Securities Act File No. 333-174926
ICA No. 811-22549
As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 20, 2011
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 x
Pre-Effective Amendment No.
x
Post-Effective Amendment No. _5 ____
and/or
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 x
Amendment No. 7
(Check Appropriate Box or Boxes)
Northern Lights Fund Trust II
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
4020 South 147 th Street
Omaha, NE 68137
Attention: Brian Nielsen
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)(Zip Code)
(402) 895-1600
(Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
The Corporation Trust Company
Corporate Trust Center
1209 Orange Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
With a copy to:
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David J. Baum, Esq. Alston & Bird, LLP 950 F Street NW Washington, DC 20004 (202) 239-3346 |
Emile R. Molineaux, General Counsel Gemini Fund Services, LLC 450 Wireless Blvd. Hauppauge, New York 11788 (631) 470-2616 |
Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering:
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):
( )
immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b).
( )
on (date) pursuant to paragraph (b).
( )
60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1).
( )
on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(1).
(x)
75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2).
( )
on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485.
If appropriate, check the following box:
( ) this post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.
Pursuant to Rule 24f-2 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, Registrant hereby elects to register an indefinite number of shares of Registrant and any series thereof hereinafter created.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement contains a Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information describing WOA All Asset I, a new series of the Registrant. This Post-Effective Amendment to the Registration Statement is organized as follows: (a) Prospectus relating to WOA All Asset I; (b) Statement of Additional Information relating to WOA All Asset I; and (c) Part C Information relating to all series of the Registrant. The Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information for the other series of the Registrant are not affected hereby.
The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state in which the offer or sale is not permitted.
Subject to Completion
Preliminary Prospectus Dated September 20, 2011
WOA All Asset I
Class I Shares (Symbol: [ ])
Prospectus
December [___], 2011
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has not approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this Prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
WOA All Asset I
a series of the Northern Lights Fund Trust II (the Trust)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INVESTMENT STRATEGIES, RELATED RISKS AND DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
Principal Investment Strategies
Temporary Defensive Strategies
Portfolio Managers of the Fund Manager
Portfolio Managers of the Sub-Adviser
Tools to Combat Frequent Transactions
Tax Status, Dividends and Distributions
Summary Section
Investment Objective. The investment objective of the WOA All Asset I (the Fund) is long-term growth of capital and current income.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund. This table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts on purchases of shares if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $[_______] in the Fund. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional.
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
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Class I |
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Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases (as a percentage of offering price) |
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None |
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Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) |
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None |
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Redemption Fee (as a percentage of amount redeemed within 30 days of purchase) |
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1.00% |
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Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
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|
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Management Fees |
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1.15% |
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Distribution and Service (Rule 12b-1) Fees |
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0.10% |
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Other Expenses (1) |
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[ ]% |
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Dividend Expenses on Short Positions |
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[ ]% |
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Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses (Underlying Funds) (2) |
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[ ]% |
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Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
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[ ]% |
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Fee Waiver/Expense Reimbursement |
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[ ]% |
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Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver/Expense Reimbursement (3) |
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[1.65]% |
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(1) These expenses are based on estimated amounts for the Funds initial fiscal year.
(2) This number represents the combined total fees and operating expenses of the Underlying Funds owned by the Fund and is not a direct expense incurred by the Fund or deducted from the Fund assets. Since this number does not represent a direct operating expense of the Fund, the operating expenses set forth in the Funds financial highlights do not include this figure.
(3)
Pursuant to an operating expense limitation agreement between the Fund Manager and the Fund, the Fund Manager has agreed to waive its fees and/or absorb expenses of the Fund to ensure that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (excluding interest and tax expenses, dividends on short positions and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses) for the Fund do not exceed [1.65]%of the Funds average net assets for Class I shares, through [ ], subject thereafter to annual re-approval of the agreement by the Trusts Board of Trustees (the Board of Trustees). This operating expense limitation agreement can be terminated only by, or with the consent of, the Board of Trustees. The Fund Manager is permitted to seek reimbursement from the Fund, subject to limitations, for fees it waived and Fund expenses it paid. The Fund Manager is permitted to seek reimbursement from the Fund for the prior three fiscal years, as long as the reimbursement does not cause the Funds operating expenses to exceed the expense cap.
Example. This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then redeem all your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs would be:
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1 YEAR |
3 YEARS |
CLASS I |
$[___] |
$[___] |
Portfolio Turnover. The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover 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 fund operating expenses or in the Example, affect the Funds performance. The Fund Manager expects a portfolio turns over [___]%-[___]% annually for the next three years, though the Funds annual portfolio turnover rate may exceed [___]%.
Principal Investment Strategies. The Fund invests primarily in exchange traded funds (ETFs), other open-end mutual funds, and closed-end funds. This group of investments is referred to as Underlying Funds. The Funds investment adviser, Water Oak Advisors, LLC (the Fund Manager), seeks to achieve the Funds investment objective by using the following investment strategies:
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investing in a diversified portfolio of Underlying Funds. The Fund invests primarily in equity Underlying Funds based on U.S. companies, indices and sectors, but may invest in Underlying Funds linked to foreign indexes; as well as Underlying Funds linked to fixed income indexes.
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as a hedging technique, investing in ETFs that are inverse to the market (the value of the ETF goes up when the market or a certain sector goes down); and
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writing (selling) exchange traded covered call options with respect to all or a portion of the portfolio to generate income as an enhancement to dividends and capital appreciation.
When the Fund sells a covered call option, the purchaser of the option has the right to buy a particular security, including an index-based ETF, at a predetermined price (exercise price) during the life of the option. The option is covered because the Fund owns the security at the time it sells the option. The income received by the Fund from selling the options will reduce any losses on the underlying securities, but only by the amount of the premiums. The Fund generally intends to sell call options that are out-of-the- money, meaning that option exercise prices generally will be slightly higher than the current level of the index at the time the options are written. The options are typically written on equity, fixed income and commodity ETFs. If a call option becomes in-the-money prior to expiration, the portfolio manager determines whether the security should be allowed to be called away or the call option re-purchased and another out-of-the-money call option written based on the volatility of the underlying security and the time to expiration.
The Fund Manager actively manages the Funds investments by increasing or decreasing the Funds investment in particular asset classes, sectors, regions and countries or using a hedging technique, based on its assessment of the opportunities for return relative to the risk using fundamental and technical analysis. When selecting Underlying Funds for investment, the Fund Manager considers the Underlying Funds investment goals and strategies, the investment adviser and portfolio manager, and past performance (absolute, relative and risk-adjusted). The Fund Manager may sell an investment if it determines that the asset class, sector, region or country is no longer desirable or if the Fund Manager believes that another Underlying Fund offers a better opportunity to achieve the Funds objective. The Fund Manager may sell an inverse ETF when it believes that the opportunities for the hedged investment have improved.
Principal Investment Risks. All mutual funds carry a certain amount of risk, including the risk that the Fund may not achieve its investment objective. The Funds returns will vary and you could lose money on your investment in the Fund.
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Call Option Risk When the Fund writes call options on its portfolio securities it limits its opportunity to profit and, consequently, the Fund could significantly underperform the market.
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Debt Securities Risk When the Fund invests in bonds or in Underlying Funds that own bonds, the value of your investment in the Fund will fluctuate with changes in interest rates. Long-term bonds are generally more sensitive to interest rate changes than short-term bonds. Issuers of fixed-income securities may default on interest and principal payments. Generally, securities with lower debt ratings (junk bonds) have greater credit risk.
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Foreign Securities Risk Underlying Funds that are linked to foreign indexes may be riskier than U.S. investments because of factors such as unstable international political and economic conditions, currency fluctuations, foreign controls on investment and currency exchange, withholding taxes, a lack of adequate company information, less liquid and more volatile markets, and a lack of governmental regulation. Foreign companies that comprise the foreign index generally are not subject to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies. Transaction costs and costs associated with custody services are generally higher for foreign securities held by these Underlying Funds.
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Inverse Risk The Fund engages in hedging activities by investing in inverse ETFs. Inverse ETFs may employ leverage, which magnifies the changes in the underlying stock index upon which they are based. Any strategy that includes inverse securities could cause the Fund to suffer significant losses.
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Management Risk The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the allocation of the Funds assets. The Fund Manager may allocate the Funds investments so as to under-emphasize or over-emphasize investments under the wrong market conditions, in which case the Funds value may be adversely affected.
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Market Risk Investments in securities in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. The Funds investments may decline in value due to factors affecting securities markets generally, or particular countries, segments, economic sectors, industries or companies within those markets. The value of a security may decline due to general economic and market conditions that are not specifically related to a particular issuer.
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Smaller and Medium Issuer Risk Investments in Underlying Funds that own small and medium capitalization companies and direct investments in individual small and medium capitalization companies may be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic developments than investments in larger, more established organizations.
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Underlying Funds Risk You will indirectly pay fees and expenses charged by the Underlying Funds in addition to the Funds direct fees and expenses. As a result, the cost of investing in the Fund will be higher than the cost of investing directly in Underlying Fund shares and may be higher than other mutual funds that invest directly in stocks and bonds. Each Underlying Fund is subject to specific risks, depending on the nature of the Underlying Fund. These risks could include sector risk (increased risk from a focus on one or more sectors of the market), as well as risks associated with fixed income securities, real estate investments, and commodities.
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Lack of Operating History Risk The Fund is newly formed and therefore has no performance history for investors to evaluate. In addition, certain types of transactions may have a disproportionate impact on the Funds performance if the Fund does not achieve significant scale. The Fund may also not grow to an economically viable size and thus may be liquidated at a time that is not beneficial for all of its shareholders.
Performance. The Fund is expected to commence investment operations on or about the date of this Prospectus and currently has no investment performance information to report. After the Fund has had operations for at least one full calendar year, its Prospectus will include a bar chart and a table that will provide some indication of the risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in the Funds performance from year to year and by showing how the Funds average annual returns for the most recent one year, five years and ten years (or the life of the Fund, if shorter), compared to those of a broad measure of market performance. As with all mutual funds, the Funds past performance (before and after taxes) does not predict how the Fund will perform in the future.
Investment Adviser. Water Oak Advisors, LLC serves as the Funds investment advisor.
Sub-Adviser. Capital Wealth Planning, LLC serves as the Funds sub-adviser.
Portfolio Managers. Water Oak Advisors utilizes a team approach for management of the Fund. Clarke Lemons, founder and President of Water Oak Advisors, Chris Hylen, CFP, Steve Curley, CFP, a Director at Water Oak Advisors, and Scott Macaione, CFP, a Director at Water Oak Advisors, are primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Funds portfolio and have served as portfolio managers of the Fund, since its inception in 2011.
Kevin G. Simpson, President and Chief Compliance Officer of Capital Wealth Planning, LLC, and Josh Smith, CFA, of Capital Wealth Planning, are responsible for the oversight and management of the Sub-Advisers investment strategy since the Funds inception in 2011.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares. Purchases made through certain mutual fund market places are not subject to any minimum investment amounts. Otherwise, the minimum initial investment to open an account is $1,000,000 for regular accounts and retirement accounts. The minimum subsequent investment is $25,000 for regular accounts and retirement accounts. You may purchase and redeem shares of the Fund on any day that the New York Stock Exchange is open. Purchases and redemptions may be made by mail to WOA All Asset I c/o Gemini Fund Services, LLC, 4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2, Omaha, Nebraska 68137 or by calling 1-800-723-8637.
