individual Trustee. The Adviser understands that the rights and obligations of any portfolio under the Trust Instrument are separate and distinct from those of any and all other portfolios.
9. The Adviser shall not be liable for damages resulting from delayed or defective performance when such delays arise out of causes beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the Adviser and could not have been reasonably prevented by the Adviser through back-up systems and other business continuation and disaster recovery procedures commonly employed by other SEC-registered investment advisers that meet reasonable commercial standards in the investment company industry. Such causes may include, but are not restricted to, Acts of God or of the public enemy, terrorism, acts of the State in its sovereign capacity, fires, floods, earthquakes, power failure, disabling strikes, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, and freight embargoes.
10. This Contract shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions thereof. To the extent that the applicable laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts conflict with the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
The terms "vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities," "assignment," and "interested persons," when used herein, shall have the respective meanings specified in the 1940 Act, as now in effect or as hereafter amended, and subject to such orders or no-action letters as may be granted by the Commission or its staff.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have caused this instrument to be signed on their behalf by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, and their respective seals to be hereunto affixed, all as of the date written above.
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
on behalf of
STRATEGIC ADVISERS CORE INCOME MULTI-MANAGER FUND
By: /s/Kenneth B. Robins
Kenneth B. Robins
President and Treasurer
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Suzanne Brennan
Suzanne Brennan
Chief Operating Officer
Exhibit (d)(10)
MANAGEMENT CONTRACT
between
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
STRATEGIC ADVISERS INCOME OPPORTUNITIES FUND OF FUNDS
and
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
AGREEMENT made this 7th day of June, 2012 by and between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, a Delaware statutory trust, which may issue one or more series of shares of beneficial interest (hereinafter called the "Fund"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds (hereinafter called the "Portfolio"), and Strategic Advisers, Inc., a Massachusetts corporation (hereinafter called the "Adviser") as set forth in its entirety below.
1. (a) Investment Advisory Services. The Adviser undertakes to act as investment adviser of the Portfolio and shall, subject to the supervision of the Fund's Board of Trustees, direct the investments of the Portfolio in accordance with the investment objective, policies and limitations as provided in the Portfolio's Prospectus or other governing instruments, as amended from time to time, the Investment Company Act of 1940 and rules thereunder, as amended from time to time (the "1940 Act"), and such other limitations as the Portfolio may impose by notice in writing to the Adviser. The Adviser shall also furnish for the use of the Portfolio office space and all necessary office facilities, equipment and personnel for servicing the investments of the Portfolio; and shall pay the salaries and fees of all officers of the Fund, of all Trustees of the Fund who are "interested persons" of the Fund or of the Adviser and of all personnel of the Fund or the Adviser performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities. The Adviser is authorized, in its discretion and without prior consultation with the Portfolio, to buy, sell, lend and otherwise trade in any stocks, bonds and other securities and investment instruments on behalf of the Portfolio. The investment policies and all other actions of the Portfolio are and shall at all times be subject to the control and direction of the Fund's Board of Trustees.
(b) Management Services. The Adviser shall perform (or arrange for the performance by its affiliates of) the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The Adviser shall, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees of the Fund, perform various services for the Portfolio, including but not limited to: (i) providing the Portfolio with office space, equipment and facilities (which may be its own) for maintaining its organization; (ii) on behalf of the Portfolio, supervising relations with, and monitoring the performance of, any sub-advisers, custodians, depositories, transfer and pricing agents, accountants, attorneys, underwriters, brokers and dealers, insurers and other persons in any capacity deemed to be necessary or desirable; (iii) preparing all general shareholder communications, including shareholder reports; (iv) conducting shareholder relations; (v) maintaining the Fund's existence and its records; (vi) during such times as shares are publicly offered, maintaining the registration and qualification of the Portfolio's shares under federal and state law; and (vii) investigating the development of and developing and implementing, if appropriate, management and shareholder services designed to enhance the value or convenience of the Portfolio as an investment vehicle.
The Adviser shall also furnish such reports, evaluations, information or analyses to the Fund as the Fund's Board of Trustees may request from time to time or as the Adviser may deem to be desirable. The Adviser shall make recommendations to the Fund's Board of Trustees with respect to Fund policies, and shall carry out such policies as are adopted by the Trustees. The Adviser shall, subject to review by the Board of Trustees, furnish such other services as the Adviser shall from time to time determine to be necessary or useful to perform its obligations under this Contract.
(c) The Adviser shall place all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities for the Portfolio's account with brokers or dealers selected by the Adviser, which may include brokers or dealers affiliated with the Adviser. The Adviser shall use its best efforts to seek to execute portfolio transactions at prices which are advantageous to the Portfolio and at commission rates which are reasonable in relation to the benefits received. In selecting brokers or dealers qualified to execute a particular transaction, brokers or dealers may be selected who also provide brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) to the Portfolio and/or the other accounts over which the Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. The Adviser is authorized to pay a broker or dealer who provides such brokerage and research services a commission for executing a portfolio transaction for the Portfolio which is in excess of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have charged for effecting that transaction if the Adviser determines in good faith that such amount of commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker or dealer. This determination may be viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities which the Adviser and its affiliates have with respect to accounts over which they exercise investment discretion. The Trustees of the Fund shall periodically review the commissions paid by the Portfolio to determine if the commissions paid over representative periods of time were reasonable in relation to the benefits to the Portfolio.
The Adviser shall, in acting hereunder, be an independent contractor. The Adviser shall not be an agent of the Portfolio.
2. It is understood that the Trustees, officers and shareholders of the Fund are or may be or become interested in the Adviser as directors, officers or otherwise and that directors, officers and stockholders of the Adviser are or may be or become similarly interested in the Fund, and that the Adviser may be or become interested in the Fund as a shareholder or otherwise.
3. (a) For the services and facilities to be furnished hereunder, the Adviser shall receive a monthly management fee equal to the sum of (i) the annual rate of 0.30% of the average daily net assets of the Portfolio (computed in the manner set forth in the Trust Instrument) throughout the month, which is retained by the Adviser and (ii) the total fees payable monthly to the sub-advisers retained by the Fund and the Adviser pursuant to investment sub-advisory agreements, which, for each sub-adviser, is based on the average daily Portfolio Assets; provided however , that the maximum aggregate annual management fee rate payable by the Portfolio shall not exceed 0.80% of the average daily net assets of the Portfolio. For purposes of calculating the fee payable to each sub-adviser, "Portfolio Assets" shall mean the portion of the net assets of the Portfolio managed by the relevant sub-adviser.
(b) The Adviser shall pay the sub-advisers the fees described in clause (a)(ii) above pursuant to, and in accordance with, the investment sub-advisory agreements.
(c) In the case of initiation or termination of this contract during any month, the fee for that month shall be reduced proportionately on the basis of the number of business days during which it is in effect and the fee computed upon the average net assets for the business days it is so in effect for that month.
4. It is understood that the Portfolio will pay all its expenses other than those expressly stated to be payable by the Adviser hereunder, which expenses payable by the Portfolio shall include, without limitation, (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of securities and other investment instruments; (iii) fees and expenses of the Fund's Trustees other than those who are "interested persons" of the Fund or the Adviser; (iv) legal and audit expenses; (v) custodian, registrar and transfer agent fees and expenses; (vi) fees and expenses related to the registration and qualification of the Fund and the Portfolio's shares for distribution under state and federal securities laws; (vii) expenses of printing and mailing reports and notices and proxy material to shareholders of the Portfolio; (viii) all other expenses incidental to holding meetings of the Portfolio's shareholders, including proxy solicitations therefor; (ix) its proportionate share of insurance premiums; (x) its proportionate share of association membership dues; (xi) expenses of typesetting for printing Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information and supplements thereto; (xii) expenses of printing and mailing Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information and supplements thereto sent to existing shareholders; and (xiii) such non-recurring or extraordinary expenses as may arise, including those relating to actions, suits or proceedings to which the Portfolio is a party and the legal obligation which the Portfolio may have to indemnify the Fund's Trustees and officers with respect thereto.
5. The services of the Adviser to the Portfolio are not to be deemed exclusive, the Adviser being free to render services to others and engage in other activities, provided, however , that such other services and activities do not, during the term of this Contract, interfere, in a material manner, with the Adviser's ability to meet all of its obligations with respect to rendering services to the Portfolio hereunder. In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of obligations or duties hereunder on the part of the Adviser, the Adviser shall not be subject to liability to the Portfolio or to any shareholder of the Portfolio for any act or omission in the course of, or connected with, rendering services hereunder or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of any security or other investment instrument.
6. Subject to the prior written approval of the Trustees of the Fund, satisfaction of all applicable requirements under the 1940 Act, and such other terms and conditions as the Trustees may impose, the Adviser may appoint (and may from time to time remove) one or more unaffiliated persons as agent to perform any or all of the services specified hereunder and to carry out such provisions of this Agreement as the Adviser may from time to time direct and may delegate to such unaffiliated persons the authority vested in the Adviser pursuant to this Agreement to the extent necessary to enable such persons to perform the services requested of such person by the Adviser, provided, however , that the appointment of any such agent shall not relieve the Adviser of any of its liabilities hereunder.
7. (a) Subject to prior termination as provided in sub-paragraph (d) of this paragraph 7, this Contract shall continue in force until September 30, 2013 and indefinitely thereafter, but only so long as the continuance after such date shall be specifically approved at least annually by vote of the Trustees of the Fund or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio.
(b) This Contract may be modified by mutual consent subject to the provisions of Section 15 of the 1940 Act, as modified by or interpreted by any applicable order or orders of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") or any rules or regulations adopted by, or interpretative releases or no-action letters of, the Commission or its staff.
(c) In addition to the requirements of sub-paragraphs (a) and (b) of this paragraph 7, the terms of any continuance or modification of this Contract must have been approved by the vote of a majority of those Trustees of the Fund who are not parties to the Contract or interested persons of any such party, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(d) Either party hereto may, at any time on sixty (60) days' prior written notice to the other, terminate this Contract, without payment of any penalty, by action of its Trustees or Board of Directors, as the case may be, or with respect to the Portfolio by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio. This Contract shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment.
8. The Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Fund's Trust Instrument and agrees that the obligations assumed by the Fund pursuant to this Contract shall be limited in all cases to the Portfolio and its assets, and the Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders or any individual shareholder of the Portfolio or any other portfolios of the Fund. In addition, the Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligations from the Trustees or any individual Trustee. The Adviser understands that the rights and obligations of any portfolio under the Trust Instrument are separate and distinct from those of any and all other portfolios.
9. The Adviser shall not be liable for damages resulting from delayed or defective performance when such delays arise out of causes beyond the control and without the fault or negligence of the Adviser and could not have been reasonably prevented by the Adviser through back-up systems and other business continuation and disaster recovery procedures commonly employed by other SEC-registered investment advisers that meet reasonable commercial standards in the investment company industry. Such causes may include, but are not restricted to, Acts of God or of the public enemy, terrorism, acts of the State in its sovereign capacity, fires, floods, earthquakes, power failure, disabling strikes, epidemics, quarantine restrictions, and freight embargoes.
10. This Contract shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions thereof. To the extent that the applicable laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts conflict with the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the latter shall control.
The terms "vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities," "assignment," and "interested persons," when used herein, shall have the respective meanings specified in the 1940 Act, as now in effect or as hereafter amended, and subject to such orders or no-action letters as may be granted by the Commission or its staff.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have caused this instrument to be signed on their behalf by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, and their respective seals to be hereunto affixed, all as of the date written above.
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
on behalf of
STRATEGIC ADVISERS INCOME OPPORTUNITIES FUND OF FUNDS
By: /s/Kenneth B. Robins
Kenneth B. Robins
President and Treasurer
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Suzanne Brennan
Suzanne Brennan
Chief Operating Officer
Exhibit (d)(25)
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AMONG
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.,
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
AND
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
AGREEMENT, made this 27th day of January, 2012, among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Adviser"), a Massachusetts corporation, and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC ("Sub-Adviser"), a Delaware limited liability company.
WHEREAS, the Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act");
WHEREAS, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser are each registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended ("Advisers Act");
WHEREAS, the Trust has retained the Adviser to render investment advisory services to the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, pursuant to a Management Contract dated December 3, 2009, as may be amended from time to time ("Advisory Agreement");
WHEREAS, the Advisory Agreement authorizes the Adviser to delegate to one or more other investment advisers any or all of the Adviser's duties and obligations under the Advisory Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Adviser wish to retain the Sub-Adviser to render certain investment advisory services to the Fund with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, as determined from time to time by the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser is willing to render such services.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants herein contained, it is agreed among the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and the Trust as follows:
1. Appointment
With respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated, from time to time, by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser, the Trust and the Adviser hereby appoint the Sub-Adviser to act as investment sub-adviser to the Fund for the periods and on the terms set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser accepts the appointment and agrees to furnish the services set forth herein for the compensation provided in Section 8 of this Agreement.
2. Services and Duties of Investment Sub-Adviser
Subject to the general supervision and oversight of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board"), the Sub-Adviser will:
(a) provide a program of continuous investment management for the Fund in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies as stated in the Fund's prospectus and statement of additional information filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on Form N-1A, as amended and supplemented from time to time (the "Registration Statement") and as provided by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser;
(b) invest and reinvest the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by selecting the securities, instruments, repurchase agreements, financial futures contracts, options and other investments and techniques that the Fund may purchase, sell, enter into or use;
(c) oversee the placement of purchase and sale orders on behalf of the Fund;
(d) employ portfolio managers to make investment decisions and securities analysts to provide research services to the Fund;
(e) subject to the understanding set forth in Section 11(a)(1) of this Agreement, vote all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser may be invested in accordance with the Sub-Adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures as approved by the Board and in a manner that complies with applicable law; maintain records of all proxies voted on behalf of the Fund; and provide information to the Trust, the Adviser or their designated agent in a manner that is sufficiently complete and timely to ensure the Trust's compliance with its filing obligations under Rule 30b1-4 of the 1940 Act;
(f) maintain books and records with respect to the Fund's securities transactions in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; and
(g) to the extent reasonably requested by the Adviser or officers of the Fund, cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser and the Trust's other service providers by (1) keeping them fully informed as to such matters that they may reasonably deem necessary with respect to the performance of their obligations to the Fund, (2) providing prompt responses to reasonable requests for information or assistance, including furnishing the Adviser and/or the Fund with statistical information as the Adviser and/or the Fund may reasonably request with respect to the securities that the Fund may hold, and (3) establishing appropriate processes to promote the efficient exchange of information.
The Sub-Adviser further agrees that, in performing its duties hereunder, it will:
(h) comply in all material respects with (1) the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and all rules and regulations thereunder and any other applicable federal and state laws and regulations, (2) the rules and regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, (3) the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), (4) the investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions of the Fund as described in the Registration Statement, (5) the Trust's Trust Instrument and By-Laws or other organizational documents of the Trust and (6) any written instructions of the Adviser or the Board, provided the Sub-Adviser has had sufficient opportunity to implement such instructions;
The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser with advance notice of any change in the Fund's investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions as stated in the Registration Statement or in any procedures and policies adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement and with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, manage the Fund's portfolio investments in compliance with such changes, provided the Sub-Adviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Trust or the Adviser and has had sufficient opportunity to implement such changes. In addition to such notice, the Adviser shall provide to the Sub-Adviser a copy of the modified Registration Statement reflecting such changes provided that such Registration Statement was so modified.
(i) manage the Fund so that it will qualify, and continue to qualify, as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and regulations issued thereunder;
(j) keep the Adviser and/or the Board informed of developments materially affecting the Fund's portfolio;
(k) make available to the Board, the Adviser, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO") and the Trust's administrator, promptly upon their request, such copies of its records with respect to the Fund as may be required to assist in their compliance with applicable laws and regulations. As reasonably requested by the Board or the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser will complete periodic or special questionnaires and furnish to the Board and/or the Adviser such periodic and special reports regarding the Fund and the Sub-Adviser including, but not limited to, reports concerning transactions and performance of the Fund, quarterly and annual compliance reports and certifications, reports regarding compliance with the Trust's procedures pursuant to Rules 17e-1, 17a-7, 10f-3 and 12d3-1 under the 1940 Act (as applicable), fundamental investment restrictions, procedures for opening brokerage accounts and commodity trading accounts, liquidity determinations for securities or other instruments held by the Fund such as, among others, securities purchased pursuant to Rule 144A and 4(2) commercial paper, compliance with the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics, and such other procedures or requirements that the Adviser may reasonably request from time to time;
(l) make available to the Board and the Adviser at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other appropriate personnel as mutually agreed by the Adviser and Sub-Adviser, either in person or, at the mutual convenience of the Board, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser, by telephone, in order to review the investment policies, performance and other matters relating to the management of the Fund;
(m) review draft reports to shareholders and other documents provided to the Sub-Adviser with respect to the information therein that pertains to the Sub-Adviser or the services provided by the Sub-Adviser, provide comments on such drafts on a timely basis, and provide certifications or sub-certifications on a timely basis as to the accuracy of the information contained in such reports or other documents;
(n) use no material, non-public information concerning portfolio companies that may be in its possession or the possession of any of its affiliates, nor will the Sub-Adviser seek to obtain any such information, in providing investment advice or investment management services to the Fund;
(o) promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board in the event that the Sub-Adviser or any of its affiliates becomes aware that the Sub-Adviser: (i) is subject to a statutory disqualification that prevents the Sub-Adviser from serving as investment adviser pursuant to this Agreement; (ii) fails to be registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act or under the laws of any jurisdiction in which the Sub-Adviser is required to be registered as an investment adviser in order to perform its obligations under this Agreement; (iii) is the subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the SEC or other regulatory authority; or (iv) is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board or body, or governmental authority, involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates; or is involved in any pending litigation or administrative proceeding involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates brought against the Sub-Adviser or any of its management persons (as defined in Rule 206(4)-4 under the Advisers Act). The Sub-Adviser further agrees to notify the Trust and the Adviser promptly of any material fact known to the Sub-Adviser respecting or relating to the Sub-Adviser that is not contained in the Trust's Registration Statement, as amended and supplemented from time to time, regarding the Fund, or any amendment or supplement thereto, but that is required to be disclosed therein, and of any statement contained therein that becomes untrue in any material respect. The Sub-Adviser will promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board if its chief executive officer or any member of the portfolio management team named in the Registration Statement for the Fund changes, or if there is an actual change in control or management of the Sub-Adviser within the meaning of Rules 2a-6 and 202(a)(1)-1 under the 1940 Act and Advisers Act, respectively;
(p) not disclose information regarding Fund characteristics, trading history, portfolio holdings, performance information or any other related information to any third-party, except in compliance with the Trust's policies on disclosure of portfolio holdings or as requested by the Adviser; however, Sub-Adviser may include the Fund's performance information in the calculation of composite performance information, provided that the Fund's performance information is included in the composite in such as way as to prevent anyone from identifying the information contributed by the Fund. In addition, the Adviser acknowledges that the Sub-Adviser manages other accounts following the same investment strategy as the Fund and that these accounts may have different portfolio holdings disclosure policies;
(q) provide the Adviser, the Trust or the Board with such information and assurances (including certifications and sub-certifications) as the Adviser, the Trust or the Board may reasonably request from time to time in order to assist the Adviser, the Trust or the Board in complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations, including requirements in connection with the preparation and/or filing of the Fund's Form N-CSRs and Form N-Qs;
(r) provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent for the Trust in determining or confirming, consistent with the procedures and policies stated in the Trust's valuation procedures and/or the Registration Statement, the value of any portfolio securities or other assets of the Fund for which the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent seeks assistance from the Sub-Adviser or identifies for review by the Sub-Adviser. This assistance may include (but is not limited to): (i) designating and providing access to one or more employees of the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates who are knowledgeable about the security/issuer, its financial condition, trading and/or other relevant factors for valuation, which employees shall be available for consultation when the Board's Valuation Committee convenes; (ii) providing reasonable assistance to the Adviser or the custodian in obtaining bids and offers or quotes from broker/dealers or market-makers with respect to securities held by the Fund, upon the reasonable request of the Adviser or custodian; (iii) upon the request of the Adviser or the custodian, provide assistance in fair valuation of the Trust; and (iv) maintaining records as required by applicable law with respect to any securities valuation assistance provided hereunder, and providing such information to the Adviser or the Trust upon request, with such records being deemed Fund records;
(s) not consult with any other investment sub-adviser of the Trust (if any), or with the sub-adviser to any other investment company (or separate series thereof) managed by the Adviser concerning the Fund's transactions in securities or other assets, except for purposes of complying with the conditions of Rule 12d3-1(a) and (b) under the 1940 Act, and, to the extent that multiple sub-advisers may be engaged to provide services to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall be responsible for providing investment advisory services only with respect to such portion of the Fund's assets as may from time to time be allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser; and
(t) provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC and, promptly after filing any material amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC, furnish a copy of such amendments to the Trust and the Adviser; and provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV Part II as updated from time to time. The Adviser hereby acknowledges having received a current copy of the Sub-Adviser's Form ADV Part II, current as of the date hereof.
In performing its obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser may rely upon information concerning the Fund's books and records provided to it by the Adviser, the custodian(s) or other agent(s) designated by the Adviser, and will not independently verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. The Sub-Adviser (and its officers, directors/trustees, agents, employees, controlling persons, shareholders and any other person or entity affiliated with the Sub-Adviser) shall not be liable for any loss, claim or damages related to such reliance.
3. Obligations of the Adviser and the Fund
The Adviser will provide, or has provided, to the Sub-Adviser, with a copy of the Registration Statement as filed with the SEC, and of the policies and procedures adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser which the Sub-Adviser is required to implement in managing the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser or such other information or documents necessary for the management of the Sub-Adviser's allocated portion of Fund assets as the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably request or as required by applicable law or regulation. Throughout the term of this Agreement, the Adviser shall continue to provide such information and documents to the Sub-Adviser, including any amendments, updates or supplements to such information or documents before or at the time the amendments, updates or supplements become effective.
4. Brokerage
The Sub-Adviser may place orders pursuant to its investment determinations for the Fund directly with the issuers of the securities, or with brokers or dealers selected by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser may open and maintain brokerage accounts of all types on behalf of and in the name of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser may enter into standard customer agreements with brokers and direct payments of cash, cash equivalents and securities and other property into such brokerage accounts as the Sub-Adviser deems desirable or appropriate. In selecting brokers or dealers to execute transactions on behalf of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser will use its best efforts to seek the best overall terms available. In assessing the best overall terms available for the Fund transaction, the Sub-Adviser will consider all factors it deems relevant, including, but not limited to, the breadth of the market in the security, the price of the security, the financial condition and execution capability of the broker or dealer and the reasonableness of the commission, if any, for the specific transaction and on a continuing basis. In selecting broker-dealers to execute a particular transaction, and in evaluating the best overall terms available, the Sub-Adviser is authorized to consider the brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act")) provided to the Fund and/or other accounts over which the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. The parties hereto acknowledge that it is desirable for the Trust that the Sub-Adviser have access to supplemental investment and market research and security and economic analysis provided by broker-dealers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers on the basis of seeking the most favorable price and efficient execution. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser may cause the Fund to pay a broker-dealer that furnishes brokerage and research services a higher commission than that which might be charged by another broker-dealer for effecting the same transaction, provided that the Sub-Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either the particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund in compliance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-Adviser in connection with the Sub-Adviser's services to other clients. In accordance with Section 11(a) of the 1934 Act and Rule 11a2-2(T) thereunder and subject to any other applicable laws and regulations, the Sub-Adviser and its affiliates are authorized to effect portfolio transactions for the Fund and to retain brokerage commissions on such transactions. The Sub-Adviser may, but shall not be obligated to, aggregate or bunch orders for the purchase or sale of securities for the Fund with orders for its other clients where: (i) such aggregation or bunching of orders is not inconsistent with the Fund's investment objectives, policies and procedures, (ii) the allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the allocation of expenses incurred in any such transaction, shall be made by the Sub-Adviser in a manner that complies with the Sub-Adviser's trade allocation policies and procedures approved by the Board and is fair and equitable in the judgment of the Sub-Adviser and is consistent with the Sub-Adviser's fiduciary obligations to the Fund and each of its other clients.
5. Books, Records and Regulatory Filings
(a) The Sub-Adviser agrees to maintain and to preserve for the applicable periods any such records as are required to be maintained by the Sub-Adviser with respect to the Fund by the 1940 Act and rules adopted thereunder, and by any other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Sub-Adviser further agrees that all records that it maintains for the Fund are the property of the Fund and it will promptly surrender any of such records upon request.
(b) The Sub-Adviser agrees that it shall furnish to regulatory authorities having the requisite authority any information or reports in connection with its services hereunder that may be requested in order to determine whether the operations of the Fund are being conducted in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
(c) The Sub-Adviser shall make all filings with the SEC required of it pursuant to Section 13 of the 1934 Act with respect to its duties as are set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser also shall make all required filings on Schedule 13D or 13G and Form 13F (as well as other filings triggered by ownership in securities under other applicable laws, rules and regulations) as may be required of the Fund due to the activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall be the sole filer of Form 13F with respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser.
6. Standard of Care, Limitation of Liability and Indemnification
(a) The Sub-Adviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services under this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust, the Adviser or the Fund, or affiliated persons of the Adviser or the Fund (collectively, the "Adviser Indemnitees") in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates except a loss resulting from the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement; provided, however , that nothing herein shall be deemed to protect or purport to protect the Sub-Adviser against any liability to the Adviser Indemnitees for, and the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Adviser Indemnitees from, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which any of the Adviser Indemnitees may become subject arising out of or resulting from (i) the Sub-Adviser's failure to meet its standard of care and thereby causing the Fund to be in violation of any applicable federal or state law, rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth in the Fund's current Registration Statement or the most current written guidelines, policies or instruction provided in writing by the Board or the Adviser, (ii) the Sub-Adviser causing the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification or source of income requirements of Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and the regulations issued thereunder , (iii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, proxy materials, shareholder reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials pertaining to the Trust or the Fund or the omission to state therein a material fact known to the Sub-Adviser that was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to the Adviser or the Trust by the Sub-Adviser for use therein, or (iv) the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement, or otherwise for breach of this Agreement by the Sub-Adviser. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Trust and the Fund from any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which either the Trust or the Fund may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty by the Sub-Adviser under Section 36(b) of the 1940 Act with respect to the receipt of compensation for its services under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing contained in this Agreement shall constitute a waiver or limitation of rights that the Trust or the Fund may have under federal or state securities laws.
(b) The Sub-Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust Instrument or other organizational document of the Trust and agrees that any obligations of the Trust or the Fund arising in connection with this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the Fund and its assets, and the Sub-Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from any other fund of the Trust or the shareholders or any individual shareholder of the Fund. Nor shall the Sub-Adviser seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the trustees of the Trust (each, a "Trustee" and, together, the "Trustees") or any individual Trustee or any officers.
(c) As used in this Section 6, the term "Sub-Adviser" shall include any officers, directors, employees, independent contractors or other affiliates of the Sub-Adviser performing services with respect to the Fund.
(d) The Adviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Sub-Adviser from and against, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which the Sub-Adviser may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from, the Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
7. Risk Acknowledgement
The Sub-Adviser makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, that any level of performance or investment results will be achieved by the Fund, whether on a relative or absolute basis. The Adviser understands that investment decisions made for the Fund by the Sub-Adviser are subject to various market, currency, economic, political, business and structure risks and that those investment decisions will not always be profitable.
8. Compensation
The Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement in accordance with the terms set forth on Schedule A attached hereto.
9. Expenses
The Sub-Adviser will bear all expenses in connection with the performance of its services under this Agreement, excluding those costs of the Fund associated with brokerage activities. The Sub-Adviser shall bear all expenses and costs of the Trust (including reasonable attorney's fees), if any, arising out of a termination or possible termination of this Agreement as a result of an assignment caused by a change of control or management of the Sub-Adviser, including the preparation and mailing of an information statement to shareholders pursuant to a "manager-of-managers" exemptive order from the SEC, or the preparation, mailing, solicitation and other costs associated with the use of a proxy statement relating to a shareholder vote in respect of a new sub-advisory agreement. The foregoing obligations of the Sub-Adviser shall apply in any circumstance in which the Adviser, in consultation with internal or outside counsel to the Trust, deems that an actual or possible assignment of this Agreement has or may occur, and determines that an information statement should be used, or a vote of shareholders should be obtained, as the case may be.
10. Services to Other Companies or Accounts
The investment advisory services of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund under this Agreement are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Sub-Adviser shall be free to render similar services to other investment companies and clients (whether or not their investment objective and policies are similar those of the Fund) and to engage in other activities, provided that such other services and activities do not interfere with or impair the Sub-Adviser's ability to fulfill its duties and obligations under this Agreement. If the Sub-Adviser provides any advice to its clients concerning investment in the shares of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall act solely for such clients in that regard and not in any way on behalf of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund.
11. Compliance Matters
(a) The Sub-Adviser understands and agrees that it is a "service provider" to the Trust as contemplated by Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act. As such, the Sub-Adviser agrees to cooperate fully with the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with respect to (i) any and all compliance-related matters, and (ii) the Trust's efforts to assure that each of its service providers adopts and maintains policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to prevent violation of the "federal securities laws" (as that term is defined by Rule 38a-1) by the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser. In this regard, the Sub-Adviser shall:
(1) submit to the Board for its consideration and approval, prior to the effective date of this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser's applicable compliance policies and procedures;
(2) submit annually (and at such other times as the Trust may reasonably request) to the Trust's CCO and the Adviser for consideration by the Board, a report discussing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program, and fully describing any material amendments to such compliance program since the most recent such report;
(3) provide periodic reports and certifications concerning the Sub-Adviser's compliance program and special reports in the event of material compliance matters;
(4) provide the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers with reasonable access, including on-site visits with the Sub-Adviser as may be reasonably requested from time to time, to information regarding the aspects of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program that may expose the Adviser and the Trust to compliance risks or lead to a violation by the Trust, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser of the federal securities laws;
(5) permit the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers to maintain an active working relationship with the Sub-Adviser's compliance personnel by, among other things, providing the Adviser and the Trust's CCO and other officers with a specified individual within the Sub-Adviser's organization to discuss and address compliance-related matters;
(6) provide the Adviser and its chief compliance officer and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with such certifications as may be reasonably requested; and
(7) reasonably cooperate with any independent registered public accounting firm engaged by the Trust, ensure that all reasonably necessary information and the appropriate personnel are made available to such independent registered public accounting firm, to support the expression of the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, and each year provide the Adviser and such independent registered public accounting firm with a copy of the annual SAS 70 Report prepared by the Sub-Adviser's independent auditors regarding the Sub-Adviser's internal controls.
(b) The Sub-Adviser represents, warrants and covenants that it has implemented and shall maintain a compliance program in accordance with the requirements of Rule 206(4)-7 under the Advisers Act.
(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the Adviser acknowledges that Sub-Adviser is not the compliance agent for the Trust or for the Adviser, and does not have access to all of the Trust's books and records necessary to perform certain compliance testing. Any of the Sub-Adviser's agreement to perform the services in this Section 11 or elsewhere in this Agreement is subject to the understanding that the Sub-Adviser shall perform such services based upon its books and records with respect to the Fund, which comprise a portion of the Trust's book and records.
12. Duration and Termination
(a) This Agreement shall be effective immediately as of the date set forth above and shall continue in effect for two years from its effective date with respect to the Fund, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, and shall continue year to year thereafter, provided each continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of a majority of the Trustees or (ii) a vote of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting securities, provided that in either event the continuance is also approved by a majority of the Trustees who are neither (A) parties to this Agreement nor (B) "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person (to the extent required by the 1940 Act) at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, on sixty (60) days' written notice to the Sub-Adviser: (i) by the Trust, pursuant to (A) action by the Board or (B) the vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the shares of the Fund or (ii) by the Adviser. This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, by the Sub-Adviser upon ninety (90) days' written notice to the Adviser and the Trust. In addition, this Agreement will terminate with respect to the Fund in the event of the termination of the Advisory Agreement with respect to the Fund. This Agreement will be terminated automatically in the event of its "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act).
(c) In the event of a termination of this Agreement for any reason with respect to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably cooperate with any transition manager or successor investment sub-adviser and with the Adviser in transitioning the management of the Fund to one or more new sub-advisers or to the Adviser, including, without limitation, providing the transition manager, at such intervals as the transition manager may request, with a list of holdings for the portion of Fund assets under the Sub-Adviser's management and such other information as required by the transition management agreement, into which the Adviser and the transition manager will, at that time, enter.
(d) Termination of this Agreement shall not affect the rights or obligations of the Adviser, the Adviser Indemnitees and the Sub-Adviser under Section 6 of this Agreement.
13. Use of Name
(a) The Sub-Adviser hereby consents to the use of its name and the names of its affiliates in the Fund's disclosure documents, shareholder communications, advertising, sales literature and similar communications. The Sub-Adviser shall not use the name or any tradename, trademark, trade device, service mark, symbol or any abbreviation, contraction or simulation thereof of the Adviser, the Trust, the Fund or any of their affiliates in its marketing materials unless it first receives prior written approval of the Trust and the Adviser.
(b) It is understood that the name of each party to this Agreement, and any derivatives thereof or logos associated with that name, is the valuable property of the party in question and its affiliates, and that each other party has the right to use such names pursuant to the relationship created by, and in accordance with the terms of, this Agreement only so long as this Agreement shall continue in effect. Upon termination of this Agreement, the parties shall forthwith cease to use the names of the other parties (or any derivative or logo) as appropriate and to the extent that continued use is not required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
14. Confidential Information
(a) Each party agrees that it will treat confidentially all information provided by any other party (the "Discloser") regarding the Discloser's businesses and operations, including without limitation the investment activities or holdings of the Fund ("Confidential Information"). All Confidential Information provided by the Discloser shall be used only by the other party hereto (the "Recipient") solely for the purposes of rendering services pursuant to this Agreement, and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior consent of the Discloser, except for any party that is under common control with the Recipient and except for a limited number of employees, attorneys, accountants and other advisers of the Recipient on a need-to-know basis and solely for the purposes of rendering services under this Agreement.
(b) Confidential Information shall not include any information that: (i) is public when provided or thereafter becomes public through no wrongful act of the Recipient; (ii) is demonstrably known to the Recipient prior to execution of this Agreement; (iii) is independently developed by the Recipient through no wrongful act of the Recipient in the ordinary course of business outside of this Agreement; (iv) is generally employed by the trade at the time that the Recipient learns of such information or knowledge; or (v) has been rightfully and lawfully obtained by the Recipient from any third party.
(c) In the event that the Recipient is requested or required (by deposition, interrogatories, requests for information or documents in legal proceedings, subpoenas, civil investigative demand or similar process), in connection with any proceeding, to disclose any of the Discloser's Confidential Information, the Recipient will give the Discloser prompt written notice of such request or requirement to allow the Discloser an opportunity to obtain a protective order or otherwise obtain assurances that confidential treatment will be accorded to such Confidential Information. In the event that such protective order or other remedy is not obtained, disclosure shall be made of only that portion of the Confidential Information that is legally required to be disclosed. All Confidential Information disclosed as required by law shall nonetheless continue to be deemed Confidential Information.
15. Amendment
This Agreement may be amended in writing signed by the parties to this Agreement in a manner that is in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, as modified or interpreted by any applicable order, exemptive relief or interpretative release issued by the SEC.
16. Notices
All notices hereunder shall be provided in writing, by facsimile or by email. Notices shall be deemed given if delivered in person or by messenger, certified mail with return receipt, or by a reputable overnight delivery service that provides evidence of receipt to the parties; upon receipt if sent by fax; or upon read receipt or reply if delivered by email, at the following addresses:
If to the Trust: Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Marc Bryant
If to the Adviser: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Chief Operating Officer
With Copy to: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Karen Benoit
If to the Sub-Adviser: Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC
900 Salem Street
Smithfield, RI 02917
Attn: Patrick Sheppard
patrick.sheppard@pyramis.com
17. Miscellaneous
(a) This Agreement constitutes the full and complete agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof.
(b) Titles or captions of sections in this Agreement are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and in no way define, limit, extend or describe the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provisions thereof.
(c) This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, all of which together shall for all purposes constitute one Agreement, binding on all the parties.
(d) This Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be governed by, and interpreted, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions of that or any other jurisdiction. To the extent that the applicable laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts conflict with the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the latter shall control. The parties irrevocably consent to submit to the jurisdiction of any federal or state court sitting in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
(e) If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected hereby and, to this extent, the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable.
(f) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Sub-Adviser shall be an independent contractor. Nothing herein shall be construed as constituting the Sub-Adviser as an agent of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund, except to the extent expressly authorized by this Agreement.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first set forth above.
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/Patrick Sheppard
Patrick Sheppard
SVP, Governance, Risk, Compliance and Treasury
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Suzanne Brennan
Name: Suzanne Brennan Title: Chief Operating Officer
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
By: /s/Kenneth Robins
Kenneth Robins
Treasurer
Schedule A
Pursuant to Section 8 of the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement (the "Agreement") among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (the "Sub-Adviser"), the Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services it performs on behalf of the Fund as follows:
1. For purposes of calculating the fee to be paid to the Sub-Adviser under this Agreement:
"Portfolio Assets" shall mean the portion of the net assets of the Fund managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to one of the following investment strategies as agreed to by the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser in separately negotiated investment mandates: Dividend Growth (a "Strategy").
"Aggregated Assets" for a particular Strategy shall mean the assets of all registered investment companies managed by the Adviser that are managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to that Strategy, including Portfolio Assets.
2 The Adviser will pay the Sub-Adviser a fee, payable monthly, based on average daily Portfolio Assets (computed in the manner set forth in the Trust's Trust Instrument) determined as of the close of business on each business day throughout the calendar month. The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed pursuant to a specific Strategy based on the following rate schedules.
Rate - Dividend Growth
0.45% (45 basis points) of the first $250 million in assets
0.35% (35 basis points) of the next $500 million in assets
0.30% (30 basis points) on any amount in excess of $750 million in assets
The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be computed monthly and, within twelve business days of the end of each calendar month, the Adviser shall transmit to the Sub-Adviser the fee for the previous month. Payment shall be made in federal funds wired to a bank account designated by the Sub-Adviser. If this Agreement becomes effective or terminates before the end of any month, the fee (if any) for the period from the effective date to the end of such month or from the beginning of such month to the date of termination, as the case may be, shall be prorated on the basis of the number of business days it is so in effect for that month.
The Sub-Adviser agrees to look exclusively to the Adviser, and not to any assets of the Trust or the Fund, for the payment of the Sub-Adviser's fees arising under this Paragraph 2.
Exhibit (d)(26)
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AMONG
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.,
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
AND
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
AGREEMENT, made this 7th day of June, 2012, among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Adviser"), a Massachusetts corporation, and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC ("Sub-Adviser"), a Delaware limited liability company.
WHEREAS, the Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act");
WHEREAS, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser are each registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended ("Advisers Act");
WHEREAS, the Trust has retained the Adviser to render investment advisory services to the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, pursuant to a Management Contract dated June 7, 2012, as may be amended from time to time ("Advisory Agreement");
WHEREAS, the Advisory Agreement authorizes the Adviser to delegate to one or more other investment advisers any or all of the Adviser's duties and obligations under the Advisory Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Adviser wish to retain the Sub-Adviser to render certain investment advisory services to the Fund with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, as determined from time to time by the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser is willing to render such services.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants herein contained, it is agreed among the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and the Trust as follows:
1. Appointment
With respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated, from time to time, by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser, the Trust and the Adviser hereby appoint the Sub-Adviser to act as investment sub-adviser to the Fund for the periods and on the terms set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser accepts the appointment and agrees to furnish the services set forth herein for the compensation provided in Section 8 of this Agreement.
2. Services and Duties of Investment Sub-Adviser
Subject to the general supervision and oversight of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board"), the Sub-Adviser will:
(a) provide a program of continuous investment management for the Fund in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies as stated in the Fund's prospectus and statement of additional information filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on Form N-1A, as amended and supplemented from time to time (the "Registration Statement") and as provided by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser;
(b) invest and reinvest the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by selecting the securities, instruments, repurchase agreements, financial futures contracts, options and other investments and techniques that the Fund may purchase, sell, enter into or use;
(c) oversee the placement of purchase and sale orders on behalf of the Fund;
(d) employ portfolio managers to make investment decisions and securities analysts to provide research services to the Fund;
(e) subject to the understanding set forth in Section 11(a)(1) of this Agreement, vote all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser may be invested in accordance with the Sub-Adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures as approved by the Board and in a manner that complies with applicable law; maintain records of all proxies voted on behalf of the Fund; and provide information to the Trust, the Adviser or their designated agent in a manner that is sufficiently complete and timely to ensure the Trust's compliance with its filing obligations under Rule 30b1-4 of the 1940 Act;
(f) maintain books and records with respect to the Fund's securities transactions in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; and
(g) to the extent reasonably requested by the Adviser or officers of the Fund, cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser and the Trust's other service providers by (1) keeping them fully informed as to such matters that they may reasonably deem necessary with respect to the performance of their obligations to the Fund, (2) providing prompt responses to reasonable requests for information or assistance, including furnishing the Adviser and/or the Fund with statistical information as the Adviser and/or the Fund may reasonably request with respect to the securities that the Fund may hold, and (3) establishing appropriate processes to promote the efficient exchange of information.
The Sub-Adviser further agrees that, in performing its duties hereunder, it will:
(h) comply in all material respects with (1) the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and all rules and regulations thereunder and any other applicable federal and state laws and regulations, (2) the rules and regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, (3) the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), (4) the investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions of the Fund as described in the Registration Statement, (5) the Trust's Trust Instrument and By-Laws or other organizational documents of the Trust and (6) any written guidelines, policies or instructions provided by the Adviser or the Board, provided the Sub-Adviser has had sufficient opportunity to implement such instructions;
The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser with advance notice of any change in the Fund's investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions as stated in the Registration Statement or in any procedures and policies adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement and with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, manage the Fund's portfolio investments in compliance with such changes, provided the Sub-Adviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Trust or the Adviser and has had sufficient opportunity to implement such changes. In addition to such notice, the Adviser shall provide to the Sub-Adviser a copy of the modified Registration Statement reflecting such changes provided that such Registration Statement was so modified.
(i) manage the Fund so that it will qualify, and continue to qualify, as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and regulations issued thereunder;
(j) keep the Adviser and/or the Board informed of developments materially affecting the Fund's portfolio;
(k) make available to the Board, the Adviser, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO") and the Trust's administrator, promptly upon their request, such copies of its records with respect to the Fund as may be required to assist in their compliance with applicable laws and regulations. As reasonably requested by the Board or the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser will complete periodic or special questionnaires and furnish to the Board and/or the Adviser such periodic and special reports regarding the Fund and the Sub-Adviser including, but not limited to, reports concerning transactions and performance of the Fund, quarterly and annual compliance reports and certifications, reports regarding compliance with the Trust's procedures pursuant to Rules 17e-1, 17a-7, 10f-3 and 12d3-1 under the 1940 Act (as applicable), fundamental investment restrictions, procedures for opening brokerage accounts and commodity trading accounts, liquidity determinations for securities or other instruments held by the Fund such as, among others, securities purchased pursuant to Rule 144A and 4(2) commercial paper, compliance with the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics, and such other procedures or requirements that the Adviser may reasonably request from time to time;
(l) make available to the Board and the Adviser at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other appropriate personnel as mutually agreed by the Adviser and Sub-Adviser, either in person or, at the mutual convenience of the Board, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser, by telephone, in order to review the investment policies, performance and other matters relating to the management of the Fund;
(m) review draft reports to shareholders and other documents provided to the Sub-Adviser with respect to the information therein that pertains to the Sub-Adviser or the services provided by the Sub-Adviser, provide comments on such drafts on a timely basis, and provide certifications or sub-certifications on a timely basis as to the accuracy of the information contained in such reports or other documents;
(n) use no material, non-public information concerning portfolio companies that may be in its possession or the possession of any of its affiliates, nor will the Sub-Adviser seek to obtain any such information, in providing investment advice or investment management services to the Fund;
(o) promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board in the event that the Sub-Adviser or any of its affiliates becomes aware that the Sub-Adviser: (i) is subject to a statutory disqualification that prevents the Sub-Adviser from serving as investment adviser pursuant to this Agreement; (ii) fails to be registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act or under the laws of any jurisdiction in which the Sub-Adviser is required to be registered as an investment adviser in order to perform its obligations under this Agreement; (iii) is the subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the SEC or other regulatory authority; or (iv) is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board or body, or governmental authority, involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates; or is involved in any pending litigation or administrative proceeding involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates brought against the Sub-Adviser or any of its management persons (as defined in Rule 206(4)-4 under the Advisers Act). The Sub-Adviser further agrees to notify the Trust and the Adviser promptly of any material fact known to the Sub-Adviser respecting or relating to the Sub-Adviser that is not contained in the Trust's Registration Statement, as amended and supplemented from time to time, regarding the Fund, or any amendment or supplement thereto, but that is required to be disclosed therein, and of any statement contained therein that becomes untrue in any material respect. The Sub-Adviser will promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board if its chief executive officer or any member of the portfolio management team named in the Registration Statement for the Fund changes, or if there is an actual change in control or management of the Sub-Adviser within the meaning of Rules 2a-6 and 202(a)(1)-1 under the 1940 Act and Advisers Act, respectively;
(p) not disclose information regarding Fund characteristics, trading history, portfolio holdings, performance information or any other related information to any third-party, except in compliance with the Trust's policies on disclosure of portfolio holdings or as requested by the Adviser; however, Sub-Adviser may include the Fund's performance information in the calculation of composite performance information, provided that the Fund's performance information is included in the composite in such as way as to prevent anyone from identifying the information contributed by the Fund. In addition, the Adviser acknowledges that the Sub-Adviser manages other accounts following the same investment strategy as the Fund and that these accounts may have different portfolio holdings disclosure policies;
(q) provide the Adviser, the Trust or the Board with such information and assurances (including certifications and sub-certifications) as the Adviser, the Trust or the Board may reasonably request from time to time in order to assist the Adviser, the Trust or the Board in complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations, including requirements in connection with the preparation and/or filing of the Fund's Form N-CSRs and Form N-Qs;
(r) provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent for the Trust in determining or confirming, consistent with the procedures and policies stated in the Trust's valuation procedures and/or the Registration Statement, the value of any portfolio securities or other assets of the Fund for which the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent seeks assistance from the Sub-Adviser or identifies for review by the Sub-Adviser. This assistance may include (but is not limited to): (i) designating and providing access to one or more employees of the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates who are knowledgeable about the security/issuer, its financial condition, trading and/or other relevant factors for valuation, which employees shall be available for consultation when the Board's Valuation Committee convenes; (ii) providing reasonable assistance to the Adviser or the custodian in obtaining bids and offers or quotes from broker/dealers or market-makers with respect to securities held by the Fund, upon the reasonable request of the Adviser or custodian; (iii) upon the request of the Adviser or the custodian, provide assistance in fair valuation of the Trust; and (iv) maintaining records as required by applicable law with respect to any securities valuation assistance provided hereunder, and providing such information to the Adviser or the Trust upon request, with such records being deemed Fund records;
(s) not consult with any other investment sub-adviser of the Trust (if any), or with the sub-adviser to any other investment company (or separate series thereof) managed by the Adviser concerning the Fund's transactions in securities or other assets, except for purposes of complying with the conditions of Rule 12d3-1(a) and (b) under the 1940 Act, and, to the extent that multiple sub-advisers may be engaged to provide services to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall be responsible for providing investment advisory services only with respect to such portion of the Fund's assets as may from time to time be allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser; and
(t) provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC and, promptly after filing any material amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC, furnish a copy of such amendments to the Trust and the Adviser; and provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV Part II as updated from time to time. The Adviser hereby acknowledges having received a current copy of the Sub-Adviser's Form ADV Part II, current as of the date hereof.
In performing its obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser may rely upon information concerning the Fund's books and records provided to it by the Adviser, the custodian(s) or other agent(s) designated by the Adviser, and will not independently verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. The Sub-Adviser (and its officers, directors/trustees, agents, employees, controlling persons, shareholders and any other person or entity affiliated with the Sub-Adviser) shall not be liable for any loss, claim or damages related to such reliance.
3. Obligations of the Adviser and the Fund
The Adviser will provide, or has provided, to the Sub-Adviser, with a copy of the Registration Statement as filed with the SEC, and of the policies and procedures adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser which the Sub-Adviser is required to implement in managing the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser or such other information or documents necessary for the management of the Sub-Adviser's allocated portion of Fund assets as the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably request or as required by applicable law or regulation. Throughout the term of this Agreement, the Adviser shall continue to provide such information and documents to the Sub-Adviser, including any amendments, updates or supplements to such information or documents before or at the time the amendments, updates or supplements become effective.
4. Brokerage
The Sub-Adviser may place orders pursuant to its investment determinations for the Fund directly with the issuers of the securities, or with brokers or dealers selected by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser may open and maintain brokerage accounts of all types on behalf of and in the name of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser may enter into standard customer agreements with brokers and direct payments of cash, cash equivalents and securities and other property into such brokerage accounts as the Sub-Adviser deems desirable or appropriate. In selecting brokers or dealers to execute transactions on behalf of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser will use its best efforts to seek the best overall terms available. In assessing the best overall terms available for the Fund transaction, the Sub-Adviser will consider all factors it deems relevant, including, but not limited to, the breadth of the market in the security, the price of the security, the financial condition and execution capability of the broker or dealer and the reasonableness of the commission, if any, for the specific transaction and on a continuing basis. In selecting broker-dealers to execute a particular transaction, and in evaluating the best overall terms available, the Sub-Adviser is authorized to consider the brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act")) provided to the Fund and/or other accounts over which the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. The parties hereto acknowledge that it is desirable for the Trust that the Sub-Adviser have access to supplemental investment and market research and security and economic analysis provided by broker-dealers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers on the basis of seeking the most favorable price and efficient execution. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser may cause the Fund to pay a broker-dealer that furnishes brokerage and research services a higher commission than that which might be charged by another broker-dealer for effecting the same transaction, provided that the Sub-Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either the particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund in compliance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-Adviser in connection with the Sub-Adviser's services to other clients. In accordance with Section 11(a) of the 1934 Act and Rule 11a2-2(T) thereunder and subject to any other applicable laws and regulations, the Sub-Adviser and its affiliates are authorized to effect portfolio transactions for the Fund and to retain brokerage commissions on such transactions. The Sub-Adviser may, but shall not be obligated to, aggregate or bunch orders for the purchase or sale of securities for the Fund with orders for its other clients where: (i) such aggregation or bunching of orders is not inconsistent with the Fund's investment objectives, policies and procedures, (ii) the allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the allocation of expenses incurred in any such transaction, shall be made by the Sub-Adviser in a manner that complies with the Sub-Adviser's trade allocation policies and procedures approved by the Board and is fair and equitable in the judgment of the Sub-Adviser and is consistent with the Sub-Adviser's fiduciary obligations to the Fund and each of its other clients.
5. Books, Records and Regulatory Filings
(a) The Sub-Adviser agrees to maintain and to preserve for the applicable periods any such records as are required to be maintained by the Sub-Adviser with respect to the Fund by the 1940 Act and rules adopted thereunder, and by any other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Sub-Adviser further agrees that all records that it maintains for the Fund are the property of the Fund and it will promptly surrender any of such records upon request.
(b) The Sub-Adviser agrees that it shall furnish to regulatory authorities having the requisite authority any information or reports in connection with its services hereunder that may be requested in order to determine whether the operations of the Fund are being conducted in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
(c) The Sub-Adviser shall make all filings with the SEC required of it pursuant to Section 13 of the 1934 Act with respect to its duties as are set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser also shall make all required filings on Schedule 13D or 13G and Form 13F (as well as other filings triggered by ownership in securities under other applicable laws, rules and regulations) as may be required of the Fund due to the activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall be the sole filer of Form 13F with respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser.
6. Standard of Care, Limitation of Liability and Indemnification
(a) The Sub-Adviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services under this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust, the Adviser or the Fund, or affiliated persons of the Adviser or the Fund (collectively, the "Adviser Indemnitees") in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates except a loss resulting from the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement; provided, however , that nothing herein shall be deemed to protect or purport to protect the Sub-Adviser against any liability to the Adviser Indemnitees for, and the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Adviser Indemnitees from, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which any of the Adviser Indemnitees may become subject arising out of or resulting from (i) the Sub-Adviser's failure to meet its standard of care and thereby causing the Fund to be in violation of any applicable federal or state law, rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth in the Fund's current Registration Statement or the most current written guidelines, policies or instruction provided in writing by the Board or the Adviser, (ii) the Sub-Adviser causing the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification or source of income requirements of Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and the regulations issued thereunder , (iii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, proxy materials, shareholder reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials pertaining to the Trust or the Fund or the omission to state therein a material fact known to the Sub-Adviser that was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to the Adviser or the Trust by the Sub-Adviser for use therein, or (iv) the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement, or otherwise for breach of this Agreement by the Sub-Adviser. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Trust and the Fund from any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which either the Trust or the Fund may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty by the Sub-Adviser under Section 36(b) of the 1940 Act with respect to the receipt of compensation for its services under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing contained in this Agreement shall constitute a waiver or limitation of rights that the Trust or the Fund may have under federal or state securities laws.
(b) The Sub-Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust Instrument or other organizational document of the Trust and agrees that any obligations of the Trust or the Fund arising in connection with this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the Fund and its assets, and the Sub-Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from any other fund of the Trust or the shareholders or any individual shareholder of the Fund. Nor shall the Sub-Adviser seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the trustees of the Trust (each, a "Trustee" and, together, the "Trustees") or any individual Trustee or any officers.
(c) As used in this Section 6, the term "Sub-Adviser" shall include any officers, directors, employees, independent contractors or other affiliates of the Sub-Adviser performing services with respect to the Fund.
(d) The Adviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Sub-Adviser from and against, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which the Sub-Adviser may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from, the Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
7. Risk Acknowledgement
The Sub-Adviser makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, that any level of performance or investment results will be achieved by the Fund, whether on a relative or absolute basis. The Adviser understands that investment decisions made for the Fund by the Sub-Adviser are subject to various market, currency, economic, political, business and structure risks and that those investment decisions will not always be profitable.
8. Compensation
The Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement in accordance with the terms set forth on Schedule A attached hereto.
9. Expenses
The Sub-Adviser will bear all expenses in connection with the performance of its services under this Agreement, excluding those costs of the Fund associated with brokerage activities. The Sub-Adviser shall bear all expenses and costs of the Trust (including reasonable attorney's fees), if any, arising out of a termination or possible termination of this Agreement as a result of an assignment caused by a change of control or management of the Sub-Adviser, including the preparation and mailing of an information statement to shareholders pursuant to a "manager-of-managers" exemptive order from the SEC, or the preparation, mailing, solicitation and other costs associated with the use of a proxy statement relating to a shareholder vote in respect of a new sub-advisory agreement. The foregoing obligations of the Sub-Adviser shall apply in any circumstance in which the Adviser, in consultation with internal or outside counsel to the Trust, deems that an actual or possible assignment of this Agreement has or may occur, and determines that an information statement should be used, or a vote of shareholders should be obtained, as the case may be.
10. Services to Other Companies or Accounts
The investment advisory services of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund under this Agreement are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Sub-Adviser shall be free to render similar services to other investment companies and clients (whether or not their investment objective and policies are similar those of the Fund) and to engage in other activities, provided that such other services and activities do not interfere with or impair the Sub-Adviser's ability to fulfill its duties and obligations under this Agreement. If the Sub-Adviser provides any advice to its clients concerning investment in the shares of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall act solely for such clients in that regard and not in any way on behalf of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund.
11. Compliance Matters
(a) The Sub-Adviser understands and agrees that it is a "service provider" to the Trust as contemplated by Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act. As such, the Sub-Adviser agrees to cooperate fully with the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with respect to (i) any and all compliance-related matters, and (ii) the Trust's efforts to assure that each of its service providers adopts and maintains policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to prevent violation of the "federal securities laws" (as that term is defined by Rule 38a-1) by the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser. In this regard, the Sub-Adviser shall:
(1) submit to the Board for its consideration and approval, prior to the effective date of this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser's applicable compliance policies and procedures;
(2) submit annually (and at such other times as the Trust may reasonably request) to the Trust's CCO and the Adviser for consideration by the Board, a report discussing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program, and fully describing any material amendments to such compliance program since the most recent such report;
(3) provide periodic reports and certifications concerning the Sub-Adviser's compliance program and special reports in the event of material compliance matters;
(4) provide the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers with reasonable access, including on-site visits with the Sub-Adviser as may be reasonably requested from time to time, to information regarding the aspects of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program that may expose the Adviser and the Trust to compliance risks or lead to a violation by the Trust, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser of the federal securities laws;
(5) permit the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers to maintain an active working relationship with the Sub-Adviser's compliance personnel by, among other things, providing the Adviser and the Trust's CCO and other officers with a specified individual within the Sub-Adviser's organization to discuss and address compliance-related matters;
(6) provide the Adviser and its chief compliance officer and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with such certifications as may be reasonably requested; and
(7) reasonably cooperate with any independent registered public accounting firm engaged by the Trust, ensure that all reasonably necessary information and the appropriate personnel are made available to such independent registered public accounting firm, to support the expression of the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, and each year provide the Adviser and such independent registered public accounting firm with a copy of the annual SAS 70 Report prepared by the Sub-Adviser's independent auditors regarding the Sub-Adviser's internal controls.
(b) The Sub-Adviser represents, warrants and covenants that it has implemented and shall maintain a compliance program in accordance with the requirements of Rule 206(4)-7 under the Advisers Act.
(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the Adviser acknowledges that Sub-Adviser is not the compliance agent for the Trust or for the Adviser, and does not have access to all of the Trust's books and records necessary to perform certain compliance testing. Any of the Sub-Adviser's agreement to perform the services in this Section 11 or elsewhere in this Agreement is subject to the understanding that the Sub-Adviser shall perform such services based upon its books and records with respect to the Fund, which comprise a portion of the Trust's book and records.
(d) The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser records to facilitate the Sub-Adviser's ability to meet the Sub-Adviser's obligations under Rule 206(4)-5 of the Advisers Act. The Sub-Adviser shall treat such records as subject to the applicable confidentiality provision(s) under this Agreement, provided that at no time, unless so required by the applicable laws or relevant regulatory authorities, shall the records be disclosed to or otherwise made available to and shared with any third party or the general public.
12. Duration and Termination
(a) This Agreement shall be effective immediately as of the date set forth above and shall continue in effect for two years from its effective date with respect to the Fund, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, and shall continue year to year thereafter, provided each continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of a majority of the Trustees or (ii) a vote of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting securities, provided that in either event the continuance is also approved by a majority of the Trustees who are neither (A) parties to this Agreement nor (B) "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person (to the extent required by the 1940 Act) at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, on sixty (60) days' written notice to the Sub-Adviser: (i) by the Trust, pursuant to (A) action by the Board or (B) the vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the shares of the Fund or (ii) by the Adviser. This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, by the Sub-Adviser upon ninety (90) days' written notice to the Adviser and the Trust. In addition, this Agreement will terminate with respect to the Fund in the event of the termination of the Advisory Agreement with respect to the Fund. This Agreement will be terminated automatically in the event of its "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act).
(c) In the event of a termination of this Agreement for any reason with respect to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably cooperate with any transition manager or successor investment sub-adviser and with the Adviser in transitioning the management of the Fund to one or more new sub-advisers or to the Adviser, including, without limitation, providing the transition manager, at such intervals as the transition manager may request, with a list of holdings for the portion of Fund assets under the Sub-Adviser's management and such other information as required by the transition management agreement, into which the Adviser and the transition manager will, at that time, enter.
(d) Termination of this Agreement shall not affect the rights or obligations of the Adviser, the Adviser Indemnitees and the Sub-Adviser under Section 6 of this Agreement.
13. Use of Name
(a) The Sub-Adviser hereby consents to the use of its name and the names of its affiliates in the Fund's disclosure documents, shareholder communications, advertising, sales literature and similar communications. The Sub-Adviser shall not use the name or any tradename, trademark, trade device, service mark, symbol or any abbreviation, contraction or simulation thereof of the Adviser, the Trust, the Fund or any of their affiliates in its marketing materials unless it first receives prior written approval of the Trust and the Adviser.
(b) It is understood that the name of each party to this Agreement, and any derivatives thereof or logos associated with that name, is the valuable property of the party in question and its affiliates, and that each other party has the right to use such names pursuant to the relationship created by, and in accordance with the terms of, this Agreement only so long as this Agreement shall continue in effect. Upon termination of this Agreement, the parties shall forthwith cease to use the names of the other parties (or any derivative or logo) as appropriate and to the extent that continued use is not required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
14. Confidential Information
(a) Each party agrees that it will treat confidentially all information provided by any other party (the "Discloser") regarding the Discloser's businesses and operations, including without limitation the investment activities or holdings of the Fund ("Confidential Information"). All Confidential Information provided by the Discloser shall be used only by the other party hereto (the "Recipient") solely for the purposes of rendering services pursuant to this Agreement, and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior consent of the Discloser, except for any party that is under common control with the Recipient and except for a limited number of employees, attorneys, accountants and other advisers of the Recipient on a need-to-know basis and solely for the purposes of rendering services under this Agreement.
(b) Confidential Information shall not include any information that: (i) is public when provided or thereafter becomes public through no wrongful act of the Recipient; (ii) is demonstrably known to the Recipient prior to execution of this Agreement; (iii) is independently developed by the Recipient through no wrongful act of the Recipient in the ordinary course of business outside of this Agreement; (iv) is generally employed by the trade at the time that the Recipient learns of such information or knowledge; or (v) has been rightfully and lawfully obtained by the Recipient from any third party.
(c) In the event that the Recipient is requested or required (by deposition, interrogatories, requests for information or documents in legal proceedings, subpoenas, civil investigative demand or similar process), in connection with any proceeding, to disclose any of the Discloser's Confidential Information, the Recipient will give the Discloser prompt written notice of such request or requirement to allow the Discloser an opportunity to obtain a protective order or otherwise obtain assurances that confidential treatment will be accorded to such Confidential Information. In the event that such protective order or other remedy is not obtained, disclosure shall be made of only that portion of the Confidential Information that is legally required to be disclosed. All Confidential Information disclosed as required by law shall nonetheless continue to be deemed Confidential Information.
15. Amendment
This Agreement may be amended in writing signed by the parties to this Agreement in a manner that is in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, as modified or interpreted by any applicable order, exemptive relief or interpretative release issued by the SEC.
16. Notices
All notices hereunder shall be provided in writing, by facsimile or by email. Notices shall be deemed given if delivered in person or by messenger, certified mail with return receipt, or by a reputable overnight delivery service that provides evidence of receipt to the parties; upon receipt if sent by fax; or upon read receipt or reply if delivered by email, at the following addresses:
If to the Trust: Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Marc Bryant
If to the Adviser: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Chief Operating Officer
With Copy to: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Karen Benoit
If to the Sub-Adviser: Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC
900 Salem Street
Smithfield, RI 02917
Attn: Patrick Sheppard
patrick.sheppard@pyramis.com
17. Miscellaneous
(a) This Agreement constitutes the full and complete agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof.
(b) Titles or captions of sections in this Agreement are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and in no way define, limit, extend or describe the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provisions thereof.
(c) This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, all of which together shall for all purposes constitute one Agreement, binding on all the parties.
(d) This Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be governed by, and interpreted, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions of that or any other jurisdiction. To the extent that the applicable laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts conflict with the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the latter shall control. The parties irrevocably consent to submit to the jurisdiction of any federal or state court sitting in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
(e) If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected hereby and, to this extent, the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable.
(f) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Sub-Adviser shall be an independent contractor. Nothing herein shall be construed as constituting the Sub-Adviser as an agent of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund, except to the extent expressly authorized by this Agreement.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first set forth above.
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/Michael P. Palermo
Name: Michael P. Palermo
Title: Senior Vice President
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Derek L. Young
Name: Derek L. Young
Title: President
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
By: /s/Kenneth Robins
Kenneth Robins
Treasurer
Schedule A
Pursuant to Section 8 of the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement (the "Agreement") among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (the "Sub-Adviser"), the Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services it performs on behalf of the Fund as follows:
1. For purposes of calculating the fee to be paid to the Sub-Adviser under this Agreement:
"Portfolio Assets" shall mean the portion of the net assets of the Fund managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to one of the following investment strategies as agreed to by the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser in separately negotiated investment mandates: Core Investment Grade and Core Plus (each, a "Strategy").
"Aggregated Assets" for a particular Strategy shall mean the assets of all registered investment companies managed by the Adviser that are managed by the Sub-Adviser or another Fidelity affiliate pursuant to that Strategy, including Portfolio Assets.
2 The Adviser will pay the Sub-Adviser a fee, payable monthly, based on average daily Portfolio Assets (computed in the manner set forth in the Trust's Trust Instrument) determined as of the close of business on each business day throughout the calendar month. The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed pursuant to a specific Strategy based on the following rate schedules.
Rate - Core Investment Grade
0.275% (27.5 basis points) of the first $100 million in assets
0.20% (20 basis points) of the next $400 million in assets
0.12% (12 basis points) on any amount in excess of $500 million in assets
Rate - Core Plus
0.32% (32 basis points) of assets
The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be computed monthly and, within twelve business days of the end of each calendar month, the Adviser shall transmit to the Sub-Adviser the fee for the previous month. Payment shall be made in federal funds wired to a bank account designated by the Sub-Adviser. If this Agreement becomes effective or terminates before the end of any month, the fee (if any) for the period from the effective date to the end of such month or from the beginning of such month to the date of termination, as the case may be, shall be prorated on the basis of the number of business days it is so in effect for that month.
The Sub-Adviser agrees to look exclusively to the Adviser, and not to any assets of the Trust or the Fund, for the payment of the Sub-Adviser's fees arising under this Paragraph 2.
Exhibit (d)(44)
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AMONG
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.,
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
AND
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
AGREEMENT, made this 7th day of June, 2012, among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Adviser"), a Massachusetts corporation, and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC ("Sub-Adviser"), a Delaware limited liability company.
WHEREAS, the Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act");
WHEREAS, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser are each registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended ("Advisers Act");
WHEREAS, the Trust has retained the Adviser to render investment advisory services to the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, pursuant to a Management Contract dated June 7, 2012, as may be amended from time to time ("Advisory Agreement");
WHEREAS, the Advisory Agreement authorizes the Adviser to delegate to one or more other investment advisers any or all of the Adviser's duties and obligations under the Advisory Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Adviser wish to retain the Sub-Adviser to render certain investment advisory services to the Fund with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, as determined from time to time by the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser is willing to render such services.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants herein contained, it is agreed among the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and the Trust as follows:
1. Appointment
With respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated, from time to time, by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser, the Trust and the Adviser hereby appoint the Sub-Adviser to act as investment sub-adviser to the Fund for the periods and on the terms set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser accepts the appointment and agrees to furnish the services set forth herein for the compensation provided in Section 8 of this Agreement.
2. Services and Duties of Investment Sub-Adviser
Subject to the general supervision and oversight of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board"), the Sub-Adviser will:
(a) provide a program of continuous investment management for the Fund in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies as stated in the Fund's prospectus and statement of additional information filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on Form N-1A, as amended and supplemented from time to time (the "Registration Statement") and as provided by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser;
(b) invest and reinvest the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by selecting the securities, instruments, repurchase agreements, financial futures contracts, options and other investments and techniques that the Fund may purchase, sell, enter into or use;
(c) oversee the placement of purchase and sale orders on behalf of the Fund;
(d) employ portfolio managers to make investment decisions and securities analysts to provide research services to the Fund;
(e) subject to the understanding set forth in Section 11(a)(1) of this Agreement, vote all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser may be invested in accordance with the Sub-Adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures as approved by the Board and in a manner that complies with applicable law; maintain records of all proxies voted on behalf of the Fund; and provide information to the Trust, the Adviser or their designated agent in a manner that is sufficiently complete and timely to ensure the Trust's compliance with its filing obligations under Rule 30b1-4 of the 1940 Act;
(f) maintain books and records with respect to the Fund's securities transactions in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; and
(g) to the extent reasonably requested by the Adviser or officers of the Fund, cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser and the Trust's other service providers by (1) keeping them fully informed as to such matters that they may reasonably deem necessary with respect to the performance of their obligations to the Fund, (2) providing prompt responses to reasonable requests for information or assistance, including furnishing the Adviser and/or the Fund with statistical information as the Adviser and/or the Fund may reasonably request with respect to the securities that the Fund may hold, and (3) establishing appropriate processes to promote the efficient exchange of information.
The Sub-Adviser further agrees that, in performing its duties hereunder, it will:
(h) comply in all material respects with (1) the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and all rules and regulations thereunder and any other applicable federal and state laws and regulations, (2) the rules and regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, (3) the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), (4) the investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions of the Fund as described in the Registration Statement, (5) the Trust's Trust Instrument and By-Laws or other organizational documents of the Trust and (6) any written guidelines, policies or instructions provided by the Adviser or the Board, provided the Sub-Adviser has had sufficient opportunity to implement such instructions;
The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser with advance notice of any change in the Fund's investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions as stated in the Registration Statement or in any procedures and policies adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement and with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, manage the Fund's portfolio investments in compliance with such changes, provided the Sub-Adviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Trust or the Adviser and has had sufficient opportunity to implement such changes. In addition to such notice, the Adviser shall provide to the Sub-Adviser a copy of the modified Registration Statement reflecting such changes provided that such Registration Statement was so modified.
(i) manage the Fund so that it will qualify, and continue to qualify, as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and regulations issued thereunder;
(j) keep the Adviser and/or the Board informed of developments materially affecting the Fund's portfolio;
(k) make available to the Board, the Adviser, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO") and the Trust's administrator, promptly upon their request, such copies of its records with respect to the Fund as may be required to assist in their compliance with applicable laws and regulations. As reasonably requested by the Board or the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser will complete periodic or special questionnaires and furnish to the Board and/or the Adviser such periodic and special reports regarding the Fund and the Sub-Adviser including, but not limited to, reports concerning transactions and performance of the Fund, quarterly and annual compliance reports and certifications, reports regarding compliance with the Trust's procedures pursuant to Rules 17e-1, 17a-7, 10f-3 and 12d3-1 under the 1940 Act (as applicable), fundamental investment restrictions, procedures for opening brokerage accounts and commodity trading accounts, liquidity determinations for securities or other instruments held by the Fund such as, among others, securities purchased pursuant to Rule 144A and 4(2) commercial paper, compliance with the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics, and such other procedures or requirements that the Adviser may reasonably request from time to time;
(l) make available to the Board and the Adviser at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other appropriate personnel as mutually agreed by the Adviser and Sub-Adviser, either in person or, at the mutual convenience of the Board, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser, by telephone, in order to review the investment policies, performance and other matters relating to the management of the Fund;
(m) review draft reports to shareholders and other documents provided to the Sub-Adviser with respect to the information therein that pertains to the Sub-Adviser or the services provided by the Sub-Adviser, provide comments on such drafts on a timely basis, and provide certifications or sub-certifications on a timely basis as to the accuracy of the information contained in such reports or other documents;
(n) use no material, non-public information concerning portfolio companies that may be in its possession or the possession of any of its affiliates, nor will the Sub-Adviser seek to obtain any such information, in providing investment advice or investment management services to the Fund;
(o) promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board in the event that the Sub-Adviser or any of its affiliates becomes aware that the Sub-Adviser: (i) is subject to a statutory disqualification that prevents the Sub-Adviser from serving as investment adviser pursuant to this Agreement; (ii) fails to be registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act or under the laws of any jurisdiction in which the Sub-Adviser is required to be registered as an investment adviser in order to perform its obligations under this Agreement; (iii) is the subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the SEC or other regulatory authority; or (iv) is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board or body, or governmental authority, involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates; or is involved in any pending litigation or administrative proceeding involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates brought against the Sub-Adviser or any of its management persons (as defined in Rule 206(4)-4 under the Advisers Act). The Sub-Adviser further agrees to notify the Trust and the Adviser promptly of any material fact known to the Sub-Adviser respecting or relating to the Sub-Adviser that is not contained in the Trust's Registration Statement, as amended and supplemented from time to time, regarding the Fund, or any amendment or supplement thereto, but that is required to be disclosed therein, and of any statement contained therein that becomes untrue in any material respect. The Sub-Adviser will promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board if its chief executive officer or any member of the portfolio management team named in the Registration Statement for the Fund changes, or if there is an actual change in control or management of the Sub-Adviser within the meaning of Rules 2a-6 and 202(a)(1)-1 under the 1940 Act and Advisers Act, respectively;
(p) not disclose information regarding Fund characteristics, trading history, portfolio holdings, performance information or any other related information to any third-party, except in compliance with the Trust's policies on disclosure of portfolio holdings or as requested by the Adviser; however, Sub-Adviser may include the Fund's performance information in the calculation of composite performance information, provided that the Fund's performance information is included in the composite in such as way as to prevent anyone from identifying the information contributed by the Fund. In addition, the Adviser acknowledges that the Sub-Adviser manages other accounts following the same investment strategy as the Fund and that these accounts may have different portfolio holdings disclosure policies;
(q) provide the Adviser, the Trust or the Board with such information and assurances (including certifications and sub-certifications) as the Adviser, the Trust or the Board may reasonably request from time to time in order to assist the Adviser, the Trust or the Board in complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations, including requirements in connection with the preparation and/or filing of the Fund's Form N-CSRs and Form N-Qs;
(r) provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent for the Trust in determining or confirming, consistent with the procedures and policies stated in the Trust's valuation procedures and/or the Registration Statement, the value of any portfolio securities or other assets of the Fund for which the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent seeks assistance from the Sub-Adviser or identifies for review by the Sub-Adviser. This assistance may include (but is not limited to): (i) designating and providing access to one or more employees of the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates who are knowledgeable about the security/issuer, its financial condition, trading and/or other relevant factors for valuation, which employees shall be available for consultation when the Board's Valuation Committee convenes; (ii) providing reasonable assistance to the Adviser or the custodian in obtaining bids and offers or quotes from broker/dealers or market-makers with respect to securities held by the Fund, upon the reasonable request of the Adviser or custodian; (iii) upon the request of the Adviser or the custodian, provide assistance in fair valuation of the Trust; and (iv) maintaining records as required by applicable law with respect to any securities valuation assistance provided hereunder, and providing such information to the Adviser or the Trust upon request, with such records being deemed Fund records;
(s) not consult with any other investment sub-adviser of the Trust (if any), or with the sub-adviser to any other investment company (or separate series thereof) managed by the Adviser concerning the Fund's transactions in securities or other assets, except for purposes of complying with the conditions of Rule 12d3-1(a) and (b) under the 1940 Act, and, to the extent that multiple sub-advisers may be engaged to provide services to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall be responsible for providing investment advisory services only with respect to such portion of the Fund's assets as may from time to time be allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser; and
(t) provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC and, promptly after filing any material amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC, furnish a copy of such amendments to the Trust and the Adviser; and provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV Part II as updated from time to time. The Adviser hereby acknowledges having received a current copy of the Sub-Adviser's Form ADV Part II, current as of the date hereof.
In performing its obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser may rely upon information concerning the Fund's books and records provided to it by the Adviser, the custodian(s) or other agent(s) designated by the Adviser, and will not independently verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. The Sub-Adviser (and its officers, directors/trustees, agents, employees, controlling persons, shareholders and any other person or entity affiliated with the Sub-Adviser) shall not be liable for any loss, claim or damages related to such reliance.
3. Obligations of the Adviser and the Fund
The Adviser will provide, or has provided, to the Sub-Adviser, with a copy of the Registration Statement as filed with the SEC, and of the policies and procedures adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser which the Sub-Adviser is required to implement in managing the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser or such other information or documents necessary for the management of the Sub-Adviser's allocated portion of Fund assets as the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably request or as required by applicable law or regulation. Throughout the term of this Agreement, the Adviser shall continue to provide such information and documents to the Sub-Adviser, including any amendments, updates or supplements to such information or documents before or at the time the amendments, updates or supplements become effective.
4. Brokerage
The Sub-Adviser may place orders pursuant to its investment determinations for the Fund directly with the issuers of the securities, or with brokers or dealers selected by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser may open and maintain brokerage accounts of all types on behalf of and in the name of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser may enter into standard customer agreements with brokers and direct payments of cash, cash equivalents and securities and other property into such brokerage accounts as the Sub-Adviser deems desirable or appropriate. In selecting brokers or dealers to execute transactions on behalf of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser will use its best efforts to seek the best overall terms available. In assessing the best overall terms available for the Fund transaction, the Sub-Adviser will consider all factors it deems relevant, including, but not limited to, the breadth of the market in the security, the price of the security, the financial condition and execution capability of the broker or dealer and the reasonableness of the commission, if any, for the specific transaction and on a continuing basis. In selecting broker-dealers to execute a particular transaction, and in evaluating the best overall terms available, the Sub-Adviser is authorized to consider the brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act")) provided to the Fund and/or other accounts over which the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. The parties hereto acknowledge that it is desirable for the Trust that the Sub-Adviser have access to supplemental investment and market research and security and economic analysis provided by broker-dealers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers on the basis of seeking the most favorable price and efficient execution. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser may cause the Fund to pay a broker-dealer that furnishes brokerage and research services a higher commission than that which might be charged by another broker-dealer for effecting the same transaction, provided that the Sub-Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either the particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund in compliance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-Adviser in connection with the Sub-Adviser's services to other clients. In accordance with Section 11(a) of the 1934 Act and Rule 11a2-2(T) thereunder and subject to any other applicable laws and regulations, the Sub-Adviser and its affiliates are authorized to effect portfolio transactions for the Fund and to retain brokerage commissions on such transactions. The Sub-Adviser may, but shall not be obligated to, aggregate or bunch orders for the purchase or sale of securities for the Fund with orders for its other clients where: (i) such aggregation or bunching of orders is not inconsistent with the Fund's investment objectives, policies and procedures, (ii) the allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the allocation of expenses incurred in any such transaction, shall be made by the Sub-Adviser in a manner that complies with the Sub-Adviser's trade allocation policies and procedures approved by the Board and is fair and equitable in the judgment of the Sub-Adviser and is consistent with the Sub-Adviser's fiduciary obligations to the Fund and each of its other clients.
5. Books, Records and Regulatory Filings
(a) The Sub-Adviser agrees to maintain and to preserve for the applicable periods any such records as are required to be maintained by the Sub-Adviser with respect to the Fund by the 1940 Act and rules adopted thereunder, and by any other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Sub-Adviser further agrees that all records that it maintains for the Fund are the property of the Fund and it will promptly surrender any of such records upon request.
(b) The Sub-Adviser agrees that it shall furnish to regulatory authorities having the requisite authority any information or reports in connection with its services hereunder that may be requested in order to determine whether the operations of the Fund are being conducted in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
(c) The Sub-Adviser shall make all filings with the SEC required of it pursuant to Section 13 of the 1934 Act with respect to its duties as are set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser also shall make all required filings on Schedule 13D or 13G and Form 13F (as well as other filings triggered by ownership in securities under other applicable laws, rules and regulations) as may be required of the Fund due to the activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall be the sole filer of Form 13F with respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser.
6. Standard of Care, Limitation of Liability and Indemnification
(a) The Sub-Adviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services under this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust, the Adviser or the Fund, or affiliated persons of the Adviser or the Fund (collectively, the "Adviser Indemnitees") in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates except a loss resulting from the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement; provided, however , that nothing herein shall be deemed to protect or purport to protect the Sub-Adviser against any liability to the Adviser Indemnitees for, and the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Adviser Indemnitees from, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which any of the Adviser Indemnitees may become subject arising out of or resulting from (i) the Sub-Adviser's failure to meet its standard of care and thereby causing the Fund to be in violation of any applicable federal or state law, rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth in the Fund's current Registration Statement or the most current written guidelines, policies or instruction provided in writing by the Board or the Adviser, (ii) the Sub-Adviser causing the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification or source of income requirements of Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and the regulations issued thereunder , (iii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, proxy materials, shareholder reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials pertaining to the Trust or the Fund or the omission to state therein a material fact known to the Sub-Adviser that was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to the Adviser or the Trust by the Sub-Adviser for use therein, or (iv) the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement, or otherwise for breach of this Agreement by the Sub-Adviser. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Trust and the Fund from any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which either the Trust or the Fund may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty by the Sub-Adviser under Section 36(b) of the 1940 Act with respect to the receipt of compensation for its services under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing contained in this Agreement shall constitute a waiver or limitation of rights that the Trust or the Fund may have under federal or state securities laws.
(b) The Sub-Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust Instrument or other organizational document of the Trust and agrees that any obligations of the Trust or the Fund arising in connection with this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the Fund and its assets, and the Sub-Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from any other fund of the Trust or the shareholders or any individual shareholder of the Fund. Nor shall the Sub-Adviser seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the trustees of the Trust (each, a "Trustee" and, together, the "Trustees") or any individual Trustee or any officers.
(c) As used in this Section 6, the term "Sub-Adviser" shall include any officers, directors, employees, independent contractors or other affiliates of the Sub-Adviser performing services with respect to the Fund.
(d) The Adviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Sub-Adviser from and against, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which the Sub-Adviser may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from, the Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
7. Risk Acknowledgement
The Sub-Adviser makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, that any level of performance or investment results will be achieved by the Fund, whether on a relative or absolute basis. The Adviser understands that investment decisions made for the Fund by the Sub-Adviser are subject to various market, currency, economic, political, business and structure risks and that those investment decisions will not always be profitable.
8. Compensation
The Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement in accordance with the terms set forth on Schedule A attached hereto.
9. Expenses
The Sub-Adviser will bear all expenses in connection with the performance of its services under this Agreement, excluding those costs of the Fund associated with brokerage activities. The Sub-Adviser shall bear all expenses and costs of the Trust (including reasonable attorney's fees), if any, arising out of a termination or possible termination of this Agreement as a result of an assignment caused by a change of control or management of the Sub-Adviser, including the preparation and mailing of an information statement to shareholders pursuant to a "manager-of-managers" exemptive order from the SEC, or the preparation, mailing, solicitation and other costs associated with the use of a proxy statement relating to a shareholder vote in respect of a new sub-advisory agreement. The foregoing obligations of the Sub-Adviser shall apply in any circumstance in which the Adviser, in consultation with internal or outside counsel to the Trust, deems that an actual or possible assignment of this Agreement has or may occur, and determines that an information statement should be used, or a vote of shareholders should be obtained, as the case may be.
10. Services to Other Companies or Accounts
The investment advisory services of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund under this Agreement are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Sub-Adviser shall be free to render similar services to other investment companies and clients (whether or not their investment objective and policies are similar those of the Fund) and to engage in other activities, provided that such other services and activities do not interfere with or impair the Sub-Adviser's ability to fulfill its duties and obligations under this Agreement. If the Sub-Adviser provides any advice to its clients concerning investment in the shares of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall act solely for such clients in that regard and not in any way on behalf of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund.
11. Compliance Matters
(a) The Sub-Adviser understands and agrees that it is a "service provider" to the Trust as contemplated by Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act. As such, the Sub-Adviser agrees to cooperate fully with the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with respect to (i) any and all compliance-related matters, and (ii) the Trust's efforts to assure that each of its service providers adopts and maintains policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to prevent violation of the "federal securities laws" (as that term is defined by Rule 38a-1) by the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser. In this regard, the Sub-Adviser shall:
(1) submit to the Board for its consideration and approval, prior to the effective date of this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser's applicable compliance policies and procedures;
(2) submit annually (and at such other times as the Trust may reasonably request) to the Trust's CCO and the Adviser for consideration by the Board, a report discussing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program, and fully describing any material amendments to such compliance program since the most recent such report;
(3) provide periodic reports and certifications concerning the Sub-Adviser's compliance program and special reports in the event of material compliance matters;
(4) provide the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers with reasonable access, including on-site visits with the Sub-Adviser as may be reasonably requested from time to time, to information regarding the aspects of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program that may expose the Adviser and the Trust to compliance risks or lead to a violation by the Trust, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser of the federal securities laws;
(5) permit the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers to maintain an active working relationship with the Sub-Adviser's compliance personnel by, among other things, providing the Adviser and the Trust's CCO and other officers with a specified individual within the Sub-Adviser's organization to discuss and address compliance-related matters;
(6) provide the Adviser and its chief compliance officer and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with such certifications as may be reasonably requested; and
(7) reasonably cooperate with any independent registered public accounting firm engaged by the Trust, ensure that all reasonably necessary information and the appropriate personnel are made available to such independent registered public accounting firm, to support the expression of the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, and each year provide the Adviser and such independent registered public accounting firm with a copy of the annual SAS 70 Report prepared by the Sub-Adviser's independent auditors regarding the Sub-Adviser's internal controls.
(b) The Sub-Adviser represents, warrants and covenants that it has implemented and shall maintain a compliance program in accordance with the requirements of Rule 206(4)-7 under the Advisers Act.
(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the Adviser acknowledges that Sub-Adviser is not the compliance agent for the Trust or for the Adviser, and does not have access to all of the Trust's books and records necessary to perform certain compliance testing. Any of the Sub-Adviser's agreement to perform the services in this Section 11 or elsewhere in this Agreement is subject to the understanding that the Sub-Adviser shall perform such services based upon its books and records with respect to the Fund, which comprise a portion of the Trust's book and records.
(d) The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser records to facilitate the Sub-Adviser's ability to meet the Sub-Adviser's obligations under Rule 206(4)-5 of the Advisers Act. The Sub-Adviser shall treat such records as subject to the applicable confidentiality provision(s) under this Agreement, provided that at no time, unless so required by the applicable laws or relevant regulatory authorities, shall the records be disclosed to or otherwise made available to and shared with any third party or the general public.
12. Duration and Termination
(a) This Agreement shall be effective immediately as of the date set forth above and shall continue in effect for two years from its effective date with respect to the Fund, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, and shall continue year to year thereafter, provided each continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of a majority of the Trustees or (ii) a vote of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting securities, provided that in either event the continuance is also approved by a majority of the Trustees who are neither (A) parties to this Agreement nor (B) "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person (to the extent required by the 1940 Act) at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, on sixty (60) days' written notice to the Sub-Adviser: (i) by the Trust, pursuant to (A) action by the Board or (B) the vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the shares of the Fund or (ii) by the Adviser. This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, by the Sub-Adviser upon ninety (90) days' written notice to the Adviser and the Trust. In addition, this Agreement will terminate with respect to the Fund in the event of the termination of the Advisory Agreement with respect to the Fund. This Agreement will be terminated automatically in the event of its "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act).
(c) In the event of a termination of this Agreement for any reason with respect to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably cooperate with any transition manager or successor investment sub-adviser and with the Adviser in transitioning the management of the Fund to one or more new sub-advisers or to the Adviser, including, without limitation, providing the transition manager, at such intervals as the transition manager may request, with a list of holdings for the portion of Fund assets under the Sub-Adviser's management and such other information as required by the transition management agreement, into which the Adviser and the transition manager will, at that time, enter.
(d) Termination of this Agreement shall not affect the rights or obligations of the Adviser, the Adviser Indemnitees and the Sub-Adviser under Section 6 of this Agreement.
13. Use of Name
(a) The Sub-Adviser hereby consents to the use of its name and the names of its affiliates in the Fund's disclosure documents, shareholder communications, advertising, sales literature and similar communications. The Sub-Adviser shall not use the name or any tradename, trademark, trade device, service mark, symbol or any abbreviation, contraction or simulation thereof of the Adviser, the Trust, the Fund or any of their affiliates in its marketing materials unless it first receives prior written approval of the Trust and the Adviser.
(b) It is understood that the name of each party to this Agreement, and any derivatives thereof or logos associated with that name, is the valuable property of the party in question and its affiliates, and that each other party has the right to use such names pursuant to the relationship created by, and in accordance with the terms of, this Agreement only so long as this Agreement shall continue in effect. Upon termination of this Agreement, the parties shall forthwith cease to use the names of the other parties (or any derivative or logo) as appropriate and to the extent that continued use is not required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
14. Confidential Information
(a) Each party agrees that it will treat confidentially all information provided by any other party (the "Discloser") regarding the Discloser's businesses and operations, including without limitation the investment activities or holdings of the Fund ("Confidential Information"). All Confidential Information provided by the Discloser shall be used only by the other party hereto (the "Recipient") solely for the purposes of rendering services pursuant to this Agreement, and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior consent of the Discloser, except for any party that is under common control with the Recipient and except for a limited number of employees, attorneys, accountants and other advisers of the Recipient on a need-to-know basis and solely for the purposes of rendering services under this Agreement.
(b) Confidential Information shall not include any information that: (i) is public when provided or thereafter becomes public through no wrongful act of the Recipient; (ii) is demonstrably known to the Recipient prior to execution of this Agreement; (iii) is independently developed by the Recipient through no wrongful act of the Recipient in the ordinary course of business outside of this Agreement; (iv) is generally employed by the trade at the time that the Recipient learns of such information or knowledge; or (v) has been rightfully and lawfully obtained by the Recipient from any third party.
(c) In the event that the Recipient is requested or required (by deposition, interrogatories, requests for information or documents in legal proceedings, subpoenas, civil investigative demand or similar process), in connection with any proceeding, to disclose any of the Discloser's Confidential Information, the Recipient will give the Discloser prompt written notice of such request or requirement to allow the Discloser an opportunity to obtain a protective order or otherwise obtain assurances that confidential treatment will be accorded to such Confidential Information. In the event that such protective order or other remedy is not obtained, disclosure shall be made of only that portion of the Confidential Information that is legally required to be disclosed. All Confidential Information disclosed as required by law shall nonetheless continue to be deemed Confidential Information.
15. Amendment
This Agreement may be amended in writing signed by the parties to this Agreement in a manner that is in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, as modified or interpreted by any applicable order, exemptive relief or interpretative release issued by the SEC.
16. Notices
All notices hereunder shall be provided in writing, by facsimile or by email. Notices shall be deemed given if delivered in person or by messenger, certified mail with return receipt, or by a reputable overnight delivery service that provides evidence of receipt to the parties; upon receipt if sent by fax; or upon read receipt or reply if delivered by email, at the following addresses:
If to the Trust: Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Marc Bryant
If to the Adviser: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Chief Operating Officer
With Copy to: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Karen Benoit
If to the Sub-Adviser: Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC
900 Salem Street
Smithfield, RI 02917
Attn: Patrick Sheppard
patrick.sheppard@pyramis.com
17. Miscellaneous
(a) This Agreement constitutes the full and complete agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof.
(b) Titles or captions of sections in this Agreement are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and in no way define, limit, extend or describe the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provisions thereof.
(c) This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, all of which together shall for all purposes constitute one Agreement, binding on all the parties.
(d) This Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be governed by, and interpreted, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions of that or any other jurisdiction. To the extent that the applicable laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts conflict with the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the latter shall control. The parties irrevocably consent to submit to the jurisdiction of any federal or state court sitting in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
(e) If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected hereby and, to this extent, the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable.
(f) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Sub-Adviser shall be an independent contractor. Nothing herein shall be construed as constituting the Sub-Adviser as an agent of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund, except to the extent expressly authorized by this Agreement.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first set forth above.
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/Michael P. Palermo
Name: Michael P. Palermo
Title: Senior Vice President
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Derek L. Young
Name: Derek L. Young
Title: President
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
By: /s/Kenneth Robins
Kenneth Robins
Treasurer
Schedule A
Pursuant to Section 8 of the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement (the "Agreement") among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (the "Sub-Adviser"), the Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services it performs on behalf of the Fund as follows:
1. For purposes of calculating the fee to be paid to the Sub-Adviser under this Agreement:
"Portfolio Assets" shall mean the portion of the net assets of the Fund managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to one of the following investment strategies as agreed to by the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser in separately negotiated investment mandates: Core Investment Grade and Core Plus (each, a "Strategy").
"Aggregated Assets" for a particular Strategy shall mean the assets of all registered investment companies managed by the Adviser that are managed by the Sub-Adviser or another Fidelity affiliate pursuant to that Strategy, including Portfolio Assets.
2 The Adviser will pay the Sub-Adviser a fee, payable monthly, based on average daily Portfolio Assets (computed in the manner set forth in the Trust's Trust Instrument) determined as of the close of business on each business day throughout the calendar month. The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed pursuant to a specific Strategy based on the following rate schedules.
Rate - Core Investment Grade
0.275% (27.5 basis points) of the first $100 million in assets
0.20% (20 basis points) of the next $400 million in assets
0.12% (12 basis points) on any amount in excess of $500 million in assets
Rate - Core Plus
0.32% (32 basis points) of assets
The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be computed monthly and, within twelve business days of the end of each calendar month, the Adviser shall transmit to the Sub-Adviser the fee for the previous month. Payment shall be made in federal funds wired to a bank account designated by the Sub-Adviser. If this Agreement becomes effective or terminates before the end of any month, the fee (if any) for the period from the effective date to the end of such month or from the beginning of such month to the date of termination, as the case may be, shall be prorated on the basis of the number of business days it is so in effect for that month.
The Sub-Adviser agrees to look exclusively to the Adviser, and not to any assets of the Trust or the Fund, for the payment of the Sub-Adviser's fees arising under this Paragraph 2.
Exhibit (d)(51)
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AMONG
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.,
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
AND
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
AGREEMENT, made this 1st day of March, 2012 among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Adviser"), a Massachusetts corporation, and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC ("Sub-Adviser"), a Delaware limited liability company.
WHEREAS, the Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act");
WHEREAS, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser are each registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended ("Advisers Act");
WHEREAS, the Trust has retained the Adviser to render investment advisory services to the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, pursuant to a Management Contract dated March 1, 2012, as may be amended from time to time ("Advisory Agreement");
WHEREAS, the Advisory Agreement authorizes the Adviser to delegate to one or more other investment advisers any or all of the Adviser's duties and obligations under the Advisory Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Adviser wish to retain the Sub-Adviser to render certain investment advisory services to the Fund with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, as determined from time to time by the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser is willing to render such services.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants herein contained, it is agreed among the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and the Trust as follows:
1. Appointment
With respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated, from time to time, by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser, the Trust and the Adviser hereby appoint the Sub-Adviser to act as investment sub-adviser to the Fund for the periods and on the terms set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser accepts the appointment and agrees to furnish the services set forth herein for the compensation provided in Section 8 of this Agreement.
2. Services and Duties of Investment Sub-Adviser
Subject to the general supervision and oversight of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board"), the Sub-Adviser will:
(a) provide a program of continuous investment management for the Fund in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies as stated in the Fund's prospectus and statement of additional information filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on Form N-1A, as amended and supplemented from time to time (the "Registration Statement") and as provided by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser;
(b) invest and reinvest the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by selecting the securities, instruments, repurchase agreements, financial futures contracts, options and other investments and techniques that the Fund may purchase, sell, enter into or use;
(c) oversee the placement of purchase and sale orders on behalf of the Fund;
(d) employ portfolio managers to make investment decisions and securities analysts to provide research services to the Fund;
(e) subject to the understanding set forth in Section 11(a)(1) of this Agreement, vote all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser may be invested in accordance with the Sub-Adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures as approved by the Board and in a manner that complies with applicable law; maintain records of all proxies voted on behalf of the Fund; and provide information to the Trust, the Adviser or their designated agent in a manner that is sufficiently complete and timely to ensure the Trust's compliance with its filing obligations under Rule 30b1-4 of the 1940 Act;
(f) maintain books and records with respect to the Fund's securities transactions in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; and
(g) to the extent reasonably requested by the Adviser or officers of the Fund, cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser and the Trust's other service providers by (1) keeping them fully informed as to such matters that they may reasonably deem necessary with respect to the performance of their obligations to the Fund, (2) providing prompt responses to reasonable requests for information or assistance, including furnishing the Adviser and/or the Fund with statistical information as the Adviser and/or the Fund may reasonably request with respect to the securities that the Fund may hold, and (3) establishing appropriate processes to promote the efficient exchange of information.
The Sub-Adviser further agrees that, in performing its duties hereunder, it will:
(h) comply in all material respects with (1) the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and all rules and regulations thereunder and any other applicable federal and state laws and regulations, (2) the rules and regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, (3) the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), (4) the investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions of the Fund as described in the Registration Statement, (5) the Trust's Trust Instrument and By-Laws or other organizational documents of the Trust and (6) any written instructions of the Adviser or the Board, provided the Sub-Adviser has had sufficient opportunity to implement such instructions;
The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser with advance notice of any change in the Fund's investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions as stated in the Registration Statement or in any procedures and policies adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement and with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, manage the Fund's portfolio investments in compliance with such changes, provided the Sub-Adviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Trust or the Adviser and has had sufficient opportunity to implement such changes. In addition to such notice, the Adviser shall provide to the Sub-Adviser a copy of the modified Registration Statement reflecting such changes provided that such Registration Statement was so modified.
(i) manage the Fund so that it will qualify, and continue to qualify, as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and regulations issued thereunder;
(j) keep the Adviser and/or the Board informed of developments materially affecting the Fund's portfolio;
(k) make available to the Board, the Adviser, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO") and the Trust's administrator, promptly upon their request, such copies of its records with respect to the Fund as may be required to assist in their compliance with applicable laws and regulations. As reasonably requested by the Board or the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser will complete periodic or special questionnaires and furnish to the Board and/or the Adviser such periodic and special reports regarding the Fund and the Sub-Adviser including, but not limited to, reports concerning transactions and performance of the Fund, quarterly and annual compliance reports and certifications, reports regarding compliance with the Trust's procedures pursuant to Rules 17e-1, 17a-7, 10f-3 and 12d3-1 under the 1940 Act (as applicable), fundamental investment restrictions, procedures for opening brokerage accounts and commodity trading accounts, liquidity determinations for securities or other instruments held by the Fund such as, among others, securities purchased pursuant to Rule 144A and 4(2) commercial paper, compliance with the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics, and such other procedures or requirements that the Adviser may reasonably request from time to time;
(l) make available to the Board and the Adviser at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other appropriate personnel as mutually agreed by the Adviser and Sub-Adviser, either in person or, at the mutual convenience of the Board, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser, by telephone, in order to review the investment policies, performance and other matters relating to the management of the Fund;
(m) review draft reports to shareholders and other documents provided to the Sub-Adviser with respect to the information therein that pertains to the Sub-Adviser or the services provided by the Sub-Adviser, provide comments on such drafts on a timely basis, and provide certifications or sub-certifications on a timely basis as to the accuracy of the information contained in such reports or other documents;
(n) use no material, non-public information concerning portfolio companies that may be in its possession or the possession of any of its affiliates, nor will the Sub-Adviser seek to obtain any such information, in providing investment advice or investment management services to the Fund;
(o) promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board in the event that the Sub-Adviser or any of its affiliates becomes aware that the Sub-Adviser: (i) is subject to a statutory disqualification that prevents the Sub-Adviser from serving as investment adviser pursuant to this Agreement; (ii) fails to be registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act or under the laws of any jurisdiction in which the Sub-Adviser is required to be registered as an investment adviser in order to perform its obligations under this Agreement; (iii) is the subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the SEC or other regulatory authority; or (iv) is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board or body, or governmental authority, involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates; or is involved in any pending litigation or administrative proceeding involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates brought against the Sub-Adviser or any of its management persons (as defined in Rule 206(4)-4 under the Advisers Act). The Sub-Adviser further agrees to notify the Trust and the Adviser promptly of any material fact known to the Sub-Adviser respecting or relating to the Sub-Adviser that is not contained in the Trust's Registration Statement, as amended and supplemented from time to time, regarding the Fund, or any amendment or supplement thereto, but that is required to be disclosed therein, and of any statement contained therein that becomes untrue in any material respect. The Sub-Adviser will promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board if its chief executive officer or any member of the portfolio management team named in the Registration Statement for the Fund changes, or if there is an actual change in control or management of the Sub-Adviser within the meaning of Rules 2a-6 and 202(a)(1)-1 under the 1940 Act and Advisers Act, respectively;
(p) not disclose information regarding Fund characteristics, trading history, portfolio holdings, performance information or any other related information to any third-party, except in compliance with the Trust's policies on disclosure of portfolio holdings or as requested by the Adviser; however, Sub-Adviser may include the Fund's performance information in the calculation of composite performance information, provided that the Fund's performance information is included in the composite in such as way as to prevent anyone from identifying the information contributed by the Fund. In addition, the Adviser acknowledges that the Sub-Adviser manages other accounts following the same investment strategy as the Fund and that these accounts may have different portfolio holdings disclosure policies;
(q) provide the Adviser, the Trust or the Board with such information and assurances (including certifications and sub-certifications) as the Adviser, the Trust or the Board may reasonably request from time to time in order to assist the Adviser, the Trust or the Board in complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations, including requirements in connection with the preparation and/or filing of the Fund's Form N-CSRs and Form N-Qs;
(r) provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent for the Trust in determining or confirming, consistent with the procedures and policies stated in the Trust's valuation procedures and/or the Registration Statement, the value of any portfolio securities or other assets of the Fund for which the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent seeks assistance from the Sub-Adviser or identifies for review by the Sub-Adviser. This assistance may include (but is not limited to): (i) designating and providing access to one or more employees of the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates who are knowledgeable about the security/issuer, its financial condition, trading and/or other relevant factors for valuation, which employees shall be available for consultation when the Board's Valuation Committee convenes; (ii) providing reasonable assistance to the Adviser or the custodian in obtaining bids and offers or quotes from broker/dealers or market-makers with respect to securities held by the Fund, upon the reasonable request of the Adviser or custodian; (iii) upon the request of the Adviser or the custodian, provide assistance in fair valuation of the Trust; and (iv) maintaining records as required by applicable law with respect to any securities valuation assistance provided hereunder, and providing such information to the Adviser or the Trust upon request, with such records being deemed Fund records;
(s) not consult with any other investment sub-adviser of the Trust (if any), or with the sub-adviser to any other investment company (or separate series thereof) managed by the Adviser concerning the Fund's transactions in securities or other assets, except for purposes of complying with the conditions of Rule 12d3-1(a) and (b) under the 1940 Act, and, to the extent that multiple sub-advisers may be engaged to provide services to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall be responsible for providing investment advisory services only with respect to such portion of the Fund's assets as may from time to time be allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser; and
(t) provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC and, promptly after filing any material amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC, furnish a copy of such amendments to the Trust and the Adviser; and provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV Part II as updated from time to time. The Adviser hereby acknowledges having received a current copy of the Sub-Adviser's Form ADV Part II, current as of the date hereof.
In performing its obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser may rely upon information concerning the Fund's books and records provided to it by the Adviser, the custodian(s) or other agent(s) designated by the Adviser, and will not independently verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. The Sub-Adviser (and its officers, directors/trustees, agents, employees, controlling persons, shareholders and any other person or entity affiliated with the Sub-Adviser) shall not be liable for any loss, claim or damages related to such reliance.
3. Obligations of the Adviser and the Fund
The Adviser will provide, or has provided, to the Sub-Adviser, with a copy of the Registration Statement as filed with the SEC, and of the policies and procedures adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser which the Sub-Adviser is required to implement in managing the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser or such other information or documents necessary for the management of the Sub-Adviser's allocated portion of Fund assets as the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably request or as required by applicable law or regulation. Throughout the term of this Agreement, the Adviser shall continue to provide such information and documents to the Sub-Adviser, including any amendments, updates or supplements to such information or documents before or at the time the amendments, updates or supplements become effective.
4. Brokerage
The Sub-Adviser may place orders pursuant to its investment determinations for the Fund directly with the issuers of the securities, or with brokers or dealers selected by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser may open and maintain brokerage accounts of all types on behalf of and in the name of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser may enter into standard customer agreements with brokers and direct payments of cash, cash equivalents and securities and other property into such brokerage accounts as the Sub-Adviser deems desirable or appropriate. In selecting brokers or dealers to execute transactions on behalf of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser will use its best efforts to seek the best overall terms available. In assessing the best overall terms available for the Fund transaction, the Sub-Adviser will consider all factors it deems relevant, including, but not limited to, the breadth of the market in the security, the price of the security, the financial condition and execution capability of the broker or dealer and the reasonableness of the commission, if any, for the specific transaction and on a continuing basis. In selecting broker-dealers to execute a particular transaction, and in evaluating the best overall terms available, the Sub-Adviser is authorized to consider the brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act")) provided to the Fund and/or other accounts over which the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. The parties hereto acknowledge that it is desirable for the Trust that the Sub-Adviser have access to supplemental investment and market research and security and economic analysis provided by broker-dealers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers on the basis of seeking the most favorable price and efficient execution. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser may cause the Fund to pay a broker-dealer that furnishes brokerage and research services a higher commission than that which might be charged by another broker-dealer for effecting the same transaction, provided that the Sub-Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either the particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund in compliance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-Adviser in connection with the Sub-Adviser's services to other clients. In accordance with Section 11(a) of the 1934 Act and Rule 11a2-2(T) thereunder and subject to any other applicable laws and regulations, the Sub-Adviser and its affiliates are authorized to effect portfolio transactions for the Fund and to retain brokerage commissions on such transactions. The Sub-Adviser may, but shall not be obligated to, aggregate or bunch orders for the purchase or sale of securities for the Fund with orders for its other clients where: (i) such aggregation or bunching of orders is not inconsistent with the Fund's investment objectives, policies and procedures, (ii) the allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the allocation of expenses incurred in any such transaction, shall be made by the Sub-Adviser in a manner that complies with the Sub-Adviser's trade allocation policies and procedures approved by the Board and is fair and equitable in the judgment of the Sub-Adviser and is consistent with the Sub-Adviser's fiduciary obligations to the Fund and each of its other clients.
5. Books, Records and Regulatory Filings
(a) The Sub-Adviser agrees to maintain and to preserve for the applicable periods any such records as are required to be maintained by the Sub-Adviser with respect to the Fund by the 1940 Act and rules adopted thereunder, and by any other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Sub-Adviser further agrees that all records that it maintains for the Fund are the property of the Fund and it will promptly surrender any of such records upon request.
(b) The Sub-Adviser agrees that it shall furnish to regulatory authorities having the requisite authority any information or reports in connection with its services hereunder that may be requested in order to determine whether the operations of the Fund are being conducted in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
(c) The Sub-Adviser shall make all filings with the SEC required of it pursuant to Section 13 of the 1934 Act with respect to its duties as are set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser also shall make all required filings on Schedule 13D or 13G and Form 13F (as well as other filings triggered by ownership in securities under other applicable laws, rules and regulations) as may be required of the Fund due to the activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall be the sole filer of Form 13F with respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser.
6. Standard of Care, Limitation of Liability and Indemnification
(a) The Sub-Adviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services under this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust, the Adviser or the Fund, or affiliated persons of the Adviser or the Fund (collectively, the "Adviser Indemnitees") in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates except a loss resulting from the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement; provided, however , that nothing herein shall be deemed to protect or purport to protect the Sub-Adviser against any liability to the Adviser Indemnitees for, and the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Adviser Indemnitees from, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which any of the Adviser Indemnitees may become subject arising out of or resulting from (i) the Sub-Adviser's failure to meet its standard of care and thereby causing the Fund to be in violation of any applicable federal or state law, rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth in the Fund's current Registration Statement or the most current written guidelines, policies or instruction provided in writing by the Board or the Adviser, (ii) the Sub-Adviser causing the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification or source of income requirements of Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and the regulations issued thereunder , (iii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, proxy materials, shareholder reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials pertaining to the Trust or the Fund or the omission to state therein a material fact known to the Sub-Adviser that was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to the Adviser or the Trust by the Sub-Adviser for use therein, or (iv) the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement, or otherwise for breach of this Agreement by the Sub-Adviser. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Trust and the Fund from any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which either the Trust or the Fund may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty by the Sub-Adviser under Section 36(b) of the 1940 Act with respect to the receipt of compensation for its services under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing contained in this Agreement shall constitute a waiver or limitation of rights that the Trust or the Fund may have under federal or state securities laws.
(b) The Sub-Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust Instrument or other organizational document of the Trust and agrees that any obligations of the Trust or the Fund arising in connection with this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the Fund and its assets, and the Sub-Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from any other fund of the Trust or the shareholders or any individual shareholder of the Fund. Nor shall the Sub-Adviser seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the trustees of the Trust (each, a "Trustee" and, together, the "Trustees") or any individual Trustee or any officers.
(c) As used in this Section 6, the term "Sub-Adviser" shall include any officers, directors, employees, independent contractors or other affiliates of the Sub-Adviser performing services with respect to the Fund.
(d) The Adviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Sub-Adviser from and against, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which the Sub-Adviser may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from, the Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
7. Risk Acknowledgement
The Sub-Adviser makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, that any level of performance or investment results will be achieved by the Fund, whether on a relative or absolute basis. The Adviser understands that investment decisions made for the Fund by the Sub-Adviser are subject to various market, currency, economic, political, business and structure risks and that those investment decisions will not always be profitable.
8. Compensation
The Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement in accordance with the terms set forth on Schedule A attached hereto.
9. Expenses
The Sub-Adviser will bear all expenses in connection with the performance of its services under this Agreement, excluding those costs of the Fund associated with brokerage activities. The Sub-Adviser shall bear all expenses and costs of the Trust (including reasonable attorney's fees), if any, arising out of a termination or possible termination of this Agreement as a result of an assignment caused by a change of control or management of the Sub-Adviser, including the preparation and mailing of an information statement to shareholders pursuant to a "manager-of-managers" exemptive order from the SEC, or the preparation, mailing, solicitation and other costs associated with the use of a proxy statement relating to a shareholder vote in respect of a new sub-advisory agreement. The foregoing obligations of the Sub-Adviser shall apply in any circumstance in which the Adviser, in consultation with internal or outside counsel to the Trust, deems that an actual or possible assignment of this Agreement has or may occur, and determines that an information statement should be used, or a vote of shareholders should be obtained, as the case may be.