Tax Information. Dividends and capital gain distributions you receive from the Fund are taxable to you at either ordinary income or capital gains tax rates unless you are investing through a tax-deferred account such as an IRA or 401(k) plan.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries. If you purchase the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for certain servicing and administrative functions. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys website for more information.
Investment Strategies, Related Risks and Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings
Investment Objective
The investment objective of the Fund is long-term growth of capital and current income. The investment objective may be changed without shareholder approval, however, shareholders will be given 60 days prior notice of any such change.
Principal Investment Strategies
Fund Structure and Common Investment Strategies. The Fund is a Fund of Funds. In other words, the Fund pursues its investment objective by investing primarily in ETFs, open-end mutual funds, and closed-end funds that are not affiliated with the Northern Lights Fund Trust II or Water Oak Advisors. An ETF is a registered investment company that seeks to track the performance of a particular market index. These indexes include not only broad-market indexes, but more specific indexes as well, including those relating to particular sectors, markets, regions or industries. An ETF is traded like a stock on a securities exchange and may be purchased and sold throughout the trading day based on its market price. The trading price of an ETF fluctuates in accordance with changes in market supply and demand. The Fund allocates its assets among a group of ETFs in different percentages. In addition to the Underlying Funds, the Fund may invest directly in individual securities. Under ordinary circumstances, the equity positions of the Fund will consist almost entirely of ETFs, while the portion of the Funds portfolio allocated to fixed income typically will consist of ETFs, individual fixed income securities, or money market (cash).
Selection of Underlying Funds. The Fund invests in Underlying Funds that invest in common stock or securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stock such as convertible preferred stock, convertible debentures, warrants, options and fixed income securities such as bonds. The Fund Manager selects specific Underlying Funds for investment, in part, on their investment goals and strategies, their investment adviser and portfolio manager, and on the analysis of their past performance (absolute, relative and risk adjusted). The Fund Manager also considers other factors in the selection of Underlying Funds, such as fund size, liquidity, expense ratio, quality of shareholder service, reputation and tenure of portfolio manager, general composition of its investment portfolio and current and expected portfolio holdings. Many funds in which the Fund invests may not share the same investment goal and investment limitations as the Fund. Normally, the Fund will invest its assets in Underlying Funds from several different fund families, managed by a variety of investment advisers, and having a variety of different investment goals and strategies. However, the Fund may invest up to 100% of its total assets in one Underlying Fund. Also, because the Fund may invest heavily in ETFs and because the number of investment advisers offering a wide range of ETFs is limited, the Fund may have a large percentage of its Underlying Fund assets managed by one investment adviser.
The Fund may purchase no-load mutual funds, which are sold and purchased without a sales charge. The Fund may also purchase load mutual funds, but only if the load, or sales commission, is waived for purchases or sales made by the Fund. In addition, when the Fund Manager believes it is appropriate, the Fund may purchase mutual funds that charge a redemption fee of up to 2% for short-term sales, but not mutual funds that charge a sales load upon redemption. The Fund, the Fund Manager, and the Funds distributor do not receive Rule 12b-1 distribution fees generated from the purchase of Underlying Funds; however, they may receive shareholder servicing fees for the performance of certain administrative tasks.
Allocation of Fund Assets among Market Segments. The Fund Manager allocates the Funds assets primarily among various style and capitalization combinations (such as aggressive growth, growth, growth and income, small capitalization, etc.) of open-end and closed-end investment companies, specialty and industry sector funds (including utility funds), international and global stock funds (including developed and emerging markets, regional funds and country specific funds), international and global bond funds, U.S. Government securities, corporate bonds, high yield bond funds, money market funds and exchange traded funds. The Fund may also invest in individual securities.
Using fundamental and technical analysis, the Fund Manager assesses the relative risk and reward potential of these segments of the financial markets, with the objective of providing the best opportunity for achieving the Funds investment objective. The Funds portfolio is expected to vary considerably among the various market segments as changes in economic and market trends occur. The Fund Manager underweights market segments that it believes to have below average risk/reward potential and overweights market segments that it believes to have above average risk/reward potential. The asset allocation process is not limited to determining the degree to which the Funds assets should be invested in a given market segment. The Fund Manager continually explores opportunities in various subclasses of assets, which may include:
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geoeconomic considerations (for example, foreign versus domestic);
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maturities of fixed income securities (for example, short-term versus long-term);
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market capitalization (for example, large capitalization versus small capitalization); and
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sector rotation (for example, high tech versus industrial).
Stock Segment : The Fund may invest in one or more stock funds owning domestic and foreign equity securities, including common stocks and warrants. The Fund may also invest in individual stocks. Common stocks, the most familiar type, represent an ownership interest in a corporation. Although equity securities have a history of long-term growth in value, their prices fluctuate based on changes in a companys financial condition and on overall market and economic conditions.
The stock segment includes domestic and foreign equity securities of all types. The Fund Manager seeks a high total return within this asset class by actively allocating assets to industry sectors expected to benefit from major trends, and to individual stocks that the Fund Manager believes to have superior investment potential. When the Fund Manager selects stock funds, it considers both growth and anticipated dividend income. Securities in the stock class may include common stocks, fixed-rate preferred stocks (including convertible preferred stocks), warrants, rights, depository receipts, securities of closed-end investment companies, and other equity securities issued by companies of any size, located anywhere in the world.
Bond Segment: The Fund may invest in one or more bond funds owning domestic and foreign debt securities or in individual securities issued by either domestic or foreign parties. Bonds and other debt securities are used by issuers to borrow money from investors. The issuer pays the investor a fixed or variable rate of interest, and must repay the amount borrowed at maturity. The bond segment includes all varieties of domestic and foreign fixed-income securities. The Fund Manager will seek to manage total return, income, and risk within the bond segment by adjusting the Funds investments in bond funds that hold securities with different credit qualities, maturities, and coupon or dividend rates, and by seeking to take advantage of yield differentials between securities. Securities in this class may include bonds, notes, adjustable-rate preferred stocks, convertible bonds, domestic and foreign government and government agency securities, zero coupon bonds, and other intermediate and long-term securities. These securities may be denominated in U.S. dollars or foreign currency. The Fund may also invest in individual bonds and bond funds that respectively are or hold lower quality, high-yielding debt securities (commonly referred to as junk bonds). In general, bond prices rise when interest rates fall, and fall when interest rates rise. Bonds and other debt securities have varying degrees of quality and varying levels of sensitivity to changes in interest rates. Longer-term bonds are generally more sensitive to interest rate changes than short-term bonds.
Fixed Income Securities. The Fund may invest directly or indirectly in various types of fixed income securities, which may include the following:
Asset-Backed Securities : The Fund may invest in asset-backed securities. These securities are backed by other assets such as credit card, automobile or consumer loan receivables, retail installment loans or participations in pools of leases. Credit support for these securities may be based on the underlying assets and/or provided through credit enhancements by a third party. The values of these securities are sensitive to changes in the credit quality of the underlying collateral, the credit strength of the credit enhancement, changes in interest rates and at times the financial condition of the issuer.
Certificates of Deposit or CDs : Time deposits, a financial product commonly offered by banks, thrift institutions, and credit unions. CDs are similar to savings accounts in that they are insured by the FDIC for banks or by the NCUA for credit unions. They are different from savings accounts in that the CD has a specific, fixed term (often three months, six months, or one to five years). It is intended that the CD be held until maturity, at which time the money may be withdrawn together with the accrued interest. In exchange for keeping the money on deposit for the agreed-on term, institutions usually grant higher interest rates than they do on accounts from which money may be withdrawn on demand, although this may not be the case in an inverted yield curve situation. Fixed rates are common, but some institutions offer CDs with various forms of variable rates. Some CDs are indexed to the stock market, bond market, or other indices.
Eurodollar Instruments : Eurodollar instruments are bonds of corporate and government issuers that pay interest and principal in U.S. dollars but are issued in markets outside the United States, primarily in Europe. The Fund may also invest in Eurodollar Certificates of Deposit (ECDs) and Eurodollar Time Deposits (ETDs). ECDs are U.S. dollar-denominated certificates of deposit issued by non-U.S. branches of domestic banks; ETDs are U.S. dollar-denominated deposits in a non-U.S. branch of a U.S. bank or in a non-U.S. bank. These investments involve risks that are different from investments in securities issued by U.S. issuers, including potential unfavorable political and economic developments, non-U.S. withholding or other taxes, seizure of non-U.S. deposits, currency controls, interest limitations or other governmental restrictions which might affect payment of principal or interest.
Inflation Protected Bonds : Bonds that have a final value and interest payment stream linked to the inflation rate. The index for measuring the inflation rate for these securities is typically the non-seasonally adjusted Consumer Price Index published monthly by the U.S. Department of Labor- Bureau of Labor Statistics. By offering interest and principal payments linked to inflation, these securities attempt to protect the future purchasing power of the money invested in them.
Investment-Grade Corporate Bonds : Debt securities of industrial, utility, banking and other financial institutions that are rated at or above investment grade. These securities are backed by the credit of the corporation issuing the fixed-income instrument as to the timely repayment of principal and interest.
Lower-Rated (Junk) Bonds : Debt securities of industrial, utility, banking and other financial institutions that are rated below investment grade (BB/Ba or lower). These securities are backed by the credit of the corporation issuing the fixed-income instrument as to the timely repayment of principal and interest.
Mortgage-Backed Securities : Securities backed by residential or commercial mortgages, including pass-through and collateralized mortgage obligations. Mortgage securities may be issued by the U.S. government or by private entities. For example, the Fund may invest in pools of mortgage loans, which are supported by (i) the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury through instrumentalities such as General National Mortgage Association (GNMA), (ii) the right of the issuer to borrow money from the U.S. Treasury such as the Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA), (iii) only by the credit of the instrumentality issuing the obligation such as the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC).
U.S. Government Securities : High-quality debt securities that are direct obligations of the U.S. government, such as Treasury bills, notes and bonds. These securities are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States as to the timely repayment of principal and interest.
U.S. Government Agency Securities : High-quality debt securities issued by U.S. government sponsored-entities and federally related institutions, such as the Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Farm Credit Bank. These securities are not direct obligations of the U.S. government and are supported only by the credit of the entity that issues them.
U.S. Government Related Securities : Government-related securities and certificates issued by financial institutions or broker-dealers representing so-called stripped U.S. government securities ( i.e. , interest and principal components are offered separately), securities issued by or on behalf of any state of the United States, a political subdivision agency or instrumentality of such state, or certain other qualifying issuers (such as municipalities and issuers located in Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands or Guam), the interest on which is exempt from federal income tax.
Zero Coupon Securities : Debt securities that make no periodic interest payments but are sold at a deep discount from their face value. The bondholder does not receive interest payments, only the full face value at redemption on the specified maturity date. The owner of a zero-coupon bond owes income taxes on the interest that has accrued each year, even though the bondholder does not receive payment until maturity. Often these are stripped securities, which are offered as separate income or principal components of a debt instrument.