10. Services to Other Companies or Accounts
The investment advisory services of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund under this Agreement are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Sub-Adviser shall be free to render similar services to other investment companies and clients (whether or not their investment objective and policies are similar those of the Fund) and to engage in other activities, provided that such other services and activities do not interfere with or impair the Sub-Adviser's ability to fulfill its duties and obligations under this Agreement. If the Sub-Adviser provides any advice to its clients concerning investment in the shares of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall act solely for such clients in that regard and not in any way on behalf of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund.
11. Compliance Matters
(a) The Sub-Adviser understands and agrees that it is a "service provider" to the Trust as contemplated by Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act. As such, the Sub-Adviser agrees to cooperate fully with the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with respect to (i) any and all compliance-related matters, and (ii) the Trust's efforts to assure that each of its service providers adopts and maintains policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to prevent violation of the "federal securities laws" (as that term is defined by Rule 38a-1) by the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser. In this regard, the Sub-Adviser shall:
(1) submit to the Board for its consideration and approval, prior to the effective date of this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser's applicable compliance policies and procedures;
(2) submit annually (and at such other times as the Trust may reasonably request) to the Trust's CCO and the Adviser for consideration by the Board, a report discussing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program, and fully describing any material amendments to such compliance program since the most recent such report;
(3) provide periodic reports and certifications concerning the Sub-Adviser's compliance program and special reports in the event of material compliance matters;
(4) provide the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers with reasonable access, including on-site visits with the Sub-Adviser as may be reasonably requested from time to time, to information regarding the aspects of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program that may expose the Adviser and the Trust to compliance risks or lead to a violation by the Trust, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser of the federal securities laws;
(5) permit the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers to maintain an active working relationship with the Sub-Adviser's compliance personnel by, among other things, providing the Adviser and the Trust's CCO and other officers with a specified individual within the Sub-Adviser's organization to discuss and address compliance-related matters;
(6) provide the Adviser and its chief compliance officer and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with such certifications as may be reasonably requested; and
(7) reasonably cooperate with any independent registered public accounting firm engaged by the Trust, ensure that all reasonably necessary information and the appropriate personnel are made available to such independent registered public accounting firm, to support the expression of the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, and each year provide the Adviser and such independent registered public accounting firm with a copy of the annual SAS 70 Report prepared by the Sub-Adviser's independent auditors regarding the Sub-Adviser's internal controls.
(b) The Sub-Adviser represents, warrants and covenants that it has implemented and shall maintain a compliance program in accordance with the requirements of Rule 206(4)-7 under the Advisers Act.
(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the Adviser acknowledges that Sub-Adviser is not the compliance agent for the Trust or for the Adviser, and does not have access to all of the Trust's books and records necessary to perform certain compliance testing. Any of the Sub-Adviser's agreement to perform the services in this Section 11 or elsewhere in this Agreement is subject to the understanding that the Sub-Adviser shall perform such services based upon its books and records with respect to the Fund, which comprise a portion of the Trust's book and records.
(d) The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser records to facilitate the Sub-Adviser's ability to meet the Sub-Adviser's obligations under Rule 206(4)-5 of the Advisers Act. The Sub-Adviser shall treat such records as subject to the applicable confidentiality provision(s) under this Agreement, provided that at no time, unless so required by the applicable laws or relevant regulatory authorities, shall the records be disclosed to or otherwise made available to and shared with any third party or the general public.
12. Duration and Termination
(a) This Agreement shall be effective immediately as of the date set forth above and shall continue in effect for two years from its effective date with respect to the Fund, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, and shall continue year to year thereafter, provided each continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of a majority of the Trustees or (ii) a vote of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting securities, provided that in either event the continuance is also approved by a majority of the Trustees who are neither (A) parties to this Agreement nor (B) "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person (to the extent required by the 1940 Act) at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, on sixty (60) days' written notice to the Sub-Adviser: (i) by the Trust, pursuant to (A) action by the Board or (B) the vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the shares of the Fund or (ii) by the Adviser. This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, by the Sub-Adviser upon ninety (90) days' written notice to the Adviser and the Trust. In addition, this Agreement will terminate with respect to the Fund in the event of the termination of the Advisory Agreement with respect to the Fund. This Agreement will be terminated automatically in the event of its "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act).
(c) In the event of a termination of this Agreement for any reason with respect to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably cooperate with any transition manager or successor investment sub-adviser and with the Adviser in transitioning the management of the Fund to one or more new sub-advisers or to the Adviser, including, without limitation, providing the transition manager, at such intervals as the transition manager may request, with a list of holdings for the portion of Fund assets under the Sub-Adviser's management and such other information as required by the transition management agreement, into which the Adviser and the transition manager will, at that time, enter.
(d) Termination of this Agreement shall not affect the rights or obligations of the Adviser, the Adviser Indemnitees and the Sub-Adviser under Section 6 of this Agreement.
13. Use of Name
(a) The Sub-Adviser hereby consents to the use of its name and the names of its affiliates in the Fund's disclosure documents, shareholder communications, advertising, sales literature and similar communications. The Sub-Adviser shall not use the name or any tradename, trademark, trade device, service mark, symbol or any abbreviation, contraction or simulation thereof of the Adviser, the Trust, the Fund or any of their affiliates in its marketing materials unless it first receives prior written approval of the Trust and the Adviser.
(b) It is understood that the name of each party to this Agreement, and any derivatives thereof or logos associated with that name, is the valuable property of the party in question and its affiliates, and that each other party has the right to use such names pursuant to the relationship created by, and in accordance with the terms of, this Agreement only so long as this Agreement shall continue in effect. Upon termination of this Agreement, the parties shall forthwith cease to use the names of the other parties (or any derivative or logo) as appropriate and to the extent that continued use is not required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
14. Confidential Information
(a) Each party agrees that it will treat confidentially all information provided by any other party (the "Discloser") regarding the Discloser's businesses and operations, including without limitation the investment activities or holdings of the Fund ("Confidential Information"). All Confidential Information provided by the Discloser shall be used only by the other party hereto (the "Recipient") solely for the purposes of rendering services pursuant to this Agreement, and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior consent of the Discloser, except for any party that is under common control with the Recipient and except for a limited number of employees, attorneys, accountants and other advisers of the Recipient on a need-to-know basis and solely for the purposes of rendering services under this Agreement.
(b) Confidential Information shall not include any information that: (i) is public when provided or thereafter becomes public through no wrongful act of the Recipient; (ii) is demonstrably known to the Recipient prior to execution of this Agreement; (iii) is independently developed by the Recipient through no wrongful act of the Recipient in the ordinary course of business outside of this Agreement; (iv) is generally employed by the trade at the time that the Recipient learns of such information or knowledge; or (v) has been rightfully and lawfully obtained by the Recipient from any third party.
(c) In the event that the Recipient is requested or required (by deposition, interrogatories, requests for information or documents in legal proceedings, subpoenas, civil investigative demand or similar process), in connection with any proceeding, to disclose any of the Discloser's Confidential Information, the Recipient will give the Discloser prompt written notice of such request or requirement to allow the Discloser an opportunity to obtain a protective order or otherwise obtain assurances that confidential treatment will be accorded to such Confidential Information. In the event that such protective order or other remedy is not obtained, disclosure shall be made of only that portion of the Confidential Information that is legally required to be disclosed. All Confidential Information disclosed as required by law shall nonetheless continue to be deemed Confidential Information.
15. Amendment
This Agreement may be amended in writing signed by the parties to this Agreement in a manner that is in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, as modified or interpreted by any applicable order, exemptive relief or interpretative release issued by the SEC.
16. Notices
All notices hereunder shall be provided in writing, by facsimile or by email. Notices shall be deemed given if delivered in person or by messenger, certified mail with return receipt, or by a reputable overnight delivery service that provides evidence of receipt to the parties; upon receipt if sent by fax; or upon read receipt or reply if delivered by email, at the following addresses:
If to the Trust: Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Marc Bryant
If to the Adviser: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Chief Operating Officer
With Copy to: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Karen Benoit
If to the Sub-Adviser: Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC
900 Salem Street
Smithfield, RI 02917
Attn: Patrick Sheppard
patrick.sheppard@pyramis.com
17. Miscellaneous
(a) This Agreement constitutes the full and complete agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof.
(b) Titles or captions of sections in this Agreement are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and in no way define, limit, extend or describe the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provisions thereof.
(c) This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, all of which together shall for all purposes constitute one Agreement, binding on all the parties.
(d) This Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be governed by, and interpreted, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions of that or any other jurisdiction. To the extent that the applicable laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts conflict with the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the latter shall control. The parties irrevocably consent to submit to the jurisdiction of any federal or state court sitting in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
(e) If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected hereby and, to this extent, the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable.
(f) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Sub-Adviser shall be an independent contractor. Nothing herein shall be construed as constituting the Sub-Adviser as an agent of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund, except to the extent expressly authorized by this Agreement.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first set forth above.
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/Patrick Sheppard
Patrick Sheppard
SVP, Governance, Risk, Compliance and Treasury
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Suzanne Brennan
Suzanne Brennan
Chief Operating Officer
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
By: /s/Kenneth Robins
Kenneth Robins
Treasurer
Schedule A
Pursuant to Section 8 of the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement (the "Agreement") among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Emerging Markets Fund of Funds (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (the "Sub-Adviser"), the Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services it performs on behalf of the Fund as follows:
1. For purpose of calculating the fee to be paid to the Sub-Adviser under this Agreement, "Fund Assets" shall mean the portion of the net assets of the Fund managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to the following investment strategy: Select Emerging Markets Equity.
2 The Adviser will pay the Sub-Adviser a fee, payable monthly, based on the average daily Fund Assets (computed in the manner set forth in the Trust's Trust Instrument) determined as of the close of business on each business day throughout the calendar month ("Average Net Assets"). The Sub-Adviser's fee rate shall be determined on a cumulative basis pursuant to the tiered schedule set forth below:
Rate - Select Emerging Markets Equity
0.90% (90 basis points) on all assets
The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be computed monthly and, within twelve business days of the end of each calendar month, the Adviser shall transmit to the Sub-Adviser the fee for the previous month. Payment shall be made in federal funds wired to a bank account designated by the Sub-Adviser. If this Agreement becomes effective or terminates before the end of any month, the fee (if any) for the period from the effective date to the end of such month or from the beginning of such month to the date of termination, as the case may be, shall be prorated on the basis of the number of business days it is so in effect for that month.
The Sub-Adviser agrees to look exclusively to the Adviser, and not to any assets of the Trust or the Fund, for the payment of the Sub-Adviser's fees arising under this Paragraph 2.
Exhibit (d)(69)
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AMONG
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.,
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
AND
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
AGREEMENT, made this 1st day of March, 2012, among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust, on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Adviser"), a Massachusetts corporation, and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC ("Sub-Adviser"), a Delaware limited liability company.
WHEREAS, the Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act");
WHEREAS, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser are each registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended ("Advisers Act");
WHEREAS, the Trust has retained the Adviser to render investment advisory services to the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, pursuant to a Management Contract dated March 1, 2012, as may be amended from time to time ("Advisory Agreement");
WHEREAS, the Advisory Agreement authorizes the Adviser to delegate to one or more other investment advisers any or all of the Adviser's duties and obligations under the Advisory Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Adviser wish to retain the Sub-Adviser to render certain investment advisory services to the Fund with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, as determined from time to time by the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser is willing to render such services.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants herein contained, it is agreed among the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and the Trust as follows:
1. Appointment
With respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated, from time to time, by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser, the Trust and the Adviser hereby appoint the Sub-Adviser to act as investment sub-adviser to the Fund for the periods and on the terms set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser accepts the appointment and agrees to furnish the services set forth herein for the compensation provided in Section 8 of this Agreement.
2. Services and Duties of Investment Sub-Adviser
Subject to the general supervision and oversight of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board"), the Sub-Adviser will:
(a) provide a program of continuous investment management for the Fund in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies as stated in the Fund's prospectus and statement of additional information filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on Form N-1A, as amended and supplemented from time to time (the "Registration Statement") and as provided by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser;
(b) invest and reinvest the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by selecting the securities, instruments, repurchase agreements, financial futures contracts, options and other investments and techniques that the Fund may purchase, sell, enter into or use;
(c) oversee the placement of purchase and sale orders on behalf of the Fund;
(d) employ portfolio managers to make investment decisions and securities analysts to provide research services to the Fund;
(e) subject to the understanding set forth in Section 11(a)(1) of this Agreement, vote all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser may be invested in accordance with the Sub-Adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures as approved by the Board and in a manner that complies with applicable law; maintain records of all proxies voted on behalf of the Fund; and provide information to the Trust, the Adviser or their designated agent in a manner that is sufficiently complete and timely to ensure the Trust's compliance with its filing obligations under Rule 30b1-4 of the 1940 Act;
(f) maintain books and records with respect to the Fund's securities transactions in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; and
(g) to the extent reasonably requested by the Adviser or officers of the Fund, cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser and the Trust's other service providers by (1) keeping them fully informed as to such matters that they may reasonably deem necessary with respect to the performance of their obligations to the Fund, (2) providing prompt responses to reasonable requests for information or assistance, including furnishing the Adviser and/or the Fund with statistical information as the Adviser and/or the Fund may reasonably request with respect to the securities that the Fund may hold, and (3) establishing appropriate processes to promote the efficient exchange of information.
The Sub-Adviser further agrees that, in performing its duties hereunder, it will:
(h) comply in all material respects with (1) the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and all rules and regulations thereunder and any other applicable federal and state laws and regulations, (2) the rules and regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, (3) the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), (4) the investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions of the Fund as described in the Registration Statement, (5) the Trust's Trust Instrument and By-Laws or other organizational documents of the Trust and (6) any written instructions of the Adviser or the Board, provided the Sub-Adviser has had sufficient opportunity to implement such instructions;
The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser with advance notice of any change in the Fund's investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions as stated in the Registration Statement or in any procedures and policies adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement and with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, manage the Fund's portfolio investments in compliance with such changes, provided the Sub-Adviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Trust or the Adviser and has had sufficient opportunity to implement such changes. In addition to such notice, the Adviser shall provide to the Sub-Adviser a copy of the modified Registration Statement reflecting such changes provided that such Registration Statement was so modified.
(i) manage the Fund so that it will qualify, and continue to qualify, as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and regulations issued thereunder;
(j) keep the Adviser and/or the Board informed of developments materially affecting the Fund's portfolio;
(k) make available to the Board, the Adviser, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO") and the Trust's administrator, promptly upon their request, such copies of its records with respect to the Fund as may be required to assist in their compliance with applicable laws and regulations. As reasonably requested by the Board or the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser will complete periodic or special questionnaires and furnish to the Board and/or the Adviser such periodic and special reports regarding the Fund and the Sub-Adviser including, but not limited to, reports concerning transactions and performance of the Fund, quarterly and annual compliance reports and certifications, reports regarding compliance with the Trust's procedures pursuant to Rules 17e-1, 17a-7, 10f-3 and 12d3-1 under the 1940 Act (as applicable), fundamental investment restrictions, procedures for opening brokerage accounts and commodity trading accounts, liquidity determinations for securities or other instruments held by the Fund such as, among others, securities purchased pursuant to Rule 144A and 4(2) commercial paper, compliance with the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics, and such other procedures or requirements that the Adviser may reasonably request from time to time;
(l) make available to the Board and the Adviser at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other appropriate personnel as mutually agreed by the Adviser and Sub-Adviser, either in person or, at the mutual convenience of the Board, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser, by telephone, in order to review the investment policies, performance and other matters relating to the management of the Fund;
(m) review draft reports to shareholders and other documents provided to the Sub-Adviser with respect to the information therein that pertains to the Sub-Adviser or the services provided by the Sub-Adviser, provide comments on such drafts on a timely basis, and provide certifications or sub-certifications on a timely basis as to the accuracy of the information contained in such reports or other documents;
(n) use no material, non-public information concerning portfolio companies that may be in its possession or the possession of any of its affiliates, nor will the Sub-Adviser seek to obtain any such information, in providing investment advice or investment management services to the Fund;
(o) promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board in the event that the Sub-Adviser or any of its affiliates becomes aware that the Sub-Adviser: (i) is subject to a statutory disqualification that prevents the Sub-Adviser from serving as investment adviser pursuant to this Agreement; (ii) fails to be registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act or under the laws of any jurisdiction in which the Sub-Adviser is required to be registered as an investment adviser in order to perform its obligations under this Agreement; (iii) is the subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the SEC or other regulatory authority; or (iv) is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board or body, or governmental authority, involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates; or is involved in any pending litigation or administrative proceeding involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates brought against the Sub-Adviser or any of its management persons (as defined in Rule 206(4)-4 under the Advisers Act). The Sub-Adviser further agrees to notify the Trust and the Adviser promptly of any material fact known to the Sub-Adviser respecting or relating to the Sub-Adviser that is not contained in the Trust's Registration Statement, as amended and supplemented from time to time, regarding the Fund, or any amendment or supplement thereto, but that is required to be disclosed therein, and of any statement contained therein that becomes untrue in any material respect. The Sub-Adviser will promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board if its chief executive officer or any member of the portfolio management team named in the Registration Statement for the Fund changes, or if there is an actual change in control or management of the Sub-Adviser within the meaning of Rules 2a-6 and 202(a)(1)-1 under the 1940 Act and Advisers Act, respectively;
(p) not disclose information regarding Fund characteristics, trading history, portfolio holdings, performance information or any other related information to any third-party, except in compliance with the Trust's policies on disclosure of portfolio holdings or as requested by the Adviser; however, Sub-Adviser may include the Fund's performance information in the calculation of composite performance information, provided that the Fund's performance information is included in the composite in such as way as to prevent anyone from identifying the information contributed by the Fund. In addition, the Adviser acknowledges that the Sub-Adviser manages other accounts following the same investment strategy as the Fund and that these accounts may have different portfolio holdings disclosure policies;
(q) provide the Adviser, the Trust or the Board with such information and assurances (including certifications and sub-certifications) as the Adviser, the Trust or the Board may reasonably request from time to time in order to assist the Adviser, the Trust or the Board in complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations, including requirements in connection with the preparation and/or filing of the Fund's Form N-CSRs and Form N-Qs;
(r) provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent for the Trust in determining or confirming, consistent with the procedures and policies stated in the Trust's valuation procedures and/or the Registration Statement, the value of any portfolio securities or other assets of the Fund for which the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent seeks assistance from the Sub-Adviser or identifies for review by the Sub-Adviser. This assistance may include (but is not limited to): (i) designating and providing access to one or more employees of the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates who are knowledgeable about the security/issuer, its financial condition, trading and/or other relevant factors for valuation, which employees shall be available for consultation when the Board's Valuation Committee convenes; (ii) providing reasonable assistance to the Adviser or the custodian in obtaining bids and offers or quotes from broker/dealers or market-makers with respect to securities held by the Fund, upon the reasonable request of the Adviser or custodian; (iii) upon the request of the Adviser or the custodian, provide assistance in fair valuation of the Trust; and (iv) maintaining records as required by applicable law with respect to any securities valuation assistance provided hereunder, and providing such information to the Adviser or the Trust upon request, with such records being deemed Fund records;
(s) not consult with any other investment sub-adviser of the Trust (if any), or with the sub-adviser to any other investment company (or separate series thereof) managed by the Adviser concerning the Fund's transactions in securities or other assets, except for purposes of complying with the conditions of Rule 12d3-1(a) and (b) under the 1940 Act, and, to the extent that multiple sub-advisers may be engaged to provide services to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall be responsible for providing investment advisory services only with respect to such portion of the Fund's assets as may from time to time be allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser; and
(t) provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC and, promptly after filing any material amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC, furnish a copy of such amendments to the Trust and the Adviser; and provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV Part II as updated from time to time. The Adviser hereby acknowledges having received a current copy of the Sub-Adviser's Form ADV Part II, current as of the date hereof.
In performing its obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser may rely upon information concerning the Fund's books and records provided to it by the Adviser, the custodian(s) or other agent(s) designated by the Adviser, and will not independently verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. The Sub-Adviser (and its officers, directors/trustees, agents, employees, controlling persons, shareholders and any other person or entity affiliated with the Sub-Adviser) shall not be liable for any loss, claim or damages related to such reliance.
3. Obligations of the Adviser and the Fund
The Adviser will provide, or has provided, to the Sub-Adviser, with a copy of the Registration Statement as filed with the SEC, and of the policies and procedures adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser which the Sub-Adviser is required to implement in managing the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser or such other information or documents necessary for the management of the Sub-Adviser's allocated portion of Fund assets as the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably request or as required by applicable law or regulation. Throughout the term of this Agreement, the Adviser shall continue to provide such information and documents to the Sub-Adviser, including any amendments, updates or supplements to such information or documents before or at the time the amendments, updates or supplements become effective.
4. Brokerage
The Sub-Adviser may place orders pursuant to its investment determinations for the Fund directly with the issuers of the securities, or with brokers or dealers selected by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser may open and maintain brokerage accounts of all types on behalf of and in the name of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser may enter into standard customer agreements with brokers and direct payments of cash, cash equivalents and securities and other property into such brokerage accounts as the Sub-Adviser deems desirable or appropriate. In selecting brokers or dealers to execute transactions on behalf of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser will use its best efforts to seek the best overall terms available. In assessing the best overall terms available for the Fund transaction, the Sub-Adviser will consider all factors it deems relevant, including, but not limited to, the breadth of the market in the security, the price of the security, the financial condition and execution capability of the broker or dealer and the reasonableness of the commission, if any, for the specific transaction and on a continuing basis. In selecting broker-dealers to execute a particular transaction, and in evaluating the best overall terms available, the Sub-Adviser is authorized to consider the brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act")) provided to the Fund and/or other accounts over which the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. The parties hereto acknowledge that it is desirable for the Trust that the Sub-Adviser have access to supplemental investment and market research and security and economic analysis provided by broker-dealers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers on the basis of seeking the most favorable price and efficient execution. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser may cause the Fund to pay a broker-dealer that furnishes brokerage and research services a higher commission than that which might be charged by another broker-dealer for effecting the same transaction, provided that the Sub-Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either the particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund in compliance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-Adviser in connection with the Sub-Adviser's services to other clients. In accordance with Section 11(a) of the 1934 Act and Rule 11a2-2(T) thereunder and subject to any other applicable laws and regulations, the Sub-Adviser and its affiliates are authorized to effect portfolio transactions for the Fund and to retain brokerage commissions on such transactions. The Sub-Adviser may, but shall not be obligated to, aggregate or bunch orders for the purchase or sale of securities for the Fund with orders for its other clients where: (i) such aggregation or bunching of orders is not inconsistent with the Fund's investment objectives, policies and procedures, (ii) the allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the allocation of expenses incurred in any such transaction, shall be made by the Sub-Adviser in a manner that complies with the Sub-Adviser's trade allocation policies and procedures approved by the Board and is fair and equitable in the judgment of the Sub-Adviser and is consistent with the Sub-Adviser's fiduciary obligations to the Fund and each of its other clients.
5. Books, Records and Regulatory Filings
(a) The Sub-Adviser agrees to maintain and to preserve for the applicable periods any such records as are required to be maintained by the Sub-Adviser with respect to the Fund by the 1940 Act and rules adopted thereunder, and by any other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Sub-Adviser further agrees that all records that it maintains for the Fund are the property of the Fund and it will promptly surrender any of such records upon request.
(b) The Sub-Adviser agrees that it shall furnish to regulatory authorities having the requisite authority any information or reports in connection with its services hereunder that may be requested in order to determine whether the operations of the Fund are being conducted in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
(c) The Sub-Adviser shall make all filings with the SEC required of it pursuant to Section 13 of the 1934 Act with respect to its duties as are set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser also shall make all required filings on Schedule 13D or 13G and Form 13F (as well as other filings triggered by ownership in securities under other applicable laws, rules and regulations) as may be required of the Fund due to the activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall be the sole filer of Form 13F with respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser.
6. Standard of Care, Limitation of Liability and Indemnification
(a) The Sub-Adviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services under this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust, the Adviser or the Fund, or affiliated persons of the Adviser or the Fund (collectively, the "Adviser Indemnitees") in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates except a loss resulting from the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement; provided, however , that nothing herein shall be deemed to protect or purport to protect the Sub-Adviser against any liability to the Adviser Indemnitees for, and the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Adviser Indemnitees from, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which any of the Adviser Indemnitees may become subject arising out of or resulting from (i) the Sub-Adviser's failure to meet its standard of care and thereby causing the Fund to be in violation of any applicable federal or state law, rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth in the Fund's current Registration Statement or the most current written guidelines, policies or instruction provided in writing by the Board or the Adviser, (ii) the Sub-Adviser causing the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification or source of income requirements of Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and the regulations issued thereunder , (iii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, proxy materials, shareholder reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials pertaining to the Trust or the Fund or the omission to state therein a material fact known to the Sub-Adviser that was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to the Adviser or the Trust by the Sub-Adviser for use therein, or (iv) the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement, or otherwise for breach of this Agreement by the Sub-Adviser. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Trust and the Fund from any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which either the Trust or the Fund may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty by the Sub-Adviser under Section 36(b) of the 1940 Act with respect to the receipt of compensation for its services under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing contained in this Agreement shall constitute a waiver or limitation of rights that the Trust or the Fund may have under federal or state securities laws.
(b) The Sub-Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust Instrument or other organizational document of the Trust and agrees that any obligations of the Trust or the Fund arising in connection with this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the Fund and its assets, and the Sub-Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from any other fund of the Trust or the shareholders or any individual shareholder of the Fund. Nor shall the Sub-Adviser seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the trustees of the Trust (each, a "Trustee" and, together, the "Trustees") or any individual Trustee or any officers.
(c) As used in this Section 6, the term "Sub-Adviser" shall include any officers, directors, employees, independent contractors or other affiliates of the Sub-Adviser performing services with respect to the Fund.
(d) The Adviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Sub-Adviser from and against, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which the Sub-Adviser may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from, the Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
7. Risk Acknowledgement
The Sub-Adviser makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, that any level of performance or investment results will be achieved by the Fund, whether on a relative or absolute basis. The Adviser understands that investment decisions made for the Fund by the Sub-Adviser are subject to various market, currency, economic, political, business and structure risks and that those investment decisions will not always be profitable.
8. Compensation
The Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement in accordance with the terms set forth on Schedule A attached hereto.
9. Expenses
The Sub-Adviser will bear all expenses in connection with the performance of its services under this Agreement, excluding those costs of the Fund associated with brokerage activities. The Sub-Adviser shall bear all expenses and costs of the Trust (including reasonable attorney's fees), if any, arising out of a termination or possible termination of this Agreement as a result of an assignment caused by a change of control or management of the Sub-Adviser, including the preparation and mailing of an information statement to shareholders pursuant to a "manager-of-managers" exemptive order from the SEC, or the preparation, mailing, solicitation and other costs associated with the use of a proxy statement relating to a shareholder vote in respect of a new sub-advisory agreement. The foregoing obligations of the Sub-Adviser shall apply in any circumstance in which the Adviser, in consultation with internal or outside counsel to the Trust, deems that an actual or possible assignment of this Agreement has or may occur, and determines that an information statement should be used, or a vote of shareholders should be obtained, as the case may be.
10. Services to Other Companies or Accounts
The investment advisory services of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund under this Agreement are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Sub-Adviser shall be free to render similar services to other investment companies and clients (whether or not their investment objective and policies are similar those of the Fund) and to engage in other activities, provided that such other services and activities do not interfere with or impair the Sub-Adviser's ability to fulfill its duties and obligations under this Agreement. If the Sub-Adviser provides any advice to its clients concerning investment in the shares of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall act solely for such clients in that regard and not in any way on behalf of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund.
11. Compliance Matters
(a) The Sub-Adviser understands and agrees that it is a "service provider" to the Trust as contemplated by Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act. As such, the Sub-Adviser agrees to cooperate fully with the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with respect to (i) any and all compliance-related matters, and (ii) the Trust's efforts to assure that each of its service providers adopts and maintains policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to prevent violation of the "federal securities laws" (as that term is defined by Rule 38a-1) by the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser. In this regard, the Sub-Adviser shall:
(1) submit to the Board for its consideration and approval, prior to the effective date of this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser's applicable compliance policies and procedures;
(2) submit annually (and at such other times as the Trust may reasonably request) to the Trust's CCO and the Adviser for consideration by the Board, a report discussing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program, and fully describing any material amendments to such compliance program since the most recent such report;
(3) provide periodic reports and certifications concerning the Sub-Adviser's compliance program and special reports in the event of material compliance matters;
(4) provide the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers with reasonable access, including on-site visits with the Sub-Adviser as may be reasonably requested from time to time, to information regarding the aspects of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program that may expose the Adviser and the Trust to compliance risks or lead to a violation by the Trust, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser of the federal securities laws;
(5) permit the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers to maintain an active working relationship with the Sub-Adviser's compliance personnel by, among other things, providing the Adviser and the Trust's CCO and other officers with a specified individual within the Sub-Adviser's organization to discuss and address compliance-related matters;
(6) provide the Adviser and its chief compliance officer and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with such certifications as may be reasonably requested; and
(7) reasonably cooperate with any independent registered public accounting firm engaged by the Trust, ensure that all reasonably necessary information and the appropriate personnel are made available to such independent registered public accounting firm, to support the expression of the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, and each year provide the Adviser and such independent registered public accounting firm with a copy of the annual SAS 70 Report prepared by the Sub-Adviser's independent auditors regarding the Sub-Adviser's internal controls.
(b) The Sub-Adviser represents, warrants and covenants that it has implemented and shall maintain a compliance program in accordance with the requirements of Rule 206(4)-7 under the Advisers Act.
(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the Adviser acknowledges that Sub-Adviser is not the compliance agent for the Trust or for the Adviser, and does not have access to all of the Trust's books and records necessary to perform certain compliance testing. Any of the Sub-Adviser's agreement to perform the services in this Section 11 or elsewhere in this Agreement is subject to the understanding that the Sub-Adviser shall perform such services based upon its books and records with respect to the Fund, which comprise a portion of the Trust's book and records.
(d) The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser records to facilitate the Sub-Adviser's ability to meet the Sub-Adviser's obligations under Rule 206(4)-5 of the Advisers Act. The Sub-Adviser shall treat such records as subject to the applicable confidentiality provision(s) under this Agreement, provided that at no time, unless so required by the applicable laws or relevant regulatory authorities, shall the records be disclosed to or otherwise made available to and shared with any third party or the general public.
12. Duration and Termination
(a) This Agreement shall be effective immediately as of the date set forth above and shall continue in effect for two years from its effective date with respect to the Fund, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, and shall continue year to year thereafter, provided each continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of a majority of the Trustees or (ii) a vote of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting securities, provided that in either event the continuance is also approved by a majority of the Trustees who are neither (A) parties to this Agreement nor (B) "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person (to the extent required by the 1940 Act) at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, on sixty (60) days' written notice to the Sub-Adviser: (i) by the Trust, pursuant to (A) action by the Board or (B) the vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the shares of the Fund or (ii) by the Adviser. This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, by the Sub-Adviser upon ninety (90) days' written notice to the Adviser and the Trust. In addition, this Agreement will terminate with respect to the Fund in the event of the termination of the Advisory Agreement with respect to the Fund. This Agreement will be terminated automatically in the event of its "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act).
(c) In the event of a termination of this Agreement for any reason with respect to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably cooperate with any transition manager or successor investment sub-adviser and with the Adviser in transitioning the management of the Fund to one or more new sub-advisers or to the Adviser, including, without limitation, providing the transition manager, at such intervals as the transition manager may request, with a list of holdings for the portion of Fund assets under the Sub-Adviser's management and such other information as required by the transition management agreement, into which the Adviser and the transition manager will, at that time, enter.
(d) Termination of this Agreement shall not affect the rights or obligations of the Adviser, the Adviser Indemnitees and the Sub-Adviser under Section 6 of this Agreement.
13. Use of Name
(a) The Sub-Adviser hereby consents to the use of its name and the names of its affiliates in the Fund's disclosure documents, shareholder communications, advertising, sales literature and similar communications. The Sub-Adviser shall not use the name or any tradename, trademark, trade device, service mark, symbol or any abbreviation, contraction or simulation thereof of the Adviser, the Trust, the Fund or any of their affiliates in its marketing materials unless it first receives prior written approval of the Trust and the Adviser.
(b) It is understood that the name of each party to this Agreement, and any derivatives thereof or logos associated with that name, is the valuable property of the party in question and its affiliates, and that each other party has the right to use such names pursuant to the relationship created by, and in accordance with the terms of, this Agreement only so long as this Agreement shall continue in effect. Upon termination of this Agreement, the parties shall forthwith cease to use the names of the other parties (or any derivative or logo) as appropriate and to the extent that continued use is not required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
14. Confidential Information
(a) Each party agrees that it will treat confidentially all information provided by any other party (the "Discloser") regarding the Discloser's businesses and operations, including without limitation the investment activities or holdings of the Fund ("Confidential Information"). All Confidential Information provided by the Discloser shall be used only by the other party hereto (the "Recipient") solely for the purposes of rendering services pursuant to this Agreement, and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior consent of the Discloser, except for any party that is under common control with the Recipient and except for a limited number of employees, attorneys, accountants and other advisers of the Recipient on a need-to-know basis and solely for the purposes of rendering services under this Agreement.
(b) Confidential Information shall not include any information that: (i) is public when provided or thereafter becomes public through no wrongful act of the Recipient; (ii) is demonstrably known to the Recipient prior to execution of this Agreement; (iii) is independently developed by the Recipient through no wrongful act of the Recipient in the ordinary course of business outside of this Agreement; (iv) is generally employed by the trade at the time that the Recipient learns of such information or knowledge; or (v) has been rightfully and lawfully obtained by the Recipient from any third party.
(c) In the event that the Recipient is requested or required (by deposition, interrogatories, requests for information or documents in legal proceedings, subpoenas, civil investigative demand or similar process), in connection with any proceeding, to disclose any of the Discloser's Confidential Information, the Recipient will give the Discloser prompt written notice of such request or requirement to allow the Discloser an opportunity to obtain a protective order or otherwise obtain assurances that confidential treatment will be accorded to such Confidential Information. In the event that such protective order or other remedy is not obtained, disclosure shall be made of only that portion of the Confidential Information that is legally required to be disclosed. All Confidential Information disclosed as required by law shall nonetheless continue to be deemed Confidential Information.
15. Amendment
This Agreement may be amended in writing signed by the parties to this Agreement in a manner that is in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, as modified or interpreted by any applicable order, exemptive relief or interpretative release issued by the SEC.
16. Notices
All notices hereunder shall be provided in writing, by facsimile or by email. Notices shall be deemed given if delivered in person or by messenger, certified mail with return receipt, or by a reputable overnight delivery service that provides evidence of receipt to the parties; upon receipt if sent by fax; or upon read receipt or reply if delivered by email, at the following addresses:
If to the Trust: Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Marc Bryant
If to the Adviser: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Chief Operating Officer
With Copy to: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Karen Benoit
If to the Sub-Adviser: Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC
900 Salem Street
Smithfield, RI 02917
Attn: Patrick Sheppard
patrick.sheppard@pyramis.com
17. Miscellaneous
(a) This Agreement constitutes the full and complete agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof.
(b) Titles or captions of sections in this Agreement are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and in no way define, limit, extend or describe the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provisions thereof.
(c) This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, all of which together shall for all purposes constitute one Agreement, binding on all the parties.
(d) This Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be governed by, and interpreted, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions of that or any other jurisdiction. To the extent that the applicable laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts conflict with the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the latter shall control. The parties irrevocably consent to submit to the jurisdiction of any federal or state court sitting in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
(e) If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected hereby and, to this extent, the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable.
(f) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Sub-Adviser shall be an independent contractor. Nothing herein shall be construed as constituting the Sub-Adviser as an agent of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund, except to the extent expressly authorized by this Agreement.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first set forth above.
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/Patrick Sheppard
Patrick Sheppard
SVP, Governance, Risk, Compliance and Treasury
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Suzanne Brennan
Suzanne Brennan
Chief Operating Officer
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
By: /s/Kenneth Robins
Kenneth Robins
Treasurer
Schedule A
Pursuant to Section 6 of the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement (the "Agreement") among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers International Multi-Manager Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (the "Sub-Adviser"), the Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services it performs on behalf of the Fund as follows:
1. For purposes of calculating the fee to be paid to the Sub-Adviser under this Agreement:
"Portfolio Assets" shall mean the portion of the net assets of the Fund managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to one of the following investment strategies as agreed to by the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser in separately negotiated investment mandates: Select International, Select International Plus, International Value and Emerging Markets (each a "Strategy").
"Aggregated Assets" for a particular Strategy shall mean the assets of all registered investment companies managed by the Adviser that are managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to that Strategy, including Portfolio Assets.
2 The Adviser will pay the Sub-Adviser a fee, payable monthly, based on average daily Portfolio Assets (computed in the manner set forth in the Trust's Trust Instrument) determined as of the close of business on each business day throughout the calendar month. The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed pursuant to a specific Strategy based on the following rate schedules.
Rate - Select International
0.45% (45 basis points) of the first $200 million in assets
0.40% (40 basis points) of the next $450 million in assets
0.350% (35 basis points) on any amount in excess of $650 million in assets
Rate - International Value
0.45% (45 basis points) of the first $200 million in assets
0.40% (40 basis points) of the next $450 million in assets
0.350% (35 basis points) on any amount in excess of $650 million in assets
Rate - Select International Plus
0.48% (48 basis points) of the first $250 million in assets
0.35% (35 basis points) on any amount in excess of $250 million in assets
Rate - Emerging Markets
0.90% (90 basis points) on all assets
The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be computed monthly and, within twelve business days of the end of each calendar month, the Adviser shall transmit to the Sub-Adviser the fee for the previous month. Payment shall be made in federal funds wired to a bank account designated by the Sub-Adviser. If this Agreement becomes effective or terminates before the end of any month, the fee (if any) for the period from the effective date to the end of such month or from the beginning of such month to the date of termination, as the case may be, shall be prorated on the basis of the number of business days it is so in effect for that month.
The Sub-Adviser agrees to look exclusively to the Adviser, and not to any assets of the Trust or the Fund, for the payment of the Sub-Adviser's fees arising under this Paragraph 2.
Exhibit (d)(71)
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AMONG
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.,
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
AND
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
AGREEMENT, made this 1st day of December, 2011, among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Adviser"), a Massachusetts corporation, and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC ("Sub-Adviser"), a Delaware limited liability company.
WHEREAS, the Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act");
WHEREAS, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser are each registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended ("Advisers Act");
WHEREAS, the Trust has retained the Adviser to render investment advisory services to the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, pursuant to a Management Contract dated December 1, 2011, as may be amended from time to time ("Advisory Agreement");
WHEREAS, the Advisory Agreement authorizes the Adviser to delegate to one or more other investment advisers any or all of the Adviser's duties and obligations under the Advisory Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Adviser wish to retain the Sub-Adviser to render certain investment advisory services to the Fund with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, as determined from time to time by the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser is willing to render such services.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants herein contained, it is agreed among the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and the Trust as follows:
1. Appointment
With respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated, from time to time, by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser, the Trust and the Adviser hereby appoint the Sub-Adviser to act as investment sub-adviser to the Fund for the periods and on the terms set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser accepts the appointment and agrees to furnish the services set forth herein for the compensation provided in Section 8 of this Agreement.
2. Services and Duties of Investment Sub-Adviser
Subject to the general supervision and oversight of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board"), the Sub-Adviser will:
(a) provide a program of continuous investment management for the Fund in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies as stated in the Fund's prospectus and statement of additional information filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on Form N-1A, as amended and supplemented from time to time (the "Registration Statement") and as provided by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser;
(b) invest and reinvest the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by selecting the securities, instruments, repurchase agreements, financial futures contracts, options and other investments and techniques that the Fund may purchase, sell, enter into or use;
(c) oversee the placement of purchase and sale orders on behalf of the Fund;
(d) employ portfolio managers to make investment decisions and securities analysts to provide research services to the Fund;
(e) subject to the understanding set forth in Section 11(a)(1) of this Agreement, vote all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser may be invested in accordance with the Sub-Adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures as approved by the Board and in a manner that complies with applicable law; maintain records of all proxies voted on behalf of the Fund; and provide information to the Trust, the Adviser or their designated agent in a manner that is sufficiently complete and timely to ensure the Trust's compliance with its filing obligations under Rule 30b1-4 of the 1940 Act;
(f) maintain books and records with respect to the Fund's securities transactions in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; and
(g) to the extent reasonably requested by the Adviser or officers of the Fund, cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser and the Trust's other service providers by (1) keeping them fully informed as to such matters that they may reasonably deem necessary with respect to the performance of their obligations to the Fund, (2) providing prompt responses to reasonable requests for information or assistance, including furnishing the Adviser and/or the Fund with statistical information as the Adviser and/or the Fund may reasonably request with respect to the securities that the Fund may hold, and (3) establishing appropriate processes to promote the efficient exchange of information.
The Sub-Adviser further agrees that, in performing its duties hereunder, it will:
(h) comply in all material respects with (1) the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and all rules and regulations thereunder and any other applicable federal and state laws and regulations, (2) the rules and regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, (3) the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), (4) the investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions of the Fund as described in the Registration Statement, (5) the Trust's Trust Instrument and By-Laws or other organizational documents of the Trust and (6) any written guidelines, policies or instructions provided by the Adviser or the Board, provided the Sub-Adviser has had sufficient opportunity to implement such instructions;
The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser with advance notice of any change in the Fund's investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions as stated in the Registration Statement or in any procedures and policies adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement and with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, manage the Fund's portfolio investments in compliance with such changes, provided the Sub-Adviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Trust or the Adviser and has had sufficient opportunity to implement such changes. In addition to such notice, the Adviser shall provide to the Sub-Adviser a copy of the modified Registration Statement reflecting such changes provided that such Registration Statement was so modified.
(i) manage the Fund so that it will qualify, and continue to qualify, as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and regulations issued thereunder;
(j) keep the Adviser and/or the Board informed of developments materially affecting the Fund's portfolio;
(k) make available to the Board, the Adviser, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO") and the Trust's administrator, promptly upon their request, such copies of its records with respect to the Fund as may be required to assist in their compliance with applicable laws and regulations. As reasonably requested by the Board or the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser will complete periodic or special questionnaires and furnish to the Board and/or the Adviser such periodic and special reports regarding the Fund and the Sub-Adviser including, but not limited to, reports concerning transactions and performance of the Fund, quarterly and annual compliance reports and certifications, reports regarding compliance with the Trust's procedures pursuant to Rules 17e-1, 17a-7, 10f-3 and 12d3-1 under the 1940 Act (as applicable), fundamental investment restrictions, procedures for opening brokerage accounts and commodity trading accounts, liquidity determinations for securities or other instruments held by the Fund such as, among others, securities purchased pursuant to Rule 144A and 4(2) commercial paper, compliance with the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics, and such other procedures or requirements that the Adviser may reasonably request from time to time;
(l) make available to the Board and the Adviser at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other appropriate personnel as mutually agreed by the Adviser and Sub-Adviser, either in person or, at the mutual convenience of the Board, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser, by telephone, in order to review the investment policies, performance and other matters relating to the management of the Fund;
(m) review draft reports to shareholders and other documents provided to the Sub-Adviser with respect to the information therein that pertains to the Sub-Adviser or the services provided by the Sub-Adviser, provide comments on such drafts on a timely basis, and provide certifications or sub-certifications on a timely basis as to the accuracy of the information contained in such reports or other documents;
(n) use no material, non-public information concerning portfolio companies that may be in its possession or the possession of any of its affiliates, nor will the Sub-Adviser seek to obtain any such information, in providing investment advice or investment management services to the Fund;
(o) promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board in the event that the Sub-Adviser or any of its affiliates becomes aware that the Sub-Adviser: (i) is subject to a statutory disqualification that prevents the Sub-Adviser from serving as investment adviser pursuant to this Agreement; (ii) fails to be registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act or under the laws of any jurisdiction in which the Sub-Adviser is required to be registered as an investment adviser in order to perform its obligations under this Agreement; (iii) is the subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the SEC or other regulatory authority; or (iv) is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board or body, or governmental authority, involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates; or is involved in any pending litigation or administrative proceeding involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates brought against the Sub-Adviser or any of its management persons (as defined in Rule 206(4)-4 under the Advisers Act). The Sub-Adviser further agrees to notify the Trust and the Adviser promptly of any material fact known to the Sub-Adviser respecting or relating to the Sub-Adviser that is not contained in the Trust's Registration Statement, as amended and supplemented from time to time, regarding the Fund, or any amendment or supplement thereto, but that is required to be disclosed therein, and of any statement contained therein that becomes untrue in any material respect. The Sub-Adviser will promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board if its chief executive officer or any member of the portfolio management team named in the Registration Statement for the Fund changes, or if there is an actual change in control or management of the Sub-Adviser within the meaning of Rules 2a-6 and 202(a)(1)-1 under the 1940 Act and Advisers Act, respectively;
(p) not disclose information regarding Fund characteristics, trading history, portfolio holdings, performance information or any other related information to any third-party, except in compliance with the Trust's policies on disclosure of portfolio holdings or as requested by the Adviser; however, Sub-Adviser may include the Fund's performance information in the calculation of composite performance information, provided that the Fund's performance information is included in the composite in such as way as to prevent anyone from identifying the information contributed by the Fund. In addition, the Adviser acknowledges that the Sub-Adviser manages other accounts following the same investment strategy as the Fund and that these accounts may have different portfolio holdings disclosure policies;
(q) provide the Adviser, the Trust or the Board with such information and assurances (including certifications and sub-certifications) as the Adviser, the Trust or the Board may reasonably request from time to time in order to assist the Adviser, the Trust or the Board in complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations, including requirements in connection with the preparation and/or filing of the Fund's Form N-CSRs and Form N-Qs;
(r) provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent for the Trust in determining or confirming, consistent with the procedures and policies stated in the Trust's valuation procedures and/or the Registration Statement, the value of any portfolio securities or other assets of the Fund for which the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent seeks assistance from the Sub-Adviser or identifies for review by the Sub-Adviser. This assistance may include (but is not limited to): (i) designating and providing access to one or more employees of the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates who are knowledgeable about the security/issuer, its financial condition, trading and/or other relevant factors for valuation, which employees shall be available for consultation when the Board's Valuation Committee convenes; (ii) providing reasonable assistance to the Adviser or the custodian in obtaining bids and offers or quotes from broker/dealers or market-makers with respect to securities held by the Fund, upon the reasonable request of the Adviser or custodian; (iii) upon the request of the Adviser or the custodian, provide assistance in fair valuation of the Trust; and (iv) maintaining records as required by applicable law with respect to any securities valuation assistance provided hereunder, and providing such information to the Adviser or the Trust upon request, with such records being deemed Fund records;
(s) not consult with any other investment sub-adviser of the Trust (if any), or with the sub-adviser to any other investment company (or separate series thereof) managed by the Adviser concerning the Fund's transactions in securities or other assets, except for purposes of complying with the conditions of Rule 12d3-1(a) and (b) under the 1940 Act, and, to the extent that multiple sub-advisers may be engaged to provide services to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall be responsible for providing investment advisory services only with respect to such portion of the Fund's assets as may from time to time be allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser; and
(t) provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC and, promptly after filing any material amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC, furnish a copy of such amendments to the Trust and the Adviser; and provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV Part II as updated from time to time. The Adviser hereby acknowledges having received a current copy of the Sub-Adviser's Form ADV Part II, current as of the date hereof.
In performing its obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser may rely upon information concerning the Fund's books and records provided to it by the Adviser, the custodian(s) or other agent(s) designated by the Adviser, and will not independently verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. The Sub-Adviser (and its officers, directors/trustees, agents, employees, controlling persons, shareholders and any other person or entity affiliated with the Sub-Adviser) shall not be liable for any loss, claim or damages related to such reliance.
3. Obligations of the Adviser and the Fund
The Adviser will provide, or has provided, to the Sub-Adviser, with a copy of the Registration Statement as filed with the SEC, and of the policies and procedures adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser which the Sub-Adviser is required to implement in managing the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser or such other information or documents necessary for the management of the Sub-Adviser's allocated portion of Fund assets as the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably request or as required by applicable law or regulation. Throughout the term of this Agreement, the Adviser shall continue to provide such information and documents to the Sub-Adviser, including any amendments, updates or supplements to such information or documents before or at the time the amendments, updates or supplements become effective.
4. Brokerage
The Sub-Adviser may place orders pursuant to its investment determinations for the Fund directly with the issuers of the securities, or with brokers or dealers selected by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser may open and maintain brokerage accounts of all types on behalf of and in the name of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser may enter into standard customer agreements with brokers and direct payments of cash, cash equivalents and securities and other property into such brokerage accounts as the Sub-Adviser deems desirable or appropriate. In selecting brokers or dealers to execute transactions on behalf of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser will use its best efforts to seek the best overall terms available. In assessing the best overall terms available for the Fund transaction, the Sub-Adviser will consider all factors it deems relevant, including, but not limited to, the breadth of the market in the security, the price of the security, the financial condition and execution capability of the broker or dealer and the reasonableness of the commission, if any, for the specific transaction and on a continuing basis. In selecting broker-dealers to execute a particular transaction, and in evaluating the best overall terms available, the Sub-Adviser is authorized to consider the brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act")) provided to the Fund and/or other accounts over which the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. The parties hereto acknowledge that it is desirable for the Trust that the Sub-Adviser have access to supplemental investment and market research and security and economic analysis provided by broker-dealers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers on the basis of seeking the most favorable price and efficient execution. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser may cause the Fund to pay a broker-dealer that furnishes brokerage and research services a higher commission than that which might be charged by another broker-dealer for effecting the same transaction, provided that the Sub-Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either the particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund in compliance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-Adviser in connection with the Sub-Adviser's services to other clients. In accordance with Section 11(a) of the 1934 Act and Rule 11a2-2(T) thereunder and subject to any other applicable laws and regulations, the Sub-Adviser and its affiliates are authorized to effect portfolio transactions for the Fund and to retain brokerage commissions on such transactions. The Sub-Adviser may, but shall not be obligated to, aggregate or bunch orders for the purchase or sale of securities for the Fund with orders for its other clients where: (i) such aggregation or bunching of orders is not inconsistent with the Fund's investment objectives, policies and procedures, (ii) the allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the allocation of expenses incurred in any such transaction, shall be made by the Sub-Adviser in a manner that complies with the Sub-Adviser's trade allocation policies and procedures approved by the Board and is fair and equitable in the judgment of the Sub-Adviser and is consistent with the Sub-Adviser's fiduciary obligations to the Fund and each of its other clients.
5. Books, Records and Regulatory Filings
(a) The Sub-Adviser agrees to maintain and to preserve for the applicable periods any such records as are required to be maintained by the Sub-Adviser with respect to the Fund by the 1940 Act and rules adopted thereunder, and by any other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Sub-Adviser further agrees that all records that it maintains for the Fund are the property of the Fund and it will promptly surrender any of such records upon request.
(b) The Sub-Adviser agrees that it shall furnish to regulatory authorities having the requisite authority any information or reports in connection with its services hereunder that may be requested in order to determine whether the operations of the Fund are being conducted in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
(c) The Sub-Adviser shall make all filings with the SEC required of it pursuant to Section 13 of the 1934 Act with respect to its duties as are set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser also shall make all required filings on Schedule 13D or 13G and Form 13F (as well as other filings triggered by ownership in securities under other applicable laws, rules and regulations) as may be required of the Fund due to the activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall be the sole filer of Form 13F with respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser.
6. Standard of Care, Limitation of Liability and Indemnification
(a) The Sub-Adviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services under this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust, the Adviser or the Fund, or affiliated persons of the Adviser or the Fund (collectively, the "Adviser Indemnitees") in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates except a loss resulting from the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement; provided, however , that nothing herein shall be deemed to protect or purport to protect the Sub-Adviser against any liability to the Adviser Indemnitees for, and the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Adviser Indemnitees from, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which any of the Adviser Indemnitees may become subject arising out of or resulting from (i) the Sub-Adviser's failure to meet its standard of care and thereby causing the Fund to be in violation of any applicable federal or state law, rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth in the Fund's current Registration Statement or the most current written guidelines, policies or instruction provided in writing by the Board or the Adviser, (ii) the Sub-Adviser causing the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification or source of income requirements of Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and the regulations issued thereunder , (iii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, proxy materials, shareholder reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials pertaining to the Trust or the Fund or the omission to state therein a material fact known to the Sub-Adviser that was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to the Adviser or the Trust by the Sub-Adviser for use therein, or (iv) the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement, or otherwise for breach of this Agreement by the Sub-Adviser. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Trust and the Fund from any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which either the Trust or the Fund may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty by the Sub-Adviser under Section 36(b) of the 1940 Act with respect to the receipt of compensation for its services under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing contained in this Agreement shall constitute a waiver or limitation of rights that the Trust or the Fund may have under federal or state securities laws.
(b) The Sub-Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust Instrument or other organizational document of the Trust and agrees that any obligations of the Trust or the Fund arising in connection with this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the Fund and its assets, and the Sub-Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from any other fund of the Trust or the shareholders or any individual shareholder of the Fund. Nor shall the Sub-Adviser seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the trustees of the Trust (each, a "Trustee" and, together, the "Trustees") or any individual Trustee or any officers.
(c) As used in this Section 6, the term "Sub-Adviser" shall include any officers, directors, employees, independent contractors or other affiliates of the Sub-Adviser performing services with respect to the Fund.
(d) The Adviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Sub-Adviser from and against, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which the Sub-Adviser may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from, the Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
7. Risk Acknowledgement
The Sub-Adviser makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, that any level of performance or investment results will be achieved by the Fund, whether on a relative or absolute basis. The Adviser understands that investment decisions made for the Fund by the Sub-Adviser are subject to various market, currency, economic, political, business and structure risks and that those investment decisions will not always be profitable.
8. Compensation
The Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement in accordance with the terms set forth on Schedule A attached hereto.
9. Expenses
The Sub-Adviser will bear all expenses in connection with the performance of its services under this Agreement, excluding those costs of the Fund associated with brokerage activities. The Sub-Adviser shall bear all expenses and costs of the Trust (including reasonable attorney's fees), if any, arising out of a termination or possible termination of this Agreement as a result of an assignment caused by a change of control or management of the Sub-Adviser, including the preparation and mailing of an information statement to shareholders pursuant to a "manager-of-managers" exemptive order from the SEC, or the preparation, mailing, solicitation and other costs associated with the use of a proxy statement relating to a shareholder vote in respect of a new sub-advisory agreement. The foregoing obligations of the Sub-Adviser shall apply in any circumstance in which the Adviser, in consultation with internal or outside counsel to the Trust, deems that an actual or possible assignment of this Agreement has or may occur, and determines that an information statement should be used, or a vote of shareholders should be obtained, as the case may be.
10. Services to Other Companies or Accounts
The investment advisory services of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund under this Agreement are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Sub-Adviser shall be free to render similar services to other investment companies and clients (whether or not their investment objective and policies are similar those of the Fund) and to engage in other activities, provided that such other services and activities do not interfere with or impair the Sub-Adviser's ability to fulfill its duties and obligations under this Agreement. If the Sub-Adviser provides any advice to its clients concerning investment in the shares of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall act solely for such clients in that regard and not in any way on behalf of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund.
11. Compliance Matters
(a) The Sub-Adviser understands and agrees that it is a "service provider" to the Trust as contemplated by Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act. As such, the Sub-Adviser agrees to cooperate fully with the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with respect to (i) any and all compliance-related matters, and (ii) the Trust's efforts to assure that each of its service providers adopts and maintains policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to prevent violation of the "federal securities laws" (as that term is defined by Rule 38a-1) by the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser. In this regard, the Sub-Adviser shall:
(1) submit to the Board for its consideration and approval, prior to the effective date of this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser's applicable compliance policies and procedures;
(2) submit annually (and at such other times as the Trust may reasonably request) to the Trust's CCO and the Adviser for consideration by the Board, a report discussing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program, and fully describing any material amendments to such compliance program since the most recent such report;
(3) provide periodic reports and certifications concerning the Sub-Adviser's compliance program and special reports in the event of material compliance matters;
(4) provide the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers with reasonable access, including on-site visits with the Sub-Adviser as may be reasonably requested from time to time, to information regarding the aspects of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program that may expose the Adviser and the Trust to compliance risks or lead to a violation by the Trust, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser of the federal securities laws;
(5) permit the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers to maintain an active working relationship with the Sub-Adviser's compliance personnel by, among other things, providing the Adviser and the Trust's CCO and other officers with a specified individual within the Sub-Adviser's organization to discuss and address compliance-related matters;
(6) provide the Adviser and its chief compliance officer and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with such certifications as may be reasonably requested; and
(7) reasonably cooperate with any independent registered public accounting firm engaged by the Trust, ensure that all reasonably necessary information and the appropriate personnel are made available to such independent registered public accounting firm, to support the expression of the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, and each year provide the Adviser and such independent registered public accounting firm with a copy of the annual SAS 70 Report prepared by the Sub-Adviser's independent auditors regarding the Sub-Adviser's internal controls.
(b) The Sub-Adviser represents, warrants and covenants that it has implemented and shall maintain a compliance program in accordance with the requirements of Rule 206(4)-7 under the Advisers Act.
(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the Adviser acknowledges that Sub-Adviser is not the compliance agent for the Trust or for the Adviser, and does not have access to all of the Trust's books and records necessary to perform certain compliance testing. Any of the Sub-Adviser's agreement to perform the services in this Section 11 or elsewhere in this Agreement is subject to the understanding that the Sub-Adviser shall perform such services based upon its books and records with respect to the Fund, which comprise a portion of the Trust's book and records.
(d) The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser records to facilitate the Sub-Adviser's ability to meet the Sub-Adviser's obligations under Rule 206(4)-5 of the Advisers Act. The Sub-Adviser shall treat such records as subject to the applicable confidentiality provision(s) under this Agreement, provided that at no time, unless so required by the applicable laws or relevant regulatory authorities, shall the records be disclosed to or otherwise made available to and shared with any third party or the general public.
12. Duration and Termination
(a) This Agreement shall be effective immediately as of the date set forth above and shall continue in effect for two years from its effective date with respect to the Fund, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, and shall continue year to year thereafter, provided each continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of a majority of the Trustees or (ii) a vote of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting securities, provided that in either event the continuance is also approved by a majority of the Trustees who are neither (A) parties to this Agreement nor (B) "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person (to the extent required by the 1940 Act) at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, on sixty (60) days' written notice to the Sub-Adviser: (i) by the Trust, pursuant to (A) action by the Board or (B) the vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the shares of the Fund or (ii) by the Adviser. This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, by the Sub-Adviser upon ninety (90) days' written notice to the Adviser and the Trust. In addition, this Agreement will terminate with respect to the Fund in the event of the termination of the Advisory Agreement with respect to the Fund. This Agreement will be terminated automatically in the event of its "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act).
(c) In the event of a termination of this Agreement for any reason with respect to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably cooperate with any transition manager or successor investment sub-adviser and with the Adviser in transitioning the management of the Fund to one or more new sub-advisers or to the Adviser, including, without limitation, providing the transition manager, at such intervals as the transition manager may request, with a list of holdings for the portion of Fund assets under the Sub-Adviser's management and such other information as required by the transition management agreement, into which the Adviser and the transition manager will, at that time, enter.
(d) Termination of this Agreement shall not affect the rights or obligations of the Adviser, the Adviser Indemnitees and the Sub-Adviser under Section 6 of this Agreement.
13. Use of Name
(a) The Sub-Adviser hereby consents to the use of its name and the names of its affiliates in the Fund's disclosure documents, shareholder communications, advertising, sales literature and similar communications. The Sub-Adviser shall not use the name or any tradename, trademark, trade device, service mark, symbol or any abbreviation, contraction or simulation thereof of the Adviser, the Trust, the Fund or any of their affiliates in its marketing materials unless it first receives prior written approval of the Trust and the Adviser.
(b) It is understood that the name of each party to this Agreement, and any derivatives thereof or logos associated with that name, is the valuable property of the party in question and its affiliates, and that each other party has the right to use such names pursuant to the relationship created by, and in accordance with the terms of, this Agreement only so long as this Agreement shall continue in effect. Upon termination of this Agreement, the parties shall forthwith cease to use the names of the other parties (or any derivative or logo) as appropriate and to the extent that continued use is not required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
14. Confidential Information
(a) Each party agrees that it will treat confidentially all information provided by any other party (the "Discloser") regarding the Discloser's businesses and operations, including without limitation the investment activities or holdings of the Fund ("Confidential Information"). All Confidential Information provided by the Discloser shall be used only by the other party hereto (the "Recipient") solely for the purposes of rendering services pursuant to this Agreement, and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior consent of the Discloser, except for any party that is under common control with the Recipient and except for a limited number of employees, attorneys, accountants and other advisers of the Recipient on a need-to-know basis and solely for the purposes of rendering services under this Agreement.
(b) Confidential Information shall not include any information that: (i) is public when provided or thereafter becomes public through no wrongful act of the Recipient; (ii) is demonstrably known to the Recipient prior to execution of this Agreement; (iii) is independently developed by the Recipient through no wrongful act of the Recipient in the ordinary course of business outside of this Agreement; (iv) is generally employed by the trade at the time that the Recipient learns of such information or knowledge; or (v) has been rightfully and lawfully obtained by the Recipient from any third party.
(c) In the event that the Recipient is requested or required (by deposition, interrogatories, requests for information or documents in legal proceedings, subpoenas, civil investigative demand or similar process), in connection with any proceeding, to disclose any of the Discloser's Confidential Information, the Recipient will give the Discloser prompt written notice of such request or requirement to allow the Discloser an opportunity to obtain a protective order or otherwise obtain assurances that confidential treatment will be accorded to such Confidential Information. In the event that such protective order or other remedy is not obtained, disclosure shall be made of only that portion of the Confidential Information that is legally required to be disclosed. All Confidential Information disclosed as required by law shall nonetheless continue to be deemed Confidential Information.
15. Amendment
This Agreement may be amended in writing signed by the parties to this Agreement in a manner that is in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, as modified or interpreted by any applicable order, exemptive relief or interpretative release issued by the SEC.
16. Notices
All notices hereunder shall be provided in writing, by facsimile or by email. Notices shall be deemed given if delivered in person or by messenger, certified mail with return receipt, or by a reputable overnight delivery service that provides evidence of receipt to the parties; upon receipt if sent by fax; or upon read receipt or reply if delivered by email, at the following addresses:
If to the Trust: Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Marc Bryant
If to the Adviser: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Chief Operating Officer
With Copy to: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Karen Benoit
If to the Sub-Adviser: Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC
900 Salem Street
Smithfield, RI 02917
Attn: Patrick Sheppard
patrick.sheppard@pyramis.com
17. Miscellaneous
(a) This Agreement constitutes the full and complete agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof.
(b) Titles or captions of sections in this Agreement are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and in no way define, limit, extend or describe the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provisions thereof.
(c) This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, all of which together shall for all purposes constitute one Agreement, binding on all the parties.
(d) This Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be governed by, and interpreted, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions of that or any other jurisdiction. To the extent that the applicable laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts conflict with the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the latter shall control. The parties irrevocably consent to submit to the jurisdiction of any federal or state court sitting in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
(e) If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected hereby and, to this extent, the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable.
(f) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Sub-Adviser shall be an independent contractor. Nothing herein shall be construed as constituting the Sub-Adviser as an agent of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund, except to the extent expressly authorized by this Agreement.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first set forth above.
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/Michael P. Palermo
Michael P. Palermo
SVP, Head of Relationship Management
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Suzanne Brennan
Suzanne Brennan
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
By: /s/Kenneth Robins
Kenneth Robins
Treasurer
Schedule A
Pursuant to Section 6 of the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement (the "Agreement") among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (the "Sub-Adviser"), the Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services it performs on behalf of the Fund as follows:
1. For purposes of calculating the fee to be paid to the Sub-Adviser under this Agreement:
"Portfolio Assets" shall mean the portion of the net assets of the Fund managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to the following investment strategy as agreed to by the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser in a separately negotiated investment mandate: Low Duration Bond (a "Strategy").
"Aggregated Assets" for a particular Strategy shall mean the assets of all registered investment companies managed by the Adviser that are managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to that Strategy, including Portfolio Assets.
2 The Adviser will pay the Sub-Adviser a fee, payable monthly, based on average daily Portfolio Assets (computed in the manner set forth in the Trust's Trust Instrument) determined as of the close of business on each business day throughout the calendar month. The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed pursuant to a specific Strategy based on the following rate schedules.
Rate
0.20% (20 basis points) of the first $100 million in assets
0.15% (15 basis points) of the next $400 million in assets
0.09% (9 basis points) on any amount in excess of $500 million in assets
The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be computed monthly and, within twelve business days of the end of each calendar month, the Adviser shall transmit to the Sub-Adviser the fee for the previous month. Payment shall be made in federal funds wired to a bank account designated by the Sub-Adviser. If this Agreement becomes effective or terminates before the end of any month, the fee (if any) for the period from the effective date to the end of such month or from the beginning of such month to the date of termination, as the case may be, shall be prorated on the basis of the number of business days it is so in effect for that month.
The Sub-Adviser agrees to look exclusively to the Adviser, and not to any assets of the Trust or the Fund, for the payment of the Sub-Adviser's fees arising under this Paragraph 2.
Exhibit (d)(82)
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AMONG
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.,
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
AND
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
AGREEMENT, made this 1st day of December, 2011, among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), a Delaware statutory trust, on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Adviser"), a Massachusetts corporation, and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC ("Sub-Adviser"), a Delaware limited liability company.
WHEREAS, the Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended ("1940 Act");
WHEREAS, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser are each registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended ("Advisers Act");
WHEREAS, the Trust has retained the Adviser to render investment advisory services to the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, pursuant to a Management Contract dated December 1, 2011, as may be amended from time to time ("Advisory Agreement");
WHEREAS, the Advisory Agreement authorizes the Adviser to delegate to one or more other investment advisers any or all of the Adviser's duties and obligations under the Advisory Agreement; and
WHEREAS, the Trust and the Adviser wish to retain the Sub-Adviser to render certain investment advisory services to the Fund with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, as determined from time to time by the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser is willing to render such services.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and mutual covenants herein contained, it is agreed among the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser and the Trust as follows:
1. Appointment
With respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated, from time to time, by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser, the Trust and the Adviser hereby appoint the Sub-Adviser to act as investment sub-adviser to the Fund for the periods and on the terms set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser accepts the appointment and agrees to furnish the services set forth herein for the compensation provided in Section 8 of this Agreement.
2. Services and Duties of Investment Sub-Adviser
Subject to the general supervision and oversight of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust (the "Board"), the Sub-Adviser will:
(a) provide a program of continuous investment management for the Fund in accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies as stated in the Fund's prospectus and statement of additional information filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") on Form N-1A, as amended and supplemented from time to time (the "Registration Statement") and as provided by the Adviser to the Sub-Adviser;
(b) invest and reinvest the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by selecting the securities, instruments, repurchase agreements, financial futures contracts, options and other investments and techniques that the Fund may purchase, sell, enter into or use;
(c) oversee the placement of purchase and sale orders on behalf of the Fund;
(d) employ portfolio managers to make investment decisions and securities analysts to provide research services to the Fund;
(e) subject to the understanding set forth in Section 11(a)(1) of this Agreement, vote all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser may be invested in accordance with the Sub-Adviser's proxy voting policies and procedures as approved by the Board and in a manner that complies with applicable law; maintain records of all proxies voted on behalf of the Fund; and provide information to the Trust, the Adviser or their designated agent in a manner that is sufficiently complete and timely to ensure the Trust's compliance with its filing obligations under Rule 30b1-4 of the 1940 Act;
(f) maintain books and records with respect to the Fund's securities transactions in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations; and
(g) to the extent reasonably requested by the Adviser or officers of the Fund, cooperate with and provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser and the Trust's other service providers by (1) keeping them fully informed as to such matters that they may reasonably deem necessary with respect to the performance of their obligations to the Fund, (2) providing prompt responses to reasonable requests for information or assistance, including furnishing the Adviser and/or the Fund with statistical information as the Adviser and/or the Fund may reasonably request with respect to the securities that the Fund may hold, and (3) establishing appropriate processes to promote the efficient exchange of information.
The Sub-Adviser further agrees that, in performing its duties hereunder, it will:
(h) comply in all material respects with (1) the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and all rules and regulations thereunder and any other applicable federal and state laws and regulations, (2) the rules and regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, (3) the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), (4) the investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions of the Fund as described in the Registration Statement, (5) the Trust's Trust Instrument and By-Laws or other organizational documents of the Trust and (6) any written instructions of the Adviser or the Board, provided the Sub-Adviser has had sufficient opportunity to implement such instructions;
The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser with advance notice of any change in the Fund's investment objectives, strategies, policies, limitations and restrictions as stated in the Registration Statement or in any procedures and policies adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser, and the Sub-Adviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement and with respect to the portion of the Fund's assets allocated to the Sub-Adviser, manage the Fund's portfolio investments in compliance with such changes, provided the Sub-Adviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Trust or the Adviser and has had sufficient opportunity to implement such changes. In addition to such notice, the Adviser shall provide to the Sub-Adviser a copy of the modified Registration Statement reflecting such changes provided that such Registration Statement was so modified.
(i) manage the Fund so that it will qualify, and continue to qualify, as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and regulations issued thereunder;
(j) keep the Adviser and/or the Board informed of developments materially affecting the Fund's portfolio;
(k) make available to the Board, the Adviser, the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO") and the Trust's administrator, promptly upon their request, such copies of its records with respect to the Fund as may be required to assist in their compliance with applicable laws and regulations. As reasonably requested by the Board or the Adviser, the Sub-Adviser will complete periodic or special questionnaires and furnish to the Board and/or the Adviser such periodic and special reports regarding the Fund and the Sub-Adviser including, but not limited to, reports concerning transactions and performance of the Fund, quarterly and annual compliance reports and certifications, reports regarding compliance with the Trust's procedures pursuant to Rules 17e-1, 17a-7, 10f-3 and 12d3-1 under the 1940 Act (as applicable), fundamental investment restrictions, procedures for opening brokerage accounts and commodity trading accounts, liquidity determinations for securities or other instruments held by the Fund such as, among others, securities purchased pursuant to Rule 144A and 4(2) commercial paper, compliance with the Sub-Adviser's Code of Ethics, and such other procedures or requirements that the Adviser may reasonably request from time to time;
(l) make available to the Board and the Adviser at reasonable times its portfolio managers and other appropriate personnel as mutually agreed by the Adviser and Sub-Adviser, either in person or, at the mutual convenience of the Board, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser, by telephone, in order to review the investment policies, performance and other matters relating to the management of the Fund;
(m) review draft reports to shareholders and other documents provided to the Sub-Adviser with respect to the information therein that pertains to the Sub-Adviser or the services provided by the Sub-Adviser, provide comments on such drafts on a timely basis, and provide certifications or sub-certifications on a timely basis as to the accuracy of the information contained in such reports or other documents;
(n) use no material, non-public information concerning portfolio companies that may be in its possession or the possession of any of its affiliates, nor will the Sub-Adviser seek to obtain any such information, in providing investment advice or investment management services to the Fund;
(o) promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board in the event that the Sub-Adviser or any of its affiliates becomes aware that the Sub-Adviser: (i) is subject to a statutory disqualification that prevents the Sub-Adviser from serving as investment adviser pursuant to this Agreement; (ii) fails to be registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act or under the laws of any jurisdiction in which the Sub-Adviser is required to be registered as an investment adviser in order to perform its obligations under this Agreement; (iii) is the subject of an administrative proceeding or enforcement action by the SEC or other regulatory authority; or (iv) is served or otherwise receives notice of any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation, at law or in equity, before or by any court, public board or body, or governmental authority, involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates; or is involved in any pending litigation or administrative proceeding involving the affairs of the Trust or the Adviser or their affiliates brought against the Sub-Adviser or any of its management persons (as defined in Rule 206(4)-4 under the Advisers Act). The Sub-Adviser further agrees to notify the Trust and the Adviser promptly of any material fact known to the Sub-Adviser respecting or relating to the Sub-Adviser that is not contained in the Trust's Registration Statement, as amended and supplemented from time to time, regarding the Fund, or any amendment or supplement thereto, but that is required to be disclosed therein, and of any statement contained therein that becomes untrue in any material respect. The Sub-Adviser will promptly notify the Trust, the Adviser and the Board if its chief executive officer or any member of the portfolio management team named in the Registration Statement for the Fund changes, or if there is an actual change in control or management of the Sub-Adviser within the meaning of Rules 2a-6 and 202(a)(1)-1 under the 1940 Act and Advisers Act, respectively;
(p) not disclose information regarding Fund characteristics, trading history, portfolio holdings, performance information or any other related information to any third-party, except in compliance with the Trust's policies on disclosure of portfolio holdings or as requested by the Adviser; however, Sub-Adviser may include the Fund's performance information in the calculation of composite performance information, provided that the Fund's performance information is included in the composite in such as way as to prevent anyone from identifying the information contributed by the Fund. In addition, the Adviser acknowledges that the Sub-Adviser manages other accounts following the same investment strategy as the Fund and that these accounts may have different portfolio holdings disclosure policies;
(q) provide the Adviser, the Trust or the Board with such information and assurances (including certifications and sub-certifications) as the Adviser, the Trust or the Board may reasonably request from time to time in order to assist the Adviser, the Trust or the Board in complying with applicable laws, rules and regulations, including requirements in connection with the preparation and/or filing of the Fund's Form N-CSRs and Form N-Qs;
(r) provide reasonable assistance to the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent for the Trust in determining or confirming, consistent with the procedures and policies stated in the Trust's valuation procedures and/or the Registration Statement, the value of any portfolio securities or other assets of the Fund for which the Adviser, custodian or recordkeeping agent seeks assistance from the Sub-Adviser or identifies for review by the Sub-Adviser. This assistance may include (but is not limited to): (i) designating and providing access to one or more employees of the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates who are knowledgeable about the security/issuer, its financial condition, trading and/or other relevant factors for valuation, which employees shall be available for consultation when the Board's Valuation Committee convenes; (ii) providing reasonable assistance to the Adviser or the custodian in obtaining bids and offers or quotes from broker/dealers or market-makers with respect to securities held by the Fund, upon the reasonable request of the Adviser or custodian; (iii) upon the request of the Adviser or the custodian, provide assistance in fair valuation of the Trust; and (iv) maintaining records as required by applicable law with respect to any securities valuation assistance provided hereunder, and providing such information to the Adviser or the Trust upon request, with such records being deemed Fund records;
(s) not consult with any other investment sub-adviser of the Trust (if any), or with the sub-adviser to any other investment company (or separate series thereof) managed by the Adviser concerning the Fund's transactions in securities or other assets, except for purposes of complying with the conditions of Rule 12d3-1(a) and (b) under the 1940 Act, and, to the extent that multiple sub-advisers may be engaged to provide services to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall be responsible for providing investment advisory services only with respect to such portion of the Fund's assets as may from time to time be allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser; and
(t) provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV as most recently filed with the SEC and, promptly after filing any material amendment to its Form ADV with the SEC, furnish a copy of such amendments to the Trust and the Adviser; and provide the Trust and the Adviser with a copy of its Form ADV Part II as updated from time to time. The Adviser hereby acknowledges having received a current copy of the Sub-Adviser's Form ADV Part II, current as of the date hereof.
In performing its obligations under this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser may rely upon information concerning the Fund's books and records provided to it by the Adviser, the custodian(s) or other agent(s) designated by the Adviser, and will not independently verify the accuracy or completeness of such information. The Sub-Adviser (and its officers, directors/trustees, agents, employees, controlling persons, shareholders and any other person or entity affiliated with the Sub-Adviser) shall not be liable for any loss, claim or damages related to such reliance.
3. Obligations of the Adviser and the Fund
The Adviser will provide, or has provided, to the Sub-Adviser, with a copy of the Registration Statement as filed with the SEC, and of the policies and procedures adopted by the Board and/or the Adviser which the Sub-Adviser is required to implement in managing the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser or such other information or documents necessary for the management of the Sub-Adviser's allocated portion of Fund assets as the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably request or as required by applicable law or regulation. Throughout the term of this Agreement, the Adviser shall continue to provide such information and documents to the Sub-Adviser, including any amendments, updates or supplements to such information or documents before or at the time the amendments, updates or supplements become effective.
4. Brokerage
The Sub-Adviser may place orders pursuant to its investment determinations for the Fund directly with the issuers of the securities, or with brokers or dealers selected by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser may open and maintain brokerage accounts of all types on behalf of and in the name of the Fund. The Sub-Adviser may enter into standard customer agreements with brokers and direct payments of cash, cash equivalents and securities and other property into such brokerage accounts as the Sub-Adviser deems desirable or appropriate. In selecting brokers or dealers to execute transactions on behalf of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser will use its best efforts to seek the best overall terms available. In assessing the best overall terms available for the Fund transaction, the Sub-Adviser will consider all factors it deems relevant, including, but not limited to, the breadth of the market in the security, the price of the security, the financial condition and execution capability of the broker or dealer and the reasonableness of the commission, if any, for the specific transaction and on a continuing basis. In selecting broker-dealers to execute a particular transaction, and in evaluating the best overall terms available, the Sub-Adviser is authorized to consider the brokerage and research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act")) provided to the Fund and/or other accounts over which the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. The parties hereto acknowledge that it is desirable for the Trust that the Sub-Adviser have access to supplemental investment and market research and security and economic analysis provided by broker-dealers who may execute brokerage transactions at a higher cost to the Fund than may result when allocating brokerage to other brokers on the basis of seeking the most favorable price and efficient execution. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser may cause the Fund to pay a broker-dealer that furnishes brokerage and research services a higher commission than that which might be charged by another broker-dealer for effecting the same transaction, provided that the Sub-Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either the particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund in compliance with Section 28(e) of the 1934 Act. It is understood that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-Adviser in connection with the Sub-Adviser's services to other clients. In accordance with Section 11(a) of the 1934 Act and Rule 11a2-2(T) thereunder and subject to any other applicable laws and regulations, the Sub-Adviser and its affiliates are authorized to effect portfolio transactions for the Fund and to retain brokerage commissions on such transactions. The Sub-Adviser may, but shall not be obligated to, aggregate or bunch orders for the purchase or sale of securities for the Fund with orders for its other clients where: (i) such aggregation or bunching of orders is not inconsistent with the Fund's investment objectives, policies and procedures, (ii) the allocation of the securities so purchased or sold, as well as the allocation of expenses incurred in any such transaction, shall be made by the Sub-Adviser in a manner that complies with the Sub-Adviser's trade allocation policies and procedures approved by the Board and is fair and equitable in the judgment of the Sub-Adviser and is consistent with the Sub-Adviser's fiduciary obligations to the Fund and each of its other clients.
5. Books, Records and Regulatory Filings
(a) The Sub-Adviser agrees to maintain and to preserve for the applicable periods any such records as are required to be maintained by the Sub-Adviser with respect to the Fund by the 1940 Act and rules adopted thereunder, and by any other applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Sub-Adviser further agrees that all records that it maintains for the Fund are the property of the Fund and it will promptly surrender any of such records upon request.
(b) The Sub-Adviser agrees that it shall furnish to regulatory authorities having the requisite authority any information or reports in connection with its services hereunder that may be requested in order to determine whether the operations of the Fund are being conducted in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations.
(c) The Sub-Adviser shall make all filings with the SEC required of it pursuant to Section 13 of the 1934 Act with respect to its duties as are set forth herein. The Sub-Adviser also shall make all required filings on Schedule 13D or 13G and Form 13F (as well as other filings triggered by ownership in securities under other applicable laws, rules and regulations) as may be required of the Fund due to the activities of the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser shall be the sole filer of Form 13F with respect to the portion of the assets of the Fund allocated to the Sub-Adviser by the Adviser.
6. Standard of Care, Limitation of Liability and Indemnification
(a) The Sub-Adviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services under this Agreement. The Sub-Adviser shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust, the Adviser or the Fund, or affiliated persons of the Adviser or the Fund (collectively, the "Adviser Indemnitees") in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates except a loss resulting from the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement; provided, however , that nothing herein shall be deemed to protect or purport to protect the Sub-Adviser against any liability to the Adviser Indemnitees for, and the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Adviser Indemnitees from, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which any of the Adviser Indemnitees may become subject arising out of or resulting from (i) the Sub-Adviser's failure to meet its standard of care and thereby causing the Fund to be in violation of any applicable federal or state law, rule or regulation or any investment policy or restriction set forth in the Fund's current Registration Statement or the most current written guidelines, policies or instruction provided in writing by the Board or the Adviser, (ii) the Sub-Adviser causing the Fund to fail to satisfy the diversification or source of income requirements of Subchapter M and, if applicable, section 817(h) of the Code and the regulations issued thereunder , (iii) any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement, proxy materials, shareholder reports, advertisements, sales literature, or other materials pertaining to the Trust or the Fund or the omission to state therein a material fact known to the Sub-Adviser that was required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished to the Adviser or the Trust by the Sub-Adviser for use therein, or (iv) the Sub-Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties, under this Agreement, or otherwise for breach of this Agreement by the Sub-Adviser. In addition, the Sub-Adviser shall indemnify and hold harmless the Trust and the Fund from any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which either the Trust or the Fund may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from a breach of fiduciary duty by the Sub-Adviser under Section 36(b) of the 1940 Act with respect to the receipt of compensation for its services under this Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing contained in this Agreement shall constitute a waiver or limitation of rights that the Trust or the Fund may have under federal or state securities laws.
(b) The Sub-Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust Instrument or other organizational document of the Trust and agrees that any obligations of the Trust or the Fund arising in connection with this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the Fund and its assets, and the Sub-Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from any other fund of the Trust or the shareholders or any individual shareholder of the Fund. Nor shall the Sub-Adviser seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the trustees of the Trust (each, a "Trustee" and, together, the "Trustees") or any individual Trustee or any officers.
(c) As used in this Section 6, the term "Sub-Adviser" shall include any officers, directors, employees, independent contractors or other affiliates of the Sub-Adviser performing services with respect to the Fund.
(d) The Adviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Sub-Adviser from and against, any and all claims, losses, expenses, obligations and liabilities (including reasonable attorney's fees) to which the Sub-Adviser may become subject directly arising out of or resulting from, the Adviser's willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
7. Risk Acknowledgement
The Sub-Adviser makes no representation or warranty, express or implied, that any level of performance or investment results will be achieved by the Fund, whether on a relative or absolute basis. The Adviser understands that investment decisions made for the Fund by the Sub-Adviser are subject to various market, currency, economic, political, business and structure risks and that those investment decisions will not always be profitable.
8. Compensation
The Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services rendered pursuant to this Agreement in accordance with the terms set forth on Schedule A attached hereto.
9. Expenses
The Sub-Adviser will bear all expenses in connection with the performance of its services under this Agreement, excluding those costs of the Fund associated with brokerage activities. The Sub-Adviser shall bear all expenses and costs of the Trust (including reasonable attorney's fees), if any, arising out of a termination or possible termination of this Agreement as a result of an assignment caused by a change of control or management of the Sub-Adviser, including the preparation and mailing of an information statement to shareholders pursuant to a "manager-of-managers" exemptive order from the SEC, or the preparation, mailing, solicitation and other costs associated with the use of a proxy statement relating to a shareholder vote in respect of a new sub-advisory agreement. The foregoing obligations of the Sub-Adviser shall apply in any circumstance in which the Adviser, in consultation with internal or outside counsel to the Trust, deems that an actual or possible assignment of this Agreement has or may occur, and determines that an information statement should be used, or a vote of shareholders should be obtained, as the case may be.
10. Services to Other Companies or Accounts
The investment advisory services of the Sub-Adviser to the Fund under this Agreement are not to be deemed exclusive, and the Sub-Adviser shall be free to render similar services to other investment companies and clients (whether or not their investment objective and policies are similar those of the Fund) and to engage in other activities, provided that such other services and activities do not interfere with or impair the Sub-Adviser's ability to fulfill its duties and obligations under this Agreement. If the Sub-Adviser provides any advice to its clients concerning investment in the shares of the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall act solely for such clients in that regard and not in any way on behalf of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund.
11. Compliance Matters
(a) The Sub-Adviser understands and agrees that it is a "service provider" to the Trust as contemplated by Rule 38a-1 under the 1940 Act. As such, the Sub-Adviser agrees to cooperate fully with the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with respect to (i) any and all compliance-related matters, and (ii) the Trust's efforts to assure that each of its service providers adopts and maintains policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to prevent violation of the "federal securities laws" (as that term is defined by Rule 38a-1) by the Trust, the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser. In this regard, the Sub-Adviser shall:
(1) submit to the Board for its consideration and approval, prior to the effective date of this Agreement, the Sub-Adviser's applicable compliance policies and procedures;
(2) submit annually (and at such other times as the Trust may reasonably request) to the Trust's CCO and the Adviser for consideration by the Board, a report discussing the adequacy and effectiveness of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program, and fully describing any material amendments to such compliance program since the most recent such report;
(3) provide periodic reports and certifications concerning the Sub-Adviser's compliance program and special reports in the event of material compliance matters;
(4) provide the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers with reasonable access, including on-site visits with the Sub-Adviser as may be reasonably requested from time to time, to information regarding the aspects of the Sub-Adviser's compliance program that may expose the Adviser and the Trust to compliance risks or lead to a violation by the Trust, the Adviser or the Sub-Adviser of the federal securities laws;
(5) permit the Adviser and the Trust and its Trustees and officers to maintain an active working relationship with the Sub-Adviser's compliance personnel by, among other things, providing the Adviser and the Trust's CCO and other officers with a specified individual within the Sub-Adviser's organization to discuss and address compliance-related matters;
(6) provide the Adviser and its chief compliance officer and the Trust and its Trustees and officers, including the Trust's CCO, with such certifications as may be reasonably requested; and
(7) reasonably cooperate with any independent registered public accounting firm engaged by the Trust, ensure that all reasonably necessary information and the appropriate personnel are made available to such independent registered public accounting firm, to support the expression of the independent registered public accounting firm's opinion, and each year provide the Adviser and such independent registered public accounting firm with a copy of the annual SAS 70 Report prepared by the Sub-Adviser's independent auditors regarding the Sub-Adviser's internal controls.
(b) The Sub-Adviser represents, warrants and covenants that it has implemented and shall maintain a compliance program in accordance with the requirements of Rule 206(4)-7 under the Advisers Act.
(c) Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, the Adviser acknowledges that Sub-Adviser is not the compliance agent for the Trust or for the Adviser, and does not have access to all of the Trust's books and records necessary to perform certain compliance testing. Any of the Sub-Adviser's agreement to perform the services in this Section 11 or elsewhere in this Agreement is subject to the understanding that the Sub-Adviser shall perform such services based upon its books and records with respect to the Fund, which comprise a portion of the Trust's book and records.
(d) The Adviser will provide the Sub-Adviser records to facilitate the Sub-Adviser's ability to meet the Sub-Adviser's obligations under Rule 206(4)-5 of the Advisers Act. The Sub-Adviser shall treat such records as subject to the applicable confidentiality provision(s) under this Agreement, provided that at no time, unless so required by the applicable laws or relevant regulatory authorities, shall the records be disclosed to or otherwise made available to and shared with any third party or the general public.
12. Duration and Termination
(a) This Agreement shall be effective immediately as of the date set forth above and shall continue in effect for two years from its effective date with respect to the Fund, unless sooner terminated as provided herein, and shall continue year to year thereafter, provided each continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (i) the vote of a majority of the Trustees or (ii) a vote of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting securities, provided that in either event the continuance is also approved by a majority of the Trustees who are neither (A) parties to this Agreement nor (B) "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person (to the extent required by the 1940 Act) at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, on sixty (60) days' written notice to the Sub-Adviser: (i) by the Trust, pursuant to (A) action by the Board or (B) the vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the shares of the Fund or (ii) by the Adviser. This Agreement is terminable with respect to the Fund, without penalty, by the Sub-Adviser upon ninety (90) days' written notice to the Adviser and the Trust. In addition, this Agreement will terminate with respect to the Fund in the event of the termination of the Advisory Agreement with respect to the Fund. This Agreement will be terminated automatically in the event of its "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act).
(c) In the event of a termination of this Agreement for any reason with respect to the Fund, the Sub-Adviser shall reasonably cooperate with any transition manager or successor investment sub-adviser and with the Adviser in transitioning the management of the Fund to one or more new sub-advisers or to the Adviser, including, without limitation, providing the transition manager, at such intervals as the transition manager may request, with a list of holdings for the portion of Fund assets under the Sub-Adviser's management and such other information as required by the transition management agreement, into which the Adviser and the transition manager will, at that time, enter.
(d) Termination of this Agreement shall not affect the rights or obligations of the Adviser, the Adviser Indemnitees and the Sub-Adviser under Section 6 of this Agreement.
13. Use of Name
(a) The Sub-Adviser hereby consents to the use of its name and the names of its affiliates in the Fund's disclosure documents, shareholder communications, advertising, sales literature and similar communications. The Sub-Adviser shall not use the name or any tradename, trademark, trade device, service mark, symbol or any abbreviation, contraction or simulation thereof of the Adviser, the Trust, the Fund or any of their affiliates in its marketing materials unless it first receives prior written approval of the Trust and the Adviser.
(b) It is understood that the name of each party to this Agreement, and any derivatives thereof or logos associated with that name, is the valuable property of the party in question and its affiliates, and that each other party has the right to use such names pursuant to the relationship created by, and in accordance with the terms of, this Agreement only so long as this Agreement shall continue in effect. Upon termination of this Agreement, the parties shall forthwith cease to use the names of the other parties (or any derivative or logo) as appropriate and to the extent that continued use is not required by applicable laws, rules and regulations.
14. Confidential Information
(a) Each party agrees that it will treat confidentially all information provided by any other party (the "Discloser") regarding the Discloser's businesses and operations, including without limitation the investment activities or holdings of the Fund ("Confidential Information"). All Confidential Information provided by the Discloser shall be used only by the other party hereto (the "Recipient") solely for the purposes of rendering services pursuant to this Agreement, and shall not be disclosed to any third party without the prior consent of the Discloser, except for any party that is under common control with the Recipient and except for a limited number of employees, attorneys, accountants and other advisers of the Recipient on a need-to-know basis and solely for the purposes of rendering services under this Agreement.
(b) Confidential Information shall not include any information that: (i) is public when provided or thereafter becomes public through no wrongful act of the Recipient; (ii) is demonstrably known to the Recipient prior to execution of this Agreement; (iii) is independently developed by the Recipient through no wrongful act of the Recipient in the ordinary course of business outside of this Agreement; (iv) is generally employed by the trade at the time that the Recipient learns of such information or knowledge; or (v) has been rightfully and lawfully obtained by the Recipient from any third party.
(c) In the event that the Recipient is requested or required (by deposition, interrogatories, requests for information or documents in legal proceedings, subpoenas, civil investigative demand or similar process), in connection with any proceeding, to disclose any of the Discloser's Confidential Information, the Recipient will give the Discloser prompt written notice of such request or requirement to allow the Discloser an opportunity to obtain a protective order or otherwise obtain assurances that confidential treatment will be accorded to such Confidential Information. In the event that such protective order or other remedy is not obtained, disclosure shall be made of only that portion of the Confidential Information that is legally required to be disclosed. All Confidential Information disclosed as required by law shall nonetheless continue to be deemed Confidential Information.
15. Amendment
This Agreement may be amended in writing signed by the parties to this Agreement in a manner that is in accordance with applicable laws, rules and regulations, as modified or interpreted by any applicable order, exemptive relief or interpretative release issued by the SEC.
16. Notices
All notices hereunder shall be provided in writing, by facsimile or by email. Notices shall be deemed given if delivered in person or by messenger, certified mail with return receipt, or by a reputable overnight delivery service that provides evidence of receipt to the parties; upon receipt if sent by fax; or upon read receipt or reply if delivered by email, at the following addresses:
If to the Trust: Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Marc Bryant
If to the Adviser: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Chief Operating Officer
With Copy to: Strategic Advisers, Inc.
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Attn.: Karen Benoit
If to the Sub-Adviser: Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC
900 Salem Street
Smithfield, RI 02917
Attn: Patrick Sheppard
patrick.sheppard@pyramis.com
17. Miscellaneous
(a) This Agreement constitutes the full and complete agreement of the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof.
(b) Titles or captions of sections in this Agreement are inserted only as a matter of convenience and for reference, and in no way define, limit, extend or describe the scope of this Agreement or the intent of any provisions thereof.
(c) This Agreement may be executed in several counterparts, all of which together shall for all purposes constitute one Agreement, binding on all the parties.
(d) This Agreement and the rights and obligations of the parties hereunder shall be governed by, and interpreted, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions of that or any other jurisdiction. To the extent that the applicable laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts conflict with the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act, the latter shall control. The parties irrevocably consent to submit to the jurisdiction of any federal or state court sitting in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
(e) If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected hereby and, to this extent, the provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed to be severable.
(f) Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Sub-Adviser shall be an independent contractor. Nothing herein shall be construed as constituting the Sub-Adviser as an agent of the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund, except to the extent expressly authorized by this Agreement.
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IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this instrument to be executed by their officers designated below as of the date first set forth above.
PYRAMIS GLOBAL ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/Michael P. Palermo
Michael P. Palermo
Senior Vice President
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Suzanne Brennan
Suzanne Brennan
Chief Operations Officer
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
By: /s/Kenneth Robins
Kenneth Robins
Treasurer
Schedule A
Pursuant to Section 6 of the Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement (the "Agreement") among Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II ("Trust"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Small-Mid Cap Multi-Manager Fund (the "Fund"), Strategic Advisers, Inc. (the "Adviser") and Pyramis Global Advisors, LLC (the "Sub-Adviser"), the Sub-Adviser shall be compensated for the services it performs on behalf of the Fund as follows:
1. For purposes of calculating the fee to be paid to the Sub-Adviser under this Agreement:
"Portfolio Assets" shall mean the portion of the net assets of the Fund managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant the following investment strategy as agreed to by the Adviser and the Sub-Adviser in a separately negotiated investment mandate: Small-Mid Cap (a "Strategy").
"Aggregated Assets" for a particular Strategy shall mean the assets of all registered investment companies managed by the Adviser that are managed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to that Strategy, including Portfolio Assets.
2 The Adviser will pay the Sub-Adviser a fee, payable monthly, based on average daily Portfolio Assets (computed in the manner set forth in the Trust's Trust Instrument) determined as of the close of business on each business day throughout the calendar month. The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be calculated using the effective rate applicable to Aggregated Assets managed pursuant to a specific Strategy based on the following rate schedules.
Rate- Small-Mid Cap
0.50% (50 basis points) of the first $200 million in assets
0.45% (45 basis points) of the next $200 million in assets
0.40% (40 basis points) on any amount in excess of $400 million in assets
The Sub-Adviser's fee shall be computed monthly and, within twelve business days of the end of each calendar month, the Adviser shall transmit to the Sub-Adviser the fee for the previous month. Payment shall be made in federal funds wired to a bank account designated by the Sub-Adviser. If this Agreement becomes effective or terminates before the end of any month, the fee (if any) for the period from the effective date to the end of such month or from the beginning of such month to the date of termination, as the case may be, shall be prorated on the basis of the number of business days it is so in effect for that month.
The Sub-Adviser agrees to look exclusively to the Adviser, and not to any assets of the Trust or the Fund, for the payment of the Sub-Adviser's fees arising under this Paragraph 2.
Exhibit (e)(3)
GENERAL DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT
between
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
and
FIDELITY DISTRIBUTORS CORPORATION
Agreement made this 7th day of June, 2012, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, a Delaware statutory trust having its principal place of business in Boston, Massachusetts and which may issue one or more series of beneficial interest ("Issuer"), with respect to shares of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund, a series of the Issuer, and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, a Massachusetts corporation having its principal place of business in Smithfield, Rhode Island ("Distributors").
In consideration of the mutual promises and undertakings herein contained, the parties agree as follows:
1. Sale of Shares - The Issuer grants to Distributors the right to sell shares on behalf of the Issuer during the term of this Agreement and subject to the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("1933 Act"), and of the laws governing the sale of securities in the various states ("Blue Sky Laws") under the following terms and conditions: Distributors (i) shall have the right to sell, as agent on behalf of the Issuer, shares authorized for issue and registered under the 1933 Act, and (ii) may sell shares under offers of exchange, if available, between and among the funds advised by Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Strategic") or any of its affiliates.
2. Sale of Shares by the Issuer - The rights granted to Distributors shall be nonexclusive in that the Issuer reserves the right to sell its shares to investors on applications received and accepted by the Issuer. Further, the Issuer reserves the right to issue shares in connection with the merger or consolidation, or acquisition by the Issuer through purchase or otherwise, with any other investment company, trust, or personal holding company.
3. Shares Covered by this Agreement - This Agreement shall apply to unissued shares of the Issuer, shares of the Issuer held in its treasury in the event that in the discretion of the Issuer treasury shares shall be sold, and shares of the Issuer repurchased for resale.
4. Public Offering Price - Except as otherwise noted in the Issuer's current Prospectus and/or Statement of Additional Information, all shares sold to investors by Distributors or the Issuer will be sold at the public offering price. The public offering price for all accepted subscriptions will be the net asset value per share, as determined in the manner described in the Issuer's current Prospectus and/or Statement of Additional Information, plus a sales charge (if any) described in the Issuer's current Prospectus and/or Statement of Additional Information. The Issuer shall in all cases receive the net asset value per share on all sales. If a sales charge is in effect, Distributors shall have the right subject to such rules or regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission as may then be in effect pursuant to Section 22 of the Investment Company Act of 1940 to pay a portion of the sales charge to dealers who have sold shares of the Issuer. If a fee in connection with shareholder redemptions is in effect, the Issuer shall collect the fee and, unless otherwise agreed upon by the Issuer and Distributors, Issuer shall be entitled to receive all of such fees.
5. Suspension of Sales - If and whenever the determination of net asset value is suspended and until such suspension is terminated, no further orders for shares shall be processed by Distributors except such unconditional orders as may have been placed with Distributors before it had knowledge of the suspension. In addition, the Issuer reserves the right to suspend sales and Distributors' authority to process orders for shares on behalf of the Issuer if, in the judgment of the Issuer, it is in the best interests of the Issuer to do so. Suspension will continue for such period as may be determined by the Issuer.
6. Solicitation of Sales - In consideration of these rights granted to Distributors, Distributors agrees to use all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of the Issuer. This shall not prevent Distributors from entering into like arrangements (including arrangements involving the payment of underwriting commissions) with other issuers. This does not obligate Distributors to register as a broker or dealer under the Blue Sky Laws of any jurisdiction in which it is not now registered or to maintain its registration in any jurisdiction in which it is now registered. If a sales charge is in effect, Distributors shall have the right to enter into sales agreements with dealers of its choice for the sale of shares of the Issuer to the public at the public offering price only and fix in such agreements the portion of the sales charge which may be retained by dealers, provided that the Issuer shall approve the form of the dealer agreement and the dealer discounts set forth therein and shall evidence such approval by filing said form of dealer agreement and amendments thereto as an exhibit to its currently effective Registration Statement under the 1933 Act. The Distributor will not direct remuneration from commissions paid by the Issuer for portfolio securities transactions to a broker or dealer for promoting or selling fund shares.
7. Authorized Representations - Distributors is not authorized by the Issuer to give any information or to make any representations other than those contained in the appropriate registration statements or Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the 1933 Act (as these registration statements, Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information may be amended from time to time), or contained in shareholder reports or other material that may be prepared by or on behalf of the Issuer for Distributors' use. This shall not be construed to prevent Distributors from preparing and distributing sales literature or other material as it may deem appropriate.
8. Portfolio Securities - Portfolio securities of the Issuer may be bought or sold by or through Distributors, and Distributors may participate directly or indirectly in brokerage commissions or "spreads" for transactions in portfolio securities of the Issuer.
9. Registration of Shares - The Issuer agrees that it will take all action necessary to register shares under the 1933 Act (subject to the necessary approval of its shareholders) so that there will be available for sale the number of shares Distributors may reasonably be expected to sell. The Issuer shall make available to Distributors such number of copies of its currently effective Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information as Distributors may reasonably request. The Issuer shall furnish to Distributors copies of all information, financial statements and other papers which Distributors may reasonably request for use in connection with the distribution of shares of the Issuer.
10. Expenses - The Issuer shall pay all fees and expenses (a) in connection with the preparation, setting in type and filing of any registration statement, Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information under the 1933 Act and amendments for the issue of its shares, (b) in connection with the registration and qualification of shares for sale in the various states in which the Board of Trustees of the Issuer shall determine it advisable to qualify such shares for sale (including registering the Issuer as a broker or dealer or any officer of the Issuer as agent or salesman in any state), (c) of preparing, setting in type, printing and mailing any report or other communication to shareholders of the Issuer in their capacity as such, and (d) of preparing, setting in type, printing and mailing Prospectuses, Statements of Additional Information and any supplements thereto sent to existing shareholders.
As provided in the Distribution and Service Plan adopted by the Issuer, it is recognized by the Issuer that Strategic or its affiliates may make payment to Distributors with respect to any expenses incurred in the distribution of shares of the Issuer, such payments payable from the past profits or other resources of Strategic or its affiliates including management fees paid to it by the Issuer.
11. Indemnification - The Issuer agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Distributors and each of its directors and officers and each person, if any, who controls Distributors within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act against any loss, liability, claim, damages or expense (including the reasonable cost of investigating or defending any alleged loss, liability, claim, damages, or expense and reasonable counsel fees incurred in connection therewith) arising by reason of any person acquiring any shares, based upon the ground that the registration statement, Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information, shareholder reports or other information filed or made public by the Issuer (as from time to time amended) included an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated or necessary in order to make the statements not misleading under the 1933 Act, or any other statute or the common law. However, the Issuer does not agree to indemnify Distributors or hold it harmless to the extent that the statement or omission was made in reliance upon, and in conformity with, information furnished to the Issuer by or on behalf of Distributors. In no case (i) is the indemnity of the Issuer in favor of Distributors or any person indemnified to be deemed to protect Distributors or any person against any liability to the Issuer or its security holders to which Distributors or such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or (ii) is the Issuer to be liable under its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph with respect to any claim made against Distributors or any person indemnified unless Distributors or person, as the case may be, shall have notified the Issuer in writing of the claim within a reasonable time after the summons or other first written notification giving information of the nature of the claim shall have been served upon Distributors or any such person (or after Distributors or such person shall have received notice of service on any designated agent). However, failure to notify the Issuer of any claim shall not relieve the Issuer from any liability which it may have to Distributors or any person against whom such action is brought otherwise than on account of its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph. The Issuer shall be entitled to participate at its own expense in the defense, or, if it so elects, to assume the defense of any suit brought to enforce any claims, but if the Issuer elects to assume the defense, the defense shall be conducted by counsel chosen by it and satisfactory to Distributors or person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit. In the event the Issuer elects to assume the defense of any suit and retain counsel, Distributors, officers or directors or controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit, shall bear the fees and expenses of any additional counsel retained by them. If the Issuer does not elect to assume the defense of any suit, it will reimburse Distributors, officers or directors or controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit, for the reasonable fees and expenses of any counsel retained by them. The Issuer agrees to notify Distributors promptly of the commencement of any litigation or proceedings against it or any of its officers or trustees in connection with the issuance or sale of any of the shares.
Distributors also covenants and agrees that it will indemnify and hold harmless the Issuer and each of its Board members and officers and each person, if any, who controls the Issuer within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act, against any loss, liability, damages, claim or expense (including the reasonable cost of investigating or defending any alleged loss, liability, damages, claim or expense and reasonable counsel fees incurred in connection therewith) arising by reason of any person acquiring any shares, based upon the 1933 Act or any other statute or common law, alleging any wrongful act of Distributors or any of its employees or alleging that the registration statement, Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information, shareholder reports or other information filed or made public by the Issuer (as from time to time amended) included an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated or necessary in order to make the statements not misleading, insofar as the statement or omission was made in reliance upon, and in conformity with information furnished to the Issuer by or on behalf of Distributors. In no case (i) is the indemnity of Distributors in favor of the Issuer or any person indemnified to be deemed to protect the Issuer or any person against any liability to which the Issuer or such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or (ii) is Distributors to be liable under its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph with respect to any claim made against the Issuer or any person indemnified unless the Issuer or person, as the case may be, shall have notified Distributors in writing of the claim within a reasonable time after the summons or other first written notification giving information of the nature of the claim shall have been served upon the Issuer or any such person (or after the Issuer or such person shall have received notice of service on any designated agent). However, failure to notify Distributors of any claim shall not relieve Distributors from any liability which it may have to the Issuer or any person against whom the action is brought otherwise than on account of its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph. In the case of any notice to Distributors, it shall be entitled to participate, at its own expense, in the defense or, if it so elects, to assume the defense of any suit brought to enforce the claim, but if Distributors elects to assume the defense, the defense shall be conducted by counsel chosen by it and satisfactory to the Issuer, to its officers and Board and to any controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit. In the event that Distributors elects to assume the defense of any suit and retain counsel, the Issuer or controlling persons, defendant or defendants in the suit, shall bear the fees and expense of any additional counsel retained by them. If Distributors does not elect to assume the defense of any suit, it will reimburse the Issuer, officers and Board or controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit, for the reasonable fees and expenses of any counsel retained by them. Distributors agrees to notify the Issuer promptly of the commencement of any litigation or proceedings against it in connection with the issue and sale of any of the shares.
12. Effective Date - This agreement shall be effective upon its execution, and unless terminated as provided, shall continue in force until June 30, 2013, and thereafter from year to year, provided continuance is approved annually by the vote of a majority of the Board members of the Issuer, and by the vote of those Board members of the Issuer who are not "interested persons" of the Issuer and, if a plan under Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 is in effect, by the vote of those Board members of the Issuer who are not "interested persons" of the Issuer and who are not parties to the Distribution and Service Plan or this Agreement and have no financial interest in the operation of the Distribution and Service Plan or in any agreements related to the Distribution and Service Plan, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on the approval. This Agreement shall automatically terminate in the event of its assignment. As used in this paragraph, the terms "assignment" and "interested persons" shall have the respective meanings specified in the Investment Company Act of 1940 as now in effect or as hereafter amended. In addition to termination by failure to approve continuance or by assignment, this Agreement may at any time be terminated by either party upon not less than sixty days' prior written notice to the other party.
13. Notice - Any notice required or permitted to be given by either party to the other shall be deemed sufficient if sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, addressed by the party giving notice to the other party at the last address furnished by the other party to the party giving notice: if to the Issuer, at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts, and if to Distributors, at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts.
14. Limitation of Liability - Distributors is expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust Instrument or other organizational document of the Issuer and agrees that the obligations assumed by the Issuer under this contract shall be limited in all cases to the Issuer and its assets. Distributors shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders or any shareholder of the Issuer. Nor shall Distributors seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the Trustees or any individual Trustee of the Issuer. Distributors understands that the rights and obligations of each series of shares of the Issuer under the Issuer's Trust Instrument or other organizational document are separate and distinct from those of any and all other series.
15. This agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions thereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Issuer has executed this instrument in its name and behalf, and its seal affixed, by one of its officers duly authorized, and Distributors has executed this instrument in its name and behalf by one of its officers duly authorized, as of the day and year first above written.
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
By: /s/Kenneth B. Robins
Kenneth B. Robins
President and Treasurer
FIDELITY DISTRIBUTORS CORPORATION
By: /s/Scott E. Couto
Scott E. Couto
President
Exhibit (e)(10)
GENERAL DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT
between
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
and
FIDELITY DISTRIBUTORS CORPORATION
Agreement made this 7th day of June, 2012, between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, a Delaware statutory trust having its principal place of business in Smithfield, Rhode Island and which may issue one or more series of beneficial interest ("Issuer"), with respect to shares of Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds, a series of the Issuer, and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, a Massachusetts corporation having its principal place of business in Boston, Massachusetts ("Distributors").
In consideration of the mutual promises and undertakings herein contained, the parties agree as follows:
1. Sale of Shares - The Issuer grants to Distributors the right to sell shares on behalf of the Issuer during the term of this Agreement and subject to the registration requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("1933 Act"), and of the laws governing the sale of securities in the various states ("Blue Sky Laws") under the following terms and conditions: Distributors (i) shall have the right to sell, as agent on behalf of the Issuer, shares authorized for issue and registered under the 1933 Act, and (ii) may sell shares under offers of exchange, if available, between and among the funds advised by Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Strategic") or any of its affiliates.
2. Sale of Shares by the Issuer - The rights granted to Distributors shall be nonexclusive in that the Issuer reserves the right to sell its shares to investors on applications received and accepted by the Issuer. Further, the Issuer reserves the right to issue shares in connection with the merger or consolidation, or acquisition by the Issuer through purchase or otherwise, with any other investment company, trust, or personal holding company.
3. Shares Covered by this Agreement - This Agreement shall apply to unissued shares of the Issuer, shares of the Issuer held in its treasury in the event that in the discretion of the Issuer treasury shares shall be sold, and shares of the Issuer repurchased for resale.
4. Public Offering Price - Except as otherwise noted in the Issuer's current Prospectus and/or Statement of Additional Information, all shares sold to investors by Distributors or the Issuer will be sold at the public offering price. The public offering price for all accepted subscriptions will be the net asset value per share, as determined in the manner described in the Issuer's current Prospectus and/or Statement of Additional Information, plus a sales charge (if any) described in the Issuer's current Prospectus and/or Statement of Additional Information. The Issuer shall in all cases receive the net asset value per share on all sales. If a sales charge is in effect, Distributors shall have the right subject to such rules or regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission as may then be in effect pursuant to Section 22 of the Investment Company Act of 1940 to pay a portion of the sales charge to dealers who have sold shares of the Issuer. If a fee in connection with shareholder redemptions is in effect, the Issuer shall collect the fee and, unless otherwise agreed upon by the Issuer and Distributors, Issuer shall be entitled to receive all of such fees.