Temporary Defensive Strategies
The Fund Manager, the Sub-Adviser or the investment advisers of the Underlying Funds in which the Fund invests, may invest in defensive positions when they believe it is appropriate to do so. When this happens, the Fund, or the Underlying Funds in which the Fund invests, may increase temporarily their investment in government securities and other short-term securities such as money market funds, or hold cash, without regard to the Funds, or the Underlying Funds, investment restrictions, policies or normal investment emphasis. During such a period, the Fund, or the Underlying Funds in which the Fund invests, could be unable to achieve their investment objectives. In addition, this defensive investment strategy may cause frequent trading and high portfolio turnover ratios when calculated in accordance with the U.S Securities and Exchange Commission rules. High transaction costs could result from more frequent trading. Such trading may also result in realization of net short-term capital gains upon which you may be taxed at ordinary tax rates when distributed from the Fund. The Fund may also use combinations of options and futures to achieve a more aggressive or defensive position. There can be no assurance that such risk management strategies will be implemented, or that if they are utilized that they will be successful in reducing losses to the Fund. This discussion of a temporary defensive strategy does not apply to the Reservoir Fund because it invests in these types of securities as part of its principal investment strategy.
Principal Investment Risks
All mutual funds carry a certain amount of risk, including the risk that the Fund may not achieve its investment objective. The Funds returns will vary and you could lose money on your investment in the Fund.
Call Option Risk: When the Fund sells covered call options, it receives cash but limits its opportunity to profit from an increase in the market value of the security beyond the exercise price (plus the premium received). In a rapidly rising market, the Fund could significantly underperform the market. The gain on the underlying stock will be equal to the difference between the exercise price and the original purchase price of the underlying security, plus the premium received. The gain may be less than if the Fund had not sold an option on the underlying security. If a call expires unexercised, the Fund realizes a gain in the amount of the premium received, although there may have been a decline (unrealized loss) in the market value of the underlying securities during the option period which may exceed such gain. If the underlying securities should decline by more than the option premium the Fund received, there will be a loss on the overall position. The Fund expects to generate premiums from its sale of call options. These premiums typically will result in short-term capital gains for federal income tax purposes. The Fund is not designed for investors seeking a tax efficient investment.
Inflation Protected Bond Risk: Inflation protected bonds provide a protected return only if held to maturity. In addition, inflation protected bonds may not trade at par value. Real interest rates (the market rate of interest adjusted for inflation) change over time as a result of many factors, such as expected domestic economic output. When real interest rates do change, inflation protected bond prices may be more sensitive to these changes than conventional bonds. If market expectations for real interest rates rise, the price of inflation protected bonds may fall. In addition, inflation protected bonds may not be widely traded. This lesser liquidity may result in the Fund experiencing higher transaction costs when purchasing and selling these securities.
Interest Rate Risk: When the Fund invests in bonds or in Underlying Funds that own bonds, the value of your investment in the Fund will fluctuate with changes in interest rates. Typically, a rise in interest rates causes a decline in the value of bond funds owned by the Fund. In general, the market price of debt securities with longer maturities will increase or decrease more in response to changes in interest rates than shorter-term securities.
Credit Risk: Issuers of fixed-income securities may default on interest and principal payments due to the Fund. Generally, securities with lower debt ratings have speculative characteristics and have greater risk the issuer will default on its obligation. Fixed-income securities rated in the fourth classification by Moodys (Baa) and S&P (BBB) (sometimes referred to as junk bonds) have speculative characteristics and changes in economic conditions or other circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of those issuers to make principal or interest payments, as compared to issuers of more highly rated securities. These securities can also be thinly traded or have restrictions on resale, making them difficult to sell at an acceptable price.
Prepayment Risk: Prepayment risk is the risk that the borrower will prepay some or all of the principal owed to the issuer before its scheduled due date. If that happens, the Fund may have to reinvest the prepayments in a less attractive security and this could reduce the Funds share price and its income distributions. Variations in the principal prepayment speed may be caused by a number of economic and market factors and could directly affect the amount of the interest received on and the yield of these securities. Certain types of pass-through securities, such as asset-backed securities and mortgage-backed securities, have yield and maturity characteristics corresponding to underlying assets. Unlike traditional debt securities, which may pay a fixed rate of interest until maturity when the entire principal amount comes due, payments on certain asset- and mortgage-backed securities include both interest and a partial payment of principal. Besides the scheduled repayment of principal, payments of principal may result from voluntary prepayment, refinancing, or, in the case of mortgage-backed securities foreclosure of the underlying mortgage loans. For example, when interest rates fall, principal will generally be paid off faster, since many homeowners will refinance their mortgages.
Foreign Issuer Risk: Each Fund may invest directly or indirectly in foreign companies. Investing in securities of foreign companies may involve risks not typically associated with investing in U.S. issuers. Foreign markets can be more volatile than the U.S. market due to increased risks of adverse issuer, political, regulatory, market, or economic developments and can perform differently from the U.S. market. Foreign securities markets generally have less trading volume and less liquidity than U.S. markets, and prices in some foreign markets may fluctuate more than those of securities traded on the U.S. markets. Many foreign countries lack accounting and disclosure standards comparable to those that apply to U.S. companies, and it may be more difficult to obtain reliable information regarding a foreign issuers financial condition and operations. Transaction costs and costs associated with custody services are generally higher for foreign securities than they are for U.S. securities. Some foreign governments levy withholding taxes against dividend and interest income. Although in some countries portions or these taxes are recoverable, the non-recovered portion will reduce the income received by the Fund.
Foreign Currency Risk: To the extent the Fund invests in Underlying Funds that hold securities denominated in foreign currencies, or invests directly in securities denominated in foreign currencies, the value of securities denominated in foreign currencies can change significantly when foreign currencies strengthen or weaken relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad. These currency movements may negatively impact the value of the Fund even when there is no change in the value of the security in the issuers home country.
Emerging Markets Risk: In addition to the risks generally associated with investing in securities of foreign companies, countries with emerging markets also may have relatively unstable governments, social and legal systems that do not protect shareholders, economies based on only a few industries, and securities markets that trade a small number of issues. In addition, emerging securities markets may have different clearance and settlement procedures, which may be unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions or otherwise make it difficult to engage in such transactions.
Inverse Risk: The Fund engages in hedging activities by investing in inverse ETFs. These investments are significantly different from the investment activities commonly associated with conservative stock funds. Positions in inverse securities are speculative and can be more risky than long positions (purchases). Under certain circumstances, the Fund Manager may invest in Underlying Funds, including ETFs, known as inverse funds, which are designed to produce results opposite to market trends. Inverse funds seek daily investment results, before fees and expenses, which correspond to the inverse (opposite) of the daily performance of a specific benchmark. Inverse ETFs are funds designed to rise in price when stock prices are falling. Inverse ETF index funds seek to provide investment results that will match a certain percentage of the inverse of the performance of a specific benchmark on a daily basis. For example, if a funds current benchmark is 100% of the inverse of the Russell 2000 Index and the fund meets its objective, the value of the fund will tend to increase on a daily basis when the value of the underlying index decreases (if the Russell 2000 Index goes down 5% then the funds value should go up 5%). Conversely, when the value of the underlying index increases, the value of the funds shares tend to decrease on a daily basis (if the Russell 2000 Index goes up 5% then the funds value should go down 5%). Additionally, inverse ETFs may employ leverage, which magnifies the changes in the underlying stock index upon which they are based. For example, if an inverse ETFs current benchmark is 200% of the inverse of the Russell 2000 Index and the ETF meets its objective, the value of the ETF will tend to increase on a daily basis when the value of the underlying index decreases (e.g., if the Russell 2000 Index goes down 5% then the inverse ETFs value should go up 10%). You should be aware that any strategy that includes inverse securities could suffer significant losses.
Management Risk: The net asset value of the Fund changes daily based on the performance of the securities in which it invests. The ability of the Fund to meet its investment objective is directly related to the Fund Managers allocation of the Funds assets between hedged and unhedged positions using its investment strategy. The Fund Managers objective judgments, based its investment strategies, about the attractiveness and potential appreciation of particular investments in which the Fund invests may prove to be incorrect and there is no guarantee that the Fund Managers investment strategy will produce the desired results.
Market Risk: Investments in securities and derivatives in general are subject to market risks that may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. The Funds investments may decline in value due to factors affecting securities markets generally, or particular countries, segments, economic sectors, industries or companies within those markets. The value of a security may decline due to general economic, political and market conditions that are not specifically related to a particular issuer, such as real or perceived adverse economic conditions or changes in interest or currency rates. The value of securities convertible into equity securities, such as warrants or convertible debt, is also affected by prevailing interest rates, the credit quality of the issuer and any call provision. Fluctuations in the value of securities and financial instruments in which the Fund invests, either directly or through derivatives, will cause the net asset value of the fund to fluctuate. Historically, the markets have moved in cycles, and the value of the Funds securities and derivatives may fluctuate drastically from day to day.
Smaller and Medium Issuer Risk: Investments in Underlying Funds that own small and medium capitalization companies and direct investments in individual small and medium capitalization companies may be more vulnerable than larger, more established organizations to adverse business or economic developments. In particular, small and medium-capitalization companies may have more price volatility, greater spreads between their bid and ask prices, significantly lower trading volumes, and cyclical or static growth prospects. Small-capitalization and medium-capitalization companies often have limited product lines, markets, and financial resources and may be dependent upon a relatively small management group. These securities may trade over-the-counter or on an exchange and may or may not pay dividends.
Underlying Funds Risk : Because the Fund invests primarily in Underlying Funds, the value of your investment will fluctuate in response to the performance of the Underlying Funds. In addition, investing through the Fund in an underlying portfolio of funds involves certain additional expenses and certain tax results that would not arise if you invested directly in the Underlying Funds. By investing indirectly in Underlying Funds through the Fund, you will bear not only your proportionate share of the Funds expenses (including operating costs and investment advisory, 12b-1 and administrative fees), but also, indirectly, similar expenses and charges of the Underlying Funds, including short term redemption charges. In addition, to the extent these Underlying Funds trade their portfolios actively; they will incur higher brokerage commissions as well as increased realization of taxable gains.
Investment Management Risk: When the Fund invests in Underlying Funds there is a risk that the investment advisers of those Underlying Funds may make investment decisions that are detrimental to the performance of the Fund. An Underlying Fund may buy the same securities that another Underlying Fund sells. If this happens, an investor in the Fund would indirectly bear the costs of these trades without accomplishing any investment purpose. In addition, certain of the Underlying Funds may hold common portfolio positions, thereby reducing the diversification benefits of an asset allocation style.
Underlying Fund Strategies Risk: When the Fund invests in Underlying Funds that use margin, leverage, short sales and other forms of financial derivatives, such as options and futures, an investment in the Fund may be more volatile than investments in other funds. Furthermore, the strategy of investing in Underlying Funds could affect the timing, amount and character of distributions to you and therefore may increase the amount of taxes payable by you. In addition, certain prohibitions on the acquisition of mutual fund shares by the Fund may prevent the Fund from allocating its investments in the manner the Fund Manager considers optimal. The Fund intends to purchase Underlying Funds that are either no-load or waive the sales load for purchases made by the Fund. The Fund will not purchase Underlying Funds that charge a sales load upon redemption, but the Fund may purchase Underlying Funds that have an early redemption fee of up to 2%. In the event that an Underlying Fund charges a redemption fee, then you will indirectly bear the expense by investing in the Fund.
Lack of Operating History Risk: The Fund is a new mutual fund and has a limited history of operation. In addition, the Fund Manager has not previously managed a mutual fund. Mutual funds and their advisers are subject to restrictions and limitations imposed by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the Internal Revenue Code that do not apply to the Fund Managers management of individual and institutional accounts. As a result, investors cannot judge the Fund Manager by its track record of managing a mutual fund and the Fund Manager may not achieve its intended result in managing the Fund.
Portfolio Holdings Disclosure
The Funds policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of its portfolio securities are available in the Funds Statement of Additional Information.
Investment Advisory Services
Fund Manager
Water Oak Advisors, LLC, 450 S. Orange Avenue, 4 th Floor, Orlando, Florida 32801 serves as investment adviser to the Fund. The Fund Manager is an investment advisory firm whose principal business is providing investment advice and counseling to mutual funds. The Fund Manager manages the Funds day-to-day business affairs under the general supervision of the Board of Trustees. The Fund Manager is entitled to receive an advisory fee, paid monthly, based on an annual rate of 1.15% of the Funds average daily net assets. A discussion regarding the basis for the Board of Trustees approval of the advisory agreement will be available in the Funds first annual or semi-annual shareholder report.
Portfolio Managers of the Fund Manager
Clarke Lemons As Founder and President of Water Oak Advisors, Clarke Lemons provides overall leadership and direction to the firm. Mr. Lemons has been honored as a Top 100 Independent Advisor by Barrons , as well as other top investment publications. Prior to founding the firm in 1996, he served as a portfolio manager, managing money for a large independent advisor located in Florida. Mr. Lemons has a MBA from Rollins College, a B.A. in History from Florida State University, and currently holds the Series 65 and Series 2 exams.
Chris Hylen, CFP Chris brings nearly two decades of investment experience to Water Oak Advisors. He currently serves as the President of the firms Naples office. His educational background consists of a MBA from Rollins College and a B.A. in Business from James Madison University. Mr. Hylen holds the Series 65 license and is a long-time CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER.
Steve Curley, CFP Currently in his role as a Director at Water Oak Advisors, Steve Curley serves as a Senior Advisor and helps provide broad based leadership to the firm. His educational background consists of a MBA from University of Central Florida and a B.A. in Finance from University of North Florida. Mr. Curley holds the Series 65 license and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER.
Scott Macaione, CFP Currently in his role as a Director at Water Oak Advisors, Scott Macaione serves as a Senior Advisor and helps provide broad based leadership to the firm. His educational background consists of a B.S. in Finance from Stonehill College. Mr. Macaione holds the Series 65 license and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER.
The Funds Statement of Additional Information provides information about the portfolio managers compensation, other accounts managed and their ownership of Fund shares.
Sub-Adviser
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC, 840 111 th Avenue North, Suite 10, Naples, Florida 34108 (the Sub-Adviser), serves as sub-adviser to the Fund. The Sub-Adviser has designed an ETF portfolio with the objective of achieving comprehensive returns when compared to broad market indices, while reducing volatility. This is accomplished by constructing an asset allocation that is well diversified and contains holdings that do not always move in same direction as the overall market. Uniquely, an inverse position is also included in the Sub-Advisers strategy which will increase in value as the market declines. The portfolio is actively managed and the Sub-Adviser uses a very conservative, income producing option overlay strategy on each of the ETFs in the portfolio. By selling monthly covered calls, the strategy allows us to manage uncertainty on a month-to-month basis.
Pursuant to a Sub-Advisory Agreement between the Fund Manager and Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser is entitled to receive an annual sub-advisory fee, payable monthly, equal to 0.15% of the Funds daily average net assets. The Sub-Adviser is paid by the Fund Manager not the Fund. A discussion regarding the basis for the Board of Trustees approval of the Sub-Adviser and the sub-advisory agreement will be available in the Funds first annual or semi-annual shareholder report.
Portfolio Managers of the Sub-Adviser
Kevin Simpson Kevin Simpson has been the President and Chief Investment Officer of Capital Wealth Planning, LLC, the sub-adviser to the Fund, since 2005. Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kevin has been a licensed financial consultant since 1992. Kevin specializes in helping institutions and high-net worth individuals plan and achieve their financial goals through option strategies. He delivers comprehensive investment and financial advice specifically focused on covered call selling to help clients achieve their goals of wealth accumulation. As a graduate of The George Washington University majoring in Finance, Kevin applies institutional investment management strategies to diversified equity and option portfolios. Mr. Simpson has served on many government and non-profit boards in Pennsylvania and Florida. He has taught classes and lectured on investment topics throughout many states. He has also been a published author of countless newspaper and magazine articles. Kevin has previously held a Series 7 license, a Series 63 license, a Life and Health License, and is completing a Certified Financial Planning Designation at the American College. He currently holds his Series 65 license.
Josh Smith, CFA Josh is responsible for the oversight and management of the trading for the Sub-Advisers investment strategy. Josh brings over six years of experience as a trader, analyst, and portfolio manager for institutional and high net worth clientele in the Greater Cincinnati area where he managed over $500 million in assets. Josh received his B.S. in Finance from Miami University of Ohio. He is a CFA charter holder and a member of the CFA Institute as well as the CFA Society of Cincinnati.
Shareholder Information
Determination of Share Price
The net asset value (NAV) and offering price (NAV plus any applicable sales charges) of each class of shares is determined at 4:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on each day the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open for business. NAV is computed by determining, on a per class basis, the aggregate market value of all assets of the Fund, less its liabilities, divided by the total number of shares outstanding ((assets-liabilities)/number of shares = NAV). The NYSE is closed on weekends and New Years Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Washingtons Birthday, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. The NAV takes into account, on a per class basis, the expenses and fees of the Fund, including management, administration, and distribution fees, which are accrued daily. The determination of NAV for a share class for a particular day is applicable to all applications for the purchase of shares, as well as all requests for the redemption of shares, received by the Fund (or an authorized broker or agent, or its authorized designee) before the close of trading on the NYSE on that day.
Generally, the Funds securities are valued each day at the last quoted sales price on each securitys primary exchange. Securities traded or dealt in upon one or more securities exchanges (whether domestic or foreign) for which market quotations are readily available and not subject to restrictions against resale shall be valued at the last quoted sales price on the primary exchange or, in the absence of a sale on the primary exchange, at the last bid on the primary exchange. Securities primarily traded in the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System (NASDAQ) National Market System for which market quotations are readily available shall be valued using the NASDAQ Official Closing Price. If market quotations are not readily available, securities will be valued at their fair market value as determined in good faith by the Fund Manager in accordance with procedures approved by the Board and evaluated by the Board as to the reliability of the fair value method used. In these cases, the Funds NAV will reflect certain portfolio securities fair value rather than their market price. Fair value pricing involves subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value determined for a security is materially different than the value that could be realized upon the sale of that security. The fair value prices can differ from market prices when they become available or when a price becomes available.
The Fund may use independent pricing services to assist in calculating the value of the Funds securities. In addition, market prices for foreign securities are not determined at the same time of day as the NAV for the Fund. Because the Fund may invest in underlying ETFs which hold portfolio securities primarily listed on foreign exchanges, and these exchanges may trade on weekends or other days when the underlying ETFs do not price their shares, the value of some of the Funds portfolio securities may change on days when you may not be able to buy or sell Fund shares. In computing the NAV, the Fund values foreign securities held by the Fund at the latest closing price on the exchange in which they are traded immediately prior to closing of the NYSE. Prices of foreign securities quoted in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at current rates. If events materially affecting the value of a security in the Funds portfolio, particularly foreign securities, occur after the close of trading on a foreign market but before the Fund prices its shares, the security will be valued at fair value. For example, if trading in a portfolio security is halted and does not resume before the Fund calculates its NAV, the Fund Manager may need to price the security using the Funds fair value pricing guidelines. Without a fair value price, short-term traders could take advantage of the arbitrage opportunity and dilute the NAV of long-term investors. Fair valuation of the Funds 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 the Funds NAV by short term traders. The determination of fair value involves subjective judgments. As a result, using fair value to price a security may result in a price materially different from the prices used by other mutual funds to determine net asset value, or from the price that may be realized upon the actual sale of the security.
With respect to any portion of the Funds assets that are invested in one or more open-end management investment companies registered under the 1940 Act, each Funds net asset value is calculated based upon the net asset values of those open-end management investment companies, and the prospectuses for these companies explain the circumstances under which those companies will use fair value pricing and the effects of using fair value pricing.
Class I Shares
This Prospectus describes one class of shares offered by the Fund.
Eligibility to Buy Class I Shares. The Funds Class I Shares are offered exclusively to the following types of investors:
1.
Institutional investors such as qualified retirement plans;
2.
Fee-based accounts and programs offered by certain financial intermediaries, such as registered investment advisers, broker-dealers, bank trust departments, wrap programs and unified managed accounts;
3.
Tax-exempt retirement plans of the Fund Manager and its affiliates and rollover accounts from those plans, as well as employees of the Fund Manager and its affiliates, trustees and officers of the Fund and members of their immediate families;
4.
Investment professionals, employees of broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries, and their immediate family members; and
5.
Any other investors that meet the investment minimum requirements described below under Investment MinimumsClass I Shares.
Investment MinimumsClass I Shares. Investors that purchase shares of the Fund through certain mutual fund market places (the Platform Investors) are not subject to any minimum investment amount. The minimum initial investment for all other investors (the Non-Platform Investors) is $1,000,000. Non-Platform Investors may aggregate accounts for purpose of determining whether the minimum has been met. The minimum subsequent investment is $25,000 for Non-Platform Investors. There is no minimum subsequent investment amount for Platform Investors.
Some financial intermediaries may impose different or additional minimum investment requirements. The Fund has the discretion to further modify, waive or reduce the above minimum investment requirements.
How to Purchase Shares
Purchase by Mail. To purchase the Funds shares by mail, simply complete and sign the Account Application and mail it, along with a check made payable to WOA All Assets I to:
Regular or Overnight Mail
WOA All Assets I
c/o Gemini Fund Services, LLC
4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2
Omaha, Nebraska 68137
Purchase by Wire. If you wish to wire money to make an investment in the Fund, please call the Fund at [ ] for wiring instructions and to notify the Fund that a wire transfer is coming. Any commercial bank can transfer same-day funds via wire. The Fund will normally accept wired funds for investment on the day received if they are received by the Funds designated bank before the close of regular trading on the NYSE. Your bank may charge you a fee for wiring same-day funds.
Automatic Investment Plan. You may participate in the Funds Automatic Investment Plan, an investment plan that automatically moves money from your bank account and invests it in the Fund through the use of electronic funds transfers or automatic bank drafts. You may elect to make subsequent investments by transfers of a minimum of $100 on specified days of each month into your established Fund account. Please contact the Fund at [ ] for more information about the Funds Automatic Investment Plan. Minimum initial investment requirements may be waived for Automatic Investment Plan investors, at the Funds discretion.
The Fund, however, reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to reject any application to purchase shares. Applications will not be accepted unless they are accompanied by a check drawn on a U.S. bank, thrift institutions, or credit union in U.S. funds for the full amount of the shares to be purchased. After you open an account, you may purchase additional shares by sending a check together with written instructions stating the name(s) on the account and the account number, to the above address. Make all checks payable to WOA All Assets I. The Fund will accept payment in cash, including cashiers checks or money orders. Also, to prevent check fraud, the Fund will not accept third party checks, U.S. Treasury checks, credit card checks or starter checks for the purchase of shares.