5. Suspension of Sales - If and whenever the determination of net asset value is suspended and until such suspension is terminated, no further orders for shares shall be processed by Distributors except such unconditional orders as may have been placed with Distributors before it had knowledge of the suspension. In addition, the Issuer reserves the right to suspend sales and Distributors' authority to process orders for shares on behalf of the Issuer if, in the judgment of the Issuer, it is in the best interests of the Issuer to do so. Suspension will continue for such period as may be determined by the Issuer.
6. Solicitation of Sales - In consideration of these rights granted to Distributors, Distributors agrees to use all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of the Issuer. This shall not prevent Distributors from entering into like arrangements (including arrangements involving the payment of underwriting commissions) with other issuers. This does not obligate Distributors to register as a broker or dealer under the Blue Sky Laws of any jurisdiction in which it is not now registered or to maintain its registration in any jurisdiction in which it is now registered. If a sales charge is in effect, Distributors shall have the right to enter into sales agreements with dealers of its choice for the sale of shares of the Issuer to the public at the public offering price only and fix in such agreements the portion of the sales charge which may be retained by dealers, provided that the Issuer shall approve the form of the dealer agreement and the dealer discounts set forth therein and shall evidence such approval by filing said form of dealer agreement and amendments thereto as an exhibit to its currently effective Registration Statement under the 1933 Act. The Distributor will not direct remuneration from commissions paid by the Issuer for portfolio securities transactions to a broker or dealer for promoting or selling fund shares.
7. Authorized Representations - Distributors is not authorized by the Issuer to give any information or to make any representations other than those contained in the appropriate registration statements or Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the 1933 Act (as these registration statements, Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information may be amended from time to time), or contained in shareholder reports or other material that may be prepared by or on behalf of the Issuer for Distributors' use. This shall not be construed to prevent Distributors from preparing and distributing sales literature or other material as it may deem appropriate.
8. Portfolio Securities - Portfolio securities of the Issuer may be bought or sold by or through Distributors, and Distributors may participate directly or indirectly in brokerage commissions or "spreads" for transactions in portfolio securities of the Issuer.
9. Registration of Shares - The Issuer agrees that it will take all action necessary to register shares under the 1933 Act (subject to the necessary approval of its shareholders) so that there will be available for sale the number of shares Distributors may reasonably be expected to sell. The Issuer shall make available to Distributors such number of copies of its currently effective Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information as Distributors may reasonably request. The Issuer shall furnish to Distributors copies of all information, financial statements and other papers which Distributors may reasonably request for use in connection with the distribution of shares of the Issuer.
10. Expenses - The Issuer shall pay all fees and expenses (a) in connection with the preparation, setting in type and filing of any registration statement, Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information under the 1933 Act and amendments for the issue of its shares, (b) in connection with the registration and qualification of shares for sale in the various states in which the Board of Trustees of the Issuer shall determine it advisable to qualify such shares for sale (including registering the Issuer as a broker or dealer or any officer of the Issuer as agent or salesman in any state), (c) of preparing, setting in type, printing and mailing any report or other communication to shareholders of the Issuer in their capacity as such, and (d) of preparing, setting in type, printing and mailing Prospectuses, Statements of Additional Information and any supplements thereto sent to existing shareholders.
As provided in the Distribution and Service Plan adopted by the Issuer, it is recognized by the Issuer that Strategic or its affiliates may make payment to Distributors with respect to any expenses incurred in the distribution of shares of the Issuer, such payments payable from the past profits or other resources of Strategic or its affiliates including management fees paid to it by the Issuer.
11. Indemnification - The Issuer agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Distributors and each of its directors and officers and each person, if any, who controls Distributors within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act against any loss, liability, claim, damages or expense (including the reasonable cost of investigating or defending any alleged loss, liability, claim, damages, or expense and reasonable counsel fees incurred in connection therewith) arising by reason of any person acquiring any shares, based upon the ground that the registration statement, Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information, shareholder reports or other information filed or made public by the Issuer (as from time to time amended) included an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated or necessary in order to make the statements not misleading under the 1933 Act, or any other statute or the common law. However, the Issuer does not agree to indemnify Distributors or hold it harmless to the extent that the statement or omission was made in reliance upon, and in conformity with, information furnished to the Issuer by or on behalf of Distributors. In no case (i) is the indemnity of the Issuer in favor of Distributors or any person indemnified to be deemed to protect Distributors or any person against any liability to the Issuer or its security holders to which Distributors or such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or (ii) is the Issuer to be liable under its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph with respect to any claim made against Distributors or any person indemnified unless Distributors or person, as the case may be, shall have notified the Issuer in writing of the claim within a reasonable time after the summons or other first written notification giving information of the nature of the claim shall have been served upon Distributors or any such person (or after Distributors or such person shall have received notice of service on any designated agent). However, failure to notify the Issuer of any claim shall not relieve the Issuer from any liability which it may have to Distributors or any person against whom such action is brought otherwise than on account of its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph. The Issuer shall be entitled to participate at its own expense in the defense, or, if it so elects, to assume the defense of any suit brought to enforce any claims, but if the Issuer elects to assume the defense, the defense shall be conducted by counsel chosen by it and satisfactory to Distributors or person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit. In the event the Issuer elects to assume the defense of any suit and retain counsel, Distributors, officers or directors or controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit, shall bear the fees and expenses of any additional counsel retained by them. If the Issuer does not elect to assume the defense of any suit, it will reimburse Distributors, officers or directors or controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit, for the reasonable fees and expenses of any counsel retained by them. The Issuer agrees to notify Distributors promptly of the commencement of any litigation or proceedings against it or any of its officers or trustees in connection with the issuance or sale of any of the shares.
Distributors also covenants and agrees that it will indemnify and hold harmless the Issuer and each of its Board members and officers and each person, if any, who controls the Issuer within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act, against any loss, liability, damages, claim or expense (including the reasonable cost of investigating or defending any alleged loss, liability, damages, claim or expense and reasonable counsel fees incurred in connection therewith) arising by reason of any person acquiring any shares, based upon the 1933 Act or any other statute or common law, alleging any wrongful act of Distributors or any of its employees or alleging that the registration statement, Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information, shareholder reports or other information filed or made public by the Issuer (as from time to time amended) included an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be stated or necessary in order to make the statements not misleading, insofar as the statement or omission was made in reliance upon, and in conformity with information furnished to the Issuer by or on behalf of Distributors. In no case (i) is the indemnity of Distributors in favor of the Issuer or any person indemnified to be deemed to protect the Issuer or any person against any liability to which the Issuer or such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or (ii) is Distributors to be liable under its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph with respect to any claim made against the Issuer or any person indemnified unless the Issuer or person, as the case may be, shall have notified Distributors in writing of the claim within a reasonable time after the summons or other first written notification giving information of the nature of the claim shall have been served upon the Issuer or any such person (or after the Issuer or such person shall have received notice of service on any designated agent). However, failure to notify Distributors of any claim shall not relieve Distributors from any liability which it may have to the Issuer or any person against whom the action is brought otherwise than on account of its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph. In the case of any notice to Distributors, it shall be entitled to participate, at its own expense, in the defense or, if it so elects, to assume the defense of any suit brought to enforce the claim, but if Distributors elects to assume the defense, the defense shall be conducted by counsel chosen by it and satisfactory to the Issuer, to its officers and Board and to any controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit. In the event that Distributors elects to assume the defense of any suit and retain counsel, the Issuer or controlling persons, defendant or defendants in the suit, shall bear the fees and expense of any additional counsel retained by them. If Distributors does not elect to assume the defense of any suit, it will reimburse the Issuer, officers and Board or controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit, for the reasonable fees and expenses of any counsel retained by them. Distributors agrees to notify the Issuer promptly of the commencement of any litigation or proceedings against it in connection with the issue and sale of any of the shares.
12. Effective Date - This agreement shall be effective upon its execution, and unless terminated as provided, shall continue in force until June 30, 2013, and thereafter from year to year, provided continuance is approved annually by the vote of a majority of the Board members of the Issuer, and by the vote of those Board members of the Issuer who are not "interested persons" of the Issuer and, if a plan under Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 is in effect, by the vote of those Board members of the Issuer who are not "interested persons" of the Issuer and who are not parties to the Distribution and Service Plan or this Agreement and have no financial interest in the operation of the Distribution and Service Plan or in any agreements related to the Distribution and Service Plan, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on the approval. This Agreement shall automatically terminate in the event of its assignment. As used in this paragraph, the terms "assignment" and "interested persons" shall have the respective meanings specified in the Investment Company Act of 1940 as now in effect or as hereafter amended. In addition to termination by failure to approve continuance or by assignment, this Agreement may at any time be terminated by either party upon not less than sixty days' prior written notice to the other party.
13. Notice - Any notice required or permitted to be given by either party to the other shall be deemed sufficient if sent by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid, addressed by the party giving notice to the other party at the last address furnished by the other party to the party giving notice: if to the Issuer, at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts, and if to Distributors, at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts.
14. Limitation of Liability - Distributors is expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust Instrument or other organizational document of the Issuer and agrees that the obligations assumed by the Issuer under this contract shall be limited in all cases to the Issuer and its assets. Distributors shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders or any shareholder of the Issuer. Nor shall Distributors seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the Trustees or any individual Trustee of the Issuer. Distributors understands that the rights and obligations of each series of shares of the Issuer under the Issuer's Trust Instrument or other organizational document are separate and distinct from those of any and all other series.
15. This agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions thereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the Issuer has executed this instrument in its name and behalf, and its seal affixed, by one of its officers duly authorized, and Distributors has executed this instrument in its name and behalf by one of its officers duly authorized, as of the day and year first above written.
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
By: /s/Kenneth. B Robins
Kenneth B. Robins
President and Treasurer
FIDELITY DISTRIBUTORS CORPORATION
By: /s/Scott E. Couto
Scott E. Couto
President
Exhibit (h)(3)
STRATEGIC ADVISERS CORE INCOME MULTI-MANAGER FUND
MANAGEMENT FEE WAIVER AGREEMENT
This Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated as of June 7th, 2012 (the "Agreement"), is made and entered into by and between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, a Delaware statutory trust which may issue one or more series of shares of beneficial interest (the "Trust"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund (the "Fund"), and Strategic Advisers, Inc. (the "Manager").
WHEREAS, the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and the Manager entered into a Management Contract, dated as of June 7th, 2012 (the "Management Agreement"), pursuant to which the Manager agreed to provide certain services to the Fund in return for a management fee described in the Management Agreement.
NOW THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. MANAGEMENT FEE WAIVER. Until this Agreement shall be amended or terminated pursuant to Section 2 or Section 5 hereof, the Manager agrees to waive 30 basis points of the management fee.
2. AMENDMENTS. This Agreement may not be amended to increase the management fee payable by the Fund except by a vote of a majority of the Board of Trustees of the Trust.
3. INTERPRETATION. Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to require the Trust or the Fund to take any action contrary to the Trust's Declaration of Trust or Bylaws, each as in effect from time to time, or any applicable statutory or regulatory requirement, including without limitation any requirements under the 1940 Act, to which it is subject or by which it is bound, or to relieve or deprive the Trust's Board of Trustees of its responsibility for or control of the conduct of the affairs of the Trust or the Fund.
4. DEFINITIONS. Any question of interpretation of any term or provision of this Agreement having a counterpart in or otherwise derived from the terms and provisions of the Management Agreement or the 1940 Act, shall have the same meaning as and be resolved by reference to the Management Agreement.
5. TERMINATION. This Agreement shall terminate upon the earlier of (a) the termination of the Management Agreement between the Fund and the Manager or (b) July 31, 2013, except as otherwise agreed between the parties in writing.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have caused this Agreement to be signed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, as of the date first above written.
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
on behalf of STRATEGIC ADVISERS CORE INCOME MULTI-MANAGER FUND
By: /s/Kenneth B. Robins
Kenneth B. Robins
President and Treasurer
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Suzanne Brennan
Suzanne Brennan
Chief Operating Officer
Exhibit (h)(8)
STRATEGIC ADVISERS INCOME OPPORTUNITIES FUND OF FUNDS
MANAGEMENT FEE WAIVER AGREEMENT
This Management Fee Waiver Agreement, dated as of June 7, 2012 (the "Agreement"), is made and entered into by and between Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, a Delaware statutory trust which may issue one or more series of shares of beneficial interest (the "Trust"), on behalf of Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds (the "Fund"), and Strategic Advisers, Inc. (the "Manager").
WHEREAS, the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and the Manager entered into a Management Contract, dated as of June 7, 2012 (the "Management Agreement"), pursuant to which the Manager agreed to provide certain services to the Fund in return for a management fee described in the Management Agreement.
NOW THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. MANAGEMENT FEE WAIVER. Until this Agreement shall be amended or terminated pursuant to Section 2 or Section 5 hereof, the Manager agrees to waive 30 basis points of the management fee.
2. AMENDMENTS. This Agreement may not be amended to increase the management fee payable by the Fund except by a vote of a majority of the Board of Trustees of the Trust.
3. INTERPRETATION. Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to require the Trust or the Fund to take any action contrary to the Trust's Declaration of Trust or Bylaws, each as in effect from time to time, or any applicable statutory or regulatory requirement, including without limitation any requirements under the 1940 Act, to which it is subject or by which it is bound, or to relieve or deprive the Trust's Board of Trustees of its responsibility for or control of the conduct of the affairs of the Trust or the Fund.
4. DEFINITIONS. Any question of interpretation of any term or provision of this Agreement having a counterpart in or otherwise derived from the terms and provisions of the Management Agreement or the 1940 Act, shall have the same meaning as and be resolved by reference to the Management Agreement.
5. TERMINATION. This Agreement shall terminate upon the earlier of (a) the termination of the Management Agreement between the Fund and the Manager or (b) July 31, 2013, except as otherwise agreed between the parties in writing.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF , the parties have caused this Agreement to be signed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, as of the date first above written.
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II
on behalf of STRATEGIC ADVISERS INCOME OPPORTUNITIES FUND OF FUNDS
By: /s/Kenneth B. Robins
Kenneth B. Robins
President and Treasurer
STRATEGIC ADVISERS, INC.
By: /s/Suzanne Brennan
Suzanne Brennan
Chief Operating Officer
Exhibit (i)
Dechert LLP |
200 Clarendon Street 27th Floor Boston, MA 02116-5021 +1 617 728 7100 Main +1 617 426 6567 Fax www.dechert.com |
July 24, 2012
Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, MA 02109
Re: Post-Effective Amendment No. 30 and Amendment No. 33 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as counsel to Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II, a Delaware statutory trust (the "Trust") and its separate series Strategic Advisers Core Fund, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund, Strategic Advisers Value Fund, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund (the "Funds"), in connection with Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 and Amendment No. 17 to the Trust's Registration Statement on Form N-1A (the "Amendment"), filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act") and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, respectively.
In connection with the opinions set forth herein, you have provided to us originals, copies or facsimile transmissions of, and we have reviewed and relied upon, among other things, copies of the following: the Amendment; the Trust Instrument of the Trust dated March 6, 2006; and the By-Laws of the Trust dated June 4, 2009 (the "By-Laws"). In addition, we have reviewed and relied upon a Certificate issued by the Delaware Secretary of State. We have assumed that the By-Laws have been duly adopted by the Trustees. We have also examined such documents and questions of law as we have concluded are necessary or appropriate for purposes of the opinions expressed below.
In rendering this opinion we have assumed, without independent verification, (i) the due authority of all individuals signing in representative capacities and the genuineness of signatures; (ii) the authenticity, completeness and continued effectiveness of all documents or copies furnished to us; (iii) that any resolutions provided have been duly adopted by the Funds' Board of Trustees; (iv) that the facts contained in the instruments and certificates or statements of public officials, officers and representatives of the Funds on which we have relied for the purposes of this opinion are true and correct; and (v) that no amendments, agreements, resolutions or actions have been approved, executed or adopted which would limit, supersede or modify the items described above. Where documents are referred to in resolutions approved by the Board of Trustees, or in the Amendment, we have assumed such documents are the same as in the most recent form provided to us, whether as an exhibit to the Amendment or otherwise. When any opinion set forth below relates to the existence or standing of the Trust, such opinion is based entirely upon and is limited by the items referred to above, and we understand that the foregoing assumptions, limitations and qualifications are acceptable to you.
Based upon the foregoing, we are of the opinion that:
1. The Trust has been duly formed and is validly existing as a statutory trust under the laws of the state of Delaware; and
2. the Shares registered under the Securities Act, when issued in accordance with the terms described in the Amendment, will be legally issued, fully paid and non-assessable by the Trust.
We express no opinion as to any other matter other than as expressly set forth above and no other opinion is intended or may be inferred herefrom. The opinions expressed herein are given as of the date hereof and we undertake no obligation and hereby disclaim any obligation to advise you of any change after the date of this opinion pertaining to any matter referred to herein. We hereby consent to the use of this opinion as an exhibit to the Amendment. In giving such consent, we do not hereby admit that we are within the category of persons whose consent is required by Section 7 of the Securities Act and the rules and regulations thereunder.
We are members of the Bar of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and do not hold ourselves out as being conversant with the laws of any jurisdiction other than those of the United States of America and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. We note that we are not licensed to practice law in the State of Delaware, and to the extent that any opinion herein involves the laws of the State of Delaware, such opinion should be understood to be based solely upon our review of the documents referred to above and the published statutes of the State of Delaware.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Dechert LLP
Dechert LLP
Exhibit (j)
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference into the Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information in Post-Effective Amendment No. 30 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II: Strategic Advisers Core Fund of our report dated July 13, 2012, Strategic Advisers Core Multi-Manager Fund of our report dated July 16, 2012, Strategic Advisers Short Duration Fund of our report dated July 17, 2012, Strategic Advisers Growth Fund of our report dated July 13, 2012, Strategic Advisers Growth Multi-Manager Fund of our report dated July 16, 2012, Strategic Advisers Value Fund of our report dated July 13, 2012, and Strategic Advisers Value Multi-Manager Fund of our report dated July 16, 2012, on the financial statements and financial highlights included in the May 31, 2012 Annual Report to Shareholders of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II.
We further consent to the reference to our Firm under the heading "Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm" in the Statements of Additional Information.
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/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
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Boston, Massachusetts |
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July 24, 2012 |
Exhibit (m)(3)
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLAN
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II:
STRATEGIC ADVISERS CORE INCOME MULTI-MANAGER FUND
1. This Distribution and Service Plan (the "Plan"), when effective in accordance with its terms, shall be the written plan contemplated by Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") of Strategic Advisers Core Income Multi-Manager Fund (the "Portfolio"), a series of shares of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II (the "Fund").
2. The Fund has entered into a General Distribution Agreement with respect to the Portfolio with Fidelity Distributors Corporation (the "Distributor"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fidelity Management & Research Company ("FMR"), under which the Distributor uses all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for the Portfolio's shares of beneficial interest ("shares"). Under the agreement, the Distributor pays the expenses of printing and distributing any prospectuses, reports and other literature used by the Distributor, advertising, and other promotional activities in connection with the offering of shares of the Portfolio. It is recognized that Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Strategic Advisers"), an affiliate of FMR, may use its revenues, including management fees paid to Strategic Advisers by the Portfolio, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other source, to make payment to the Distributor with respect to any expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of shares of the Portfolio, including the activities referred to above.
3. Strategic Advisers directly, or through the Distributor, may, subject to the approval of the Trustees, make payments to securities dealers and other third parties who engage in the sale of shares or who render shareholder support services, including but not limited to providing office space, equipment and telephone facilities, answering routine inquiries regarding the Portfolio, processing shareholder transactions and providing such other shareholder services as the Fund may reasonably request.
4. The Portfolio will not make separate payments as a result of this Plan to Strategic Advisers, the Distributor or any other party, it being recognized that the Portfolio presently pays, and will continue to pay, a management fee to Strategic Advisers. To the extent that any payments made by the Portfolio to Strategic Advisers, including any payment of management fees, should be deemed to be indirect financing of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the Portfolio within the context of Rule 12b-1 under the Act, then such payments shall be deemed to be authorized by this Plan.
5. This Plan shall become effective upon the approval by a vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Fund (as defined in the Act) and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of this Plan or in any agreements related to this Plan (the "Independent Trustees"), cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan.
6. This Plan shall, unless terminated as hereinafter provided, remain in effect from the date specified above until June 30, 2013, and from year to year thereafter, provided, however, that such continuance is subject to approval annually by a vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan. This Plan may be amended at any time by the Board of Trustees, provided that (a) any amendment to authorize direct payments by the Portfolio to finance any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the Portfolio, or to increase materially the amount spent by the Portfolio for distribution shall be effective only upon approval by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio, and (b) any material amendments of this Plan shall be effective only upon approval in the manner provided in the first sentence in this paragraph.
7. This Plan may be terminated at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio.
8. During the existence of this Plan, the Fund shall require Strategic Advisers and/or Distributor to provide the Fund, for review by the Fund's Board of Trustees, and the Trustees shall review, at least quarterly, a written report of the amounts expended in connection with financing any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the Portfolio (making estimates of such costs where necessary or desirable) and the purposes for which such expenditures were made.
9. This Plan does not require Strategic Advisers or Distributor to perform any specific type or level of distribution activities or to incur any specific level of expenses for activities primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the Portfolio.
10. Consistent with the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Fund's Trust Instrument or other organizational document, any obligations assumed by the Portfolio pursuant to this Plan and any agreements related to this Plan shall be limited in all cases to the Portfolio and its assets, and shall not constitute obligations of any other series of shares of the Fund.
11. If any provision of this Plan shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of the Plan shall not be affected thereby.
Exhibit (m)(10)
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLAN
FIDELITY RUTLAND SQUARE TRUST II:
STRATEGIC ADVISERS INCOME OPPORTUNITIES FUND OF FUNDS
1. This Distribution and Service Plan (the "Plan"), when effective in accordance with its terms, shall be the written plan contemplated by Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") of Strategic Advisers Income Opportunities Fund of Funds (the "Portfolio"), a series of shares of Fidelity Rutland Square Trust II (the "Fund").
2. The Fund has entered into a General Distribution Agreement with respect to the Portfolio with Fidelity Distributors Corporation (the "Distributor"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fidelity Management & Research Company ("FMR"), under which the Distributor uses all reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for the Portfolio's shares of beneficial interest ("shares"). Under the agreement, the Distributor pays the expenses of printing and distributing any prospectuses, reports and other literature used by the Distributor, advertising, and other promotional activities in connection with the offering of shares of the Portfolio. It is recognized that Strategic Advisers, Inc. ("Strategic Advisers"), an affiliate of FMR, may use its revenues, including management fees paid to Strategic Advisers by the Portfolio, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other source, to make payment to the Distributor with respect to any expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of shares of the Portfolio, including the activities referred to above.
3. Strategic Advisers directly, or through the Distributor, may, subject to the approval of the Trustees, make payments to securities dealers and other third parties who engage in the sale of shares or who render shareholder support services, including but not limited to providing office space, equipment and telephone facilities, answering routine inquiries regarding the Portfolio, processing shareholder transactions and providing such other shareholder services as the Fund may reasonably request.
4. The Portfolio will not make separate payments as a result of this Plan to Strategic Advisers, the Distributor or any other party, it being recognized that the Portfolio presently pays, and will continue to pay, a management fee to Strategic Advisers. To the extent that any payments made by the Portfolio to Strategic Advisers, including any payment of management fees, should be deemed to be indirect financing of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the Portfolio within the context of Rule 12b-1 under the Act, then such payments shall be deemed to be authorized by this Plan.
5. This Plan shall become effective upon the approval by a vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Fund (as defined in the Act) and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of this Plan or in any agreements related to this Plan (the "Independent Trustees"), cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan.
6. This Plan shall, unless terminated as hereinafter provided, remain in effect from the date specified above until June 30, 2013, and from year to year thereafter, provided, however, that such continuance is subject to approval annually by a vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan. This Plan may be amended at any time by the Board of Trustees, provided that (a) any amendment to authorize direct payments by the Portfolio to finance any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the Portfolio, or to increase materially the amount spent by the Portfolio for distribution shall be effective only upon approval by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio, and (b) any material amendments of this Plan shall be effective only upon approval in the manner provided in the first sentence in this paragraph.
7. This Plan may be terminated at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio.
8. During the existence of this Plan, the Fund shall require Strategic Advisers and/or Distributor to provide the Fund, for review by the Fund's Board of Trustees, and the Trustees shall review, at least quarterly, a written report of the amounts expended in connection with financing any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the Portfolio (making estimates of such costs where necessary or desirable) and the purposes for which such expenditures were made.
9. This Plan does not require Strategic Advisers or Distributor to perform any specific type or level of distribution activities or to incur any specific level of expenses for activities primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the Portfolio.
10. Consistent with the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Fund's Trust Instrument or other organizational document, any obligations assumed by the Portfolio pursuant to this Plan and any agreements related to this Plan shall be limited in all cases to the Portfolio and its assets, and shall not constitute obligations of any other series of shares of the Fund.
11. If any provision of this Plan shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of the Plan shall not be affected thereby.
Exhibit (p)(3)
Advisory Code of Ethics
A DVISORY R ESEARCH , I NC .
C ODE OF E THICS
A DOPTED F EBRUARY 1, 2005
R EVISED D ECEMBER , 2011 AND J ANUARY 31, 2012
Introduction
Advisory Research, Inc. ("ARI") values the principles of honesty and integrity and expects that all employees conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner. This Code of Ethics has been adopted by ARI in compliance with Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), and Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 ("Advisers Act"). Further, the general principles discussed below govern all conduct, whether or not the conduct also is covered by more specific standards and procedures set forth below. Finally, failure to comply with this Code of Ethics may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment.
As evidence of ARI's further commitment to its clients, ARI has adopted the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct. This document is included as an attachment to this policy and its provisions are applicable to all Employees in addition to those set forth below.
Contents
I. Fiduciary Duty - Statement of Policy
II. CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct
III. Client Opportunities
IV. Insider Trading
V. Personal Securities Transactions
VI. Gifts, Entertainment and Contributions
VII. Confidentiality
VIII. Duty to Comply and Update
I. Fiduciary Duty - Statement of Policy
ARI is a fiduciary of its Clients and owes each Client an affirmative duty of good faith and full and fair disclosure of all material facts. This duty is particularly pertinent whenever the adviser is in a situation involving a conflict or potential conflict of interest. ARI and all Employees must affirmatively exercise authority and responsibility for the benefit of Clients, and may not participate in any activities that may conflict with the interests of Clients except in accordance with this Code. In addition, we must avoid activities, interests and relationships that might interfere or appear to interfere with making decisions in the best interests of our Clients. Accordingly, at all times, we must conduct our business with the following precepts in mind:
1. Place the interests of Clients first. We may not cause a Client to take action, or not to take action, for our personal benefit rather than the benefit of the Client. For example, causing a Client to purchase a security owned by an Employee for the purpose of increasing the price of that security would be a violation of this Code. Similarly, an Employee investing for himself in a security of limited availability that was appropriate for a Client without first considering that investment for such Client may violate this Code.
2. Avoid taking inappropriate advantage of our position. The receipt of investment opportunities, perquisites, or gifts from persons seeking business with ARI could call into question the exercise of our independent judgment. Accordingly, we may accept such items only in accordance with the limitations in this Code.
3. Conduct all personal securities transactions in compliance with this Code of Ethics. This includes any pre-clearance and reporting requirements and procedures regarding inside information and personal and proprietary trades. While ARI encourages Employees and their families to develop personal investment programs, you must not take any action that could result in even the appearance of impropriety.
4. Keep information confidential. Information concerning Client transactions or holdings may be material non-public information and Employees may not use knowledge of any such information to profit from the market effect of those transactions.
5. Comply with the federal securities law and all other laws and regulations applicable to the Firm's business. Make it your business to know what is required of ARI as an Investment Adviser, and you as an Employee of ARI, and integrate compliance into the performance of all duties.
6. Seek advice when in doubt about the propriety of any action or situation. Any questions concerning this Code of Ethics should be addressed to the Chief Compliance Officer, who is encouraged to consult with outside counsel, outside auditors or other professionals, as necessary.
II. CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct
Preamble
The CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct Code and Standards) are fundamental to the values of CFA Institute and essential to achieving its mission to lead the investment profession globally by setting high standards of education, integrity, and professional excellence. High ethical standards are critical to maintaining the public's trust in financial markets and in the investment profession. Since their creation in the 1960s, the Code and Standards have promoted the integrity of CFA Institute members and served as a model for measuring the ethics of investment professionals globally, regardless of job function, cultural differences, or local laws and regulations. All CFA Institute members (including holders of the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation) and CFA candidates must abide by the Code and Standards and are encouraged to notify their employer of this responsibility. Violations may result in disciplinary sanctions by CFA Institute. Sanctions can include revocation of membership, candidacy in the CFA Program, and the right to use the CFA designation.
NOTE: The CFA Institute's Code and Standards may also be found at: https://www.cfainstitute.org/centre/codes/ethics/pdf/english_code.pdf. Appropriate references below to Members of CFA Institute (including Chartered Financial Analyst ® [CFA ® ] charterholders, candidates for the CFA designation "Members and Candidates" have been changed to refer to ARI employees "Employees".
The Code of Ethics
Employees must:
Standards of Professional Conduct
I. Professionalism
A. Knowledge of the Law. Members, Candidates and Employees must understand and comply with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations (including the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct) of any government, regulatory organization, licensing agency, or professional association governing their professional activities. In the event of conflict, Members, Candidates and Employees must comply with the more strict law, rule, or regulation. Members, Candidates and Employees must not knowingly participate or assist in and must dissociate from any violation of such laws, rules, or regulations.
B. Independence and Objectivity. Members, Candidates and Employees must use reasonable care and judgment to achieve and maintain independence and objectivity in their professional activities. Members, Candidates and Employees must not offer, solicit, or accept any gift, benefit, compensation, or consideration that reasonably could be expected to compromise their own or another's independence and objectivity.
C. Misrepresentation. Members, Candidates and Employees must not knowingly make any misrepresentations relating to investment analysis, recommendations, actions, or other professional activities.
D. Misconduct. Members, Candidates and Employees must not engage in any professional conduct involving dishonesty, fraud, or deceit or commit any act that reflects adversely on their professional reputation, integrity, or competence.
II. Integrity of Capital Markets
A. Material Nonpublic Information. Members, Candidates and Employees who possess material nonpublic information that could affect the value of an investment must not act or cause others to act on the information.
B. Market Manipulation. Members, Candidates and Employees must not engage in practices that distort prices or artificially inflate trading volume with the intent to mislead market participants.
III. Duties to Clients
A. Loyalty, Prudence, and Care. Members and Candidates have a duty of loyalty to their clients and must act with reasonable care and exercise prudent judgment. Members, Candidates and Employees must act for the benefit of their clients and place their clients' interests before their employer's or their own interests. In relationships with clients, Members, Candidates and Employees must determine applicable fiduciary duty and must comply with such duty to persons and interests to whom it is owed.
B. Fair Dealing. Members, Candidates and Employees must deal fairly and objectively with all clients when providing investment analysis, making investment recommendations, taking investment action, or engaging in other professional activities.
C. Suitability.
1. When Members, Candidates and Employees are in an advisory relation-ship with a client, they must:
a. Make a reasonable inquiry into a client's or prospective clients' investment experience, risk and return objectives, and financial constraints prior to making any investment recommendation or taking investment action and must reassess and update this information regularly.
b. Determine that an investment is suitable to the client's financial situation and consistent with the client's written objectives, mandates, and constraints before making an investment recommendation or taking investment action.
c. Judge the suitability of investments in the context of the client's total portfolio.
2. When Members, Candidates and Employees are responsible for managing a portfolio to a specific mandate, strategy, or style, they must only make investment recommendations or take investment actions that are consistent with the stated objectives and constraints of the portfolio.
D. Performance Presentation. When communicating investment performance information, Members, Candidates or Employees must make reasonable efforts to ensure that it is fair, accurate, and complete.
E. Preservation of Confidentiality. Members, Candidates and Employees must keep information about current, former, and prospective clients confidential unless:
1. The information concerns illegal activities on the part of the client or prospective client.
2. Disclosure is required by law.
3. The client or prospective client permits disclosure of the information.
IV. Duties to ARI
A. Loyalty. In matters related to their employment, Members, Candidates and Employees must act for the benefit of their employer ARI and not deprive their employer ARI of the advantage of their skills and abilities, divulge confidential information, or otherwise cause harm to their employer ARI.
B. Additional Compensation Arrangements. Candidates and Employees must not accept gifts, benefits, compensation, or consideration that competes with, or might reasonably be expected to create a conflict of interest with, their employer's interest unless they obtain written consent from all parties involved.
C. Responsibilities of Supervisors. Members, Candidates and Employees must make reasonable efforts to detect and prevent violations of applicable laws, rules, regulations, and the Code and Standards by anyone subject to their supervision or authority.
V. Investment Analysis, Recommendations, and Action
A. Diligence and Reasonable Basis. Members, Candidates and Employees must:
1. Exercise diligence, independence, and thoroughness in analyzing investments, making investment recommendations, and taking investment actions.
2. Have a reasonable and adequate basis, supported by appropriate research and investigation, for any investment analysis, recommendation, or action.
B. Communication with Clients and Prospective Clients. Members, Candidates and Employees must:
1. Disclose to clients and prospective clients the basic format and general principles of the investment processes used to analyze investments, select securities, and construct portfolios and must promptly disclose any changes that might materially affect those processes.
2. Use reasonable judgment in identifying which factors are important to their investment analyses, recommendations, or actions and include those factors in communications with clients and prospective clients.
3. Distinguish between fact and opinion in the presentation of investment analysis and recommendations.
C. Record Retention. Members, Candidates and Employees must develop and maintain appropriate records to support their investment analysis, recommendations, actions, and other investment-related communications with clients and prospective clients.
VI. Conflicts of Interest
A. Disclosure of Conflicts. Members, Candidates and Employees must make full and fair disclosure of all matters that could reasonably be expected to impair their independence and objectivity or interfere with respective duties to their clients, prospective clients, and employer. Members, Candidates and Employees must ensure that such disclosures are prominent, are delivered in plain language, and communicate the relevant information effectively.
B. Priority of Transactions . Investment transactions for clients and employers must have priority over investment transactions in which a Member, Candidate or Employees is the beneficial owner.
C. Referral Fees. Members, Candidates and Employees must disclose to their employer, clients, and prospective clients, as appropriate, any compensation, consideration, or benefit received from, or paid to, others for the recommendation of products or services.
VII. Responsibilities as a CFA Institute Member or CFA Candidate
A. Conduct as Members and Candidates in the CFA Program. Members and Candidates must not engage in any conduct that compromises the reputation or integrity of CFA Institute or the CFA designation or the integrity, validity, or security of the CFA examinations.
B. Reference to CFA Institute, the CFA designation, and the CFA Program. When referring to CFA Institute, CFA Institute member-ship, the CFA designation, or candidacy in the CFA Program, Members and Candidates must not misrepresent or exaggerate the meaning or implications of membership in CFA Institute, holding the CFA designation, or candidacy in the CFA Program.
III. Client Opportunities
Law & Policy
No Employee may cause or attempt to cause any Client to purchase, sell or hold any security for the purpose of creating any personal benefit for him or herself. Sections 206(1) and 106(2) of the Advisers Act generally prohibit the Firm from employing a "device, scheme or artifice" to defraud Clients or engaging in a "transaction, practice or course of business" that operates as a "fraud or deceit" on Clients. While these provisions speak of fraud, they have been construed very broadly by the SEC and used to regulate, through enforcement action, many types of adviser behavior that the SEC deems to be not in the best interest of Clients or inconsistent with fiduciary obligations. One such category of behavior is taking advantage of investment opportunities for personal gain that would be suitable for Clients.
Accordingly, an Employee may not take personal advantage of any opportunity properly belonging to the Firm or any Client. This principle applies primarily to the acquisition of securities of limited availability for an Employee's own account that would be suitable and could be purchased for the account of a Client, or the disposition of securities from an Employee's account prior to selling a position from the account of a Client.
On the other hand, in the case of trades in listed securities in broad and deep markets, where the Employees' participation will not affect Client investment opportunities, Employees in certain situations may participate with Clients in aggregated or combined trades. Under certain limited circumstances, and only with the approval of the Chief Compliance Officer and Chief Executive Officer, an Employee may participate in certain opportunities of limited availability that are deemed not to have an adverse affect on any Client. Please refer to Personal Securities Transactions for greater detail.
Procedures
Disclosure of Personal Interest. If an Employee believes that he or she (or a related account) stands to benefit materially from an investment decision for a Client that the Employee is recommending or making, the Employee must disclose that interest to the Chief Compliance Officer. The disclosure must be made before the investment decision and should be documented by the Chief Compliance Officer.
Restriction on Investment. Based on the information given, the Chief Compliance Officer will consult with the Chief Executive Officer and a decision will be made on whether or not to restrict an Employee's participation in the investment decision. In making this determination, the following factors will be considered, among others: (i) whether any Client was legally and financially able to take advantage of this opportunity; (ii) whether any Client would be disadvantaged in any manner; (iii) whether the opportunity is de minimus; and (iv) whether the opportunity is clearly not related economically to the securities to be purchased, sold or held by any Client.
Record of Determination. A memorandum concerning the investment opportunity and the disposition of the approval request will be prepared promptly and maintained by the Chief Compliance Officer.
IV. Insider Trading
Law & Policy
While there is no precise definition of insider trading in federal securities laws, the term is generally understood to mean the trading of securities and other investment instruments of whatever kind or nature while in possession of material non-public information (i.e., information that would be important to reasonable investors in making a decision to buy, sell or hold a security or other investment instrument) that is not available to the general public. Obviously, this description does not catalog the many different types of information that can be construed as material and non-public. Rather than attempting to make such determinations on their own, personnel who suspect that they are in receipt of inside information should immediately seek the advice of the Chief Compliance Officer. Concerns about the misuse of material non-public information by ARI or Employees may arise primarily in two ways:
First, the Firm may come into possession of material non-public information about another company, such as an issuer in which it is investing for Clients or in which its own personnel might be investing for their own accounts. As further set forth below, if it is determined that ARI has material non-public information about an issuer, all investments in that issuer on behalf of Clients and by ARI personnel, in any securities of the issuer, will be prohibited. Despite this blanket prohibition, some trades in securities in which ARI has also invested for Clients may be permitted because the fact that ARI has made such investments may not be viewed as material information ( e.g. , trades in highly liquid securities).
Second, ARI as an investment adviser has material non-public information in relation to its own business. The SEC has stated that the term "material non-public information" may include information about an investment adviser's securities recommendations and Client securities holding and transactions. It is the policy of ARI that all such information is to be kept in strict confidence by those who receive it, and such information may be divulged only within ARI and to those who have a need for it in connection with the performance of services to Clients.
Who is an Insider? The concept of "insider" is broad. It includes officers, directors and employees of a company. In addition, a person can be a "temporary insider" if he or she enters into a special confidential relationship in the conduct of a company's affairs and as a result is given access to information solely for the company's purposes. For example, a person who advises or otherwise performs services for a company may become a temporary insider of that company. An Employee of ARI could also become a temporary insider to a company because of ARI's and/or the Employee's relationship to the company.
What is Material Information? Trading on non-public information is not a basis for liability unless the information is material. "Material information" generally is defined as information for making his or her investment decision, or information that is reasonably certain to have a substantial effect on the price of a security.
What is Non-public Information? Information is non-public until it has been "effectively communicated to the marketplace". One must be able to point to some fact to show that the information is generally public.
Penalties for Insider Trading. Penalties for trading on or communicating material non-public information are severe, both for individuals involved in such unlawful conduct and their employers. A person can be subject to some or all of the penalties below even if he/she does not personally benefit from the violation. Penalties include: civil injunctions, treble damages, disgorgement of profits, jail sentences, fines for the person who committed the violation and/or fines for the employer or other controlling person of any person committing the violation.
Identification and Prevention of Insider Information. If an employee believes that he or she is in possession of information that is material and non-public, or has questions as to whether information is material and non-public, he or she should take the following steps:
1. Report the matter to the Chief Compliance Officer, who should document the matter and may consult with the Chief Executive Officer and/or legal counsel depending on the circumstances.
2. Refrain from trading the security on behalf of himself or others.
3. Refrain from communicating the information inside or outside ARI other than to the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Compliance Officer.
Restricted List. The Chief Compliance Officer shall maintain a Restricted List which will include all securities and other investment instruments of issues about which ARI (or any ARI personnel or their family members) receives, or is in a position to receive, material non-public information as a result of a special relationship between ARI (or any ARI personnel or family member) and the issuer (such security or other investment instrument shall hereinafter be referred to as a "Restricted Security"). No ARI personnel or their family members shall trade in any Restricted Security without the prior written approval of the Chief Compliance Officer.
The Chief Compliance Officer shall update the Restricted List, distribute to appropriate personnel and screen trades submitted for pre-clearance pursuant to pre-clearance requirements set forth in the Personal Trading section of this Code of Ethics. When a security is restricted, all new trading activity of such security shall cease, unless approved in writing by the Chief Compliance Officer.
A security shall be removed from the Restricted List if the Chief Compliance Officer determines that no insider trading issue remains with respect to such security. This is frequently confirmed by searching for a press release disclosing the information, but may also result from discussions with the Chief Executive Officer and/or legal counsel.
Expert Networks. From time to time, ARI may utilize services which provide ARI's investment team access to a network of industry experts (commonly referred to as "Expert Networks"). In such cases:
1. Arrangements with Expert Networks will be pursuant to a written contract that includes a provision prohibiting the sharing by an expert of material non-public information with any ARI employee;
2. ARI employees are further limited to using experts when the following criteria are met:
a. In order to be considered in an ARI expert search and prior to each consultation, experts are required to certify that he or she will not share material non-public information with any ARI employee; and
b. ARI employees will not engage in a consultation with an expert regarding a publicly traded company if such expert has been employed by that publicly traded company within less than 6 months of ARI's request for a consultation; and
c. ARI employees participating in expert network consultations shall document the consultation.
3. ARI employees are required to notify the Chief Compliance Officer if a new Expert Network arrangement is contemplated.
Detecting Insider Trading. To detect insider trading, the Chief Compliance Officer will regularly review the trading activity of Client accounts, Employee accounts and other ARI accounts. Specifically, (i) on a weekly basis the firm's trading activity over the prior week is reviewed to determine whether or not any trades in Restricted Securities occurred, (ii) Employee trades are reviewed on a quarterly basis in conjunction with the quarterly review of employee trading (iii) compliance and senior investment team personnel shall periodically review Expert Network consultations and documentation in conjunction with trade activity in an effort to identify possible patterns, and (iv) a sample of profitable trades for Client and Employee accounts shall be reviewed for occurrences such as: spikes in prices after the security was traded, whether there was a meeting between ARI employees and personnel of the company or an expert network consultation prior to the profitable trade, whether material news was disclosed by the company or analyst ratings changed shortly after the profitable trade. The Chief Compliance Officer shall consult with ARI's senior management and may consult with legal counsel as appropriate regarding any results that may warrant additional action. It is also the responsibility of each Employee to notify the Chief Compliance Officer of any potential insider trading issues.
V. Personal Securities Transactions
Law & Policy
Employee investments must be consistent with the mission of ARI to put Client interests first and with the requirements that ARI and its Employees not trade on the basis of material non-public information concerning ARI's investment decisions for Clients or Clients' transactions or holdings.
SEC Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act requires that each registered investment adviser adopt, maintain and enforce a Code of Ethics that requires the adviser's "access persons" to report their transactions and holdings periodically to the Chief Compliance Officer and requires the adviser to review these reports.
Similarly, SEC Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act ("Rule 17j-1") requires mutual funds to adopt a written Code of Ethics. This rule also requires investment advisers to a mutual fund to adopt a written Code of Ethics and to report to the mutual fund's Board of Trustees any material compliance violations. Boards may only approve a Code of Ethics after it has made a determination that the Code of Ethics contains provisions designed to prevent "access persons" (as the term is explained below) from engaging in fraud. In addition, certain employees of an investment adviser to a mutual fund are subject to specific pre-clearance procedures with respect to their investment in certain securities.
Definitions
"Access Person". Under the SEC definition, includes any Firm Employee who has access to non-public information regarding Clients' purchase or sale of securities, is involved in making securities recommendations to (or in the case of a discretionary manager like ARI, investment decisions on behalf of) Clients or who has access to such recommendations that are non-public. Further, Rule 17j-1 describes "Access Persons" as all directors, officers, controlling persons who obtain information about recommendations made by any Advisory Person to any Client, managing members or Advisory Persons of ARI. It is ARI's policy that all officers, directors and employees of ARI are access persons ("Access Persons") for purposes of these requirements.
"Advisory Person". Any employee of the Adviser, (or of any company in a control relationship to ARI) who in connection with his or her regular functions or duties, makes, participates in, or obtains information regarding the purchase or sale of a security by any Client, or whose functions relate to the making of any recommendations with respect to such purchases or sales.
"Beneficial Interest". Any interest in which a person may profit or share in the profit from transactions. Without limiting the foregoing, a person has a Beneficial Interest when the securities in a account are held (i) in his or her name; (ii) in the name of any of his or her Immediate Family; (iii) in his or her name as trustee for himself or herself or for his or her Immediate Family; (iv) in a trust in which he or she has a beneficial interest or is the settler with a power to revoke; (v) by another person and he or she has a contract or an understanding with such person that the securities held in that person's name are for his or her benefit; (vi) in the form of a right to acquisition of such security through the exercise of warrants, options, rights, or conversion rights; (vii) by a partnership of which he or she is a member; (viii) by a corporation which he or she uses as a personal trading medium; (ix) by a holding company which he or she controls; or (x) any other relationship in which a person would have beneficial ownership under Section 16 of the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations thereunder, except that the determination of direct or indirect beneficial interest shall apply to all securities which an Access Person has or acquires.
"Control". The power to exercise a controlling influence over the management or policies of a company, unless such power is solely the result of an official position with such company.
"Fund" means each registered investment company for which ARI is the investment adviser or sub-adviser.
"Immediate Family". Any of the following relatives sharing the same household with an individual: child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, including adoptive relationships.
"Initial Public Offering (IPO)". An offering of securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933, the issuer of which, immediately before the registration, was not subject to the reporting requirements of sections 13 or 15(d) An offering that is exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act") pursuant to Section 4(2) or Section 4(6) or pursuant to Rule 504, Rule 505, or Rule 506 under the Securities Act. of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
"Private Placement".
"Covered Security". Any option, stock or option thereon, instrument, bond, debenture, pre-organzation certificate, investment contract, any other interest commonly known as a security, and any security or instrument related to, but not necessarily the same as, those held or to be acquired by any Fund; provided, however, that the following shall not be considered a Covered Security: securities issued by the United States Government, bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, shares of registered open-end investment companies that are not funds advised or sub-advised by ARI, commodities, futures, and options on futures.
Restrictions on Employee Trading
The investment business depends on investor confidence in the fairness and integrity of the markets. Insider trading poses a serious threat to that confidence. Therefore, below is a list of specific trading activities that are either strictly prohibited or allowed only under special circumstances with special approval from the Chief Compliance Officer:
Priority of Transactions. Transactions and issues which are the subject of ARI and/or its affiliates' purchases or sales may only be engaged in by personnel after ARI/or its affiliates have completed all transactions for their accounts. However, Access Persons may participate in purchase or sale transactions alongside clients' as part of bunched orders; in such use, ARI will allocate fills of such orders on a pro rata basis or in an otherwise fair and equitable manner to all participants in the bunched order. Notwithstanding, Access Person Accounts may only participate alongside clients' as a part of a bunched order when ARI believes that such participation would not disadvantage other client accounts participating in that bunched order
Reporting Requirements. It is the policy of ARI that all Access Persons must file initial and annual holdings reports and quarterly transaction reports with respect to all Covered Securities in which they have or acquire any Beneficial Interest. (Accounts holding such securities are considered "Access Person Accounts" for the purpose of this Code.) As further described in the definition for Covered Securities above, trades in the following, which are deemed to present little opportunity for improper trading, are not reportable:
Custodian Requirements. For ease of administration and monitoring, Access Person Accounts shall be maintained at Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., Pershing, LLC, or upon good cause, shown, such other broker/dealer permitted by the Chief Compliance Officer.
Duplicate Statements. In furtherance of the foregoing policy, all Access Persons will promptly provide the Chief Compliance Officer with monthly statements of their respective Access Person Accounts from Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., Pershing LLC or such other permitted brokerage firms, no later than 30 days after the end of each quarter. Any brokerage statements for Access Person Accounts of the Chief Compliance Officer or his or her family members promptly will be provided to, and reviewed by, the Chief Executive Officer. All account statements will be reviewed quarterly by the Chief Compliance Officer in order to monitor compliance with the Code of Ethics and all securities rules and regulations.
Procedures
Duplicate Statements. For any Access Person Account opened or maintained at Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., Pershing LLC, or other financial institution the Employee shall be responsible for arranging that the financial institution send duplicate account statements directly to the following address:
Advisory Research, Inc.
Attn: Compliance
180 N. Stetson, Suite 5500
Chicago, IL 60601
Initial and Annual Holdings Reports. Each Access Person of ARI must disclose all securities in any Access Person Account no later than 10 days after becoming an Access Person, and annually thereafter during the month of January. Each such report must be current as of a date no more than 45 days before the report is submitted. The annual requirement may be satisfied by the delivery of duplicate custodial statements of any Access Person Accounts to the Chief Compliance Officer, provided that each Access Person shall also confirm the accuracy of such statements to ARI in writing no later than 10 days after becoming an Access Person and annually thereafter during the month of January.
Quarterly Trade Reporting Requirements. Each Access Person of ARI shall submit to the Chief Compliance Officer within 30 days after the end of the quarter a report of every transaction in securities, as described above, in an Access Person Account. The report shall include the name of the financial instrument, date of the transaction, quantity, price and bank, broker-dealer or financial institution through which the transaction was effected. This requirement will be satisfied by the delivery of duplicate custodial statements of any Access Person Accounts to the Chief Compliance Officer.
Pre-clearance. Each Access Person who wishes to trade any Covered Security including any IPO or Private Placement, should first obtain pre-clearance of the transaction. Pre-clearance requests should be submitted in writing, to the Chief Compliance Officer, or other designated person as the Chief Compliance Officer may from time to time appoint. Records will be maintained in personal trading files. Trades placed by ARI's trading desk for an Access Person Account are not exempt from preclearance requirements.
The following securities are exempt from preclearance requirements (but not from Holdings or Transaction reporting requirements): (i) Securities transactions where neither the Access Person nor his or her Immediate Family knows of the transaction before it is completed; (ii) the acquisition of securities through stock dividends, dividend reinvestments, stock splits, reverse stock splits, mergers, consolidations, spin-offs, or other similar corporate reorganizations or distributions generally applicable to all holders of the same class of securities; (iii) the acquisition of securities through the exercise of rights issued by an issuer pro rata to all holders of a class of securities, to the extent the rights were acquired in the issue, and sales of such rights so acquired; (iv) repurchase agreements.
Review of Pre-clearance Requests. Before approving any such transaction, the Chief Compliance Officer or other designated person shall determine if: (i) ARI has a pending "buy" or "sell" in that security at that time the preclearance request is received; (ii) the security appears on any Restricted List of ARI; (iii) the security is under consideration for purchase or sale in an ARI client account within the next seven (7) days; (iv) such transaction is not short selling or option trading that is economically opposite any pending transaction for any Client; (v) if such transaction is anticipated to be part of a bunched order, that there is a reasonable belief that the Access Person Accounts' participation in the bunched order would not disadvantage other participating client accounts. It shall be noted, when making this determination, that Access Persons may participate in purchase or sale transactions alongside clients' as part of bunched orders, provided that condition in (v) above is satisfied.
Post-Trade Monitoring of Precleared Transactions. After the Chief Compliance Officer or other designated person has granted preclearance to an Access Person, the investment activity of such Access Person shall be monitored by compliance personnel to ascertain that such activity conforms to the preclearance so granted and the provisions of this Code.
Review and Availability of Personal Trade Information. All information supplied under these procedures, including transaction and holdings reports (initial, monthly and annual reports), will be reviewed by the Chief Compliance Officer for compliance with the policies and procedures in this Code of Ethics. The Chief Compliance Officer shall review all account statements within 45 days after the end of the quarter to which they apply. Review activities shall include items such as (i) a review of preclearance requests, (ii) a comparison of employee trades to ARI's restricted list, and (iii) for Access Persons that are Portfolio Managers, a review of account performance for such Access Persons in comparison to relevant client accounts. The Chief Compliance Officer will document such review by initialing Employee statements or otherwise indicating the statements have been reviewed and will maintain copies of the Employee account statements received.
Confidentiality. The Chief Compliance Officer is responsible for maintaining records in a manner to safeguard their confidentiality. Each Employee's records will be accessible only to the Employee, the Chief Compliance Officer, and appropriate personnel. Records will be maintained in personal trading files for no less than five years.
VI. Gifts, Entertainment and Contributions
Law & Policy
The giving or receiving of gifts or other items of value to or from persons doing business or seeking to do business with ARI could call into question the independence of its judgment as a fiduciary of its Clients. Accordingly, it is the policy of ARI to permit such conduct only in accordance with the limitations stated herein.
Accepting Gifts and Entertainment. On occasion, because of an Employee's position with ARI, an Employee may be offered, or may receive, gifts or other forms of non-cash compensation from Clients, brokers, vendors, or other persons not affiliated with ARI. Extraordinary or extravagant gifts and entertainment are not permissible and must be declined or returned, absent approval by the Chief Executive Officer. The following gifts and entertainment may be accepted subject to the caveat and considerations below:
Giving Gifts and Providing Entertainment. Extraordinary or extravagant gifts and entertainment may also not be given or provided, absent approval by the Chief Executive Officer. The following gifts and entertainment may be given or provided subject to the caveat and considerations below:
Caveat. ARI's policies on gifts and entertainment are derived from industry practices. Employees should be aware that there are other federal laws and regulations that prohibit firms and their employees from giving anything of value to employees of various financial institutions in connection with attempts to obtain any business transaction with the institution, which is viewed as a form of bribery. If there is any question about the appropriateness of any particular gift, Employees should consult the Chief Compliance Officer.
ERISA Considerations. ERISA prohibits the acceptance of fees, kickbacks, gifts, loans, money, and anything of value that is given with the intent of influencing decision-making with respect to any employee benefit plan. The acceptance or offering of gifts, entertainment or other items may be viewed as influencing decision-making and therefore is unlawful under ERISA. In addition, many public employee benefit plans are subject to similar restrictions.
Mutual Fund Considerations. Section 17(e) of the 1940 Act limits the nature and extent of compensation received by affiliated persons of mutual funds in connection with the purchase or sale of securities on behalf of such mutual funds. As a result, the receipt of gifts and entertainment from a broker by employees of advisers to mutual funds, if extremely lavish or extensive, could be viewed by the SEC as "compensation" in exchange for directing a mutual fund's brokerage business to that brokerage firm. Accordingly, it is the policy of ARI to only permit the receipt and offering of gifts and entertainment in accordance with the limitations stated in this Code.