Note: Gemini Fund Services, LLC, the Funds transfer agent, will charge a $25 fee against a shareholders account, in addition to any loss sustained by the Fund, for any check returned to the transfer agent for insufficient funds.
Anti-Money Laundering Program. The USA PATRIOT Act requires financial institutions, including the Fund, to adopt certain policies and programs to prevent money-laundering activities, including procedures to verify the identity of customers opening new accounts. As requested on the application, you should supply your full name, date of birth, social security number and permanent street address. Mailing addresses containing a P.O. Box will not be accepted. This information will assist the Fund in verifying your identity. Until such verification is made, the Fund may temporarily limit additional share purchases. In addition, the Fund may limit additional share purchases or close an account if it is unable to verify a shareholders identity. As required by law, the Fund may employ various procedures, such as comparing the information to fraud databases or requesting additional information or documentation from you, to ensure that the information supplied by you is correct.
In order to ensure compliance with these laws, the Account Application asks for, among other things, the following information for all customers seeking to open an account (as those terms are defined in rules adopted pursuant to the USA PATRIOT Act):
·
full name;
·
date of birth (individuals only);
·
Social Security or taxpayer identification number; and
·
permanent street address (P.O. Box only is not acceptable).
Accounts opened by entities, such as corporations, limited liability companies, partnerships or trusts, will require additional documentation.
Please note that if any information listed above is missing, your Account Application will be returned and your account will not be opened. In compliance with the USA PATRIOT Act and other applicable anti-money laundering laws and regulations, the transfer agent will verify the information on your application as part of the Program. The Fund reserves the right to request additional clarifying information and may close your account if such clarifying information is not received by the Fund within a reasonable time of the request or if the Fund cannot form a reasonable belief as to the true identity of a customer. If you require additional assistance when completing your Account Application, please contact the transfer agent at [ ].
How to Redeem Shares
You may redeem all or any portion of the shares credited to your account by submitting a written request for redemption to:
Regular or Overnight Mail
WOA All Assets I
c/o Gemini Fund Services, LLC
4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2
Omaha, Nebraska 68137
Redemptions by Telephone. The telephone redemption privilege is automatically available to all new accounts except retirement accounts. If you do not want the telephone redemption privilege, you must indicate this in the appropriate area on your account application or you must write to the Fund and instruct it to remove this privilege from your account.
The proceeds will be sent by mail to the address designated on your account or wired directly to your existing account in a bank or brokerage firm in the United States as designated on your application. To redeem by telephone, call [ ]. The redemption proceeds normally will be sent by mail or by wire within three business days after receipt of your telephone instructions. IRA accounts are not redeemable by telephone.
The Fund reserves the right to suspend the telephone redemption privileges with respect to your account if the name(s) or the address on the account has been changed within the previous 30 days. Neither the Fund, the transfer agent, nor their respective affiliates will be liable for complying with telephone instructions they reasonably believe to be genuine or for any loss, damage, cost or expenses in acting on such telephone instructions and you will be required to bear the risk of any such loss. The Fund or the transfer agent, or both, will employ reasonable procedures to determine that telephone instructions are genuine. If the Fund and/or the transfer agent do not employ these procedures, they may be liable to you for losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent instructions. These procedures may include, among others, requiring forms of personal identification prior to acting upon telephone instructions, providing written confirmation of the transactions and/or tape recording telephone instructions.
Redemptions through Broker. If shares of the Fund are held by a broker-dealer, financial institution or other servicing agent, you must contact that servicing agent to redeem shares of the Fund. The servicing agent may charge a fee for this service.
Redemptions by Wire. You may request that your redemption proceeds be wired directly to your bank account. The Funds transfer agent imposes a $15 fee for each wire redemption and deducts the fee directly from your account. Your bank may also impose a fee for the incoming wire.
Automatic Withdrawal Plan. If your individual accounts, IRA or other qualified plan account have a current account value of at least $10,000, you may participate in the Funds Automatic Withdrawal Plan, an investment plan that automatically moves money to your bank account from the Fund through the use of electronic funds transfers. You may elect to make subsequent withdrawals by transfers of a minimum of $100 on specified days of each month into your established bank account. Please contact the Fund at [ ] for more information about the Funds Automatic Withdrawal Plan.
Redemptions in Kind. The Fund reserves the right to honor requests for redemption or repurchase orders made by a shareholder during any 90-day period by making payment in whole or in part in portfolio securities (redemption in kind) if the amount of such a request is large enough to affect operations (if the request is greater than the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the Funds net assets at the beginning of the 90-day period). The securities will be chosen by the Fund and valued using the same procedures as used in calculating the Funds NAV. A shareholder may incur transaction expenses in converting these securities to cash.
When Redemptions are Sent. Once the Fund receives your redemption request in good order as described below, it will issue a check based on the next determined NAV following your redemption request. The redemption proceeds normally will be sent by mail or by wire within three business days after receipt of a request in good order. If you purchase shares using a check and soon after request a redemption, your redemption proceeds will not be sent until the check used for your purchase has cleared your bank (usually within 10 days of the purchase date).
Good Order: Your redemption request will be processed if it is in good order. To be in good order, the following conditions must be satisfied:
·
The request should be in writing, unless redeeming by telephone, indicating the number of shares or dollar amount to be redeemed;
·
The request must identify your account number;
·
The request should be signed by you and any other person listed on the account, exactly as the shares are registered; and
·
If you request that the redemption proceeds be sent to a person, bank or an address other than that of record or paid to someone other than the record owner(s), or if the address was changed within the last 30 days, or if the proceeds of a requested redemption exceed $50,000, the signature(s) on the request must be medallion signature guaranteed by an eligible signature guarantor.
When You Need Medallion Signature Guarantees. If you wish to change the bank or brokerage account that you have designated on your account, you may do so at any time by writing to the Fund with your signature guaranteed. A medallion signature guarantee assures that a signature is genuine and protects you from unauthorized account transfers. You will need your signature guaranteed if:
·
you request a redemption to be made payable to a person not on record with the Fund;
·
you request that a redemption be mailed to an address other than that on record with the Fund;
·
the proceeds of a requested redemption exceed $50,000;
·
any redemption is transmitted by federal wire transfer to a bank other than the bank of record; or
·
your address was changed within 30 days of your redemption request.
Signatures may be guaranteed by any eligible guarantor institution (including banks, brokers and dealers, credit unions, national securities exchanges, registered securities associations, clearing agencies and savings associations). Further documentation will be required to change the designated account if shares are held by a corporation, fiduciary or other organization. A notary public cannot guarantee signatures.
Retirement Plans. If you own an IRA or other retirement plan, you must indicate on your redemption request whether the Fund should withhold federal income tax. Unless you elect in your redemption request that you do not want to have federal tax withheld, the redemption will be subject to withholding.
Small Account Policy. The Fund reserves the right, upon 60 days written notice, to redeem, at net asset value, the shares of any shareholder whose account(s) across all Trust funds has a value of less than $1,000,000 in the aggregate, other than as a result of a decline in net asset value per share. This policy will not be implemented where the Fund has previously waived the minimum investment requirement for that shareholder.
Before the Fund redeems such shares and sends the proceeds to the shareholder, it will notify the shareholder that the value of the shares in the account is less than the minimum amount and will allow the shareholder 60 days to make an additional investment in an amount that will increase the value of the account(s) to at least $1,000,000 across the Trust funds before redemption is processed. As a sale of your Fund shares, this redemption may have tax consequences.
Redemption Fee
Redemption Fee. The Fund will deduct a 1% redemption fee on the redemption amount if you sell your shares less than 30 days after purchase or shares held less than 30 days are redeemed for failure to maintain the Funds balance minimum. See Small Account Policy for further information on account closure policy. Shares held longest will be treated as being redeemed first and shares held shortest as being redeemed last. Shares held for 30 days or more are not subject to the 1% fee.
Redemption fees are paid to the Fund directly and are designed to offset costs associated with fluctuations in Fund asset levels and cash flow caused by short-term shareholder trading.
Waivers of Redemption Fees. The Fund has elected not to impose the redemption fee for:
·
Redemptions and exchanges of Fund shares acquired through the reinvestment of dividends and distributions;
·
Certain types of redemptions and exchanges of Fund shares owned through participant-directed retirement plans;
·
Redemptions or exchanges in discretionary asset allocation, fee based or wrap programs (wrap programs) that are initiated by the sponsor/financial advisor as part of a periodic rebalancing;
·
Redemptions or exchanges in a fee based or wrap program that are made as a result of a full withdrawal from the wrap program or as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
·
Involuntary redemptions, such as those resulting from a shareholders failure to maintain a minimum investment in the Fund, or to pay shareholder fees; or
·
Other types of redemptions as the Advisor or the Fund may determine in special situations and approved by the Funds or the Advisors Chief Compliance Officer.
The Fund reserves the right to modify or eliminate the redemption fees or waivers at any time and will give shareholders 30 days prior written notice of any material changes, unless otherwise provided by law. The redemption fee policy may be modified or amended in the future to reflect, among other factors, regulatory requirements mandated by the SEC.
Tools to Combat Frequent Transactions
The Fund discourages and does not accommodate market timing. Frequent trading into and out of the Fund can harm all Fund shareholders by disrupting the Funds investment strategies, increasing Fund expenses, decreasing tax efficiency and diluting the value of shares held by long-term shareholders. The Fund is designed for long-term investors and is not intended for market timing or other disruptive trading activities. Accordingly, the Funds Board has approved policies that seek to curb these disruptive activities while recognizing that shareholders may have a legitimate need to adjust their Fund investments as their financial needs or circumstances change. The Fund currently uses several methods to reduce the risk of market timing. These methods include:
·
Committing staff to review, on a continuing basis, recent trading activity in order to identify trading activity that may be contrary to the Funds Market Timing Trading Policy; and
·
Rejecting or limiting specific purchase requests,
·
Charging a 1% redemption charge if shares are held less than 30 days,
·
Rejecting purchases requests from certain investors, and
·
Assessing a redemption fee for short-term trading.
Though these methods involve judgments that are inherently subjective and involve some selectivity in their application, the Fund seeks to make judgments and applications that are consistent with the interests of the Funds shareholders.
The redemption fee, which is uniformly imposed, is intended to discourage short-term trading and is paid to the Fund to help offset any cost associated with such short-term trading. The Fund will monitor the assessment of redemption fees against your account. Based on the frequency of redemption fees assessed against your account, the Advisor or transfer agent may in its sole discretion determine that your trading activity is detrimental to the Fund as described in the Funds Market Timing Trading Policy and elect to (i) reject or limit the amount, number, frequency or method for requesting future purchases into the Fund and/or (ii) reject or limit the amount, number, frequency or method for requesting future exchanges or redemptions out of the Fund.
The Fund reserves the right to reject or restrict purchase or exchange requests for any reason, particularly when the shareholders trading activity suggests that the shareholder may be engaged in market timing or other disruptive trading activities. Neither the Fund nor the Advisor will be liable for any losses resulting from rejected purchase or exchange orders. The Advisor may also bar an investor who has violated these policies (and the investors financial adviser) from opening new accounts with the Fund.