Procedures
Reporting Gifts . Employees must report the giving or receiving of gifts to or from any one person whose reasonable value exceeds $100 to the Chief Compliance Officer, who will seek the guidance of the Chief Executive Officer to determine whether the Employee will be permitted to accept or keep, or to provide, the gift. Upon request, Employees shall confirm the accuracy of information reported.
Reporting Entertainment . Employees must report the provision or receipt of entertainment to or from any one person whose reasonable value exceeds $250 to the Chief Compliance Officer, who will seek the guidance of the Chief Executive Officer to determine whether the Employee will be permitted to accept or keep, or to provide, the entertainment. For example, an Employee may be permitted to attend a sporting event with a reasonable value over $250, but in such cases, ARI shall pay the expense above $250 that is associated with the ticket. Upon request, Employees shall confirm the accuracy of information reported.
Questions. If there is any question about the appropriateness of any particular gift or entertainment, Employees must consult the Chief Compliance Officer.
Reviewing Gifts and Entertainment. Compliance personnel will maintain a log of reported gifts and entertainment, seek confirmation from Employees periodically as to the accuracy of information reported during the period, and review the log periodically with the Chief Executive Officer. In conducting such reviews, compliance personnel shall compare the log with expense account information maintained separately by the accounting department. In addition, the Chief Executive Officer reviews all expense reports at least annually to monitor compliance with this policy.
VII. Confidentiality
Law & Policy
For the purpose of this policy, "ARI" includes its affiliates, the collective investment vehicles operated by such entities, and their successor entities. In the course of their affiliation with Advisory Research, Inc., ARI's personnel (which include, but are not limited to, principals and officers of ARI, those employed or otherwise retained by ARI and those providing services to ARI) may learn confidential information concerning ARI, its investments, its investment strategies, its investors and various other matters.
"Confidential Information" generally means all information not publicly available (through the media or public records), regardless of whether such information was produced or obtained by ARI prior to, on or after the date hereof, and includes, but is not limited to, inside information, as described in the Insider Trading Policy, the composition of ARI's securities portfolios, prospective investments, long and short term investment strategies (generally and with respect to specific investments), investor lists and information regarding investors, and certain records, procedures, software and other proprietary information.
It is crucial that all personnel realize that the proper treatment of Confidential Information is a key aspect of preserving the integrity of ARI. Accordingly, ARI personnel shall not at any time while employed or otherwise retained or providing services to ARI or for a period of one year following termination of their employment or other relationship: (i) disclose, directly or indirectly, any Confidential Information to anyone other than personnel of ARI or (ii) use or appropriate for their own use or the use of any other person, directly or indirectly, any Confidential Information for their personal benefit or the benefit of any other person.
As used herein, the word "person" shall include, but not be limited to, individuals, corporations, partnerships, limited liability companies, limited liability partnerships, trusts, foundations or any other group, association or organization. Furthermore, given the importance of confidentiality to ARI's business, all personnel are prohibited from discussing or otherwise disclosing matters relating to ARI with anyone not affiliated with ARI unless expressly authorized by the Chief Executive Officer. All personnel should understand that any breach of the confidentiality requirements contained in this Policy Statement may result in disciplinary action, including immediate termination, and may constitute a violation of Federal securities laws.
Law & Policy
Certain Employees may have written employment agreements with ARI which contain confidentiality provisions, which shall govern the Employee's use of confidential information (as defined in such agreements). The Chief Executive Officer will maintain copies of such employment agreements.
VIII. Reporting Illegal or Unethical Behavior
You are required to report observed illegal or unethical behavior to your manager, the Chief Compliance Officer, or the Chief Executive Officer.
If at any time you find yourself in a situation you believe is or may be a violation of a law, regulation or company policy (including this Code), you are required to report the violation or what you suspect may be a violation. If you become aware that someone may be contemplating an action that would be a violation, you are required to take steps to report it. Failure to report a violation is itself a violation of this Code.
If you would prefer to anonymously ask a question or report questionable behavior, you can contact ARI's external counsel, Wesley G. Nissen, of Winston & Strawn, LLP, at 312-558-5804 or the Piper Jaffray Ethics Hotline. All reports should be made in good faith.
Ethics Hotline
Piper Jaffray maintains an Ethics Hotline which is available for use by ARI employees. The Ethics Hotline is a confidential means for you to report or discuss any ethical question, concern, problem or violation related to ARI and any violation or suspected violation of this Code. To reach the Ethics Hotline, dial the number below.
ETHICS HOTLINE U.S.: 866 396 - TALK (8255)
The Ethics Hotline is monitored by an independent third party to ensure that all calls are handled discreetly and thoroughly. Confidentiality will be maintained, and you may make calls on an anonymous basis, if you wish.
Non-Retaliation Policy
ARI policy prohibits retaliation for reports of misconduct by others made in good faith by employees. Retaliation against an employee who reports a violation or suspected violation is illegal and will result in disciplinary action (up to and including termination of employment) for anyone who takes retaliatory measures of any kind. In addition, retaliatory measures are subject to civil or criminal penalties under applicable laws and regulations, including state and federal laws.
VIII. Duty to Comply and Update
All ARI personnel must acknowledge receipt and acceptance of this Code of Ethics by executing and dating the Compliance Certificate attached hereto as Exhibit A. In addition, at such times as the Chief Compliance Officer may determine, but no less frequently than annually, all ARI personnel shall execute updated Compliance Certificates upon request.
EXHIBIT A
ARI Code of Ethics
CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct
Compliance Certificate
I have read and fully understand the Policy Statements of Advisory Research, Inc., its affiliates, the collective investment vehicles operated by such entities, and their successor entities (collectively, "ARI"), and I hereby certify that I (and my family members, as applicable) will comply with these Policy Statements during the course of my affiliation with ARI (or, in the case of Confidential Information, for one year following the termination of such affiliation).
I agree promptly to report to the Chief Compliance Officer any known breach or possible breach of these Policy Statements, including, without limitation, known breaches or possible breaches of these Policy Statements that occurred prior to the date hereof. I UNDERSTAND THAT VIOLATION OF THE ABOVE-REFERENCED POLICY STATEMENTS SHALL BE GROUNDS FOR DISCIPLINARY ACTION, INCLUDING DISMISSAL, AND ALSO MAY BE A VIOLATION OF FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS.
I further acknowledge that the Policy Statements contained in this Code of Ethics may not be an exclusive statement of the policies and procedures of ARI and that, at any time and from time to time, additional Policy Statements may be issued by the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Compliance Officer.
Additionally, I understand that these Policy Statements shall not preclude ARI and/or its affiliates from requesting that I enter into an employment or other agreement with ARI and/or its affiliates in the future.
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Exhibit (p)(11)
Lazard Code of Ethics
CODE OF ETHICS AND PERSONAL INVESTMENT POLICY
For
Lazard Asset Management LLC
Lazard Asset Management Securities LLC
Lazard Asset Management (Canada) Inc.
Lazard Alternatives LLC
And
Certain Registered Investment Companies
Lazard Asset Management LLC, Lazard Asset Management Securities LLC, Lazard Asset Management (Canada) Inc., Lazard Alternatives LLC (collectively "LAM"), and those U.S.-registered investment companies advised or managed by LAM that have adopted this policy ("Funds"), have adopted this policy in order to accomplish two primary goals: first , to minimize conflicts and potential conflicts of interest between LAM employees and LAM's clients (including the Funds and shareholders of the Funds), and between Fund directors or trustees ("Directors") and their Funds, and second , to provide policies and procedures consistent with applicable law, including Rule 204-2 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (the "Advisers Act") and Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 ("1940 Act"), to prevent fraudulent or manipulative practices with respect to purchases or sales of securities held or to be acquired by client accounts. In addition, it is LAM's policy that LAM employees should not be engaging in short-term investing, including so-called market timing of any mutual funds, whether or not managed by LAM. This Policy therefore prohibits certain short-term trading activity by LAM employees.
All employees of LAM, including employees who serve as Fund officers or directors, are "Covered Persons" under this policy and are required to comply with all applicable federal securities laws.
Additionally, all
Directors of the Funds are subject to this policy as indicated below.
A. Statement of Principles.
All Covered Persons owe a fiduciary duty to LAM's clients when conducting their personal investment transactions. Covered Persons must place the interest of clients first and avoid activities, interests and relationships that might interfere with the duty to make decisions in the best interests of the clients. All Directors owe a fiduciary duty to each Fund of which they are a director and to that Fund's shareholders when conducting their personal investment transactions. At all times and in all matters Directors shall place the interests of their Funds before their personal interests. The fundamental standard to be followed in personal securities transactions is that Covered Persons and Directors may not take inappropriate advantage of their positions.
Covered Persons are reminded that they also are subject to other policies of LAM, including policies on insider trading and the receipt of gifts and entertainment. Covered Persons must never trade in a security while in possession of material, non-public information about the issuer or the market for those securities, even if the Covered Person has satisfied all other requirements of this policy.
LAM's Chief Compliance Officer shall be responsible for the implementation of this Code of Ethics and Personal Investment Policy and all record-keeping functions mandated hereunder, including the review of all initial and annual holding reports as well as the quarterly transactions reports described below. The Chief Compliance Officer may delegate this function to others in the Legal / Compliance Department, and shall promptly report to LAM's General Counsel or the Chief Executive Officer all material violations of, or material deviations from, this policy.
B. Definitions.
For purposes of this Policy, "Personal Securities Accounts" include :
1. Any account in or through which securities can be purchased or sold, which includes, but is not limited to, a brokerage account, 401k account, or variable annuity or variable life insurance policy;
2. Accounts in the Covered Person's or Director's name or accounts in which the Covered Person or Director has a direct or indirect beneficial interest (a definition of Beneficial Ownership is included in Exhibit A);
3. Accounts in the name of the Covered Person's or Director's spouse;
4. Accounts in the name of children under the age of 18, whether or not living with the Covered Person or Director, and accounts in the name of relatives or other individuals living with the Covered Person or Director or for whose support the Covered Person or Director is wholly or partially responsible (together with the Covered Person's or Director's spouse and minor children, "Related Persons"); 1
5. Accounts in which the Covered Person or Director or any Related Person directly or indirectly controls, participates in, or has the right to control or participate in, investment decisions.
6. 401k and similar retirement accounts that permit the participant to change their investments to trade more than once per quarter (such as, for example, an "Individually Directed Account").
For purposes of this Policy, Personal Securities Accounts do not include :
1. Estate or trust accounts in which a Covered Person, Director, or Related Person has a beneficial interest, but no power to affect investment decisions. There must be no communication between the account(s) and the Covered Person, Director or Related Person with regard to investment decisions prior to execution ;
2. Fully discretionary accounts managed by LAM, another registered investment adviser, a registered representative of a registered broker-dealer or another approved person are permitted if, (i) for Covered Persons and Related Persons, the Covered Persons receives permission from the Legal / Compliance Department, and (ii) for all persons covered by this Code, there is no communication between the adviser to the account and such person with regard to investment decisions prior to execution.
1# Unless otherwise indicated, all provisions of this Code apply to Related Persons.
3. Direct investment programs, which allow the purchase of securities directly from the issuer without the intermediation of a broker-dealer, provided that the timing and size of the purchases are established by a pre-arranged schedule (e.g., dividend reinvestment plans). Covered Persons must pre-clear the transaction at the time that participation in the direct investment program is being established. Covered Persons also must provide documentation of these arrangements and arrange to have their statements forwarded to the Legal / Compliance Department;
4. 401k and similar retirement accounts that permit the participant to change their investments no more frequently than once every 60 days.
5. Other accounts over which the Covered Person or Director has no direct or indirect influence or control;
6. Qualified state tuition programs (also known as "529 Programs") where investment options and frequency of transactions are limited by state or federal laws.
For purposes of this Policy, " Security" includes , in general, any interest or instrument commonly known as a security including the following:
1. stocks
2. bonds
3. shares of closed-end funds, exchange-traded funds (commonly referred to as "ETFs") and unit investment trusts
4. shares of the LAM mutual funds or any mutual fund for which LAM serves as a sub-adviser (see Exhibit D for the current list of Funds)
5. hedge funds
6. private equity funds
7. limited partnerships
8. private placements or unlisted securities
9. debentures, and other evidences of indebtedness, including senior debt and, subordinated debt
10. investment, commodity or futures contracts
11. all derivative instruments such as options, warrants and indexed instruments
"Security" also includes securities that are "related" to a security being purchased or sold by a LAM client. A "related security" is one whose value is derived from the value of another security (e.g., a warrant, option, or an indexed instrument).
For purposes of this Policy, Security does not include :
1. money market mutual funds
2. transactions and holdings in shares of mutual funds, unless LAM acts as the investment adviser or sub-adviser for the fund (although shares of ETFs are Securities for purposes of this Policy)
3. U.S. Treasury obligations
4. mortgage pass-throughs (e.g., Ginnie Maes) that are direct obligations of the U.S. government
5. bankers' acceptances
6. bank certificates of deposit
7. commercial paper
8. high quality short-term debt instruments (meaning any instrument that has a maturity at issuance of less than 366 days and that is rated in one of the two highest rating categories by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization, such as S&P or Moody's), including repurchase agreements.
C. Opening and Maintaining Employee Accounts.
All Covered Persons and their Related Persons must generally maintain their Personal Securities Accounts at Lazard Capital Markets LLC ("LCM") or other approved broker-dealers (the "Approved Broker-Dealers"). Contact the Legal / Compliance Department for a list of the Approved Broker-Dealers. Additionally, if one of the Approved Broker-Dealers do not offer a particular investment product or service, or for Related Persons who, by reason of their employment, are required to conduct their securities transactions in a manner inconsistent with this policy, or in other exceptional circumstances, Covered Persons may submit a request for exemption to the Legal / Compliance Department. For any Personal Securities Account not maintained at an Approved Broker-Dealer, Covered Persons and their Related Persons must arrange to have duplicate copies of trade confirmations and statements provided to the Legal / Compliance Department at the following address: Lazard Asset Management LLC, Attn: Chief Compliance Officer, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, 59 th Floor, New York, NY 10112- 6300 . All other provisions of this policy will continue to apply to any Personal Securities Account not maintained at an Approved Broker-Dealer.
D. Restrictions.
The following restrictions apply to trading for Personal Securities Accounts of Covered Persons and Related Persons:
1. Conflicts with Client Activity. No security may be purchased or sold in any Personal Securities Account seven (7) calendar days before or after a LAM client account trades in the same security.
2. 60 Day Holding Period. Securities transactions, including transactions in mutual funds where LAM acts as the investment adviser or sub-adviser, must be for investment purposes rather than for speculation. Consequently, Covered Persons or their Related Persons may not profit from the purchase and sale of the same or equivalent securities within sixty (60) calendar days (i.e., the security may be purchased or sold on the 61 st day), calculated on a First In, First Out (FIFO) basis. All profits from short-term trades are subject to disgorgement. However, with the prior written approval of the Chief Compliance Officer, or in his absence another senior member of the Legal / Compliance Department, and only in the case of rare and/or unusual circumstances or if the equities justify, a Covered Person or a Related Person may execute a short-term trade.
Notwithstanding the above, the 60-day holding period will not apply (although the obligation to pre-clear trades will apply) to shares of ETFs, options on ETFs that seek to track the performance of broad-based indices (e.g., the QQQQ SPY, EFA, GAF, etc.). Nevertheless, short-term trading in shares of ETFs is discouraged. If a pattern of frequent trading is detected, the Legal / Compliance Department may reject any order to buy or sell these shares or contracts.
3. Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). No transaction for a Personal Securities Account may be made in securities offered pursuant to an initial public offering.
4. Private Placements. Securities offered pursuant to a private placement (e.g., hedge funds, private equity funds or any other pooled investment vehicle the interests or shares of which are offered in a private placement) may not be purchased or sold by a Covered Person without the prior approval of LAM's Chief Compliance Officer (See Exhibit B); however, purchases or sales of Lazard sponsored hedge funds do not require such approval. In connection with any decision to approve such a private placement, the Legal / Compliance Department will prepare a report of the decision that explains the reasoning for the decision and an analysis of any potential conflict of interest. Any Covered Person receiving approval to acquire securities in a private placement must disclose that investment when the Covered Person participates in a LAM client's subsequent consideration of an investment in such issuer and any decision by or made on behalf of the LAM client to invest in such issuer will be subject to an independent review by investment personnel of LAM with no personal interest in the issuer.
5. Hedge Funds. Hedge funds are sold on a private placement basis and as noted above, with the exception of Lazard sponsored hedge funds, are subject to prior approval by LAM's Chief Compliance Officer (See Exhibit B). In considering whether or not to approve an investment in a hedge fund, the Chief Compliance Officer or his or her designee, will review a copy of the fund's offering memorandum, subscription documents and other governing documents ("Offering Documents") as deemed appropriate in order to ensure that the proposed investment is being made on the same terms generally available to all other investors in the hedge fund. The Chief Compliance Officer may grant exceptions to this general rule under certain circumstances, for example, such as when a family relationship exists between the Covered Person and the hedge fund manager.
Upon receipt of a request by a Covered Person to invest in a hedge fund, the Legal / Compliance Department will contact the Fund of Funds Group (the "Team") and identify the fund in which the Covered Person has requested permission to invest. The Team will advise the Legal / Compliance Department if the fund is on the Team's approved list or if the Team is otherwise interested in investing clients assets in the fund. If the fund is not on the Team's approved list and the Team is not interested in investing in the fund, the Chief Compliance Officer will generally approve the Covered Person's investment, unless other considerations warrant denying the investment. If the fund is on the approved list or the Team may be interested in investing in the fund, then the Legal / Compliance Department will determine whether the fund is subject to capacity constraints. If the fund is subject to capacity constraints, then the Covered Person's request will be denied and priority will be given to the Team to invest client assets in the fund. If the fund is not subject to capacity constraints, then the Covered Person will generally be permitted to invest along with the Team. If the fund is on the approved list or the Team may be interested in investing in the fund, then the Covered Person's investment must be made generally on the same terms available to all investors as set forth in the fund's Offering Documents.
6. Speculative Trading. Absent approval from the appropriate compliance personnel, Covered Persons are prohibited from engaging in the trading of options or futures and from engaging in speculative trading, as opposed to investment activity. The 60-day holding period generally applies to transactions in these instruments.
7. Short Sales. Covered Persons are prohibited from engaging in short sales of any security. However, provided the investment is otherwise permitted under this Policy and has received all necessary approvals, an investment in a hedge fund that engages in short selling is permitted. Covered Persons are prohibited from buying or going long a put option when they do not hold the underlying stock since this can result in a short sale on expiration date of the contract.
8. Inside Information. No transaction may be made in violation of the Material Non-Public Information Policies and Procedures ("Inside Information") as outlined in Section 32 of the LAM Compliance Manual; and
9. Options on Lazard Stock. Covered Persons are prohibited from entering into options contracts related to Lazard stock.
10. Directorships. Covered Persons may not serve on the board of directors of any corporation or entity (other than a related Lazard entity) without the prior approval of LAM's Chief Compliance Officer or General Counsel.
11. Control of Issuer. Covered Persons and Related Persons may not acquire any security, directly or indirectly, for purposes of obtaining control of the issuer.
E. Prohibited Recommendations.
No Covered Person shall recommend or execute any securities transaction for any client account, or, in the case of a Director, for the Director's Fund, without having disclosed, in writing, to the Chief Compliance Officer or, in his or her absence, another senior member of the Legal / Compliance Department, any direct or indirect interest in such securities or issuers (including any such interest held by a Related Person). Prior written approval of such recommendation or execution also must be received from the Chief Compliance Officer or, in his or her absence, another senior member of the Legal / Compliance Department. The interest in personal accounts could be in the form of:
1. Any direct or indirect beneficial ownership of any securities of such issuer;
2. Any contemplated transaction by the person in such securities;
3. Any position with such issuer or its affiliates; or
4. Any present or proposed business relationship between such issuer or its affiliates and the person or any party in which such person has a significant interest.
F. Transaction Approval Procedures.
All transactions by Covered Persons (including Related Persons) in Personal Securities Accounts must receive prior approval as described below. To pre-clear a transaction, Covered Persons must:
1. Electronically complete and "sign" a "New Equity Order" or "New Bond Order" trade ticket located in the Firm's Lotus-Notes e-mail application under the heading "Employee Trades."
2. The ticket is then automatically transmitted to the Legal / Compliance Department where it will be processed. For accounts maintained at LCM , if approved, the Legal / Compliance Department will route the order directly to LCM's trading desk for execution, provided the employee selected the "Direct Execution" option when completing the equity or bond order ticket. For any account not maintained at LCM , or if the account is maintained at LCM but the "Direct Execution" option was not selected, the employee will be notified if the order is approved or not approved and, if the order is approved, the employee is responsible to transmit the order to the broker-dealer where his or her account is maintained.
NOTE: Orders approved for execution must be effected on the day the order was approved. Otherwise, the employee must resubmit the transactions again for approval.
The Legal / Compliance Department endeavors to preclear transactions promptly; however, transactions may not always be approved on the day in which they are received. Certain factors such as time of day the order is submitted or length of time it takes a LAM portfolio manager to confirm there is no client activity, all play a role in the length of time it takes to preclear a transaction.
G. Acknowledgment and Reporting.
1. Initial Certification. Within 10 days of becoming a Covered Person or Director, such Covered Person or Director must submit to the Legal / Compliance Department an acknowledgement that they have received a copy of this policy, and that they have read and understood its provisions. See Exhibit C for the form of Acknowledgement.
2. Initial Holdings Report. Within 10 days of becoming a Covered Person, all LAM personnel must submit to the Legal / Compliance Department a statement of all securities in which such Covered Person has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership. This statement must include (i) the title, number of shares and principal amount of each security, (ii) the name of any broker, dealer, insurance company, or bank with whom the Covered Person maintained an account in which any securities were held for the direct or indirect benefit of such Covered Person and (iii) the date of submission by the Covered Person. The information provided in this statement must be current as of a date no more than 45 days prior to the Covered Person's date of employment at LAM. Such information should be provided on the form attached as Exhibit C.
3. Quarterly Report. Within 30 days after the end of each calendar quarter, provide information to the Legal / Compliance Department relating to securities transactions executed during the previous quarter for all securities accounts. Any such report may contain a statement that the report shall not be construed as an admission by the person making such report that he or she has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership in the security to which the report relates.
Note: Covered Persons satisfy this requirement by holding their personal securities accounts at LCM or one of the Approved Broker-Dealers.
4. Annual Report. Each Covered Person shall submit an annual report to the Legal / Compliance Department showing as of a date no more than 45 days before the report is submitted (1) all holdings in securities in which the person had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership and (2) the name of any broker, dealer, insurance company, or bank with whom the person maintains an account in which any securities are held for the direct or indirect benefit of the Covered Person or Related Persons.
Note: Covered Persons satisfy this requirement by certifying annually that all transactions during the year were executed in Internal Accounts or Outside Accounts for which the Legal / Compliance Department receives confirmations and periodic statements.
5. Annual Certification. All Covered Persons and Directors are required to certify annually that they have (i) read and understand this policy and recognize that they are subject to its terms and conditions, (ii) complied with the requirements of this policy and (iii) disclosed or reported all personal securities accounts and transactions required to be disclosed or reported pursuant to this Code of Ethics and Personal Investment Policy.
H. Fund Directors.
A Director who is not an "interested person" of the Fund within the meaning of Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act, and who would be required to make reports solely by reason of being a Director, is required to make the quarterly transactions reports required by Section H (3.) as to any security only if at the time of a transaction by the Director in that security, he/she knew, or in the ordinary course of fulfilling his/her official duties as a Fund Director, should have known that during the 15-day period immediately preceding or following the date of that transaction, that security was purchased or sold by that Director's Fund or was being considered for purchase or sale by that Director's Fund.
If a Director introduces a hedge fund to the Team, as previously defined in Section E (5.), the Director is required to inform the Team whether the Director or an affiliated person of the Director has invested in the fund and the terms of such investment. If a Director decides to invest in a hedge fund that he or she knew or, in the ordinary course of fulfilling his responsibilities as a Director should have known that the hedge fund is held by or is being considered for purchase or sale by the Team, the Director is required, before making the investment, to disclose this to the Team and any different terms or rights that have been granted to the Director. If a Director learns, in the ordinary course of fulfilling his responsibilities as a Director, that the Team has invested in a fund in which the Director has an investment, the Director should advise the Chief Compliance Officer of such investment.
I. Exemptions.
1. Purchases or sales of securities which receive the prior approval of the Chief Compliance Officer or, in his or her absence, another senior member of the Legal / Compliance Department, may be exempted from certain restrictions if such purchases or sales are determined to be unlikely to have any material negative economic impact or have an appearance of impropriety on any client account managed or advised by LAM.
2. De Minimis Exemption. The blackout period restriction (see Section D.1) shall not apply to any transaction in (1) equity securities, or series of related transactions, involving up to 500 shares of a security, but not to exceed an aggregate transaction amount of $25,000 of the security, provided the issuer has a market capitalization greater than US $5 billion, (2) options on an equity security up to 5 contracts (or the equivalent of 500 shares), but not to exceed a maximum exposure amount of $25,000 of the security, provide the issuer underlying the option has a market capitalization greater than US $5 billion, and (3) fixed income securities, or series of related transactions, involving up to $25,000 face value of that fixed income security, provided that the issuer has a market capitalization of greater than US $5 billion for its equity securities.
The de minimis exemption does not apply to shares of ETFs or to option contracts on indices or other types of securities whose value is derived from a broad-based index.
J. Sanctions.
The Legal / Compliance Department shall report all material violations of this Code of Ethics and Personal Investment Policy to LAM's Chief Executive Officer or General Counsel who may impose such sanctions as deemed appropriate, including, among other things, a letter of censure, fine or suspension or termination of the employment of the violator.
K. Retention of Records.
All records relating to personal securities transactions hereunder and other records meeting the requirements of applicable law, including a copy of this policy and any other policies covering the subject matter hereof, shall be maintained in the manner and to the extent required by applicable law, including Rule 204-2 under the Advisers Act and Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. The Legal / Compliance Department shall have the responsibility for maintaining records created under this policy.
L. Board Review.
The Chief Compliance Officer shall provide to the Board of Directors of each Fund, on a quarterly basis, a written report regarding this policy, and at least annually, a written report and certification meeting the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act.
M. Other Codes of Ethics.
To the extent that any officer of any Fund is not a Covered Person hereunder, or an investment subadviser of or principal underwriter for any Fund and their respective access persons (as defined in Rule 17j-1) are not Covered Persons hereunder, those persons must be covered by separate codes of ethics which are approved in accordance with applicable law.
Exhibit A
EXPLANATION OF BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP
You are considered to have "Beneficial Ownership" of Securities if you have or share a direct or indirect "Pecuniary Interest" in the Securities.
You have a "Pecuniary Interest" in Securities if you have the opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or share in any profit derived from a transaction in the Securities.
The following are examples of an indirect Pecuniary Interest in Securities:
1. Securities held by members of your immediate family sharing the same household; however, this presumption may be rebutted by convincing evidence that profits derived from transactions in these Securities will not provide you with any economic benefit. "Immediate family" means any child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, or sister-in-law, and includes any adoptive relationship.
2. Your interest as a general partner in Securities held by a general or limited partnership.
3. Your interest as a manager-member in the Securities held by a limited liability company.
You do not have an indirect Pecuniary Interest in Securities held by a corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other entity in which you hold an equity interest, unless you are a controlling equity holder or you have or share investment control over the Securities held by the entity.
The following circumstances constitute Beneficial Ownership by you of Securities held by a trust:
1. Your ownership of Securities as a trustee where either you or members of your immediate family have a vested interest in the principal or income of the trust.
2. Your ownership of a vested interest in a trust.
3. Your status as a settler of a trust, unless the consent of all of the beneficiaries is required in order for you to revoke the trust.
The foregoing is a summary of the meaning of "beneficial ownership". For purposes of the attached policy, "beneficial ownership" shall be interpreted in the same manner, as it would be in determining whether a person is subject to the provisions of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the rules and regulations thereunder.
Exhibit B
LAM PRIVATE PLACEMENT APPROVAL FORM
Section I
This section must be completed and signed by the Employee seeking to engage in a private placement transaction. Please return the completed form to the Compliance Department for review. A decision will be communicated to you in writing . For purposes of the review, please attach copies of all available offering documents and business plans, as well as partnership and subscription agreements.
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NAME OF EMPLOYEE |
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APPROXIMATE DATE OF INVESTMENT |
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BUYER OR SELLER OF SECURITY (IF DIFFERENT FROM EMPLOYEE) |
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BUY OR SELL |
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NAME OF SECURITY |
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SIZE OF TRANSACTION |
Employee relationship to issuer or its principal promoters: ________________________
How did you learn about this investment opportunity? _________________________________________________
Employee by his/her signature below declares that the information given above is correct to the best of his/her knowledge and that the Employee, and if applicable, the Related Person (as defined in the Code of Ethics & Personal Investment Policy) on whose behalf approval is sought, has no inside information or other knowledge pertaining to this proposed transaction that constitutes a violation of any policy of Lazard Asset Management LLC or securities law, rule or regulation.
_________________________________
Employee Signature
Section II
This section to be completed by LAM compliance personnel. |
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Security contemplated for LAM clients? _____ Yes _____ No |
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___ Approved ___ Denied |
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Reasons: |
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_______________________ _______________________ |
Chief Compliance Officer Date |
Exhibit C
LAM ACKNOWLEDGEMENT & INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT
Pursuant to Code of Ethics and Personal Investment Policy (the "Policy")
This report must be completed and returned to the Legal / Compliance Department within 10 days of employment.
Name: ________________________________ Date of Employment: _______________
( Please print)
Account Information:
I, or any Related Person 2 , do not have a beneficial interest in any account(s) with any financial services firm.
I, or any Related Person, maintain the following account(s). Please list any broker, dealer, insurance company, or bank, which holds securities for your direct or indirect benefit as of the date of your employment. This includes 401k accounts and insurance company variable insurance contracts.*
Name of Financial Services Firm |
Type of Account (Brokerage, Variable Annuity, 401k.) |
Name on Account |
Account Number |
Is this a Managed Account? |
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*401k accounts and similar retirement accounts that permit the participant to change their investments no
more frequently than once per quarter need not be reported.
2# Related Persons include your spouse, your children under the age of 18 whether or not living with you, relatives or other individuals who live with you, if you contribute to their support, and other persons who's accounts you have discretionary authority over.
Securities Holdings Information:
For each of the accounts listed above, attach to this report a copy of your most recent statements(s) listing all of your securities holdings. All statements must be current as of a date no more than 45 prior to your date of employment at LAM. In addition, please list in the space provided below holdings in hedge funds, private equity funds, limited partnerships or any other type of security that may not be held in an account listed above.
Description of Security |
Type of Security |
No. of Shares |
Principal Amount Invested |
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I, or any Related Person, have no securities holdings to report.
I certify that I have received a copy of the Policy, and that I have read and understood its provisions. I further certify that this report represents a complete and accurate description of my account(s) and securities holdings as of my initial date of employment. The information provided is current as of a date no more than 45 days prior to my employment at LAM.
Signature: ____________________________________ Date: _______________________
Exhibit D
LAM Sub-advised Funds
Fund Name / Description |
Where domiciled |
BMO Guardian Global Equity Fund |
Canada |
BMO US Dollar Monthly Income Fund |
Canada |
BMO Guardian Global Diversified Fund |
Canada |
BMO Guardian Global Absolute Return |
Canada |
BMO Emerging Markets Fund EM Value ADR |
Canada |
BMO Emerging Markets Fund EM Growth ADR |
Canada |
BMO Emerging Markets Fund EM Value Ord |
Canada |
BMO Emerging Markets Fund EM Growth |
Canada |
DESJARDINS Global Small Cap Equity Fund |
Canada |
MGI Non-US Core Equity Fund |
Canada |
MGI International Equity Fund |
Canada |
SEI Canada Emerging Markets Equity Fund |
Canada |
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American Beacon Advisors |
United States |
Forward International Equity Fund |
United States |
HC Capital Trust |
United States |
Jackson Natl Finl Svcs MidCap Equity |
United States |
JNL/LAZARD Emerging Markets Portfolio |
United States |
JNL/LAZARD Emerging Equity Markets Portfolio |
United States |
Members Fund International (EAFE) |
United States |
MET/LAZARD Mid Cap Equity Portfolio |
United States |
Nuveen International Equity Select Fund |
United States |
Pacific Life Funds - Pl Mid-Cap Equity |
United States |
Pacific Select Fund - Mid-Cap Equity |
United States |
Russell Investment Company |
United States |
Russell Trust Company |
United States |
SEI Advisor Managed Tr |
United States |
SEI International Trust (SIT) Emerging Markets |
United States |
SEI LARGE Cap Value Fund (SIMT) US EQ |
United States |
SEI LCap Disc EQ Fund (SIIT) - US CONC |
United States |
SEI LCap Disc EQ Fund (SIIT) - US SMID |
United States |
SEI LCap Disc EQ Fund( SIIT) US EQ |
United States |
Strategic Advisers Core Fund |
United States |
The Managers International Equity Fund |
United States |
Ultra Series Fund-International Eqty Fd |
United States |
Vanguard International Value Fund |
United States |
Vanguard Windsor II Fund |
United States |
Wilshire Associates Inc |
United States |
Exhibit (p)(13)
MFS Code of Ethics
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MFS Investment Management Code of Ethics
Owner(s): Chief Compliance Officer Conflicts Officer |
Effective Date: March 27, 2012
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Replaces Policy Version Dated: February 22, 2010
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Contact Persons: codeofethics@mfs.com Yasmin Motivala, AVP, Senior Compliance Manager ext. 55080 Liz Hurley, Assistant Compliance Manager ext. 55836 Jenn Lentz, Compliance Consultant ext. 56588
Oversight Committee: Ethics Oversight Committee
Applicability: All employees of MFS and its subsidiaries |
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At the direction of the MFS Code of Ethics Oversight Committee (the "Committee"), the above listed personnel and the MFS Investment Management Compliance Department in general, are responsible for implementing, monitoring, amending and interpreting this Code of Ethics.
Table of Contents
Overview and Scope 4
Statement of General Fiduciary Principles 5
Definitions 6
Procedural Requirements of the Code Applicable to MFS Employees 9
Use of Required Brokers 9
Reportable Funds Transactions and Holdings 10
Disclosure of Employee Related Accounts and Holdings 10
Transactions Reporting Requirements 10
Discretionary Authorization 11
Excessive Trading 11
Use of MFS Proprietary Information 11
Futures and Related Options on Covered Securities 12
Initial Public Offerings 12
Investment Clubs and Investment Contests 12
Trading Provisions, Restrictions and Prohibitions 13
Pre-clearance 13
Private Placements 13
Initial Public Offerings 14
Restricted Securities. 14
Short-Term Trading 14
Selling Short 19
Service as a Director 15
Trading Requirements Applicable to Research Analysts, Research Associates and Portfolio Managers 16
Administration and Enforcement of the Code of Ethics 22
Beneficial Ownership and Control Exhibit A
Reporting Obligations Exhibit B
Specific Country Requirements Exhibit C
Access Categorization of MFS Business Units Exhibit D
Security Types and Pre-Clearance and Reporting Requirements Exhibit E
Private Placement Approval Request Exhibit F
Initial Public Offering Approval Request Exhibit G
The following related policies and information can be viewed by clicking on the links. They are also available on the Compliance Department's intranet site (unless otherwise noted).
MFS Inside Information Policy
MFS Inside Information Procedures
MFS Code of Business Conduct
The Code of Ethics for Personal Trading and Conduct for Non-Management Directors
The Code of Ethics for the Independent Trustees, Independent Advisory Trustees, and Non-Management Interested Trustees of the MFS Funds and Compass Funds
MFS Policy of Handling Complaints
MFS-SLF Ethical Wall Policy
Current list of MFS' direct and indirect subsidiaries (located on the Legal Department intranet site)
Current list of funds for which MFS acts as adviser, sub-adviser or principal underwriter ("Reportable Funds")
Information Security Policy
Antitrust Policy
Anticorruption Policy
Political Contributions and Activity Policy
Social Media Policy
Note: The related policies and information are subject to change from time to time.
The MFS Investment Management Code of Ethics (the "Code") applies to Massachusetts Financial Services Company as well as all of its direct and indirect subsidiaries (collectively, the "MFS Companies"), and is designed to comply with applicable U.S. federal securities laws. The MFS Compliance Department, under the direction of MFS' Chief Compliance Officer and the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee (the "Committee"), administers the Code.
The provisions of the Code apply to MFS "Employees" wherever located and other persons as designated by the Committee, as detailed on page 9 in Part II of the Definitions section of the Code. In certain non-U.S. countries, local laws or customs may impose requirements in addition to those imposed by the Code. MFS Employees residing in a country identified in Exhibit C are subject to the applicable requirements set forth in Exhibit C, as updated from time to time. The Code complements MFS' Code of Business Conduct (see the Table of Contents for a link to this policy and other related policies and documents). As an Employee of MFS, you must follow MFS' Code of Business Conduct, and any other firm-wide or department-specific policies and procedures.
This Code does not apply to directors of MFS who are not also MFS Employees ("MFS Non-Management Directors") or Trustees/Managers of MFS' sponsored SEC registered funds who are not also Employees of MFS ("Fund Non-Management Trustees"). MFS Non-Management Directors and Fund Non-Management Trustees are subject to the Code of Ethics for Personal Trading and Conduct for Non-Management Directors and the Code of Ethics for the Independent Trustees, Independent Advisory Trustees, and Non-Management Interested Trustees of the MFS Funds, respectively (see the Table of Contents for links to these policies). MFS Employees must be familiar with the Role Limitations and Information Barrier Procedures of these separate codes of ethics. In addition, MFS Employees must understand and comply with the MFS-SLF Ethical Wall Policy (see the Table of Contents for a link to this policy).
The Code is structured as follows:
I. Statement of General Fiduciary Principles
TheMFS Investment Advisers and its subsidiaries owe a fiduciary duty to their advisory clients. MFS Heritage Trust Company ("MHTC") officers providing investment advice to the Collective Investment Trusts ("CITs") owe a fiduciary obligation to the CITs. All MFS Employees have an obligation to conduct themselves in accordance with the following principles:
As such, your personal financial transactions and related activities, along with those of your family members (and others in a similar relationship to you) must be conducted consistently with this Code and in such a manner as to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest(s) with MFS' Clients or abuse of your position of trust and responsibility.
MFS considers personal trading to be a privilege, not a right . When making personal investment decisions, you must exercise extreme care to ensure that the prohibitions of this Code are not violated. , You should conduct your personal investing in such a manner that will eliminate the possibility that your time and attention are devoted to your personal investments at the expense of time and attention that should be devoted to your duties at MFS.
In connection with general conduct and personal trading activities, Employees (as defined on page 9 in Section II of the Code) must refrain from any acts with respect to MFS' Clients, which would be in conflict with MFS' Clients or cause a violation of applicable securities laws, such as:
It is not possible for the Code to address every situation involving MFS Employees' personal trading. The Committee is charged with oversight and interpretation of the Code in a manner considered fair and equitable, in all cases with the view of placing MFS' Clients' interests paramount. It also bears emphasis that technical compliance with the procedures, prohibitions and limitations of the Code will not automatically insulate you from scrutiny of, or sanctions for, securities transactions which abuse your fiduciary duty to any MFS Client.
II. Definitions
The definitions are designed to help you understand the application of the Code to MFS Employees, and in particular, your situation. These definitions are an integral part of the Code and a proper understanding of them is necessary to comply with the Code. Please contact the Compliance Department if you have any questions. Please refer back to these definitions as you read the Code.
A. Categories of Personnel
1. Investment Personnel means and includes:
a) Employees in the Equity and Fixed Income Departments, including portfolio managers, research analysts, research associates, traders, support staff, etc.; and
b) Other persons designated as Investment Personnel by MFS' Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO"), MFS' Conflicts Officer ("Conflicts Officer") or their designee(s), or the Committee.
2. Portfolio Managers are Employees who are primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of a portfolio or discrete portion of any portfolio. Research Analysts (defined below) are deemed to be Portfolio Managers with respect to any portfolio or discrete portion of any portfolio managed collectively by a committee of Research Analysts (e.g . , MFS Research Fund).
3. Research Analysts are Employees whose assigned duties solely are to make investment recommendations to or for the benefit of any portfolio or discrete portion of any portfolio.
4. Research Associates are Employees that support Research Analysts and Portfolio Managers by analyzing and presenting information.
5. Access Persons are those Employees, who, (i) in the ordinary course of their regular duties, make, participate in or obtain information regarding the purchase or sale of securities by any MFS Client; (ii) have access to nonpublic information regarding any MFS Client's purchase or sale of securities; (iii) have access to nonpublic information regarding the portfolio holdings of any MFS Client; (iv) have involvement in making securities recommendations to any MFS Client or have access to such recommendations that are nonpublic; or (v) have otherwise been designated as Access Persons by the CCO, the Conflicts Officer or their designee(s), or the Committee. All Investment Personnel (including Portfolio Managers and Research Analysts) are also Access Persons. Please see Exhibit D for the Access Person designations of MFS' Employees.
6. Non-Access Persons are MFS Employees who are not categorized as Access Persons or Investment Personnel.
7. MFS Employees, or Employee, are all officers, directors (excluding non-management directors) and employees of the MFS Companies, and such other persons as designated by the Committee.
8. FINRA Affiliated Person is an Employee who is also associated with a FINRA-member firm, or licensed by FINRA.
9. Covered Person means a person subject to the provisions of this Code. This includes MFS Employees and their related persons, such as spouses and minor children, as well as other persons designated by the CCO or Conflicts Officer, or their designee(s), or the Committee (who, as the case may be, shall be treated as MFS Employees, Access Persons, Non-Access Persons, Portfolio Managers or Research Analysts, as designated by the CCO or Conflicts Officer, or their designees(s), or the Committee). Such persons may include fund officers, consultants, contractors and employees of Sun Life Financial Inc. providing services to MFS.
B. Accounts are all brokerage accounts (excluding 529 Plans) and Reportable Fund accounts.
C. Employee Related Account of any person covered under this Code includes but is not limited to:
1. The Employee's own Accounts and Accounts "beneficially owned" by the Employee as described below;
2. The Employee's spouse/domestic partner's Accounts and the Accounts of minor children and other relatives living in the Employee's household;
3. Accounts in which the Employee, his/her spouse/domestic partner, minor children or other relatives living in the Employee's household have a beneficial interest (i.e., share in the profits even if there is no influence on voting or disposition of the shares); and
4. Accounts (including corporate Accounts and trust Accounts) over which the Employee or his/her spouse/domestic partner or other relatives living in the Employee's household exercises investment discretion or direct or indirect influence or control. For purposes of this definition "direct or indirect influence or control" includes the ability of the Employee to amend or terminate the applicable investment management agreement.
See Exhibit A for a more detailed discussion of beneficial ownership and control. For additional guidance in determining beneficial ownership and control, contact the Compliance Department.
Any person subject to this Code is responsible for compliance with these rules with respect to any Employee Related Account, as applicable. |
D. Automatic Investment Plan means a program in which regular periodic purchases (or withdrawals) are made automatically in (or from) investment accounts in accordance with a predetermined schedule and allocation. This includes a dividend reinvestment plan and payroll and MFS contributions to the MFS retirement plans.
E. CCO means MFS' Chief Compliance Officer.
F. Committee means the Code of Ethics Oversight Committee.
G. Conflicts Officer means MFS' Conflicts Officer.
H. Covered Securities are generally all securities. See Exhibit E for application of the Code to the various security types and for a list of securities which are not Covered Securities.
I. IPO means an initial public offering of equity securities registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission or (if necessary) a foreign financial regulatory authority.
J. MFS Client includes any advisory client of the MFS Investment Advisers .
K. Private Placement means a securities offering that is exempt from registration under certain provisions of the U.S. securities laws and/or similar laws of non-U.S. jurisdictions. Examples of private placements include hedge fund offerings and/or investments in a private company (if you are unsure whether the securities are issued in a private placement, you must consult with the Compliance Department).
L. Portfolio means any fund or account or any discrete portion of a fund or account of a MFS Client.
M. Investment Related Proprietary Information is information in which MFS has invested its own resources or soft dollars to acquire or develop and/or taken reasonable measures to keep confidential. It does not include information that is generally known or is readily ascertainable. Examples of Proprietary Information include but are not limited to internally developed research, research acquired with soft dollars, portfolio transactions and portfolio holdings.
N. Reportable Fund means any fund for which a MFS Company acts as investment adviser, sub-adviser or principal underwriter. Such funds include MFS' retail funds, MFS Variable Insurance Trust, MFS Variable Insurance Trust II, , MFS Institutional Trust, and funds for which MFS serves as sub-adviser, as well as MFS offshore funds (e.g., MFS Meridian Funds). See the Table of Contents for a link to the list of Reportable Funds.
O. MFS Investment Advisers means MFS Investment Management, MFS Institutional Advisors, Inc., McLean Budden Limited, MFS International Ltd., MFS International (U.K.) Limited and MFS Investment Management K.K.
III. Procedural Requirements of the Code Applicable to MFS Employees (Non-Access Persons, Access Persons and Investment Personnel)
A. Compliance with Applicable Federal Securities Laws.
The MFS Companies are subject to extensive regulation. As an MFS Employee, you must comply not only with all applicable federal securities laws but all applicable firm-wide policies and procedures, including this Code, which may be, on occasion, more restrictive than applicable federal securities laws. MFS Employees resident outside the U.S. must also comply with local securities laws (see Exhibit C for specific country requirements). In addition, MFS Employees must be sensitive to the need to recognize any conflict, or the appearance of a conflict, of interest between personal activities and activities conducted for the benefit of MFS Clients, whether or not covered by the provisions of this policy.
B. Reporting Violations.
MFS Employees are required to report any violation, whether their own or another individual's, of the Code, Inside Information Policy and related procedures, Code of Business Conduct, MFS' Business Gift and Entertainment Policy, Information Security Policy, Political Contributions and Activities Policy, Social Media Policy, Anticorruption Policy and Antitrust Policy and any amendments thereto (collectively, the "Conduct Policies"). Reports of violations other than your own may be made anonymously and confidentially to the MFS Corporate Ombudsman, as provided for in the MFS Policy of Handling Complaints (see the Table of Contents for a link to this policy). Alternatively, you may contact the CCO or the Conflicts Officer or their designee(s).
C. Certification of Receipt and Compliance.
1. Initial Certification (New Employee)
Each new MFS Employee will be given copies of the Conduct Policies. Within 10 calendar days of commencement of employment, each new Employee must certify that they have read and understand the provisions of the Conduct Policies. This certification must be completed using the Code of Ethics system at https://mfs.ptaconnect.com . The Committee may, at its discretion, determine that this reporting requirement may be fulfilled instead using paper forms.
2. Quarterly Certification of Compliance.
On a quarterly basis, Employees will be expected to certify that they: (i) have received copies of the then current Conduct Policies; (ii) have read and understand the Conduct Policies and recognize that they are subject to their requirements; and (iii) have complied with all applicable requirements of the Conduct Policies. This certification shall apply to all Employee Related Accounts, and must be completed using the Code of Ethics system at https://mfs.ptaconnect.com . The Committee may, at its discretion, determine that this reporting requirement may be fulfilled instead using a paper form.
D. Use of Required Brokers
Employees located in the U.S. are required to maintain Employee Related Accounts at, and execute all transactions in Covered Securities through, one or more broker-dealers as determined by the Committee. (A list of required brokers is located on https://mfs.ptaconnect.com). New Employees should initiate a transfer of Employee Related Accounts to one or more of the required brokers within 45 days of their hire date. Upon opening such an Account, Employees are required to disclose the Account to the Compliance Department. MFS Employees must also agree to allow the broker-dealer to provide the Compliance Department with electronic reports of Employee Related Accounts and transactions executed therein and to allow the Compliance Department to access all Account information. In addition, if the Compliance Department detects an Employee Related Account that was not reported by the Employee, the Compliance Department will request all statements since the Employee's hire date.
Employees located in the U.S. are required to receive approval from the Committee to maintain an Employee Related Account with broker-dealers other than those on the required brokers list. Permission to open or maintain an Employee Related Account with a broker-dealer other than those on the list of approved brokers will not be granted or may be revoked if, among other things, transactions are not reported as described below in Transactions Reporting Requirements, Section III. G. The Committee may grant or withhold approval to Employees to open or maintain an Employee Related Account with broker-dealers other than those on the required brokers list in its sole discretion. Employees should not have any expectation that the Committee will grant approval to open or maintain an Employee Related Account with any broker-dealer other than one on the required brokers list.
E. Reportable Funds Transactions and Holdings
Employees are required to purchase and maintain investments in Reportable Funds sponsored by MFS through MFS, or another entity designated by MFS for Reportable Funds not available for sale in the U.S. Transactions and holdings in sub-advised Reportable Funds or Reportable Funds not available for sale in the U.S. must be reported as described in Sections III-F and III-G below. (See the Table of Contents for a link to the list of products sub-advised by MFS.)
In addition, MFS Employees are subject to the same policies against excessive trading that apply for all shareholders in Reportable Funds. These policies, which are described in the Reportable Funds' prospectuses, are subject to change.
F. Disclosure of Employee Related Accounts and Holdings (for details on the specific reporting obligations, see Exhibit B)
1. Initial Report
Each new Employee must disclose to the Compliance Department all Employee Related Accounts and all holdings in Covered Securities whether or not held in an Employee Related Account within 10 calendar days of their hire. This includes Covered Securities held directly with the transfer agent or in a dividend reinvestment plan. This report must be made using the Code of Ethics system at https://mfs.ptaconnect.com . The Committee may, at its discretion, determine that this reporting requirement may be fulfilled instead using a paper form. The report must contain information that is current as of a date no more than 45 days prior to the date the report is submitted. Also, any Employee Related Accounts newly associated with an Employee, through marriage or any other life event, must be disclosed promptly, typically within 10 days of the event.
2. Annual Update
On an annual basis, Employees will be required to make an annual update of their Employee Related Accounts and all holdings in Covered Securities, whether or not held in an Employee Related Account. The report must contain information that is current as of a date no more than 45 days prior to the date the report is submitted. The Committee may, at its discretion, determine that reporting requirements contained in this section do not apply to holdings in Accounts where investment discretion is maintained by or delegated to an independent third party and the Employee has no present authority to amend or terminate the applicable investment management agreement.
G. Transactions Reporting Requirements
Each Employee must either report and/or verify all transactions in Covered Securities. Reports must show any purchases or sales for all Covered Securities whether or not executed in an Employee Related Account. Reports must show any purchases or sales for all Covered Securities. Employees must submit a quarterly report within 30 days of calendar quarter end even if they had no transactions in Covered Securities within the quarter. Reports must be submitted using the Code of Ethics system at https://mfs.ptaconnect.com . The Committee may, at its discretion, determine that this reporting requirement may be fulfilled instead using a paper form. For purposes of this report, transactions in Covered Securities that are effected in Automatic Investment Plans need not be reported. The Committee may, at its discretion, determine that reporting requirements contained in this section do not apply to transactions in Accounts where investment discretion is maintained by or delegated to an independent third party and the Employee has no present authority to amend or terminate the applicable investment management agreement.
H. Employees on Leave
Active Employees who are on leave from MFS are still MFS Employees and as such are subject to the Code as well as to MFS' other Conduct Policies. Active Employees on leave must continue to report holdings and transactions while on leave consistent with the requirements of Section III. Active Employees on leave will be required to preclear trades if such employees are Access Persons or Investment Personnel and to certify to their compliance for the period of their leave, including verification of transactions and holdings reports, upon their return to work. Inactive Employees who are no longer Access Persons under the Code will not be subject to the Code for the duration of such period of inactivity.
I. Discretionary Authorization
Generally, Employees are prohibited from exercising discretion over Accounts in which they have no beneficial interest. Under limited circumstances, and only with prior written approval from the Compliance Department, an Employee may be permitted to exercise such discretion. In addition, Employees must receive prior written approval from the Compliance Department before: (i) assuming power of attorney related to financial or investment matters for any person or entity; or (ii) accepting a position on an investment committee for any entity. Further, Employees must notify the Compliance Department upon becoming an executor or trustee of an estate.
J. Excessive Trading
Excessive or inappropriate trading that interferes with job performance or compromises the duty that MFS owes to MFS Clients will not be permitted. An unusually high level of personal trading is strongly discouraged and may be monitored by the Compliance Department and reported to senior management for review. A pattern of excessive trading may lead to disciplinary action under the Code.
K. Use of MFS' Investment Related Proprietary Information
MFS' investment recommendations and other Investment Related Proprietary Information are for the exclusive use of MFS Clients. For purposes of this paragraph, MFS Clients include clients of PPM Sponsorsand exclude PPM Sponsors themselves. Employees should not use MFS' Investment Related Proprietary Information for personal benefit or to benefit othersFor the avoidance of doubt, this means that you should not recommend securities to non clients based on MFS Investment Related Proprietary Information.
Any pattern of personal trading or emails suggesting use of MFS' Investment Related Proprietary Information will be investigated by the Compliance Department. Any misuse or distribution in contravention of MFS policies of MFS' investment recommendations is prohibited. Personal trading conducted in a manner consistent with the pre-clearance rules and other provisions of the Code is presumed not to be in violation of this section. This presumption, however, is rebuttable if trading patterns and/or other activities indicate otherwise.
L. Futures, Options and Other Derivatives on Covered Securities and Exchange Traded Funds ("ETFs") and Exchange Traded Notes ("ETNs")
Employees are prohibited from using derivatives on Covered Securities or ETFs and ETNs to evade the restrictions of this Code. Employees may not use derivatives with respect to a Covered Security or make an investment in an ETF/ETN in order to gain exposure to a Covered Security if the Code would prohibit taking the same position directly in the Covered Security. For example, if a pre-clearance request to buy a security is denied, trading an ETF that has 10% exposure to the same underlying security would be considered a violation of the Code.
M. Initial Public Offerings
Employees are generally prohibited from purchasing equity securities in an IPO. Contact the Compliance Department to determine eligibility.
N. Investment Clubs and Investment Contests
MFS generally prohibits Employees from direct or indirect participation in investment clubs and investment contests. These prohibitions extend to the direct or indirect acceptance of payment or offers of payments of compensation, gifts, prizes or winnings as a result of participation in such activities. Employees should understand that this prohibition applies with equal force to an investment contest in which contest winners do not win a prize with any monetary value.
IV. Trading Provisions, Restrictions and Prohibitions Applicable to All Access Persons and Investment Personnel (collectively, "Access Persons" unless otherwise noted)
A. Pre-clearance
Access Persons must pre-clear before effecting a personal transaction in any Covered Security, except for Reportable Funds. Note: All closed-end funds, including closed-end funds managed by MFS, must be pre-cleared.
Generally, a pre-clearance request will not be approved if it would appear that the trade could have a material influence on the market for that security or would take advantage of, or hinder, trading by any MFS Client within a reasonable number of days. Additionally, any pre-clearance request may be evaluated to determine compliance with other provisions of the Code relevant to the trade or as market or other conditions warrant.
To avoid inadvertent violations, good-till-cancelled orders are not permitted.
Pre-clearance requests will generally be limited to US trading hours with the exception of international employees where pre-clearance is permitted during a specific time-frame as determined by the Committee.