Although the Fund attempts to limit disruptive trading activities, some investors use a variety of strategies to hide their identities and their trading practices. There can be no guarantee that the Fund will be able to identify or limit these activities. Omnibus account arrangements are common forms of holding shares of the Fund. While the Fund will encourage financial intermediaries to apply the Funds Market Timing Trading Policy to their customers who invest indirectly in the Fund, the Fund is limited in its ability to monitor the trading activity or enforce the Funds Market Timing Trading Policy with respect to customers of financial intermediaries. For example, should it occur, the Fund may not be able to detect market timing that may be facilitated by financial intermediaries or made difficult to identify in the omnibus accounts used by those intermediaries for aggregated purchases, exchanges and redemptions on behalf of all their customers. More specifically, unless the financial intermediaries have the ability to apply the Funds Market Timing Trading Policy to their customers through such methods as implementing short-term trading limitations or restrictions, assessing the Funds redemption fee and monitoring trading activity for what might be market timing, the Fund may not be able to determine whether trading by customers of financial intermediaries is contrary to the Funds Market Timing Trading Policy. Brokers maintaining omnibus accounts with the Fund have agreed to provide shareholder transaction information to the extent known to the broker to the Fund upon request. If the Fund or its transfer agent or shareholder servicing agent suspects there is market timing activity in the account, the Fund will seek full cooperation from the service provider maintaining the account to identify the underlying participant. At the request of the Advisor, the service providers may take immediate action to stop any further short-term trading by such participants.
Householding. To reduce expenses, the Fund mails only one copy of the Prospectus and each annual and semi-annual report to those addresses shared by two or more accounts. If you wish to receive individual copies of these documents, please call the Fund at [ ] on days the Fund is open for business or contact your financial institution. The Fund will begin sending you individual copies thirty days after receiving your request.
Distribution of Fund Shares
The Distributor. Northern Lights Distributors, LLC (the Distributor) is located at 4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2, Omaha, Nebraska 68137, and serves as distributor and principal underwriter to the Fund. The Distributor is a registered broker-dealer and member of Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (FINRA). Shares of the Fund are offered on a continuous basis.
Distribution (12b-1) Plan. The Fund has adopted a Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 (the 12b-1 Plan) under the 1940 Act. Under the 12b-1 Plan, the Fund is authorized to pay the Funds distributor, or such other entities as approved by the Board of Trustees, a fee for the promotion and distribution of the Fund and the provision of personal services to shareholders. The maximum amount of the fee authorized is up to 0.25% of the Funds average daily net assets annually; however, the Funds Board of Trustees has only authorized distribution and shareholder servicing expenses of up to 0.10% of the Funds average daily net assets. The Distributor may pay any or all amounts received under the 12b-1 Plan to other persons, including the Advisor, for any distribution or service activity. Because these fees are paid out of the Funds assets on an on-going basis, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment in the Fund and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. The Fund will give Class I shareholders 30 days prior written notice before raising the distribution fee under the 12b-1 Plan.
In addition to the fees paid under the 12b-1 Plan, the Fund may pay service fees to intermediaries such as banks, broker-dealers, financial advisors or other financial institutions, including the Advisor and affiliates of the Advisor, for sub-administration, sub-transfer agency and other shareholder services associated with shareholders whose shares are held of record in omnibus, other group accounts or accounts traded through registered securities clearing agents.
Additional Compensation to Financial Intermediaries. The distributor, its affiliates and the Advisor, out of its own resources, and without additional cost to the Fund or its shareholders, may provide additional cash payments or non-cash compensation to intermediaries who sell shares of the Fund. Such payments and compensation are in addition to service fees paid by the Fund, if any. These additional cash payments are generally made to intermediaries that provide shareholder servicing, marketing support and/or access to sales meetings, sales representatives and management representatives of the intermediary. Cash compensation may also be paid to intermediaries for inclusion of the Fund on a sales list, including a preferred or select sales list, in other sales programs or as an expense reimbursement in cases where the intermediary provides shareholder services to the Funds shareholders. The Advisor may also pay cash compensation in the form of finders fees that vary depending on the dollar amount of the shares sold.
Distributions and Taxes
Tax Status, Dividends and Distributions
Any sale or exchange of a Funds shares may generate tax liability (unless you are a tax-exempt investor or your investment is in a qualified retirement account). When you redeem your shares you may realize a taxable gain or loss. This is measured by the difference between the proceeds of the sale and the tax basis for the shares you sold. (To aid in computing your tax basis, you generally should retain your account statements for the period that you hold shares in the Fund.)
The Fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and net capital gains annually in December. Both distributions will be reinvested in shares of the Fund unless you elect to receive cash. Dividends from net investment income (including any excess of net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss) are taxable to investors as ordinary income, while distributions of net capital gain (the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss) are generally taxable as long-term capital gain, regardless of your holding period for the shares. Any dividends or capital gain distributions you receive from the Fund will normally be taxable to you when made, regardless of whether you reinvest dividends or capital gain distributions or receive them in cash. Certain dividends or distributions declared in October, November or December will be taxed to shareholders as if received in December if they are paid during the following January. Each year the Fund will inform you of the amount and type of your distributions. IRAs and other qualified retirement plans are exempt from federal income taxation until retirement proceeds are paid out to the participant.
Your redemptions, including exchanges, may result in a capital gain or loss for federal income tax purposes. A capital gain or loss on your investment is the difference between the cost of your shares, including any sales charges, and the amount you receive when you sell them.
On the account application, you will be asked to certify that your social security number or taxpayer identification number is correct and that you are not subject to backup withholding for failing to report income to the IRS. If you are subject to backup withholding or you did not certify your taxpayer identification number, the IRS requires the Fund to withhold a percentage of any dividend, redemption or exchange proceeds. The Fund reserves the right to reject any application that does not include a certified social security or taxpayer identification number. If you do not have a social security number, you should indicate on the purchase form that your application to obtain a number is pending. The Fund is required to withhold taxes if a number is not delivered to the Fund within seven days.
This summary is not intended to be and should not be construed to be legal or tax advice. This summary is general in nature and should not be regarded as an exhaustive presentation of all possible tax ramifications. The tax considerations relevant to a specific shareholder depend upon its specific circumstances, and this summary does not attempt to discuss all potential tax considerations that could be relevant to a prospective shareholder with respect to the Fund or its investments. This general summary is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code), the Federal Income Tax Regulations promulgated thereunder, and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof as of the date hereof, all of which are subject to change (potentially on a retroactive basis). You should consult your own independent tax advisors to determine the tax consequences of owning the Funds shares.
Financial Highlights
The Fund has not yet commenced operations as of the date of this Prospectus and therefore does not have a financial history.
Privacy Notice
FACTS |
WHAT DOES NORTHERN LIGHTS FUND TRUST II DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? |
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Why? |
Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do. |
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What? |
The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include: § Social Security number § Purchase History § Assets § Account Balances § Retirement Assets § Account Transactions § Transaction History § Wire Transfer Instructions § Checking Account Information When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice. |
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How? |
All financial companies need to share customers personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers personal information; the reasons Northern Lights Fund Trust II chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing. |
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Reasons we can share your personal information |
Does Northern Lights Fund Trust II share? |
Can you limit this sharing? |
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For our everyday business purposes such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus |
Yes |
No |
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For our marketing purposes to offer our products and services to you |
No |
We dont share |
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For joint marketing with other financial companies |
No |
We dont share |
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For our affiliates everyday business purposes information about your transactions and experiences |
No |
We dont share |
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For our affiliates everyday business purposes information about your creditworthiness |
No |
We dont share |
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For nonaffiliates to market to you |
No |
We dont share |
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Questions? |
Call 1-800-723-8637 |
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Who we are |
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Who is providing this notice? |
Northern Lights Fund Trust II |
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What we do |
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How does Northern Lights Fund Trust II protect my personal information? |
To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.
Our service providers are held accountable for adhering to strict policies and procedures to prevent any misuse of your nonpublic personal information. |
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How does Northern Lights Fund Trust II collect my personal information? |
We collect your personal information, for example, when you: § Open an account § Provide account information § Give us your contact information § Make deposits or withdrawals from your account § Make a wire transfer § Tell us where to send the money § Tells us who receives the money § Show your government-issued ID § Show your drivers license We also collect your personal information from other companies. |
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Why cant I limit all sharing? |
Federal law gives you the right to limit only § Sharing for affiliates everyday business purposes information about your creditworthiness § Affiliates from using your information to market to you § Sharing for non-affiliates to market to you
State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing. |
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Definitions |
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Affiliates |
Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies. § Northern Lights Fund Trust II does not share with our affiliates. |
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Nonaffiliates |
Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies § Northern Lights Fund Trust II does not share with non-affiliates so they can market to you. |
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Joint marketing |
A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you. § Northern Lights Fund Trust II does not jointly market. |
Investment Advisor
Water Oak Advisors, LLC
450 S. Orange Avenue, 4 th Floor
Orlando, Florida 32801
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
[ ]
Legal Counsel
Alston & Bird, LLP
950 F Street NW
Washington, D.C. 20004
Custodian
Union Bank, N.A.
[Address]
[City State Zip]
Transfer Agent, Fund Accountant and Fund Administrator
Gemini Fund Services, LLC
4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2
Omaha, NE 68137
Distributor
Northern Lights Distributors, LLC
4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2
Omaha, NE 68137
WOA All Asset I
a series of the Northern Lights Fund Trust II
For More Information
You can find more information about the Fund in the following documents:
Statement of Additional Information
The SAI provides additional details about the investments and techniques of the Fund and certain other additional information. A current SAI is on file with the SEC and is incorporated into this Prospectus by reference. This means that the SAI is legally considered a part of this Prospectus even though it is not physically within this Prospectus.
Annual and Semi-Annual Reports
Additional information about the Funds investments will also be available in the Funds Annual and Semi-Annual Reports to Shareholders. In the Funds Annual Report, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the Funds performance during its last fiscal year.
To obtain a free copy of the SAI and, when issued, the Annual and Semi-Annual Reports to Shareholders, or make general inquiries about the Fund by calling the Fund (toll-free) at [ ], or by writing to:
WOA All Asset I
c/o Gemini Fund Services, LLC
4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2
Omaha, Nebraska 68137
You can review and copy information, including the Funds reports and SAI, at the SECs Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You can obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling (202) 551-8090. Reports and other information about the Fund are also available:
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free of charge from the SECs EDGAR database on the SECs Internet website at http://www.sec.gov;
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for a fee, by writing to the SECs Public Reference Room, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549-1520; or
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for a fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov.
(The Trusts SEC Investment Company Act file number is 811-22549)
The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. We may not sell these securities until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state in which the offer or sale is not permitted.
Subject to Completion
Preliminary Statement of Additional Information Dated September 20, 2011
Statement of Additional Information
Dated: December [__], 2011
WOA All Asset I
Class I Shares (Symbol: [ ])
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) provides general information about WOA All Asset I (the Fund), a series of Northern Lights Fund Trust II (the Trust). This SAI is not a prospectus and should be read in conjunction with the Funds current prospectus for Class I shares dated December [__] 2011 (the Prospectus), as supplemented and amended from time to time, which is incorporated herein by reference. To obtain a copy of the Prospectus free of charge, please write or call the Fund at the address or telephone number below:
WOA All Asset I
c/o Gemini Fund Services, LLC
4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2
Omaha, Nebraska 68137
1-[ ]
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF THE FUND
BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING COMPLIANCE PROGRAM
PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
WOA All Asset I (the Fund) is a diversified series of Northern Lights Fund Trust II, (the Trust), a Delaware statutory trust organized on August 26, 2010. The Fund was organized on [ ____ ], 2011.
The Trust is registered as an open-end management investment company. The Trust is governed by its Board of Trustees (the Board or Trustees). The Fund may issue an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest. All shares of the Fund have equal rights and privileges. Each share of the Fund is entitled to one vote on all matters as to which shares are entitled to vote. In addition, each share of the Fund is entitled to participate equally with other shares (i) in dividends and distributions declared by the Fund and (ii) on liquidation to its proportionate share of the assets remaining after satisfaction of outstanding liabilities. Shares of the Fund are fully paid, non-assessable and fully transferable when issued and have no pre-emptive, conversion or exchange rights. Fractional shares have proportionately the same rights, including voting rights, as are provided for a full share.
The Fund is a diversified series of the Trust. The Funds investment objective, restrictions and policies are more fully described here and in the Prospectus. The Board may add classes to and reclassify the shares of the Fund, start other series and offer shares of a new fund under the Trust at any time.
The Fund offers one class of shares, the Class I shares. Each share of the Fund is entitled to one vote on all matters as to which shares are entitled to vote. In addition, each share of the Fund is entitled to participate equally with other shares on a class-specific basis (i) in dividends and distributions declared by the Fund and (ii) on liquidation to its proportionate share of the assets remaining after satisfaction of outstanding liabilities. Shares of the Fund are fully paid, non-assessable and fully transferable when issued and have no pre-emptive, conversion or exchange rights. Fractional shares have proportionately the same rights, including voting rights, as are provided for a full share.
Under the Trusts Agreement and Declaration of Trust, each Trustee will continue in office until the termination of the Trust or his/her earlier death, incapacity, resignation or removal. Shareholders can remove a Trustee to the extent provided by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act) and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. Vacancies may be filled by a majority of the remaining Trustees, except insofar as the 1940 Act may require the election by shareholders. As a result, normally no annual or regular meetings of shareholders will be held unless matters arise requiring a vote of shareholders under the Agreement and Declaration of Trust or the 1940 Act.
Water Oak Advisors, LLC (the Fund Manager) serves as the adviser to the Fund, and Capital Wealth Planning, LLC (the Sub-Adviser) serves as sub-adviser to the Fund.
The following pages contain more detailed information about the types of instruments in which the Fund may invest, strategies the Fund Manager may employ in pursuit of a Funds investment objective and a summary of related risks. The Fund will make only those investments described below that are in accordance with its investment objectives and policies. The Fund may invest in the following instruments either directly, or through its investments in other investment companies and exchange-traded funds (the underlying funds). The Fund Manager may not buy all of these instruments or use all of these techniques unless it believes that doing so will help a Fund achieve its investment objectives.
The Funds investment objective is not a fundamental policy and may be changed without shareholder approval.
ADJUSTABLE RATE SECURITIES. Adjustable rate securities ( i.e. , variable rate and floating rate instruments) are securities that have interest rates that are adjusted periodically, according to a set formula. The maturity of some adjustable rate securities may be shortened under certain special conditions described more fully below.
Floating rate instruments have interest rate reset provisions similar to those for variable rate instruments and may be subject to demand features like those for variable rate instruments. The interest rate is adjusted, periodically ( e.g. , daily, monthly, semi-annually), to the prevailing interest rate in the marketplace. The interest rate on floating rate securities is ordinarily determined by reference to the 90-day U.S. Treasury bill rate, the rate of return on commercial paper or bank certificates of deposit or an index of short-term interest rates. The maturity of a floating rate instrument is considered to be the period remaining until the principal amount can be recovered through demand.
BELOW-INVESTMENT-GRADE DEBT SECURITIES. The Fund may invest up to 35% of its net assets in debt securities that are rated below investment grade by Standard and Poors (S&P) or Moodys Investors Services, Inc. (Moodys) or, if unrated, are deemed by the Fund Manager to be of comparable quality. Securities rated less than Baa by Moodys or BBB by S&P are classified as below investment grade securities and are commonly referred to as junk bonds or high yield, high risk securities. Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C and debt rated Ba, B, Caa, Ca, C is regarded by S&P and Moodys, respectively, on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to the issuers capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. For S&P, BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. For Moodys, Ba indicates the lowest degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions. Similarly, debt rated Ba or BB and below is regarded by the relevant rating agency as speculative. Debt rated C by Moodys or S&P is the lowest rated debt that is not in default as to principal or interest, and such issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real investment standing. Such securities are also generally considered to be subject to greater risk than securities with higher ratings with regard to a deterioration of general economic conditions.
Ratings of debt securities represent the rating agencys opinion regarding their quality and are not a guarantee of quality. Rating agencies attempt to evaluate the safety of principal and interest payments and do not evaluate the risks of fluctuations in market value. Also, since rating agencies may fail to make timely changes in credit ratings in response to subsequent events, the Fund Manager continuously monitors the issuers of high yield bonds in the portfolios of the Fund to determine if the issuers will have sufficient cash flows and profits to meet required principal and interest payments. The achievement of the Funds investment objective may be more dependent on the Fund Managers own credit analysis than might be the case for a fund which invests in higher quality bonds. The Fund may retain a security whose rating has been changed. The market values of lower quality debt securities tend to reflect individual developments of the issuer to a greater extent than do higher quality securities, which react primarily to fluctuations in the general level of interest rates. In addition, lower quality debt securities tend to be more sensitive to economic conditions and generally have more volatile prices than higher quality securities. Issuers of lower quality securities are often highly leveraged and may not have available to them more traditional methods of financing. For example, during an economic downturn or a sustained period of rising interest rates, highly leveraged issuers of lower quality securities may experience financial stress. During such periods, such issuers may not have sufficient revenues to meet their interest payment obligations. The issuers ability to service debt obligations may also be adversely affected by specific developments affecting the issuer, such as the issuers inability to meet specific projected business forecasts or the unavailability of additional financing. Similarly, certain emerging market governments that issue lower quality debt securities are among the largest debtors to commercial banks, foreign governments and supranational organizations such as the World Bank and may not be able or willing to make principal and/or interest repayments as they come due. The risk of loss due to default by the issuer is significantly greater for the holders of lower quality securities because such securities are generally unsecured and are often subordinated to other creditors of the issuer. Lower quality debt securities frequently have call or buy-back features, which would permit an issuer to call or repurchase the security from the Fund. In addition, the Fund may have difficulty disposing of lower quality securities because they may have a thin trading market. There may be no established retail secondary market for many of these securities, and the Fund anticipates that such securities could be sold only to a limited number of dealers or institutional investors. The lack of a liquid secondary market also may have an adverse impact on market prices of such instruments and may make it more difficult for the Fund to obtain accurate market quotations for purposes of valuing the Funds portfolios. The Fund may also acquire lower quality debt securities during an initial underwriting or which are sold without registration under applicable securities laws. Such securities involve special considerations and risks.
In addition to the foregoing, factors that could have an adverse effect on the market value of lower quality debt securities in which the Fund may invest, include: (i) potential adverse publicity, (ii) heightened sensitivity to general economic or political conditions, and (iii) the likely adverse impact of a major economic recession. The Fund may also incur additional expenses to the extent the Fund is required to seek recovery upon a default in the payment of principal or interest on its portfolio holdings, and the Fund may have limited legal recourse in the event of a default. Debt securities issued by governments in emerging markets can differ from debt obligations issued by private entities in that remedies for defaults generally must be pursued in the courts of the defaulting government, and legal recourse is therefore somewhat diminished. Political conditions, in terms of a governments willingness to meet the terms of its debt obligations, also are of considerable significance. There can be no assurance that the holders of commercial bank debt may not contest payments to the holders of debt securities issued by governments in emerging markets in the event of default by the governments under commercial bank loan agreements. The Fund Manager attempts to minimize the speculative risks associated with investments in lower quality securities through credit analysis and by carefully monitoring current trends in interest rates, political developments and other factors. Nonetheless, investors should carefully review the investment objective and policies of the Fund and consider their ability to assume the investment risks involved before making an investment. The Fund may also invest in unrated debt securities. Unrated debt securities, while not necessarily of lower quality than rated securities, may not have as broad a market. Because of the size and perceived demand for an issue, among other factors, certain issuers may decide not to pay the cost of obtaining a rating for their bonds. The Fund Manager will analyze the creditworthiness of the issuer of an unrated security, as well as any financial institution or other party responsible for payments on the security.
CERTIFICATES OF DEPOSIT AND BANKERS ACCEPTANCES. The Fund may invest in certificates of deposit and bankers acceptances, which are considered to be short-term money market instruments.
Certificates of deposit are receipts issued by a depository institution in exchange for the deposit of funds. The issuer agrees to pay the amount deposited plus interest to the bearer of the receipt on the date specified on the certificate. The certificate usually can be traded in the secondary market prior to maturity. Bankers acceptances typically arise from short-term credit arrangements designed to enable businesses to obtain funds to finance commercial transactions. Generally, an acceptance is a time draft drawn on a bank by an exporter or an importer to obtain a stated amount of funds to pay for specific merchandise. The draft is then accepted by a bank that, in effect, unconditionally guarantees to pay the face value of the instrument on its maturity date. The acceptance may then be held by the accepting bank as an earning asset or it may be sold in the secondary market at the going rate of discount for a specific maturity. Although maturities for acceptances can be as long as 270 days, most acceptances have maturities of six months or less.
COMMERCIAL PAPER. The Fund may purchase commercial paper. Commercial paper consists of short-term (usually from 1 to 270 days) unsecured promissory notes issued by corporations in order to finance their current operations.
CREDIT DEFAULT SWAPS. A specific kind of counterparty agreement that allows the transfer of third party credit risk from one party to the other. One party in the swap is a lender and faces credit risk from a third party, and the counterparty in the credit default swap agrees to insure this risk in exchange for regular periodic payments (essentially an insurance premium). If the third party defaults, the party providing insurance will have to purchase from the insured party the defaulted asset. In turn, the insurer pays the insured the remaining interest on the debt, as well as the principal. Swaps are considered to be derivatives, the risks of which are described below under SWAP AGREEMENTS.
DEALER (OVER-THE-COUNTER) OPTIONS. The Fund may engage in transactions involving dealer options. Certain risks are specific to dealer options. While the Fund would look to a clearing corporation to exercise exchange-traded options, if the Fund were to purchase a dealer option, it would rely on the dealer from whom it purchased the option to perform if the option were exercised. Failure by the dealer to do so would result in the loss of the premium paid by the Fund as well as loss of the expected benefit of the transaction.
Exchange-traded options generally have a continuous liquid market while dealer options have none. Consequently, the Fund will generally be able to realize the value of a dealer option it has purchased only by exercising it or reselling it to the dealer who issued it. Similarly, when the Fund writes a dealer option, it generally will be able to close out the option prior to its expiration only by entering into a closing purchase transaction with the dealer to which the Fund originally wrote the option. While the Fund will seek to enter into dealer options only with dealers who will agree to and which are expected to be capable of entering into closing transactions with the Fund, there can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to liquidate a dealer option at a favorable price at any time prior to expiration. Until the Fund, as a covered dealer call option writer, is able to effect a closing purchase transaction, it will not be able to liquidate securities (or other assets) or currencies used as cover until the option expires or is exercised. In the event of insolvency of the contra party, the Fund may be unable to liquidate a dealer option. With respect to options written by the Fund, the inability to enter into a closing transaction may result in material losses to the Fund. For example, since the Fund must maintain a secured position with respect to any call option on a security it writes, the Fund may not sell the assets, which it has segregated to secure the position while it is obligated under the option. This requirement may impair the Funds ability to sell portfolio securities or currencies at a time when such sale might be advantageous.