Except as otherwise determined by the Committee, pre-clearance approval is good for the same business day authorization is granted (with the exception of employees located in Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore and Australia who have an additional day to execute a trade). .
By seeking pre-clearance, Access Persons will be deemed to be advising the Compliance Department that they (i) do not possess any material, nonpublic information relating to the security or the issuer of the security; (ii) are not using knowledge of any proposed trade or investment program relating to any MFS Client portfolio for personal benefit; (iii) believe the proposed trade is available to any similarly situated market participant on the same terms; and (iv) will provide any relevant information requested by the Compliance Department.
Pre-clearance may be denied for any reason. An Access Person is not entitled to receive any explanation if their pre-clearance request is denied.
Pre-clearance is not required for the below list of transactions. Please see Exhibit E for whether these transactions need to be reported:
B. Private Placements
Access Persons must obtain prior approval from the Compliance Department before participating in a Private Placement including a Private Placement of a pooled vehicle managed by MFS. The Compliance Department will consult with the Committee and other appropriate parties in evaluating the request. To request prior approval, Access Persons must provide the Compliance Department with a completed Private Placement Approval Request (see Exhibit F). Access Persons are prohibited from participating in "Private Investments in Public Equity Securities" transactions (commonly referred to as "PIPES" offerings).
If the request is approved, the Access Person must report the trade on the Quarterly Transaction Report and report the holding on the Annual Holdings Report (see Section III. F. and Section III. G.).
If the Access Person is also a Portfolio Manager and has a material role in the subsequent consideration of securities of the issuer (or one that is affiliated) by any MFS Client portfolio after being permitted to make a Private Placement, the following steps must be taken:
1. The Portfolio Manager must disclose the Private Placement interest to a member of MFS' Investment Management Committee.
2. An independent review by the Compliance Department in conjunction with other appropriate parties must be obtained for any subsequent decision to buy any securities of the issuer (or one that is affiliated) for the Portfolio Manager's assigned client portfolio(s) before buying for the portfolio(s). The review must be performed by the Compliance Department in consultation with other appropriate parties.
C. Initial Public Offerings and Secondary Offerings
Access Persons are generally prohibited from purchasing securities in either an IPO or a secondary offering. Under limited circumstances and only with prior approval from the Compliance Department, in consultation with the Committee and/or other appropriate parties, certain Access Persons may purchase equity securities in an IPO or a secondary offering, provided the Compliance Department and/or other appropriate parties determines such purchase does not create a reasonable prospect of a conflict of interest with any Portfolio. To request permission to purchase equity securities in an IPO or a secondary equity offering, the Access Person must provide the Compliance Department with a completed request form (see Exhibit G). To request permission to purchase new issues of fixed income securities, the Access Person must pre-clear the security using the Code of Ethics system at https://mfs.ptaconnect.com .
D. Restricted Securities.
Access Persons may not trade for their Employee Related Accounts securities of any issuer that may be on any complex-wide restriction list maintained by the Compliance Department.
E. Short-Term Trading
All Access Persons are prohibited from profiting by entering into opening and subsequent closing transactions involving the same or equivalent Covered Security within 60 calendar days. 1 Profits from such trades must be disgorged (surrendered) in a manner acceptable to MFS. Any disgorgement amount shall be calculated by the Compliance Department, the calculation of which shall be binding. This provision does not apply to:
1 Opening transactions may include but are not limited to: buying securities long, selling securities short, buying a call to open, selling a call to open, buying a put to open and selling a put to open. Note: certain of these transaction are prohibited outright under Section IV-F of the Code. Please contact the Compliance Department with any questions with respect to the application of this prohibition.
F. Selling Short
Access Persons must not sell securities short. This prohibition includes option transactions designed to achieve the same result, such as writing naked calls or buying puts without a corresponding long position.
G. Service as a Director
Access Persons must obtain prior approval from the Compliance Department to serve on a board of directors or trustees of a publicly traded company or a privately held company that is reasonably likely to become publicly traded within one year from the date the Access Person joined the board (for purposes of the Code, a registered investment company that issues redeemable securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933 constitutes a publicly traded company even though no secondary market transactions may occur). In the event an Access Person learns that a privately held company for which the Access Person serves as a director or trustee plans to make a public offering, the Access Person must promptly notify the Compliance Department. Access Persons serving as directors or trustees of publicly traded companies may be isolated from other MFS Employees through "information barriers" or other appropriate procedures.
Access Persons who would like to serve on a board of directors or trustees of a non-profit organization or a privately held company that is not reasonably likely to become publicly traded within one year from the date the Access Person joined the board should refer to the Code of Business Conduct prior to participating in the outside activity.
V. Trading Requirements Applicable to Research Analysts, Research Associates and Portfolio Managers
A. Portfolio Managers Trading in Reportable Funds
No Portfolio Manager shall buy and sell (or sell and buy) shares within 14 calendar days for his or her Employee Related Accounts of any Reportable Fund with respect to which he or she serves as a Portfolio Manager. This provision does not apply to transactions effected through an Automatic Investment Plan.
B. Portfolio Managers Trading Individual Securities
Portfolio Managers are prohibited from trading a security for their Employee Related Accounts (a) for seven calendar days after a transaction in the same or equivalent security in a Portfolio for which he or she serves as Portfolio Manager and (b) for seven calendar days before a transaction in the same or similar security in a Portfolio for which he or she serves as Portfolio Manager if the Portfolio Manager had reason to believe that such Portfolio was reasonably likely to trade the same or similar security within seven calendar days after a transaction in the Portfolio Manager's Employee Related Accounts. If a Portfolio Manager receives pre-clearance authorization to trade a security in his or her Employee Related Account, and subsequently determines that it is appropriate to trade the same or equivalent security in a Portfolio for which the Employee serves as Portfolio Manager, the Portfolio Manager must contact the Compliance Department prior to executing any trades for his or her Employee Related Account and/or Portfolio.
C. Affirmative Duty to Recommend Suitable Securities
Research Analysts have an affirmative duty to make unbiased and timely recommendations to MFS Clients. Research Analysts and Research Associates are prohibited from trading a security they researched on behalf of MFS, or are assigned to research, in an Employee Related Account if he or she has not communicated information material to an investment decision about that security to MFS Clients in a research note. In addition, Research Analysts are prohibited from refraining to make timely recommendations of securities in order to avoid actual or potential conflicts of interest with transactions in those securities in Employee Related Accounts. For purposes of this and similar provisions herein, including information in a research note or a revised research note constitutes communication to an MFS Client.
VI. Administration and Enforcement of the Code of Ethics
A. Applicability of the Code of Ethics' Provisions
The Committee, or its designee(s), has the discretion to determine that the provisions of the Code do not apply to a specific transaction or activity. The Committee will review applicable facts and circumstances of such situations, such as specific legal requirements, contractual obligations or financial hardship. Any Employee who would like such consideration must submit a request in writing to the Compliance Department.
B. Review of Reports
The Compliance Department will regularly review and monitor the reports filed by Covered Persons. Employees and their supervisors may or may not be notified of the Compliance Department's review.
C. Violations and Sanctions
Any potential violation of the provisions of the Code or related policies will be investigated by the Compliance Department, or, if necessary, the Committee. If a determination is made that a violation has occurred, a sanction may be imposed. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to, one or more of the following: a warning letter, fine, profit surrender, personal trading ban, termination of employment or referral to civil or criminal authorities. Material violations will be reported promptly to the respective boards of trustees/managers of the Reportable Funds or relevant committees of the boards.
D. Appeal of Sanction(s)
Employees deemed to have violated the Code may appeal the determination by providing the Compliance Department with a written explanation within 30 days of being informed of the outcome. If appropriate, the Compliance Department will review the matter with the Committee. The Employee will be advised whether the sanction(s) will be imposed, modified or withdrawn. Such decisions on appeals are binding. The Employee may elect to be represented by counsel of his or her own choosing and expense.
E. Amendments and Committee Procedures
The Committee will adopt procedures that will include periodic review of this Code and all appendices and exhibits to the Code. The Committee may, from time to time, amend the Code and any appendices and exhibits to the Code to reflect updated business practices. The Committee shall submit any such amendments to MFS' Internal Compliance Controls Committee. In addition, the Committee shall submit any material amendments to this Code to the respective boards of trustees/managers of the Reportable Funds, or their designees, for approval no later than 6 months after adoption of the material change.
Beneficial Ownership and Control - Exhibit A
The MFS Investment Management Code of Ethics (the "Code") states that the Code's provisions apply to accounts beneficially owned by the Employee, as well as accounts under direct or indirect influence or control of the Employee. Essentially, a person is considered to be a beneficial owner of accounts or securities when the person has or shares direct or indirect pecuniary interest in the accounts or securities. Pecuniary interest means that a person has the ability to profit, directly or indirectly, or share in any profit from a transaction. Indirect pecuniary interest extends to, but is not limited to:
In addition, the Code may apply to accounts under the direct or indirect influence or control of the Employee even when the Employee is not considered a beneficial owner.
Practical Application
Reporting Obligations - Exhibit B
Employees must submit all required reports using the Code of Ethics system at https://mfs.ptaconnect.com . The Committee may, at its discretion, determine that this reporting requirement may be fulfilled instead using a paper form. The electronic reports on the Code of Ethics system meet the contents requirements listed below in Sections A.1. and B.1.
A. Initial and Annual Holdings Reports
Employees must file initial and annual holdings reports ("Holdings Reports") as follows.
1. Content of Holdings Reports
2. Timing of Holdings Reports
3. Exceptions from Holdings Report Requirements
No holdings report is necessary:
B. Quarterly Transaction Reports
Employees must file a quarterly transactions report ("Transactions Report") with respect to:
(i) any transaction during the calendar quarter in a Covered Security in which the Employee had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership; and
(ii) any account established by the Employee during the quarter in which ANY securities were held during the quarter for the direct or indirect benefit of the Employee.
Brokerage statements may satisfy the Transactions Report obligation provided that they contain all the information required in the Transactions Report and are submitted within the requisite time period as set forth below.
1. Content of Transactions Report
a. For Transactions in Covered Securities
b. For Newly Established Accounts Holding ANY Securities
2. Timing of Transactions Report
No later than 30 days after the end of the calendar quarter.
3. Exceptions from Transactions Report Requirements
No Transactions Report is necessary:
Specific Country Requirements - Exhibit C
(For MFS Employees Located in Offices Outside of the U.S.)
United Kingdom
The UK Financial Services Authority rules on personal account dealing are contained in Chapter 11 of the FSA Handbook's Conduct of Business Sourcebook ("COBS"). Further details of the compliance requirements in relation to COBS are in the MFS International (UK) Limited ("MIL UK") Compliance Manual.
As an investment management organization, MIL UK has an obligation to implement and maintain a meaningful policy governing the investment transactions of its employees (including directors and officers). In accordance with COBS 11.7.1R, this policy is intended to minimize conflicts of interest, and the appearance of conflicts of interest, between the employees and clients of MIL UK, as well as to effect compliance with the provisions of part (V) of the Criminal Justice Act 1993, which relates to insider dealing, and part (VIII) of the Financial Services and markets Act 2000, which relates to market abuse and the FSA's Code of Market Conduct. This policy is incorporated by reference into the MIL UK Compliance Manual, which should be read in conjunction with this Code.
Under COBS, MIL UK must take reasonable steps to ensure that any investment activities conducted by employees do not conflict with MIL UK's duties to its customers. In ensuring this is and continues to be the case, MIL UK must ensure it has in place processes and procedures which enable it to identify and record any employee transactions and permission to continue with any transaction is only given where the requirements of COBS are met.
In addition, in respect of UK-based employees, spread betting on securities is prohibited.
For specific guidance, please contact Jonathan Ross, MIL UK Compliance Officer.
Japan
MFS Investment Management K.K., MFS' subsidiary in Japan ("MIMkk"), and its employees, are under the supervision of the Japanese FSA and Kantoh Local Financial Bureau as an investment manager registered in Japan. MIMkk and its employees are regulated by the following laws/guidelines.
In addition, MIMkk employees are prohibited from holding Covered Securities for a period less than six months.
This policy is incorporated by reference into the MIMkk Compliance Manual, which should be read in conjunction with this Code
For specific guidance, please contact Yasuyuki Hirata , MIMkk's Compliance Officer.
Spain
MFS International (UK) Limited, Sucursal en España ("MIL Spain"), is the branch in Spain of MFS International (UK) Limited ("MIL UK"), an investment services undertaking domiciled in the United Kingdom. MIL Spain is registered in the Register of Branches of Foreign Investment Services Undertakings at the Spanish Securities Market Commission (Comisión Nacional del Mercado de Valores - "CNMV") and is authorised to engage in certain investment activities in Spain. MIL Spain has prepared Internal Conduct Regulations (hereinafter, the "ICR") which, together with the General Code of Conduct annexed to Royal Decree 629/1993, of 3 May, the Ministerial Order of 7 October 1999 implementing the general code of conduct and rules for acting in the management of investment portfolios and the MFS Code of Business Conduct and related policies including the MFS Code of Ethics, constitute the rules of conduct applicable to MIL Spain.
Chapter 6 of the MIL Spain ICR deals generally with personal account dealing for employees of MIL Spain. Chapter 6 incorporates by reference and makes applicable to all MIL Spain employees the MFS Code of Ethics. MIL Spain employees should review the ICR, and for specific guidance should contact Jonathan Ross, MIL UK Compliance Officer.
Access Categorization of MFS Departments - Exhibit D
Employees assigned to the following business units, departments or roles have been designated as "Access Persons":
__________________________________________________________________
Employees assigned to the following business units, departments or roles have been designated as "Non-Access":
Security Types and Pre-Clearance and Reporting Requirements - Exhibit E
(This list is not all inclusive and may be updated from time to time. Contact the Compliance Department for additional guidance.)
Security Type |
Pre-clearance Required? |
Transactions and Holdings Reporting Required? |
Mutual Funds |
||
Open-end investment companies which are not Reportable Funds |
No |
No |
Non-MFS 529 Plans |
No |
No |
Reportable Funds (excluding MFS money market funds) |
No |
Yes |
Closed-end funds (including MFS closed-end funds) |
Yes |
Yes |
Unit investment trusts which are exclusively invested in one or more open-end funds, none of which are Reportable Funds |
No |
No |
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs) including options and structured notes on ETFs and ETNs. |
No |
Yes |
Equities |
||
Equity securities (including REITS) |
Yes |
Yes |
Options, futures and structured notes on equity securities |
Yes |
Yes |
Fixed Income |
||
Corporate bond securities |
Yes |
Yes |
Municipal bond securities |
Yes |
Yes |
High yield bond securities |
Yes |
Yes |
U.S. Treasury Securities and other obligations backed by the good faith and credit of the U.S. government |
No |
No |
Debt obligations that are NOT backed by the good faith and credit of the U.S. government (such as Fannie Mae bonds) |
Yes |
Yes |
Foreign government issued securities |
No |
Yes |
Variable rate demand obligations and municipal floaters |
No |
No |
Money market instruments, including commercial paper, bankers' acceptances, certificates of deposit and repurchase agreements, auction-rate preferred and short-term fixed income securities with a maturity of less than one year |
No |
No |
Other |
||
Private placements (including real estate limited partnerships or cooperatives)2 |
Yes |
Yes |
Foreign currency including options and futures on foreign currency3 |
No |
No |
Commodities and options and futures on commodities |
No |
Yes |
Options, futures and structured notes based on a security index |
No |
Yes |
Private MFS stock and private shares of Sun Life of Canada (U.S.) Financial Services Holdings, Inc. 4 |
No |
No |
Sun Life Financial Inc. |
Yes |
Yes |
2 Note that while transactions in these securities are not required to be pre-cleared using the Code of Ethics Online system, you must obtain prior approval from the Compliance Department before participating in a private placement. See Section IV. B. of the Code.
3 Please remember to report all accounts. On a case by case basis, Compliance may require transaction and holding reporting.
4 The common stock of Massachusetts Financial Services Company (which is not a publicly-traded company) and the common stock of Sun Life of Canada (U.S.) Financial Services Holdings, Inc. (which is also not a publicly-traded company) are considered to be Covered Securities under this Code. Employees need not pre-clear or report such stock on transactions or holdings reports pursuant to SEC No-Action Letter, Investment Company Institute, November 27, 2000.
Private Placement Approval Request 5 - Exhibit F
Please Print
Employee Name:_____________________________
Employee Position:___________________________
|
Name of Company:_____________________________________________________________
Dollar amount of private placement:________________________________________________
Dollar amount of your intended investment:__________________________________________
Does this company have publicly traded securities? Yes No
How were you offered the opportunity to invest in this private placement?___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
What is the nature of your relationship with the individual or entity?_______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Was the opportunity because of your position with MFS?______________________________________________________________________
Would it appear to the SEC or other parties that you are being offered the opportunity to participate in an exclusive, very limited offering as a way to curry favor with you or your colleagues at MFS?______________________________________________________________________
5 Access Persons are prohibited from participating in "Private Investments in Public Equity Securities" transactions (commonly referred to as "PIPES" offerings).
Are you inclined to invest in the private placement on behalf of the funds/accounts you manage?
Would any other MFS funds/accounts want to invest in this private placement?
Date you require an answer:_____________________________________________________
Attachments: (square7)business summary (square7)prospectus (square7)offering memorandum
Initial Public Offering Approval Request - Exhibit G
Please Print.
Employee Name:_________________________ Employee Position:_______________________
MFS Phone Extension:______________________________
|
Name of Company:______________________________________________________________
Aggregate Dollar amount of IPO:__________ Dollar amount of your intended investment:_________
Maximum number of shares you intend to purchase? _______________________________________
Is your spouse an employee of the company?
Is your spouse being offered the opportunity to participate in the IPO solely as a result of his or her employment by the company?
Yes No If no, please explain. Not Applicable
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Does the ability to participate in the IPO constitute a material portion of your spouse's compensation for being employed by the company?
Could it appear to the SEC or other parties that you (or your spouse) are being offered the opportunity to participate in the IPO because of your position at MFS or as a way to curry favor with MFS?
Yes No If yes, please explain:
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Are the IPO shares being offered to your spouse as part of a separate pool of shares allocable solely to company employees?
Are such shares part of a so-called "friends and family" or directed share allocation?
Yes No
If your spouse chooses not to participate in the IPO, will the shares that your spouse chooses not to purchase be re-allocated to the general public or to other company insiders?
General Public Other Company Insiders Not Applicable
If you are a portfolio manager, are the funds/accounts you manage likely to participate in the IPO?
Yes No
If you are a portfolio manager, are you aware of other funds/account that would be likely to participate in the IPO?
Are there any other relevant facts or issues that MFS should be aware of when considering your request?
Yes No If yes, please explain:
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Date you require an answer: _________________, ________. (Note: because IPO approval requests often require additional information and conversations with the company and the underwriters, MFS needs at least three full business days to consider such requests.)
Name and address of IPO lead underwriter, and contact person (if available):
__________________________________________________________________________________
Attachments: offering memorandum underwriters' agreement other materials describing eligibility to participate in IPO.
Compliance Use Only |
Approved Denied
___________________________________ ____________________________________
Signature Date
___________________________________ _____________________________________
Equity Or Fixed Income Signature Date
Exhibit (p)(18)
Systematic Code of Ethics
CODE OF ETHICS
Including Statements of Policy on
Insider Trading and Personal Securities Trading
Effective January 2012
Systematic Financial Management, LP
300 Frank W. Burr Blvd.
Glenpointe East, 7 th Floor
Teaneck, New Jersey 07666
201-928-1982
Letter from the MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Honesty, integrity and placing the interests of our clients first have been Systematic Financial Management's ("Systematic's") long-standing hallmark and commitment. One of our company's most valuable assets is our reputation for acting with integrity, high ethical standards and fairness. Maintaining this reputation is one of the values comprising the foundation of our company.
Systematic and its employees owe a fiduciary duty to our clients, which require each of us to place the interests of our clients ahead of our own interests. A critical component of our fiduciary duty is to avoid potential conflicts of interest. Accordingly, you must avoid activities, interests and relationships that might interfere with making decisions in the best interest of Systematic's clients. Please bear in mind a conflict of interest can arise even if there is no financial loss to our clients and regardless of the employee's motivation.
Systematic's Code of Ethics (the "Code"), in conjunction with Systematic's Compliance Manual and Employee Handbook, sets forth the rules, regulations and standards of conduct for Systematic's employees. The Code, Compliance Manual and Employee Handbook, as well as the policies embodied therein, are designed to help ensure we conduct our business consistent with these high standards and our values; and to preclude circumstances which may lead to or give the appearance of conflicts of interest, insider trading or unethical business conduct. The Code prohibits certain activities and personal financial interests, and requires disclosure of personal investments and related business activities of all partners, officers and employees. While it is not possible to specifically define and prescribe rules addressing all possible situations in which conflicts may arise, this Code sets forth Systematic's policy regarding conduct in those situations in which conflicts are most likely to develop. It also sets forth guidelines to govern the way we operate and to help us exercise the highest degree of honesty and integrity in our dealings with others.
This Code of Ethics bears the approval of the Company's Partners and applies to all Systematic employees. The Code also incorporates our managing partner, Affiliated Managers Group, Inc.'s ("AMG's") Insider Trading Policy and Procedures, which may be found in Exhibit A and are incorporated into this Code by reference hereto.
The excellent name of our firm continues to be a direct reflection of the conduct of each of us in everything we do. Doing the right thing begins with basic honesty and integrity. More than ever, it also depends on our good judgment and sensitivity to the way others see us and how they may interpret our actions. Each of us is responsible for our company's reputation. I am confident you will join us in maintaining honesty and integrity in our business so our company always maintains the attributes of an industry leader and is a place where we are proud to work.
Systematic Financial Management, L.P.
Code of Ethics
I. General Principles and Standards of Business Conduct 5
A. Compliance with Laws, Rules and Regulations 6
B. Honest and Ethical Conduct and Avoidance of Improper Conflicts of Interest 6
II. Definitions 7
III. Statement of Policy on Insider Trading 10
A. General Statement of Policy 10
B. What is Insider Trading? 11
C. Penalties and Sanctions for Insider Trading 12
D. Procedures for Avoiding Insider Trading 13
E. Unauthorized Disclosure 14
F. AMG's Insider Trading Policy and Procedures 14
IV. Personal Securities Trading Policy 14
A. General Statement of Policy 14
B. Who Must Comply with the Personal Trading Policy? 15
C. Pre-Clearance Procedures 16
D. Personal Securities Transaction Pre-Clearance 16
E. Personal Securities Transactions 17
F. Personal Securities Trading Restrictions 17
G. Exceptions to the Personal Trading Policy 20
H. Reporting 21
I. Monitoring of Personal Securities Transactions 23
V. Policies Related to Other Business Conduct 24
A. Confidentiality 24
B. Fair Dealing 25
C. Gifts and Business Entertainment 25
D. Political Contributions 26
E. Outside Investment Advisory Services 26
F. Transactions with Investment Advisory Clients 27
G. Receipt of Brokerage Discounts 27
H. Service on Boards and Other Outside Activities 27
I. Other Business Activities 28
J. Miscellaneous Provisions 29
VI. Violations, Sanctions and Penalties 31
VII. Receipt of Code and Compliance Certification 33
Exhibit A Affiliated Managers Group, Inc. Insider Trading Policy and Procedures 34
Exhibit B Examples of Beneficial Ownership 42
Exhibit C Personal Trading Permissible Investments, Pre-Approval & Reporting Requirements 43
Exhibit D Personal Trading Pre-Clearance Request Form 45
Exhibit E Initial Holdings Report 46
Exhibit F Initial Compliance Certifications and Acknowledgements 47
Exhibit G List of Affiliated Funds 50
Exhibit H Quarterly Compliance Acknowledgement 55
I. General Principles and Standards of Business Conduct
Systematic Financial Management, L.P. ("Systematic" or the "Firm") is committed to promoting integrity and maintaining the highest standard of ethical conduct in all of our activities. Our business success is dependent on trusting relationships, which are built on this foundation of integrity. Our reputation is founded on the personal integrity of Systematic's Partners, officers and employees, and our dedication to:
Furthermore, every Partner, officer and employee should also keep the following general fiduciary principles in mind in discharging his or her obligations under the Code.
Every Systematic Partner, officer and employee shall:
It is important that all Partners, officers and employees understand the general principles discussed in this section govern all conduct, whether or not the conduct is covered by more specific standards and procedures set forth herein. While it is not possible to specifically define and prescribe rules addressing all possible situations in which conflicts may arise, this Code sets forth the Firm's policy regarding conduct in those situations in which conflicts are most likely to develop.
Failure to comply with the Firm's Code of Ethics may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment.
A. Compliance with Laws, Rules and Regulations
Systematic expects all Partners, officers and employees to comply with all laws, rules and regulations applicable to the Firm's operations and business. Partners, officers and employees should seek guidance whenever they are in doubt as to the applicability of any law, rule or regulation regarding any contemplated course of action. The Firm holds periodic information and training sessions to promote compliance with laws, rules and regulations, including insider trading laws. Please consult the various guidelines and policies which the Firm has prepared in accordance with specific laws and regulations.
A good rule of thumb, if in doubt on a course of action, is "Always ask first, act later - if you are unsure of what to do in any situation, seek guidance before you act."
As a registered investment adviser, Systematic is subject to regulation by the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), and compliance with federal, state and local laws. Systematic insists on strict compliance with the spirit and the letter of these laws and regulations.
B. Honest and Ethical Conduct and Avoidance of Improper Conflicts of Interest
Every Systematic Partner, officer and employee is required to act honestly and ethically. This broad requirement includes acting in what he or she reasonably believes to be in the best interest of the Firm in connection with his or her duties, reporting material facts honestly to, and not misleading or concealing material facts from, the Firm's Management Committee. Each Partner, officer or employee should adhere to a high standard of business ethics and should be sensitive to situations that may give rise to actual or apparent conflicts of interest.
A "conflict of interest" occurs when a Partner, officer or employee's personal interest conflicts or interferes with the interests of the Firm, with his or her professional obligations to the Firm or with the interests of its Investment Advisory Clients. A conflict situation can arise when a Partner, officer or employee pursues interests that prevent the individual from performing his or her duties for the Firm or an Investment Advisory Client objectively and effectively. A conflict of interest would also arise if a Partner, officer, employee, or a member of their family, receives improper personal benefits as a result of his or her position with the Firm. Any conflict or interest that arises in a specific situation or transaction must be disclosed by the individual and resolved before taking any action.
Conflicts of interest may not always be evident, and individuals should consult with senior levels of management or legal counsel if they are uncertain about any situation. In no event, however, shall investment in any security made in accordance with the Firm's Policy on Personal Securities Transactions be considered a conflict of interest with the Firm.
II. Definitions
Note: Specific capitalized terms used within a definition below may be defined elsewhere within this Definitions section.
a. "Access Person" shall mean any Partner, officer, general partner, principal, employee or Additional Advisory Person of the Firm.
b. "Additional Advisory Person" shall mean any partner, officer or employee of any company in a Control relationship with the Firm who, in connection with his or her regular functions or duties, makes, participates in or obtains information regarding a purchase or sale of a Security by an Investment Advisory Client of the Firm or whose functions relate to making of any recommendations with respect to such purchases or sales, and any natural person in a Control relationship to the Firm who obtains information concerning recommendations made to any Investment Advisory Client with respect to the purchase or sale of a Security. This term includes all employees other than Access Persons in Systematic's home office and those employees who have access to security information in our regional office(s). Going forward in this document, the term "Access Person" includes the definition of both "Access Person" and "Additional Advisory Person" as set forth in this Definitions section.
c. "Adviser" shall mean Systematic Financial Management, L.P., a Delaware limited partnership.
d. "Affiliated Mutual Fund" shall mean any fund managed or sub-advised by Systematic and/or any Affiliated Managers Group, Inc. ("AMG") affiliate. (See also definition of Reportable Fund.)
e. "Beneficial ownership" shall be interpreted in the same manner as it would be in determining whether a person is subject to the provisions of Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the rules and regulations thereunder. Application of this definition is explained in more detail in the Appendix to the Code of Ethics hereto, but generally includes ownership by any Access Person or his or her Immediate Family who, directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship or otherwise, has or shares a direct or indirect pecuniary or voting interest in a security. (See Exhibit B.)
f. "Code" shall mean this Code of Ethics.
g. A Security is being "considered for purchase or sale" when the Firm has undertaken a project to report on a specific Security, to prepare a draft or final report on such Security or if a recommendation has been made by any Portfolio Manager or member of the Investment Policy Committee with respect to a Security (and, with respect to Portfolio Managers and members of the Investment Policy Committee, if such person is considering making such a recommendation).
h. "Control" shall have the same meaning as set forth in Section 2(a)(9) of the Investment Company Act of 1940. Generally, it means the power to exercise a controlling influence over the management or policies of a company, unless such power is solely the result of an official position with such company.
i. "Covered Person" shall mean any director, Partner, officer or employee of Systematic.
j. "Designated Officer" shall mean the Chief Compliance Officer of the Firm, who shall be responsible for management of the Firm's program of compliance with the Code of Ethics. However, if the Designated Officer is required to obtain approval for any action or submit a report, he/she shall seek such approval from, or submit such report to, a person designated by the Chief Executive Officer of the Firm or, if no such person is designated, the Chief Executive Officer of the Firm who shall for such purpose be deemed the Designated Officer.
k. "Federal Securities Laws" shall mean the Securities Act of 1933, the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, Title V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and any rules adopted by the Commission under any of these statutes, and the Bank Secrecy Act as it applies to investment companies and investment advisers and any rules adopted thereunder by the Commission or the Department of the Treasury.
l. "Immediate Family" shall mean any person, related by blood, marriage, domestic partnership (registered or unregistered) or civil union, and living in the same household and includes: any spouse, child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, spouse, sibling, mother, father, son, daughter, brother or sister in law, and any adoptive relationships. The Chief Compliance Officer, after reviewing all the pertinent facts and circumstances, may determine, if not prohibited by applicable law, that an indirect beneficial interest held by members of the Access Person's Immediate Family does not exist or is too remote for the purposes of this Code.
m. "Investment Advisory Client" shall mean any Investment Company Client and any other client or account which is advised or sub-advised by the Firm as to the value of Securities or as to the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling Securities.
n. "Investment Company" shall have the same meaning as set forth under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
o. "Investment Company Client" shall mean any registered Investment Company managed, advised and/or sub-advised by the Firm.
p. "Investment Policy Committee" means the Investment Policy Committee of the Firm or any other body of the Firm serving an equivalent function.
q. "Management Committee" shall consist of Kenneth Burgess, Karen Kohler, Kevin McCreesh, Eoin Middaugh, Ron Mushock and Greg Wood.
r. "Personal Investment Committee" shall consist of Chief Compliance Officer, Portfolio Managers, and the Head Trader.
s. "Portfolio Manager" shall mean any Access Person with direct responsibility and authority to make investment decisions affecting any Investment Company Client and shall include, without limitation, all members of the Firm's Investment Policy Committee.
t. A "purchase" or "sale" of a Security includes, among other things, the purchase or writing of an option to purchase or sell a Security.
u. "Reportable Fund" shall mean any fund for which you serve as an investment adviser as defined in Section 20(a)(20) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (i.e., in most cases, you must be approved by the fund's board of directors before you can serve); or any fund whose investment adviser or principal underwriter controls you, is controlled by you, or is under common control with you. For purposes of this section, control has the same meaning as it does in Section 2(a)(9) of the Investment Company Act of 1940. (See also definition of "Affiliated Mutual Fund" above.)
v. "Reportable Security" shall mean a security as defined in Section 202(a)(18) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, except it does not include:
i. Direct obligations of the Government of the United States;
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 funds other than Reportable Funds; and
v. Shares issued by unit investment trusts that are invested exclusively in one or more open-end funds, none of which are Reportable Funds. (See also definition of "Security" below.)
w. "Security" shall have the same meaning as that set forth in Section 2(a)(36) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (generally, all securities, including options, warrants, unit investment trusts, and electronically traded funds, and other rights to purchase securities) except that it shall not include (i) direct obligations of the Government of the United States, (ii) bankers' acceptances, (iii) bank certificates of deposit, (iv) commercial paper, (v) high quality short-term debt instruments, and (vi) shares of registered open-end investment companies. (However, please note that shares issued by mutual funds sub-advised by Systematic or an affiliate of Systematic must be reported in accordance with the provision set forth in Section IV of this Code.) Please refer to Exhibit G for a list of Affiliated Funds and Sub-Advised Funds. (See also definition of Reportable Security.)
x. "Temporary Employee" shall mean any person employed by Systematic as a consultant, part time, or on a temporary basis. Any person described as a "temporary employee" will be required to sign a Confidentiality and Non-Disclosure Agreement.
y. "Unlisted Security" is a stock or bond not registered with the SEC which, therefore, cannot be sold in the public market on United States stock exchanges, such as the New York Stock Exchange or American Stock Exchange, or traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System.
III. Statement of Policy on Insider Trading
A. General Statement of Policy
It is illegal for any person, either personally or on behalf of others, to trade in securities on the basis of material, non-public information. It is also illegal to communicate (or "tip") material, non-public information to others who may trade in securities on the basis of that information. These illegal activities are commonly referred to as "insider trading."
This statement of Firm Policy on Insider Trading (the "Statement") sets forth the policy against insider trading of Systematic. All Access Persons must comply with this statement, which extends to activities within and outside the scope of their duties at the Firm.
All Access Persons are prohibited from trading either personally or on behalf of others, on material, non-public information or communicating material, non-public information to others in violation of Section 204A of the Investment Advisors Act of 1940 ("Advisers Act"). Whenever an Access Person receives information about a company, he or she should refrain from trading while in possession of that information unless the Access Person first determines the information is public, non-material, or both. The Access Person should also refrain from disclosing the information to others, such as family, relatives, business or social acquaintances, who do not need to know for legitimate business reasons. If an Access Person has any questions at all as to whether the information is material and non-public, he or she should contact the CCO regarding any questions prior to divulging any information, making recommendations or trading.
The purpose of this Statement is to address Systematic's need for an insider trading policy under the securities laws, including the Insider Trading and Securities Fraud Enforcement Act of 1988, as well as to avoid any situation that could damage Systematic's reputation for integrity and ethical conduct.
What transactions are prohibited ?
When you know material, non-public information about any company, you, your spouse and members of your Immediate Family living in your household generally are prohibited from three activities:
Trading in that company's securities (including trading in options, puts and calls for that company's securities or other derivative securities based on that company's securities);
Having others trade for you in that company's securities or other derivative securities based on that company's securities; and
Disclosing the information to anyone else who then might trade based on this information.
Neither you, nor anyone acting on your behalf, nor anyone who learns the information directly or indirectly from you (including your spouse and family members), can trade based on this information. This prohibition continues whenever, and for as long as, you know material, non-public information or it becomes publicly available. The Firm reserves the right to preclude securities transfers by any Access Person in its discretion, including under circumstances where the proposed transferee may be in possession of material, non-public information.
Although it is most likely that any material, non-public information you might learn would be about the Firm or its affiliates, these prohibitions apply to trading in the securities of any company about which you have material, non-public information which you obtained in the course of your employment with the Firm.
The term "insider trading" is not defined in the federal securities laws, but generally is used to refer to trading in securities (whether or not one is an "insider") when aware of material, non-public information or communicating material, non-public information to others.
While the law concerning insider trading is not static, it is generally understood the law prohibits:
Trading by an insider while aware of material, non-public information;
Trading by a non-insider, while aware of material, non-public information where the information either was disclosed to the non-insider in violation of an insider's duty to keep it confidential or was misappropriated; and
Communicating material, non-public information to others (so called "tipping") under circumstances where it can be reasonably expected that they will trade securities based on that information.
The elements of insider trading and the penalties for such unlawful conduct are set forth below.
i. Who is an Insider ?
The concept of "insider" is broad. It includes officers, partners, directors and employees of a company, who possess material, non-public information about the Firm and who have a duty to the Firm to keep this information confidential. In addition, a person can be a "temporary insider" if he or she enters into a special relationship in the conduct of a company's affairs and, as a result, is given access to information for the company's purposes, and the company expects such person to keep the non-public information confidential. The relationship creates a duty to honor the company's expectations and thus, the person will be considered an insider.
ii. What is Material Information ?
Trading on insider information is not a basis for liability unless the information is material. "Material" information is generally defined as information a reasonable investor would most likely consider important in making his/her investment decisions, or information reasonably certain to have a substantial effect on the price of a company's securities, regardless of whether the information is related directly to their business. Material information includes, but is not limited to:
Information a reasonable investor would consider important in deciding whether to buy, sell or hold securities is considered material. Information likely to affect the price of the company's securities is almost always likely to be deemed material.
Material, non-public information might be inadvertently disclosed by a company director, officer or employee, or another Partner, officer or employee of Systematic. It also might be disclosed to a Partner, officer or employee of Systematic by persons with business relationships with the company, such as its investment banker. In such cases, the facts should be reported immediately to the CCO for a decision regarding appropriate steps.
iii. What is Non-Public Information ?
Information is considered non-public until it has been effectively communicated to the public, which means the information must be publicly disclosed and adequate time must have passed for the securities markets to absorb the information. Information received about a company not yet in general circulation should be considered non-public. Similarly, information received about another company in circumstances indicating it is not yet in general circulation should be considered non-public. As a general rule, one should be able to point to some fact to show the information is widely available; for example, its publication in The Wall Street Journal or in other major news publications. For example, even after a company has released information to the press and the information has been reported, at least 24 hours in certain circumstances should be allowed for the general marketplace to learn of and evaluate the information before you trade in that company's securities.
For example, information found in a report filed with the SEC, or appearing in Dow Jones, Reuters Economic Services, The Wall Street Journal or other publications of general circulation, would be considered public. Although timing can vary depending upon the circumstances, a delay of two business days may be considered a sufficient period of time for routine information to be absorbed by the marketplace.
C. Penalties and Sanctions for Insider Trading
Liability and penalties for insider trading are severe, both for individuals involved in such unlawful conduct and their employers. A person can be subject to some or all of the penalties below, even if he or she does not personally benefit from the violation (for example, where the person tipped another):
Any violation of the Insider Trading Policy may result in serious sanctions by the Firm. Immediately upon learning of a potential insider trading violation, the CCO shall prepare a written report to the Management Committee providing full details and recommendations for further action, including, but not limited to, reprimands, demotions, monetary penalties, suspensions, dismissal or reporting to the regulatory authorities.
D. Procedures for Avoiding Insider Trading
The following procedures have been established to aid the Partners, officers and employees of the Firm in avoiding insider trading. Every Partner, officer and employee of the Firm must follow these procedures or risk sanctions, including dismissal, substantial personal liability and criminal penalties. If you have questions about these procedures, you should consult the CCO.
iv. Identifying Inside Information
Before trading for yourself or others (including trading in accounts managed by the Firm) in the securities of any company about which you may have potential inside information, ask yourself the following questions:
a. Is the information material? Is this information an investor would consider important in making his or her investment decisions? Is this information that could affect the market price of the securities if generally disclosed?
b. Is this information non-public? To whom has this information been provided? Has the information been effectively communicated to the marketplace for a sufficient period of time to allow it to be evaluated?
If, after considering the above, you believe the information is material and non-public, or if you have any questions or are uncertain as to whether any information you may have received is material and non-public, you should take the following steps:
After the CCO has reviewed the issue and consulted with counsel to the extent appropriate, you will be instructed as to whether you may trade and/or communicate that information.
v. Restricting Access to Material, Non-Public Information
Information in your possession you identify as material and non-public may not be communicated to anyone, including persons within the Firm, except as provided in part (i) above. In addition, care should be taken so that such information is secure. For example, files containing material, non-public information should be maintained by Compliance in a secure environment, such as a locked cabinet; additionally, access to computer files containing material, non-public information should be restricted.
vi. Resolving Issues Concerning Insider Trading
If there is any unresolved question as to the applicability or interpretation of the foregoing policy, or as to the propriety of any action, it must be discussed with the CCO before trading or communicating the information to anyone.
vii. Responsibility Upon Leaving the Firm
If you leave the Firm, you must maintain the confidentiality of all non-public information until it has been adequately disclosed to the public, and you may not take any confidential materials with you.
As discussed above, the disclosure of material, non-public information to others can lead to significant legal difficulties, fines and punishment. Therefore, you should not discuss material, non-public information about the Firm or its affiliates or subsidiaries with anyone, including other employees, except as required in the performance of your regular job responsibilities.
Also, it is important that only specifically designated representatives of AMG, its affiliates and subsidiaries discuss AMG and its affiliates and subsidiaries with the news media, securities analysts and investors. Inquiries of this type received by any employee should be referred to the CCO.
F. AMG's Insider Trading Policy and Procedures
All Access Persons of Systematic are Covered Persons under the Affiliated Managers Group, Inc. Insider Trading Policy and Procedures(the "AMG Insider Trading Policy") and therefore subject to the AMG Insider Trading Policy. Generally, the AMG Insider Trading Policy restricts the periods in which Covered Persons (and, in some cases, persons who were formerly Covered Persons) may trade in AMG's securities, requires Covered Persons to receive pre-clearance by an officer of AMG of any proposed trades, requires post-trade reporting by Covered Persons and imposes certain other restrictions. AMG reserves the right, at any time, to apply the AMG Insider Trading Policy and the restrictions thereunder to additional persons who have or may have access to material, non-public information concerning AMG, its Affiliates and subsidiaries.
All Partners, officers and employees of Systematic are subject to AMG's Insider Trading Policy. The AMG Insider Trading Policy and the accompanying procedures are included as Exhibit A to Systematic's Code of Ethics and are incorporated by reference herein.
Your failure to observe the policies as described in the AMG Insider Trading Policy could lead to significant legal problems, and could have other serious consequences, including the termination of your employment.
IV. Personal Securities Trading Policy
A. General Statement of Policy
Due to the nature of our business and our fiduciary responsibility to our client's funds, we must protect the Firm and its employees from the possibility of both conflicts of interest and illegal insider trading in regard to their personal security transactions.
This section of the Code sets forth procedures designed to aid Systematic in complying with the federal securities laws and Rule 204A-1 promulgated by the SEC pursuant to Section 204A of the Advisers Act. This Code has been amended in accordance with Rule 17j-1 promulgated by the SEC pursuant to Section 17(j) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 Act ("Investment Company Act"), as amended.
In general, Rules 204A-1 and 17j-1 impose an obligation on registered investment companies and their investment advisers to adopt written Codes of Ethics covering the securities activities of certain directors, Partners, officers and employees. The Code is designed to help ensure that individuals who have access to information regarding the portfolio securities activities of clients not use (intentionally or unintentionally) information concerning such clients' portfolio securities activities for his or her personal benefit and to the detriment of such client.
It is important for Partners, officers and employees to be aware that personal securities transactions (in particular those of portfolio managers) raise several concerns, which are most easily resolved by such partners, officers or employees not actively trading in securities similar to those traded by Systematic for its Investment Advisory Clients for their own accounts. Accordingly, it is the general policy of the Firm to prohibit personal securities transactions in common and preferred stocks and other securities, as noted in Exhibit C of this Code, by Access Persons and their Immediate Family . Access Persons and their Immediate Family may participate in non-discretionary investment vehicles such as mutual funds, closed-end funds and index or Exchange-Traded Fund ("ETF") securities as noted in Exhibit C, Personal Trading Permissible Investments, Pre-Approval & Reporting Requirements.
If you identify a particular investment which you would like to acquire and it is not contemplated by the Code or Exhibit C attached hereto, it is incumbent upon you to inquire as to its permissibility by contacting the CCO.
B. Who Must Comply with the Personal Trading Policy?
The Code of Ethics relates to the purchase or sale of securities of which an Access Person has a direct or indirect "beneficial ownership," except for purchases or sales over which such individual has no direct or indirect influence or control. As such, this Code is intended to cover all Access Persons and their Immediate Families. Coverage under the Code includes transactions for the personal accounts of any Partner, officer or employee, transactions for the accounts of other members of their Immediate Families for which they or their spouses have any direct or indirect influence or control, transactions for trusts for which they are trustees, or transactions for other accounts in which they have any direct or indirect beneficial interest or direct or indirect influence or control, unless the investment decisions for the account are made by an independent investment manager in a fully discretionary account.
We recognize that some employees, due to their living arrangements, may be uncertain as to their obligations under this Personal Trading Policy. If an employee has any question or doubt as to whether he or she must report transactions in a particular account, he or she must consult with the CCO as to his or her status and obligations with respect to the account in question.
Please see Exhibit B, Examples of Beneficial Ownership, for further explanation.
As noted above, the Code of Ethics relates to the purchase or sale of securities of which an Access Person has a direct or indirect "beneficial ownership," except for purchases or sales over which such individual has no direct or indirect influence or control. As such, Partners, officers, and employees of Systematic may need to obtain clearance from the Personal Investment Committee prior to effecting:
For an expanded list of instances in which a reporting requirement may arise, please see Exhibit B, Examples of Beneficial Ownership. As noted above, securities transactions made by an independent investment manager in a fully discretionary account are exempt from pre-clearance requirements.
Determination as to whether or not a particular transaction requires pre-approval should be made by consulting the Personal Trading Permissible Investments, Pre-Approval & Reporting Requirements found at Exhibit C hereto.
The Personal Investment Committee will make its decision of whether to clear a proposed trade on the basis of the personal trading restrictions set forth below. A member of the Compliance Department shall promptly notify the Partner, officer or employee of approval or denial to trade the requested security. Notification of approval or denial to trade may be given verbally as soon as possible. However, it shall be confirmed in writing within 24 hours of the verbal notification. Please note the approval will be valid only for that day in which the approval has been obtained, with the exception that, in some instances, approved orders for securities traded in certain foreign markets may be executed within two (2) business days from the date pre-clearance is granted, depending on the time at which approval is granted and the hours of the markets on which the relevant securities are traded are open. In other words, if a trade was not effected on the day for which approval was originally sought, a new approval form must be re-submitted to obtain approval, unless the the security for which approval has been granted is traded on a foreign market and subject to the exception discussed above, in which case the Partner, officer or employee will be allowed one additional day to trade the security before the need arises to re-submit an approval form.
The only transactions exempt from pre-clearance procedures are: (a) those transactions set forth in Exhibit C to this Code; and (b) those transactions where the investment decisions for the account are made by an independent investment manager in a fully discretionary account. Partners, officers and employees must provide the CCO with copies of agreements of any discretionary accounts for the Firm's records. In addition, on a quarterly basis, Partners, officers and employees must submit transaction statements and portfolio reports to the Compliance Department.
D. Personal Securities Transaction Pre-Clearance
Written notice of your intended securities activities must be submitted for approval prior to effecting any transaction for which prior approval is required. The following must be disclosed in such written notice:
Such written notice should be submitted on the Personal Trading Pre-Clearance Request and Authorization Form, Exhibit D.
If proper procedures are not complied with, appropriate action will be taken against the Partner, officer or employee under the facts and circumstances. All violations shall be submitted to the Personal Investment Committee and Systematic's Management Committee. The violators may be asked to reverse the transaction and/or transfer the profits gained over to Systematic to be donated to a charitable organization designated by Systematic's Management Committee. Each situation will be analyzed on a case-by-case basis. If non-compliance with the pre-clearance procedures becomes repetitive, dismissal of the Partner, officer or employee can result.
E. Personal Securities Transactions
The following rules, regulations and restrictions have been set forth by Systematic's Management Committee and apply to the personal security transactions of all Access Persons. These rules will govern whether clearance for a proposed transaction will be granted.
The following types of accounts are covered by the Code:
With respect to personal securities transactions, the following rules apply under this Code:
Except in particular cases in which the Personal Investment Committee has determined in advance that proposed transactions would not conflict with the foregoing policy, the following rules shall govern all transactions (and recommendations) by all Access Persons and their Immediate Families for any accounts in which they have any direct or indirect influence or control. The following provisions do not necessarily imply the Personal Investment Committee will conclude that the transactions or recommendations to which they relate are in violation of the foregoing policy, rather they are designed to indicate the transactions for which prior approval should be obtained to help ensure no conflict arises.
F. Personal Securities Trading Restrictions
i No Securities in Common or Preferred Stock
No securities in common or preferred stock or any other investment as defined in Exhibit C to this Code shall be purchased after such employee becomes subject to this Code, which is the first day on which he or she becomes an employee of Systematic. An Access Person or his or her Immediate Family may not directly or indirectly acquire beneficial ownership of a Security unless:
Access Persons or members of their Immediate Families may dispose of beneficial ownership of a Security (or transfer securities from their account to the account(s) of others), but only after obtaining pre-clearance approval from the Personal Investment Committee.
ii Seven (7) Day Black-Out Period
In order to prevent even the appearance of a violation of this rule or conflict of interest with a client account, Partners, officers and employees should refrain from trading seven (7) calendar days before and after Systematic trades in that security.
If an Access Person or a member of his or her Immediate Family trades during a blackout period, disgorgement may be required. For example, if a personal trade is pre-approved and executed and subsequently, within seven days of the transaction, Systematic trades on behalf of Systematic's clients, the Personal Investment Committee shall review the personal trade in light of Firm trading activity and determine on a case-by-case basis the appropriate action. If the Personal Investment Committee finds a client is disadvantaged by the personal trade, the Partner, officer or employee may be required to reverse the trade and disgorge any difference due to any incremental price advantage over the client's transaction to Systematic, to be donated to a charitable organization designated by Systematic's Management Committee.
iii Short-Term Trading Profits
All Access Persons are prohibited from profiting in their own accounts and the accounts of their Immediate Families, as defined, for which they have direct or indirect influence or control, from the purchase and sale, or the sale and purchase, of the same or equivalent securities, within 60 calendar days. Any profits realized from the purchase and sale, or the sale and purchase, of the same (or equivalent) securities within the 60-day restriction period shall be disgorged to Systematic net of taxes and donated to a charitable organization designated by Systematic's Management Committee. Excluded from this provision would be any automatic payroll deduction from affiliated or sub-advised funds that do not result in the full liquidation of the fund.
"Profits realized" shall be calculated consistent with interpretations under Section 16(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the regulations thereunder, which require matching any purchases and sales that occur within a 60 calendar-day period across all accounts over which a Systematic Access Person or their Immediate Family has a direct or indirect beneficial interest, as defined above, or over which the person has direct or indirect control or influence without regard to the order of the purchase or the sale during the time period. As such, a person who sold a security and then repurchased the same (or equivalent) security would need to disgorge a profit if matching the purchase and the sale would result in a profit. Conversely, if matching the purchase and sale would result in a loss, profits would not be disgorged.
No Access Person or member of his or her Immediate Family may acquire the direct or indirect beneficial ownership of any new issues of either common or preferred stock or convertible securities.
v Exercise of Rights Offerings on Securities Held
Subject to the pre-clearance and reporting procedures, Access Persons and members of their Immediate Families may effect purchases upon the exercise of rights issued by an issuer pro rata to all holders of a class of its securities, to the extent such rights were acquired from such issuer, and sales of such rights so acquired, and the security was held by the employee prior to becoming subject to this Policy. In the event approval to exercise such rights is denied, subject to pre-clearance and reporting procedures, Access Persons may obtain permission to sell such rights on the last day such rights may be traded.
No Access Person or member of his or her Immediate Family may participate in investment clubs.
viii. Employee Stock Purchase Plans and Employee Stock Options Plans
While participation in employee stock purchase plans and employee stock option plans do not require pre-approval, copies of the terms of the plans must be provided to the Compliance Department so the application of the various provisions of the Personal Trading Policy may be determined (e.g., pre-approval for any discretionary disposition of securities or discretionary exercise of options acquired pursuant to participation in an employee stock purchase or stock option plan). Nondiscretionary acquisitions (reinvestment of dividend, interest or capital gains), dispositions and/or exercise of securities are not subject to pre-approval. Additionally, Access Persons should report holdings of such securities and options on an annual basis.
viii Private Placements (including Hedge Funds)
With regard to private placements and transactions in securities which are not listed on the New York Stock Exchange or American Stock Exchange, or traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System (together "Unlisted Securities"):
G. Exceptions to the Personal Trading Policy
Notwithstanding the foregoing restrictions, exceptions to certain provisions (including, but not limited to, the blackout period, the IPO prohibition, pre-clearance procedures and limitations on short-term trading profits) of the Personal Trading Policy may be granted on a case-by-case basis when no abuse is involved and the equities of the situation strongly support an exception to the rule.
To request an exemption, an Access Person must submit a request in writing to the CCO outlining the nature of the circumstances giving rise to the exception request as well as the hardship created by the application of the Code for which the exemption is requested.
Please refer to Exhibit C of this Code which indicates which securities are permissible investments, require pre-clearance approval and/or must be reported.
Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act and Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act require all Access Persons of registered investment advisers to report, and advisory firms to review, records of every transaction in securities in which any Access Person or member of his or her Immediate Family has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership, except :
For further clarification of reporting requirements, please see the Personal Trading Permissible Investments, Pre-Approval & Reporting Requirements, Exhibit C, which sets forth permissible securities, pre-approval requirements and whether or not a security is a Reportable Security.
All Access Persons are also required to provide Systematic's Compliance Department with the following reports:
i Annual/Initial Holdings Report
Annually, the following information must be submitted to the Designated Officer and must be current as of a date no more than 45 days before the report is submitted.
In addition, every newly-hired Access Person must submit to the Designated Officer a report of all holdings in Reportable Securities, as set forth in Exhibit E, Initial Holdings Report, as of the date he or she becomes subject to this Code's reporting requirements. Also, the newly-hired Access Person must acknowledge he/she has received and will comply with Systematic's Compliance Manual and Code of Ethics, as set forth in Exhibit F, Initial Compliance Certifications and Acknowledgement. This list is to be submitted to the Designated Officer within 10 days of the date the Access Person becomes subject to this Code's reporting requirements. These reports should contain the following information:
For Initial and Annual Holdings Reports, each Access Person must report all of his or her or any Immediate Family member's brokerage accounts where any Securities are (or may be) held.
A statement may be included in this report stating the report shall not be construed as an admission by the Access Person making such report that he or she has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership in the Security to which the report relates.
The annual reporting requirements noted above can be satisfied by attaching brokerage statements to the annual certification report, so long as the information on the statement is current as of a date no more than 45 days before the report is submitted.
1. Transaction Reporting
Within 30 days after the end of a calendar quarter, with respect to any transaction during the quarter in investments in which the Access Person or any member of his or her Immediate Family had any direct or indirect beneficial ownership, must be disclosed along with the following details:
The reporting elements noted above can be satisfied by attaching brokerage statements to the Quarterly Compliance Acknowledgement, so long as the statements and Quarterly Compliance Acknowledgement are submitted with 30 days of calendar quarter-end.
2. Personal Securities Account Reporting
Within 30 days after the end of a calendar quarter, with respect to any account established by the Access Person or any member of his or her Immediate Family in which any securities were held during the quarter for the direct or indirect benefit of the Access Person or any member of his or her Immediate Family, must be disclosed along with the following details:
If the Access Person or his or her Immediate Family had no reportable equity and/or mutual fund transactions and did not own any securities or own or control Reportable Fund accounts during the quarter, the Access Person must indicate the lack of reportable items on the Quarterly Compliance Acknowledgement. .
The Quarterly Compliance Acknowledgement form isattached as Exhibit H.
iii Duplicate Copies of Confirmations and Statements
To facilitate compliance with these reporting requirements, Systematic requires a duplicate copy of all personal securities transaction confirmations and brokerage statements be supplied directly to Systematic's Compliance Department. As such, Access Persons are required to direct their broker/dealers to supply Systematic's Compliance Department, on a timely basis, with duplicate copies of confirmations of personal securities transactions and periodic brokerage statements. In addition, the Compliance Department must also be notified promptly upon the creation of any new personal investment accounts.
I. Monitoring of Personal Securities Transactions
The Designated Officer or designee shall review or supervise the review of the personal securities transactions reported pursuant to Section IV. As part of that review, each such reported securities transaction shall be compared against completed and contemplated portfolio transactions of Investment Advisory Clients. Before making any determination that a violation has been committed by any person, such person shall be given an opportunity to supply additional explanatory material. If the Designated Officer or designee determines a material violation of this Code has or may have occurred, he or she shall submit written documentation, together with the transaction report (if any), and any additional explanatory material provided by the individual, to the CCO of the Firm (or, if the purported violation occurred with respect to the CCO, then to the Management Committee described in Section II(r) of this Code), who shall make an independent determination of whether a material violation has occurred.
All reports of Securities transactions and any other information filed with the Firm or its Investment Advisory Clients or furnished to any person pursuant to this Code shall be treated as confidential, but are subject to review as provided herein, by the Designated Officer, the CCO, the Personal Investment Committee or the Management Committee described in Section II(r) of this Code, and by representatives of the SEC.
V. Policies Related to Other Business Conduct
Partners, officers, and employees may become privy to confidential information (information not generally available to the public) concerning the affairs and business transactions of Systematic, companies researched by us for investment, our present and prospective clients, suppliers, Partners, officers and other employees. Confidential information includes trade secrets and other proprietary information of the Firm, such as business or product plans, systems, methods, software, manuals, investment holdings, buy/sell recommendations, investment models and strategies, products, the identity of current, past or potential clients, financial results, financial information, business relationships, and operations. Safeguarding confidential information is essential to the conduct of our business. Caution and discretion are required in the use of such information and in sharing it only with those who have a legitimate need to know.
Confidential information obtained or developed as a result of employment with Systematic is not to be used or disclosed for the purpose of furthering any private interest or as a means of making any personal gain. Use or disclosure of such information could result in civil or criminal penalties against the Firm or the individual responsible for disclosing such information.
Unauthorized disclosure or use could cause serious consequences to Systematic or to the individuals affected and could lead to discipline up to and including termination. Without the express authorization of a Firm officer, confidential information should never be disclosed to anyone, including, without limitation, third parties such as financial analysts and brokers, competitors, suppliers, the media, and personal contacts and friends. Any suspected incident of fraud or theft should be immediately reported for investigation to both the Firm's Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer.
Further guidelines pertaining to confidential information are contained in the Statement of Policy on Insider Trading.
Release of Client Information
Information concerning a client which has been requested by third parties, organizations or governmental bodies may only be released with the consent of the client involved. All requests for information concerning a client (other than routine credit inquiries), including requests with respect to the legal process (such as subpoenas or court orders), must be promptly referred to CCO. No information may be released, nor should the client involved be contacted, until the CCO has approved such action.
In order to preserve the rights of our clients and to limit the Firm's liability concerning the release of client proprietary information, care must be taken to:
All Partners, officers and employees shall exercise care in maintaining the confidentiality of any proprietary information respecting the Firm or its Investment Advisory Clients, except when disclosure is authorized or legally mandated. Partners, officers and employees should consult with the Firm's CCO or legal counsel if they believe that they have a legal obligation to disclose confidential information. Confidential information includes non-public information of the Firm that may be helpful to competitors, or otherwise harmful to the Firm, or its Investment Advisory Clients. Confidential information also includes information with respect to the portfolio holdings of Investment Advisory Clients (including, particularly, Investment Company mutual fund clients). The obligation to preserve confidentiality of this information continues after association with Systematic ends.
Partners, officers and employees should endeavor to deal fairly with all Investment Advisory Clients, service providers and competitors, and shall not seek unfair advantage through improper concealment, abuse of improperly acquired confidential information or misrepresentation of material facts.
C. Gifts and Business Entertainment
No Access Person or their Immediate Family shall give or receive gifts, entertainment, favors, preferential treatment or special arrangements from anyone with whom Systematic is likely to have any business dealings, such as brokers, dealers, investment advisers, financial institutions, etc., unless the gift or entertainment falls within one of the categories of permissible gifts or entertainment listed below, and is not so frequent or excessive as to raise any question of propriety and is not otherwise inconsistent with any applicable law or regulation.
For a complete discussion of Systematic's gift and business entertainment policies and procedures, please refer to Section III-2 of Systematic's Compliance Manual.
Where a Partner, officer or employee receives a charitable request from a client of Systematic to provide a donation or sponsorship on behalf of Ssystematic, he or she should first submit a Donation Sponsorship template to the CCO. After the CCO has reviewed and approved the request, the Charitable Giving Approval Request Form is submitted to Systematic's Controller for further review and approval. Systematic maintains a Charitable Giving Log to track all charitable contributions. Generally, attendance at charity events does not require approval, unless the event is both being paid for by Systematic and confering a benefit, in which case the value of the benefit would be subject to the Firm's gift policy.
ii. Gifts to Public Officials
The improper influencing of public officials through gifts, excessive entertainment or other means is prohibited. In addition, certain states require gifts beyond a particular dollar threshold to one or more public employees be reported to the State Ethics Commission or similar agency. In addition, the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act strictly prohibits giving, offering, or promising anything of value to any public official in the United States or foreign countries, with the intent of influencing an official act (among other things). This law also applies to giving anything of value to other people, if there is reason to know that the person will transfer the gift to a public official. While certain payments may be lawful, all Partners, officers and employees of Systematic must obtain the prior approval of the CCO before providing any gifts or making any payment to a public employee in the US or in any foreign jurisdiction.
Systematic does not contribute financial or other support to political parties or candidates for public office.
Systematic Partners, officers or employees may participate personally in political and charitable activities that may include contributions and donations to political candidates (subject to all applicable laws); however, contributions may not be made in Systematic's name or paid for by Systematic. Moreover, Partners, officers, and employees may not be reimbursed for contributions made in their own names.
Systematic strictly prohibits any employee from making contributions or expenditures to or for any candidates for any public office, or to any persons for any political purpose whatsoever as a quid pro quo for receiving or with the expectation of securing now or in the future business from any public official, or any federal, state, or local government agency.
Both federal and state campaign finance laws place limits on political contributions employees may make. In no case may any contribution exceed the applicable federal or state limitations.
Your personal political contributions, and those of certain of your family members, could impact Systematic's ability to continue to do business or bid on new business with government entities within certain jurisdictions in the United States. Specifically, Rule 206(4)-5 of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, which applies to all registered investment advisers, including Systematic, places limits on individual contributions of certain investment adviser employees, and may prohibit an investment adviser from managing money for state or local government entity clients for a specified period following any disqualifying contributions. In addition, a number of jurisdictions have enacted so-called "pay-to-play" laws that prohibit certain employees of service providers to state or local agencies and departments from making political contributions to state or local officials that are covered by these laws. Even if a personal political contribution is not prohibited, these laws may require that any contribution be reported to the state or locality.
Additionally, certain clients (such as Taft-Hartley clients) may have their own individual restrictions on contributions given to their elected officials. . Accordingly, Partners, officers and employees are prohibited from making contributions for the purpose of obtaining or retaining advisory contracts with such entities.
If you have any questions about a political contribution that you intend to make, please contact the CCO. In addition, for additional information on this topic, please see Section ___ of Systematic's Compliance Manual for the procedure entitled "Political Contributions and Other Restricted Payments."
E. Outside Investment Advisory Services
No Access Person may render investment advisory services to any person or entity who is not (i) a client of the Firm or (ii) a member of (or trust or other arrangement for the benefit of ) the family, or a close personal friend, of such Access Person, without first obtaining the permission of the CCO. This restriction is supplemental to, and does not in any way modify, the obligations of any Access Person who has a separate agreement with the Firm and/or its general partner with respect to competitive activities.
F Transactions with Investment Advisory Clients
No Access Person shall knowingly purchase from any Investment Advisory Client any Security or other property of which he or she has, or by reason of such transaction acquires, direct or indirect beneficial ownership.
G. Receipt of Brokerage Discounts
No Access Person shall, with respect to an account in which he or she has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership, accept any discount or other special consideration from any registered broker or dealer, which is not made available to other clients and clients of such broker or dealer.
H. Service on Boards and Other Outside Activities
Partners, officers or employees may not, without having secured prior approval from the Partners of the Firm, serve as a director, officer, employee, partner or trustee, nor hold any other position of substantial interest in any outside business enterprise. You do not need prior approval, however, if the following three conditions are met:
Additionally, Partners, officers or employees may not, without prior approval from Systematic's Partners, have a substantial interest in any outside business which, to your knowledge, is involved in a business transaction with Systematic or AMG, or is engaged in businesses similar to any business engaged in by Systematic. A substantial interest includes any investment in the outside business involving an amount greater than 10 percent of your gross assets, or $10,000, if that amount is larger, or involving any ownership interest greater than 5 percent of the outstanding equity interests. You do not need approval to invest in open-ended registered investment companies such as investments in mutual funds; however; investment in Affiliated Mutual Funds, as previously defined, must be reported as set forth in Exhibit C of this Code. Refer to Exhibit G for a list of Affiliated Mutual Funds and Sub-Advised Funds (which should be treated as Affiliated Mutual Funds for the purpose of this reporting requirement).
Significant involvement by Partners, officers or employees in outside business activity is generally unacceptable. In addition to securing prior approval for outside business activities, you will be required to disclose all relationships with outside enterprises annually.
For Systematic Partners, officers, or employees who are also Registered Representatives of Manager Distributors, Inc. ("MDI"), any outside business activity must be submitted to the CCO. This information will be reported to MDI and may require an update to the Registered Representative's Form U-4.
The above deals only with positions in business enterprises. It does not affect Systematic's practice of permitting Partners, officers or employees to be associated with governmental, educational, charitable, religious or other civic organizations. These activities may be entered into without prior consent.
i Protection and Proper Use of Firm Assets
All Partners, officers, and employees should endeavor to protect the assets of the Firm and its Investment Advisory Clients, and pursue their efficient investment in accordance with the Firm's business purposes.
The obligation of Partners, officers and employees to protect the assets of the Firm includes, but is not limited to, its proprietary information. In general, proprietary information is information so marked and/or which is not normally known to the public or which would be helpful to a competitor. Proprietary information includes, but is not limited to, intellectual property such as trademarks and copyrights, as well as business, marketing, and service plans, databases, records, salary information, unpublished financial data and reports.
ii Issues Regarding the Retention of Suppliers
Partners, officers and employees may not take advantage of their position with Systematic to receive goods and services from a third party at rates not generally available to the public.
A conflict may arise if an associate is offered foods or services from a third party on terms not generally available to the public. This would include any gifts from vendors or suppliers with which he or she does business. Such an arrangement could create the appearance an associate is being singled out because of his or her position with the Firm. In addition, it may appear the individual would be expected to provide something in return for the benefit he or she has received. If a Partner, officer or employee has reason to question whether the terms and conditions of an offer are the same as those offered to the public, he or she must seek prior approval.
We should be fair to our suppliers. It is our policy to award orders, contracts and commitments to suppliers strictly on the basis of merit without favoritism. The choice of suppliers must be based on quality, reliability, price, service and technical advantage.
iii Improper Payments or Kickbacks
In the conduct of Systematic's business, no bribes, kickbacks or similar remuneration or consideration of any kind are to be given or offered to any individual or organization or to any intermediaries such as agents, attorneys or other consultants, for the purpose of influencing such individual or organization in furtherance of obtaining or retaining business for, or directing business to, Systematic.
iv Books, Records and Accounts
The integrity of the accounting of records of the Firm is essential. Employees, officers and Partners must honestly and accurately report all business transactions. Each of you is responsible for the accuracy of your records and reports. Accurate recordkeeping and reporting are essential to Systematic's ability to meet legal and regulatory obligations.
All Firm books, records and accounts shall be maintained in accordance with all applicable regulations and standards and accurately reflect the true nature of the transactions they record in all material respects. The financial statements of the Firm shall conform in all material respects to generally accepted accounting rules. No undisclosed or unrecorded account or fund shall be established for any purpose. No false or misleading entries shall be made in the Firm's books or records for any reason, and no disbursement of corporate funds or other corporate property shall be made without adequate supporting documentation.
All receipts and expenditures, including personal expense statements, must be supported by documents that accurately and properly describe such expenses. The employee(s) responsible for approving expenditures or for keeping books, records and accounts for Systematic are required to approve and record all expenditures and other entries based on proper supporting documents so the accounting records of the Firm are maintained in reasonable detail, reflecting accurately and fairly all transactions of the Firm including the disposition of assets and liabilities. The falsification of any book, record or account of the Firm, the submission of any false personal expense statement, claim for reimbursement of a non-business personal expense, or false claim for an employee benefit plan payment are prohibited. Disciplinary action will be taken against Partners, officers or employees who violate these rules, which may result in dismissal.
The Firm shall maintain records as required by Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act and Rule 204-2 and Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act, and in the manner and to the extent set forth below, which records may be maintained on microfilm under the conditions described in Rule 3la-2(f)(l) under the Investment Company Act and shall be available for examination by representatives of the SEC:
The Firm reserves the right to amend this Code at any time for any reason. A copy of this Code is available upon request by contacting the CCO.
Violations, Sanctions and Penalties
This applies to all provisions of the Code, unless such a provision is included in a specific section of the Code.
A. Reporting Potential Violations/Wrongdoing
Every employee, officer and Partner is required to act honestly and ethically in support of the culture of integrity that we have all fostered within the Firm. Since every employee, officer and Partner is a valued member of the team which makes up the Firm, this broad requirement includes acting in what each individual believes to be the Firm's best interest, which includes reporting any concerns regarding any potential violations of any applicable law, rule or policy, or any other potential wrongdoing, by our Firm, any of our employees, or any of our service providers. If Systematic's management is unaware of such activities, these potential violations may ultimately have an adverse affect on all of us as members of this Firm.
Accordingly, every Partner, officer and employee of our Firm is required to report any potential violations of any applicable law, rule or policy, or other potential wrongdoing, including "apparent" or "suspected" violations, promptly to the CCO. In addition, any supervisor or other Partner who receives a report of a potential violation or wrongdoing must immediately inform the CCO. If the CCO is involved in the potential violation or wrongdoing, the employee, officer or Partner may report the matter to any member of the Firm's Management Committee.
"Violations" should be interpreted broadly, and may include, but are not limited to, such items as:
All such reports will be taken seriously, investigated promptly and appropriately, and treated confidentially to the extent permitted by law. Such reports may be made anonymously.
Investigation and Sanctions. Potential violations shall be promptly investigated by the CCO and/or the Management Committee. During the course of the investigation, the CCO or a Management Committee member will be in contact with the reporting employee to inform the employee of the status of the investigation. In addition, the reporting employee may check with the investigator on the status at any time.
Following the Firm's investigation, any employee, officer or Partner who is deemed to have committed any violations or other wrongdoing may be subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to: a letter of censure, suspension of trading, suspension or termination of the employment of the violator and/or restitution to any affected person (including any affected fund or other entity) of an amount equal to the advantage that the violator gained by reason of such violation. In addition, as part of any sanction, Systematic may require the individual involved to reverse the trade(s) at issue and forfeit any profit or absorb any loss from the trade. Violations of the Code or these procedures may also result in criminal prosecution or civil action.
Retaliation. Retaliation of any type against an individual who reports a suspected violation or assists in the investigation of such conduct (even if the conduct is not found to be a violation) is strictly prohibited and constitutes a further violation of the Code and these procedures.
Guidance. All personnel are encouraged (and have the responsibility) to ask questions and seek guidance from the CCO or the Management Committee with respect to any action or transaction that may constitute a violation and to refrain from any action or transaction which might lead to the appearance of a violation. The CCO will also provide periodic training to all of the Firm's employees regarding the requirements of these policies and procedures.
VII. Receipt of Code and Compliance Certification
Systematic will provide each Partner and employee with a copy of the Code of Ethics and any amendments thereto.
On a quarterly basis, all Partners and employees must sign a statement that they have been in full compliance with all personal securities trading and insider trading rules and regulations set forth within Systematic Financial Management's Code of Ethics, Policy Statement on Insider Trading and Personal Securities Trading Policy.
Each Access Person is required to certify on a quarterly basis, that he or she has read, received and understood this Code and any amendments thereto, and recognizes that he or she is subject to such Code. Further, each Access Person is required to certify that he or she has complied with all the requirements of the Code and that he or she has disclosed or reported all personal Securities transactions pursuant to the requirements of the Code. The foregoing certifications must be set forth in writing on a standard Code of Ethics Quarterly Compliance Acknowledgement. Please find this form attached as Exhibit H .
Exhibit A
Affiliated Managers Group, Inc.
Insider Trading Policy and Procedures
You should read this Insider Trading Policy and Procedures, ask questions of the officer listed below if desired, and sign and return the below Acknowledgement (or, if this is provided to you with your Employee Handbook, the Acknowledgment and Agreement form in connection therewith) to, if you are an employee or director of Affiliated Managers Group, Inc., Pam Price, Director of Human Resources, or, if you are an employee of a subsidiary or affiliate of Affiliated Managers Group, Inc., to your Compliance Officer.
Policy Statement on Insider Trading
Affiliated Managers Group, Inc. (the "Company") 1 has adopted this Insider Trading Policy and Procedures (the "Policy") that applies to each director, officer and employee of the Company and each officer and employee of the Company's subsidiaries and affiliates (collectively, "Covered Persons"). This Policy has been distributed or made available to all Covered Persons. Under this Policy, a Covered Person (which may under certain circumstances include a person who was formerly a Covered Person) is forbidden from:
1 The term company refers to Affiliated Managers Group, Inc, and its subsidiaries and affiliates, collectively or individally, as the context requires.
(i) trading in any securities of the Company in any capacity (or in options to buy such securities or other derivative securities based on such securities) on the basis of material, non-public information;
(ii) having others trade in such securities for him or her while he or she is in possession of material, non-public information; and
(iii) communicating (or "tipping") to others confidential or non-public information concerning the Company or other companies.
This Policy contains a discussion of insider trading, and sets forth trading restrictions applicable to you. You must read this Policy, return a signed Acknowledgement and Agreement form to the person indicated above, retain the Policy for your reference, and, upon request by the Company, re-acknowledge your understanding of and agreement to be bound by the Policy.
Discussion: What is "Insider Trading ?"
Insider trading is, in addition to being a violation of this Policy, a violation of the federal securities laws. The term "insider trading" is not defined in the federal securities laws, but generally is used to refer to the use of material, non-public information to trade in securities (whether or not one is an "insider" of the company that issued the securities) or the communication of material, non-public information to others who may trade on the basis of such information.
While the law concerning insider trading is not static, it is generally understood that, with respect to the Company and its securities, insiders are prohibited from doing the following:
(1) Trading in any of the Company's securities in any capacity (including derivative securities based on the Company's securities) while in possession of material, non-public information concerning the Company. An example of this would be a sale of the Company's securities at a time when a major acquisition was pending but not yet announced.
(2) Having others trade on the insider's behalf while the insider is in possession of material, non-public information.
(3) Communicating non-public information concerning the Company to others who may then trade in securities of the Company or pass on the information to others who may trade in such securities. Such conduct, also known as "tipping," results in liability for the insider of the Company who communicated such information (even if such insider does not actually trade himself) and for the person who received the information if he acts on such information or passes it on to others who may act on it.
The elements of insider trading and the penalties for such unlawful conduct are discussed below.
1. Who is an Insider ?
The concept of "insider" is broad and generally includes any person who possesses material, non-public information about the Company and who has a duty to the Company to keep this information confidential. In the case of the Company, "insiders" include the Covered Persons. In addition, a person can be a "temporary insider" if he or she enters into a special confidential relationship to serve any such entity and as a result is given access to information in connection with such service. Persons who can become temporary insiders include, among others, the Company's attorneys, accountants, consultants and investment bankers. The Company also reserves the right to apply this Policy and its restrictions on trading to a person who leaves the Company (or an affiliate or subsidiary of the Company) for up to six months following such person's departure by giving notice to such person.
2. What is Material Information ?
Trading while in the possession of inside information is not a basis for liability unless the information is "material." Generally, information is "material" if there is a substantial likelihood that a reasonable investor would consider it important in making an investment decision, or if it is reasonably certain to have an effect on the price of an issuer's securities.
Although there is no precise, generally accepted definition of materiality, information is likely to be "material" if it relates to:
• Dividend or earnings results or expectations
• Financial forecasts
• Write-downs or write-offs of substantial assets
• Significant additions to reserves for bad debts or contingent liabilities
• Expansion or curtailment of significant operations
• Major personnel changes
• Proposals or agreements involving a joint venture, merger, acquisition, divestiture or leveraged buy-out
• Major financing developments
• The gain or loss of important contracts or clients
• Criminal indictments or material civil litigation or government investigations
• Labor disputes including strikes or lockouts
• Substantial changes in accounting methods
• Debt service or liquidity problems
• Bankruptcy or insolvency
• Extraordinary management developments
• Public offerings or private sales of debt or equity securities
• Calls, redemptions or purchases of securities
"Inside" information could be material because of its expected effect on the price of the issuer's securities, the securities of another company, or the securities of several companies. Moreover, the resulting prohibition against the misuse of "inside" information includes not only restrictions on trading in the issuer's securities, but restrictions on trading in the securities of other companies affected by the inside information as well (e.g., in the event the issuer was in negotiations to acquire a public company).
3. What is Non-public Information ?
In order for information to qualify as "inside" information, in addition to being "material," the information also must be "non-public." "Non-public" information is information that has not been made available to investors generally. This includes information received from sources or in circumstances indicating that the information has not been circulated generally.
At such time as material, non-public information is released to the investing public, it loses its status as "inside" information. For "non-public" information to become public information, however, it must be disseminated through recognized channels of distribution designed to reach the securities marketplace, and sufficient time must pass for the information to become available in the market.
To show that "material" information is public, it generally is necessary to point to some fact that establishes that the information has become generally available, such as disclosure by the filing of a definitive proxy statement, Form 10-Q, Form 10-K, Form 8-K or other report with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") or disclosure by release to a national business and financial wire service (e.g., Dow Jones or Reuters), a national news service or a national newspaper (e.g., The Wall Street Journal or The New York Times ). The circulation of rumors or "talk on the street," even if accurate, widespread and reported in the media, may not constitute the requisite public disclosure.
Material, non-public information is not made public by selective dissemination. Material information improperly disclosed only to institutional investors or to an analyst or a favored group of analysts may retain its status as "non-public" information, the use of which is subject to insider trading laws. Similarly, partial disclosure does not constitute public dissemination. So long as any material component of the "inside" information has yet to be publicly disclosed, the information is deemed "non-public" and may not be traded upon.
It is the policy of the Company not to consider quarterly and annual earnings results to have been disclosed publicly until the third business day after a press release regarding such earnings (with the date of the earnings press release being counted as the first business day). Similarly, other material information will not be considered public until the third business day after public disclosure in the manner described previously.
4. Penalties for Insider Trading .
Penalties for trading on or communicating material non-public information are severe, both for the individuals involved in such unlawful conduct and, potentially, for their employers. A person can be subject to some or all of the penalties below even if he does not benefit personally from the violation. Penalties include:
• jail sentences
• disgorgement of profits
• civil fines for the person who committed the violation of up to three times the profit gained or loss avoided, whether or not the person actually benefited (i.e., if the violation was one for tipping information), as well as criminal fines of up to $1,000,000
• fines for the employer or other controlling person of the violator of up to the greater of $1,000,000 or three times the amount of the profit gained or loss avoided
In addition, any violation of this Policy can be expected to result in serious sanctions by the Company, which may include dismissal of the person involved.
Trading Procedures
The following Trading Procedures are applicable to you because you are a director, officer or employee of the Company (in each such case, a "Company Insider") or an officer or employee of a subsidiary or affiliate of the Company (in each such case, an "Affiliate Insider") who may, by virtue of your duties or work conditions, have access to material, non-public information concerning the Company.
1. Trading Windows and Pre-Clearance.
There are times when the Company may be aware of a material, non-public development. Although you may not know the specifics of the development, if you engage in a trade before such development is disclosed to the public or resolved you might expose yourself and the Company to a charge of insider trading that could be costly and difficult to refute. In addition, a trade by you during such a development could result in adverse publicity and sanctions for both the Company and you.
Therefore, if you are a Company Insider, you, your spouse and members of your immediate family sharing the same household may purchase or sell securities of the Company only during the "trading windows" that occur each quarter, as specified below; provided , that , such person is not in possession of material, non-public information (as provided generally in Section 4 hereof). In addition, you (or your spouse or member of your immediate family sharing the same household) must pre-clear your (or their) intent to trade within any "trading window" with the Company's clearance officer, John Kingston, III (the "Clearance Officer").
For Company Insiders, the trading window is the period in any fiscal quarter beginning on the third business day after the Company's issuance of a press release regarding quarterly or annual earnings (an "Earnings Release") (with the date of the Earnings Release being counted as the first business day), and ending on the 15 th calendar day of the third month of the fiscal quarter (i.e., March 15 th , June 15 th , September 15 th and December 15 th , as applicable).
If you are an Affiliate Insider, you, your spouse or member of your immediate family sharing the same household may purchase or sell securities of the Company at any time and in any capacity other than during the blackout period beginning on the date of an Earnings Release or other public disclosure of material information and ending on the third business day following such Earnings Release or public disclosure (with the date of the Earnings Release or public disclosure being counted as the first business day); provided , that , such person is not in possession of material, non-public information. In addition, you (or your spouse or member of your immediate family sharing the same household) must pre-clear your (or their) intent to trade at any time with the Company's Clearance Officer.
In accordance with the procedure for waivers described below, in special circumstances a waiver may be given to a Company Insider to allow a trade to occur outside of a trading window.
If you intend to engage in any trade in any capacity or for any account, you must first receive permission from the Clearance Officer as set forth above. 2 Authorization to trade the Company's securities will not be granted if the Company has unannounced pending material developments. This would occur, for example, if the Company was in discussions concerning a major acquisition during the period following an earnings release. If the trading window for Company Insiders ended before the transaction was announced and the "blackout" was lifted, trading by Company Insiders would next be permitted during the trading window following the next quarterly earnings release. The Clearance Officer may refuse to permit any transaction if he determines that such trade could give rise to a charge or appearance of insider trading. The Clearance Officer may consult with the Company's counsel before responding to your request.
2# If John Kingston will be absent from the office or unavailable for a significant period of time, Nathaniel Dalton will handle trading requests. In the event that each of Mr. Kingston and Mr. Dalton is absent or unavailable, Sean M. Healey will handle trading requests.
After receiving permission to engage in a trade, you should complete your trade within 48 hours or make a new trading request.
Even if you have received pre-clearance, neither you, your spouse nor any member of your immediate family sharing your household may trade in any securities (including options and other derivative securities) of the Company if you or such other person is in possession of material, non-public information about the Company.
Options and Warrants . The exercise of an option or warrant issued to you by the Company to purchase securities of the Company for cash is not subject to the Trading Procedures outlined above, but the securities so acquired may not be sold except during a trading window (for Company Insiders), after authorization from the Clearance Officer has been received, and after all other requirements of this Policy have been satisfied. The so-called "cashless exercise" of stock options through a broker is covered by the Trading Procedures and therefore requires pre-clearance.
Rule 10b5-1 Plans. Pursuant to Rule 10b5-1 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, individuals may be able to avoid insider trading liability if they can demonstrate that the purchase or sale in question was made pursuant to a binding contract, instruction or written plan that satisfies the requirements of Rule 10b5-1(c) (a "10b5-1 Plan"). You may not enter into, amend, suspend or terminate any 10b5-1 Plan except with the prior approval of the Clearance Officer. Once you establish a 10b5-1 Plan in accordance with the foregoing, you will not need to clear in advance transactions made pursuant to the terms of the 10b5-1 Plan and transactions under such 10b5-1 Plan may occur at any time.
2. Post-Trade Reporting .
You are required to report to John Kingston (the "Section 16 Officer") any transaction in any securities of the Company in any capacity by you, your spouse or any immediate family member sharing your household immediately , and in any event not later than 5:00 p.m. on the day on which such transaction was effected. Each report you make to the Section 16 Officer should include the date of the transaction, quantity, price and broker-dealer through which the transaction was effected. This reporting requirement may be satisfied by sending (or having your broker send) duplicate confirmations of trades to the Section 16 Officer, provided that such information is received by the Section 16 Officer by 5:00 p.m. on the day on which such transaction was effected.
The foregoing reporting requirement is designed to help monitor compliance with the Trading Procedures set forth herein and to enable the Company to help those persons who are subject to reporting obligations under Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, to comply with these reporting obligations. Each director and executive officer, however, and not the Company, is personally responsible for ensuring that his or her transactions do not give rise to "short swing" liability under Section 16 and for ensuring that timely reports of his or her transactions in Company securities are filed with the SEC, as required by Section 16.
3. Prohibition on Short Sales and Purchases, Puts, Calls and Options.
Neither you, your spouse nor any immediate family member sharing your household may sell any securities of the Company that are not owned by such person at the time of the sale (a "short sale"). Also, no such person may buy or sell puts, calls or options in respect of any of the Company's securities at any time.
Unauthorized Disclosure
As discussed above, the disclosure of material, non-public information to others can lead to significant legal difficulties, fines and punishment. Therefore, you should not discuss material, non-public information about the Company or its affiliates or subsidiaries with anyone, including other employees, except as required in the performance of your regular duties.
In addition, the Company has strict policies relating to safeguarding the confidentiality of its internal, proprietary information. These include procedures regarding identifying, marking and safeguarding confidential information and employee confidentiality agreements. You are required to comply with these policies at all times.
It is important that only specifically designated representatives of the Company discuss the Company and its affiliates and subsidiaries with the news media, securities analysts and investors. Inquiries of this type received by any employee should be referred to John Kingston at 617-747-3311.
Reporting of Violations
If you know or have reason to believe that this Policy, including the Trading Procedures described above, has been or is about to be violated, you should bring the actual or potential violation to the attention of the Clearance Officer immediately.
Modifications; Waivers
The Company reserves the right to amend or modify this Policy, and the Trading Procedures set forth herein, at any time. Waiver of any provision of this Policy in a specific instance may be authorized in writing by the Clearance Officer (or his designee), and any such waiver shall be reported to the Board of Directors of the Company at its next regularly scheduled meeting.
Questions
If you have any questions regarding this Policy or the Trading Procedures set forth herein, you are encouraged to contact the Clearance Officer, who may refer the question to the Company's counsel before responding.
Updated January 25, 2010
Exhibit B
Examples of Beneficial Ownership
The Code of Ethics relates to the purchase or sale of securities of which an Access Person has a direct or indirect "beneficial ownership" except for purchases or sales over which such individual has no direct or indirect influence or control.
Examples of Beneficial Ownership
What constitutes ''beneficial ownership" has been dealt with in a number of SEC releases and has grown to encompass many diverse situations. These include securities held:
(a) by you for your own benefit, whether bearer, registered in your name, or otherwise;
(b) by others for your benefit (regardless of whether or how registered), such as securities held for you by custodians, brokers, relatives, executors or administrators;
(c) for your account by pledgers;
(d) by a trust in which you have an income or remainder interest. Exceptions: where your only interest is to get principal if (1) some other remainderman dies before distribution, or (2) if some other person can direct, by will, a distribution of trust property or income to you;
(e) by you as trustee or co-trustee, where either you or members of your immediate family (i.e., spouse, children and their descendants, step-children, parents and their ancestors, and step-parents, treating a legal adoption as blood relationship) have an income or remainder interest in the trust;
(f) by a trust of which you are the settler, if you have the power to revoke the trust without obtaining the consent of all the beneficiaries;
(g) by any partnership in which you are a partner,
(h) by a personal holding company controlled by you alone or jointly with others;
(i) in the name of your spouse unless legally separated;
(j) in the name of minor children or in the name of any relative of you or of your spouse (including an adult child) who is presently sharing your home; this applies even if the securities were not received from you and the dividends are not actually used for the maintenance of your home;
(k) in the name of another person (other than those listed in (i) and (j) above), if by reason of any contract, understanding, relationship, agreement, or other arrangement, you obtain benefits substantially equivalent to those of ownership; or
(l) in the name of any person other than yourself, even though you do not obtain benefits substantially equivalent to those of ownership (as described in (k) above), if you can vest or revest title in yourself.
Exhibit C
Personal Trading Permissible Investments, Pre-Approval & Reporting
Requirements
It is the general policy of Systematic to prohibit personal securities transactions in common and preferred stock and other securities as noted below by all Access Persons unless such securities were held prior to your employment with the Company. However, the sale of any such previously owned "non-permissible" securities may be effected, but only after receiving prior approval . Please see pre-approved requirements below.
Investment Category/Method |
Sub-category |
Permissible
Investments
|
Require
|
Reportable3
|
||
|
STOCKS |
|
Common |
N |
Y |
Y |
|
|
|
Preferred |
N |
Y |
Y |
|
|
|
Rights (see item F(v) of Personal Trade Policy) |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
|
|
Warrants |
N |
Y |
Y |
|
|
|
Automatic Dividend Reinvestments |
Y |
N |
Y |
|
|
|
Employee Stock Purchase/Option Plan |
Y |
N |
Y |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
BONDS |
|
U.S. Treasury Bills, Notes, Bonds |
Y |
N |
N |
|
|
|
Banker's Acceptances |
Y |
N |
N |
|
|
|
Certificates of Deposit |
Y |
N |
N |
|
|
|
Commercial Paper |
Y |
N |
N |
|
|
|
High Quality Short-Term Debt |
Y |
N |
N |
|
|
|
Municipals |
Y |
N |
Y |
|
|
|
Agency (Non-U.S.) |
Y |
N |
Y |
|
|
|
Mortgage Backed Assets |
Y |
N |
Y |
|
|
|
Asset Backed Securities |
Y |
N |
Y |
|
|
|
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations |
Y |
N |
Y |
|
|
|
Corporates |
Y |
N |
Y |
|
|
|
Convertibles |
N |
Y |
Y |
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OPEN-END MUTUAL FUNDS |
Affiliated Funds4 |
Y |
N |
Y |
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Non-Affiliated Funds |
Y |
N |
N |
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Money Market Funds |
Y |
N |
N |
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CLOSED-END FUNDS |
Y |
N |
Y |
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EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS |
Y |
N |
Y |
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LIMITED PARTNERSHIPS/PRIVATE PLACEMENTS (includes Hedge Funds) |
Y |
Y |
Y |
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PRIVATE INVESTMENTS |
Y |
Y |
Y |
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COMMODITIES/CURRENCIES |
Y |
N |
Y |
If a particular security type you wish to trade in is not listed above, please contact the Chief Compliance Officer for clarification and authorization prior to trading in that security.
3 A "Reportable Security" is any note, stock, treasury stock, 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 or futures contract, limited partnerships meeting the definition of a "security" (including limited liability and other companies that are treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes); 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); closed-end investment companies; Exchange Traded Funds; private investment funds, hedge funds and investment clubs; foreign unit trusts and foreign mutual funds 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, guarantee of, or warrant or right to subscribe to or purchase, any of the foregoing.
4 See "List of Affiliated Funds" (Exhibit G).
Exhibit D
Personal Trading Pre-Clearance Request Form
Pre-Clearance is only valid for the trading day on which the approval is received
To be completed by the Requester |
Request to Purchase or Sell Securities for the Personal Account of: |
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Account Name: |
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Account Number: |
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Date: |
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Request to: |
Buy |
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Sell |
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Security Name: |
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Symbol: |
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Current Price: |
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Executing Broker: |
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Evaluation by the Personal Investment Committee |
Portfolio Management
By signing below you are acknowledging that you do not intend to buy or sell the above security in any of your client portfolios today, at current prices, or in the near future:
KM |
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RM |
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KB |
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JS |
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EM |
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Trading
Are there any open buy or sell orders for the above security? Yes No
Has the Trading Department received a cancellation of an order for this security in the last 10 days?
Yes No
GW/RC
Evaluation by the Compliance Department |
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KK/ME : Approval Denial If denial, reason for denial:
Exhibit E
Initial Holdings Report
Name of Access Person: |
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(Please print) |
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Date subject to Code's requirements (start date): |
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In accordance with federal securities laws and Systematic's Code of Ethics, Access Persons must submit an Annual report of:
(1) all Reportable Funds and Securities and
(2) the name of any broker/dealer or bank which maintains any securities in which they or their Immediate Family has any direct or indirect beneficial ownership
to the Company within 10 days of the date the Access Person becomes subject to the Code of Ethics which, in the case of Systematic, is the first date of an employee's employment with the Company, and on an annual basis thereafter.
(Please refer to Systematic's Code of Ethics's Exhibit C, Compliance and Reporting of Personal Transactions Matrix, for a list of Reportable Securities and Funds .)
List of Reportable Securities & Funds |
Please list below each Reportable Security and Fund held or provide copies of most recent statements, not older than 45 days from the date set forth above . If any Unlisted Security or Reportable Securities or Funds owned by you are not held in accounts disclosed below (e.g., limited partnerships, hedge funds, private investments, etc.), please list them here.
Name of Issuer/
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No. of Shares |
Principal Amount |
Maturity Date/
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If you have no Reportable Securities to report, please check here: __
List of Brokerage, Custodial & Affiliated Mutual Fund Accounts
Name of Broker or Bank of Affiliate Fund |
Name(s) on Account |
Type of Account |
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If you have no brokerage, custodial or Affiliated Mutual Fund accounts to report, please check here:
I certify I have included in this report all Reportable Securities and Funds as well as all brokerage and/or custodial accounts required to be reported pursuant to federal securities laws and Systematic's Code of Ethics.
Signature: |
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Date: |
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Exhibit F
Initial Compliance Certifications and Acknowledgements
I, , do hereby acknowledge that:
(i) I have received and read, and understand and agree to familiarize myself with and abide by, all of the policies and procedures set forth in Systematic Financial Management, L.P.'s ("Systematic") Compliance Manual. I further confirm I will comply with the provisions of the Compliance Manual applicable to me and will report any exceptions or issues that become known to me to Systematic's Chief Compliance Officer ("CCO").
(ii) Furthermore, I have received and read, and understand and agree to familiarize myself with and abide by, Systematic's Code of Ethics , including Systematic's and Affiliated Managers Group's ("AMG") Insider Trading Policy and Procedures. As such:
a. I will inform Systematic of all brokerage accounts I, or my Immediate Family (as defined by the Code of Ethics), maintain for myself, my family, or any other accounts for which I/we maintain partial or complete discretion and authority, and will provide all necessary information about said accounts, including all security positions held in these accounts as well as other security holdings subject to reporting under this Code, within 10 days of my employment with Systematic.
b. I further state I understand and agree to comply with all Company procedures for security transactions executed by me or my Immediate Family including, among others:
i. Submitting a Personal Trading Request Pre-Clearance Form before the execution of any transaction requiring such pre-approval;
ii. Ensuring Systematic's Compliance Department receives duplicate copies of all brokerage, custodial and Affiliated Mutual Fund statements and duplicate confirmations of my transactions to assure confirmation of any pre-approved transactions and minimum holding periods required by Systematic's Code of Ethics; and
iii. Making Systematic's Compliance Department fully aware of all personal securities transactions executed by me or my Immediate Family that result in violations of Systematic's Personal Trading policies and procedures.
(iii) I also acknowledge I have received and read, and understand and agree to familiarize myself with and abide by, Systematic's Employee Handbook . I further acknowledge and understand my employment with Systematic is "at-will" and I may be terminated or resign at any time for any reason, and nothing contained in the Employee Handbook or any oral representation to the contrary alters my "at-will" status.
(iv) And lastly, I understand my failure to comply in all respects with Systematic's policies and procedures, including, but not limited to, Systematic's Code of Ethics and AMG's Insider Trading Policy and Procedures , is a basis for termination of my employment from Systematic.
Signature: |
Date: |
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Updated October 31, 2011 5
Systematic employees may invest in open-end mutual funds. However, the Affiliated Funds identified below are Reportable Funds. Reportable Fund means: (i) any Fund for which Systematic serves as the investment adviser or sub-adviser, or; (ii) any Fund with an investment adviser or principal underwriter controlled by, controlling or under common control with Systematic. A Systematic employee may purchase or sell shares in these Affiliated Funds only after receiving prior approval .
Mutual Funds (sponsored)
Name of Affiliate |
Name of Affiliated Fund |
Ticker |
AQR |
AQR Diversified Arbitrage Fund |
ADANX, ADAIX |
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AQR International Momentum Fund |
AIMOX |
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AQR Momentum Fund |
AMOMX |
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AQR Small Cap Momentum Fund |
ASMOX |
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AQR International Equity Fund |
AQINX, AQIIX |
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AQR Global Equity Fund |
AQGIX,AQGNX |
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AQR Managed Futures Strategy Fund |
AQMIX,AQMNX |
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AQR Risk Parity Fund |
AQRIX, AQRNX |
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AQR Multi-Strategy Alternative Fund |
ASANX, ASAIX |
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Aston Funds |
Aston/Montag & Cadwell Growth Fund |
MCGFX, MCGIX, MCRGX |
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Aston/Veredus Select Growth Fund |
AVSGX,AVISX |
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Aston/TAMRO Diversified Equity Fund |
ATLVX |
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Aston/ MD Sass Enhanced Equity Fund |
AMBEX,AMDSX |
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Aston/Herndon Large Cap Value Fund |
AALIX |
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Aston // Cornerstone Large Cap Value Fund |
RVALX,AAVIX |
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Aston/ Money Market Fund |
BDMXX |
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Aston/River Road Dividend All Cap Value Fund |
ARDEX, ARIDX |
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Aston Montag &Cadwell Mid Cap Growth Fund |
AMCMX |
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Aston/Fairpointe Mid Cap Fund |
CHTTX, ABMIX |
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Aston/Cardinal Mid Cap Value Fund |
ACDMX |
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Aston/Veredus Aggressive Growth Fund |
VERDX,AVEIX |
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Aston / Crosswind Small Cap Growth Fund |
ACWDX |
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Aston/TAMRO Small Cap Fund |
ATASX,ATSIX |
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Aston/ River Road Select Value Fund |
ARSMX,ARIMX |
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Aston/River Road Small Cap Value Fund |
ARSVX,ARSIX |
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Aston/ River Road Independent Value Fund |
ARIVX, ARVIX |
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Aston/Neptune International Fund |
ANNIX,ANIILX |
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Aston/Barings International Fund |
ABARX,ABIIX |
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Aston/ Dynamic Allocation Portfolios |
ASENX |
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Aston/River Road Long-Short Fund |
ARLSX |
|
Aston/ Lake Partners LASSO Alternative Funds |
ALSNX,ALSOX |
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Aston/Harrison Street Real Estate Fund |
ARFCX,AARIX |
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Aston/Montag & Caldwell Balanced Fund |
MOBAX,MOBIX |
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Aston TCH Fixed Income Fund |
CHTBX,CTBIX |
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Aston/ Doubleline Core Plus Fixed Income Fund |
ADBLX, ADLIX |
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Friess |
Brandywine Advisors Fund |
BWAFX |
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Brandywine Blue Fund |
BLUEX |
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Brandywine Fund |
BRWIX |
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Harding Loevner |
Harding Loevner Funds, Inc-International Small Companies Portfolio |
HLMSX, HLMRX |
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Harding Loevner Funds, Inc-Frontier Emerging Markets Portfolio |
HLFMX, HLMOX |
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Harding Loevner Funds Inc, Institutional Emerging Markets Portfolio |
HLMEX |
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Harding Loevner Funds, Inc-Emerging Markets Portfolio |
HLEMX,HLMEX |
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Harding Loevner Funds, Inc- Global Equity Portfolio |
HLMGX, HLMVX |
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Harding Loevner Funds, Inc- International Equity Portfolio |
HLMNX, HLMIX |
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Managers |
Managers Bond |
MGFIX |
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Managers California Intermediate Tax-Free Fund |
MCATX |
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Managers Emerging Markets Equity |
MEMEX |
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Managers Fixed Income |
MFDAX, MFDBX, MFDCX, MFDYX |
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Managers Pimco Bond Fund(formerly Fremont Bond Fund) |
MBDFX |
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Managers Institutional Micro-Cap Fund (formerly Managers Fremont Institutional Micro-Cap Fund) |
MIMFX |
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Managers Micro-Cap Fund (formerly Managers Fremont Micro-Cap Fund) |
MMCFX |
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Managers Real Estate Securities Fund |
MRESX |
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Managers Global Bond |
MMAFX |
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Managers High Yield |
MHHAX, MHHBX, MHHCX, MHHYX |
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Managers Intermediate Duration Government |
MGIDX |
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Managers International Equity |
MGITX |
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Managers Short Duration Government |
MGSDX |
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Managers Special Equity |
MGSEX, MSEIX |
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Managers AMG Chicago Equity Partners Balanced Fund |
MBEAX, MBEBX,MBECX,MBEYX |
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Managers AMG Chicago Equity Partners Mid-Cap Fund |
MKPYX, MKPAX, MKPBX, MKPCX |
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Managers AMG Essex Small/Micro Cap Growth Fund |
MBRSX, MBRCX |
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Managers AMG FQ Global Essentials Fund |
MMAFX |
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Managers AMG FQ Tax-Managed U.S. Equity Fund |
MFQTX, MFQAX, MFQCX |
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Managers AMG FQ U.S. Equity Fund (formerly Managers AMG U.S. Equity Fund) |
MEQFX, FQUAX,FQUCX |
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Managers AMG Frontier Small Cap Growth Fund (formerly Managers Small Cap Fund) |
MSSCX, MSSVX, MSSYX |
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Managers AMG GW&K Muni Bond |
GWMIX, GWMSX,GWMTX |
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Managers AMG GW&K Municipal Enhanced Yield |
GWMEX |
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Managers AMG GW&K Small Cap Equity Fund |
GWETX,GWESX,GWEIX |
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Managers AMG GW&K Renaissance Large Cap Growth |
MRLIX, MRLSX,MRLTX |
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Managers AMG Skyline Special Equities Portfolio |
SKSEX |
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Managers AMG Systematic Mid Cap Value Fund |
SYAMX, MSYAX, MSYCX |
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Managers AMG Systematic Value Fund |
MSYSX, MSYAX, MSYCX |
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Managers AMG TimesSquare Mid Cap Growth Fund |
TMDIX, TMDPX |
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Managers AMG TimesSquare Small Cap Growth Fund |
TSCIX, TSCPX |
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Managers AMG TSCM Growth Equity Fund |
MTGVX,MTGSX, MTGIX |
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Managers AMG FQ Global Alternatives Fund |
MGAAX, MGACX |
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Managers Cadence Capital Appreciation |
MPAFX, MCFBX, MPCBX, MPRFX, MCFDX,MCFYX, MCFPX MPCIX |
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Managers Cadence Mid Cap Fund |
MCMAX, MCMBX, MCMCX, MCMRX, MCMDX, MCMYX, MCMPX, MCMFX |
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Managers Cadence Emerging Companies
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MECAX, MECIX |
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Managers Cadence Focused Growth
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MFAGX, MGCFX, MFDGX, MYFGX, MFPGX, MFIGX |
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Managers AMG Trilogy Emerging Markets Equity Fund
|
TLESX,TLEIX |
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Managers AMG Trilogy Global Equity Fund |
TLGSX, TLGIX |
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Managers AMG Trilogy International Small Cap Fund |
TLSSX, TLSIX |
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Third Avenue |
Third Avenue Focused Credit Fund |
TFCVX,TCFIX |
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Third Avenue International Value Fund |
TAVIX,TVIVX |
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Third Avenue Real Estate Value Fund |
TAREX,TVRVX |
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Third Avenue Small-Cap Value Fund |
TASCX,TVSVX |
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Third Avenue Value Fund |
TAVFX,TVFVX |
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Third Avenue Variable Series Trust |
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Tweedy, Browne |
Tweedy, Browne Global Value Fund |
TBGVX |
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Tweedy, Browne Global Value Fund 11 - Currency Unhedged |
TBCUX |
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Tweedy, Browne Value Fund |
TWEBX |
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Tweedy, Browne Worldwide High Dividend Yield Value Fund |
TBHDX |
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5 Systematic's List of Affiliated Funds is subject to change. Please consult this List quarterly for any revisions
Exhibit H
Quarterly Compliance Acknowledgement
I have read, received, understood and complied with all of the policies and procedures set forth in Systematic Financial Management, L.P.'s ("Systematic") Employee Handbook , Compliance Manual and Code of Ethics and any amendments thereto. |
Select Yes No |
II. CODE OF ETHICS & RELATED POLICIES |
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I have complied with Systematic's Code of Ethics in that: |
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A. INSIDER TRADING POLICIES & PROCEDURES |
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1. I have complied with Systematic's Code of Ethics which includes Systematic's and Affiliated Managers Group's ("AMG") Insider Trading Policy and Procedures [Exhibit A]. |
Select Yes No |
2. Furthermore, I have neither traded for any client account, personal account, family member's account or any other non-client account, directly or indirectly, on material, non-public information, nor have I disseminated any material non-public information within Systematic, or to others outside the Firm in violation of federal securities laws. |
Select Yes No |
B. PERSONAL SECURITIES TRADING POLICIES & PROCEDURES |
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1. I have informed Systematic of all brokerage accounts, I, or my Immediate Family maintain for myself, my family, or any other accounts for which I/we maintain partial or compete discretion and authority, and have provided all necessary information about said accounts to Systematic. |
Select Yes No N/A |
2. I further state where security transactions have been executed by me or by my Immediate Family , I have complied with all Firm procedures. |
Select Yes No N/A |
3. I further certify that: a. A Personal Trading Pre-Clearance Request Form has been submitted & approved before the execution of any transaction requiring pre-approval (Please refer to the Personal Trading Permissible Investments, Pre-approval and Reporting Requirements for a list of Reportable Securities and Funds.); |
Select Yes No N/A |
b. Systematic's Compliance Department has received duplicate copies of all brokerage, custodial and Affiliated Mutual Fund statements and duplicate confirmations of securities transactions to assure confirmation of any pre-approved transactions and minimum holding periods for the aforementioned quarter; and |
Select Yes No N/A |
c. Systematic's Compliance Department is fully aware of all of the personal securities transactions executed by me or my Immediate Family that violated Systematic's Personal Securities Trading policies and procedures. |
Select Yes No N/A |
C. REPORTABLE TRANSACTIONS |
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1. Personal Securities Transaction Report - Reportable ("Affiliated") Mutual Funds (Excluding 401 (k) Plan Transactions)
Reportable ("Affiliated") Mutual Funds include mutual funds for which Systematic serves as a sub-adviser AND any fund that is an Affiliated Mutual Fund of AMG. (Please refer to Systematic's List of Affiliated Mutual Funds , which includes Systematic's Sub-Advised Mutual Funds and AMG's Affiliated Mutual Funds.) |
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a. Did you effect any Affiliated Mutual Fund transactions during the quarter? If Yes, please respond to the next question. |
Select Yes No |
i. Did you effect any Affiliated Mutual Fund transactions during the quarter that may not be reflected or contained in the brokerage, custodial and /or Affiliated Mutual Fund statements received by Systematic's Compliance Department? If Yes, please provide the transaction details requested below for such Affiliated Fund transaction(s) executed during the quarter. |
Select Yes No |
Name of Affiliated Mutual Fund |
Transaction Date |
Number of Shares |
Principal Amount |
Price |
Fund/Family Sponsor |
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b. Did you establish any Affiliated Mutual Fund account(s) during the quarter? If Yes, please provide the Affiliated Mutual Fund Account information requested below for each new Affiliated Mutual Fund account established during the quarter. |
Select Yes No |
Name of Affiliated Mutual Fund |
Date Established |
Name/s on Account |
Type of Account |
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2. Personal Securities Trading - Reportable Securities
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a. Did you have any Reportable Securities transactions during the quarter? If Yes, please respond to the next question. |
Select Yes No |
i. Did you have any Reportable Securities transactions during the quarter that:
(a) may not be reflected or contained in any brokerage or custodial statements received by Systematic's Compliance Department, or;
(b) for which duplicate confirmation statements were not sent to Systematic's Compliance Department?
If yes to either (a) or (b), please provide Reportable Securities transaction details requested below for such Reportable Securities transaction(s) executed during the quarter. |
Select Yes No |
Select Yes No N/A |
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Select Yes No N/A |
Name of Issuer/Type of Security |
Transaction Date |
Number of Shares |
Principal Amount |
Price |
Brokerage (Bank) Account |
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b. Did you establish any new Brokerage (Bank) Account/s during the quarter? If Yes, please provide the Brokerage (Bank) Account/s information requested below for each new Account established during the quarter. |
Select Yes No |
Name of Broker-Dealer (Bank) |
Date Account Established |
Name/s on Account |
Type of Account |
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III. POLITICAL CONTRIBUTIONS & RESTRICTED PAYMENTS POLICY & PROCEDURES |
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I have complied with Systematic's Political Contribution and Other Restricted Payment Policy (the "Policy") in that: |
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A. Did you make any political contributions during this quarter? If Yes, please respond to the next question. |
Select Yes No |
1. If you made a political contribution during the quarter was a Political Contribution Pre-Clearance Form submitted and approved before any and all political contributions that were made during the quarter? If the answer is no, please report the details requested below for such contributions. |
Select Yes No N/A |
Recipient Name: |
Candidate's prospective Office: |
Candidate's current Office : |
Can employee vote in election? |
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Select Yes No |
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Select Yes No |
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B. I acknowledge that I have neither solicited nor directed others, including but not limited to my spouse or family members, to make political contributions or other restricted payments on my behalf in violation of the Policy. |
Select Yes No |
IV. GENERAL ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS |
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A. I also acknowledge and understand that Systematic is an "at-will" employer, Systematic may terminate me as an employee at any time for any reason and I may resign as an employee at any time and for any reason. |
Select Yes No |
B. I understand that my failure to comply in all respects with Systematic's policies and procedures, including but not limited to; Systematic's Employee Handbook, Code of Ethics, Compliance Manual, and AMG's Insider Trading Policy and Procedures, is a basis for termination of my employment from Systematic. |
Select Yes No |
***Click the CFA Certification section only if you are a member of, or candidate for, the CFA Institute's Charter Financial Analyst Program*** |
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(square7)(square7) CFA members and candidates click here By clicking the box above, I do hereby certify that for the quarter ending December 31, 2011, I have read and complied with all of the policies, procedures, duties and obligations set forth in the CFA Institute's Code of Ethics and Standards of Professional Conduct of the CFA Institute. |
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Click here to sign this section SIGNING THE FORM: Please click on "Click here to sign this section" above in order to attach your digital signature. You will need to click this prompt a second time to bring up the digital signature window.
The "SUBMIT" button will appear once you have digitally signed the form. SAVING A COPY : If you would like to retain a completed copy of this Questionnaire for your records, please print before clicking "SUBMIT." After clicking "SUBMIT," you will no longer have access to your completed Questionnaire. |
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