The Staff of the SEC has taken the position that purchased dealer options and the assets used to secure the written dealer options are illiquid securities. The Fund may treat the cover used for written OTC options as liquid if the dealer agrees that the Fund may repurchase the OTC option it has written for a maximum price to be calculated by a predetermined formula. In such cases, the OTC option would be considered illiquid only to the extent the maximum repurchase price under the formula exceeds the intrinsic value of the option. Accordingly, the Fund will treat dealer options as subject to the Funds limitation on unmarketable securities. If the SEC changes its position on the liquidity of dealer options, the Fund will change its treatment of such instrument accordingly.
EXPOSURE TO FOREIGN 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. 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.
There may be less publicly available information about foreign securities and issuers than is available about domestic securities and issuers. Foreign companies generally are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to domestic companies. Securities of some foreign companies are less liquid and their prices may be more volatile than securities of comparable domestic companies. The Funds interest and dividends from foreign issuers maybe subject to non-U.S. withholding taxes, thereby reducing the Funds net investment income.
Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods and can be subject to unpredictable change based on such factors as political developments and currency controls by foreign governments. Because the Fund may invest in securities denominated in foreign currencies, it may seek to hedge foreign currency risks by engaging in foreign currency exchange transactions. These may include buying or selling foreign currencies on a spot basis, entering into foreign currency forward contracts, and buying and selling foreign currency options, foreign currency futures, and options on foreign currency futures. Many of these activities constitute derivatives transactions.
The Fund may invest in issuers domiciled in emerging markets, those countries determined by the Fund Manager to have developing or emerging economies and markets. Emerging market investing involves risks in addition to those risks involved in foreign investing. For example, many emerging market countries have experienced substantial, and in some periods extremely high, rates of inflation for many years. In addition, economies in emerging markets generally are dependent heavily upon international trade and, accordingly, have been and continue to be affected adversely by trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. The securities markets of emerging countries are substantially smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the securities markets of the United States and other more developed countries. Brokerage commissions, custodial services and other costs relating to investment in foreign markets generally are more expensive than in the United States, particularly with respect to emerging markets. In addition, some emerging market countries impose transfer taxes or fees on a capital market transaction.
Foreign investments involve a risk of local political, economic, 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 the possibility of 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. There is no assurance that the Fund Manager will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their effects. These risks are magnified for investments in developing countries, which may have relatively unstable governments, economies based on only a few industries, and securities markets that trade a small number of securities.
Economies of particular countries or areas of the world may differ favorably or unfavorably from the economy of the United States. Foreign markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S. markets. It is anticipated that in most cases the best available market for foreign securities will be on an exchange or in over-the-counter markets located outside 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 (particularly those located in developing countries) may be less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. issuers. Foreign security trading practices, including those involving securities settlement where Fund assets may be released prior to receipt of payment, may result in increased risk in the event of a failed trade or the insolvency of a foreign broker-dealer, and may involve substantial delays. In addition, the costs of foreign investing, including withholding taxes, brokerage commissions and custodial costs, are generally higher than for U.S. investors. In general, there is less overall governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges, brokers, and listed companies than in the United States. It may also be difficult to enforce legal rights in foreign countries. 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.
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 issuers 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 issuers country.
Investments in emerging markets can be subject to a number of types of taxes that vary by country, change frequently, and are sometime defined by custom rather than written regulation. Emerging countries can tax interest, dividends, and capital gains through the application of a withholding tax. The local custodian normally withholds the tax upon receipt of a payment and forwards such tax payment to the foreign government on behalf of the Fund. Certain foreign governments can also require a foreign investor to file an income tax return and pay the local tax through estimated tax payments, or pay with the tax return. Although not frequently used, some emerging markets have attempted to slow conversion of their currency by imposing a repatriation tax. Generally, this tax is applied to amounts, which are converted from the foreign currency to the investors currency and withdrawn from the local bank account. Transfer taxes or fees, such as stamp duties, security transfer taxes, and registration and script fees, are generally imposed by emerging markets as a tax or fee on a capital market transaction. Each emerging country may impose a tax or fee at a different point in time as the foreign investor perfects his interest in the securities acquired in the local market. A stamp duty is generally a tax on the official recording of a capital market transaction. Payment of such duty is generally a condition of the transfer of assets and failure to pay such duty can result in a loss of title to such asset as well as loss of benefit from any corporate actions. A stamp duty is generally determined based on a percentage of the value of the transaction conducted and can be charged against the buyer ( e.g. , Cyprus, India, Israel, Jordan, Malaysia, Pakistan, and the Philippines), against the seller ( e.g. , Argentina, Australia, China, Egypt, Indonesia, Kenya, Portugal, South Korea, Trinidad, Tobago, and Zimbabwe). Although such a fee does not generally exceed 100 basis points, certain emerging markets have assessed a stamp duty as high as 750 basis points ( e.g. , Pakistan). A security transfer tax is similar to a stamp duty and is generally applied to the purchase, sale or exchange of securities, which occur in a particular foreign market. These taxes are based on the value of the trade and similar to stamp taxes, can be assessed against the buyer, seller or both. Although the securities transfer tax may be assessed in lieu of a stamp duty, such tax can be assessed in addition to a stamp duty in certain foreign markets ( e.g. , Switzerland, South Korea, Indonesia). Upon purchasing a security in an emerging market, such security must often be submitted to a registration process in order to record the purchaser as a legal owner of such security interest. Often foreign countries will charge a registration or script fee to record the change in ownership and, where physical securities are issued, issue a new security certificate. In addition to assessing this fee upon the acquisition of a security, some markets also assess registration charges upon the registration of local shares to foreign shares.
FEDERAL TAX TREATMENT OF OPTIONS, FUTURES CONTRACTS AND FORWARD FOREIGN EXCHANGE CONTRACTS. The Fund may enter into certain option, futures, and forward foreign exchange contracts, including options and futures on currencies, which are Section 1256 contracts and may result in the Fund entering into straddles.
Open Section 1256 contracts at fiscal year end will be considered to have been closed at the end of the Funds fiscal year and any gains or losses will be recognized for tax purposes at that time. Such gains or losses from the normal closing or settlement of such transactions will be characterized as 60% long-term capital gain or loss and 40% short-term capital gain or loss regardless of the holding period of the instrument. The Fund will be required to distribute net gains on such transactions to shareholders even though it may not have closed the transaction and received cash to pay such distributions.
Options, futures and forward foreign exchange contracts, including options and futures on currencies, which offset a security or currency position may be considered straddles for tax purposes, in which case a loss on any position in a straddle will be subject to deferral to the extent of unrealized gain in an offsetting position. The holding period of the securities or currencies comprising the straddle may be deemed not to begin until the straddle is terminated. The holding period of the security offsetting an in-the-money qualified covered call option will not include the period of time the option is outstanding. Losses on written covered calls and purchased puts on securities, excluding certain qualified covered call options, may be long-term capital loss, if the security covering the option was held for more than twelve months prior to the writing of the option. In order for the Fund to continue to qualify for federal income tax treatment as a regulated investment company, at least 90% of its gross income for a taxable year must be derived from qualifying income; i.e. , dividends, interest, income derived from loans of securities, and gains from the sale of securities or currencies.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS. A forward foreign currency exchange contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the contract. The Fund may also invest in non-deliverable forward contracts (cash-settled contracts for currencies of countries which do not allow non-residents to hold substantial sums of their currency, e.g. China), in order to hedge the foreign currency risk. These contracts are principally traded in the interbank market conducted directly between currency traders (usually large, commercial banks) and their customers. A forward contract generally has no deposit requirement, and no commissions are charged at any stage for trades.
The Fund may enter into forward contracts for a variety of purposes in connection with the management of the foreign currency exposure of its portfolio. The Funds use of such contracts would include, but not be limited to, the following: first, when the Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security denominated in a foreign currency, it may desire to lock in the U.S. dollar price of the security. By entering into a forward contract for the purchase or sale, for a fixed amount of dollars of the amount of foreign currency involved in the underlying security transactions, the Fund will be able to protect itself against a possible loss resulting from an adverse change in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the subject foreign currency during the period between the date the security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is made or received.
Second, when the Fund Manager believes that one currency may experience a substantial movement against another currency, including the U.S. dollar, or it wishes to alter the Funds exposure to the currencies of the countries in its investment universe, it may enter into a forward contract to sell or buy foreign currency in exchange for the U.S. dollar or another foreign currency. Alternatively, where appropriate, the Fund may manage all or part of its foreign currency exposure through the use of a basket of currencies or a proxy currency where such currency or currencies act as an effective proxy for other currencies. In such a case, the Fund may enter into a forward contract where the amount of the foreign currency to be sold exceeds the value of the securities denominated in such currency. The use of this basket hedging technique may be more efficient and economical than entering into separate forward contracts for each currency held in the Fund. The precise matching of the forward contract amounts and the value of the securities involved will not generally be possible since the future value of such securities in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements in the value of those securities between the date the forward contract is entered into and the date it matures. The projection of short-term currency market movement is extremely difficult, and the successful execution of a short-term hedging strategy is highly uncertain. Under normal circumstances, consideration of the prospect for currency parities will be incorporated into the longer-term investment decisions made with regard to overall diversification strategies. However, the Fund Manager believes that it is important to have the flexibility to enter into such forward contracts when it determines that the best interests of the Fund will be served.
The Fund may enter into forward contacts for any other purpose consistent with the Funds investment objective and program. However, the Fund will not enter into a forward contract, or maintain exposure to any such contract(s), if the amount of foreign currency required to be delivered thereunder would exceed the Funds holdings of liquid securities and currency available for cover of the forward contract(s). In determining the amount to be delivered under a contract, the Fund may net offsetting positions.
At the maturity of a forward contract, the Fund may sell the portfolio security and make delivery of the foreign currency, or it may retain the security and either extend the maturity of the forward contract (by rolling that contract forward) or may initiate a new forward contract.
If the Fund retains the portfolio security and engages in an offsetting transaction, the Fund will incur a gain or a loss (as described below) to the extent that there has been movement in forward contract prices. If the Fund engages in an offsetting transaction, it may subsequently enter into a new forward contract to sell the foreign currency. Should forward prices decline during the period between the Funds entering into a forward contract for the sale of a foreign currency and the date it enters into an offsetting contract for the purchase of the foreign currency, the Fund will realize a gain to the extent the price of the currency it has agreed to sell exceeds the price of the currency it has agreed to purchase. Should forward prices increase, the Fund will suffer a loss to the extent of the price of the currency it has agreed to purchase exceeds the price of the currency it has agreed to sell.
The Funds dealing in forward foreign currency exchange contracts will generally be limited to the transactions described above. However, the Fund reserves the right to enter into forward foreign currency contracts for different purposes and under different circumstances. Of course, the Fund is not required to enter into forward contracts with regard to its foreign currency denominated securities and will not do so unless deemed appropriate by the Fund Manager. It also should be realized that this method of hedging against a decline in the value of a currency does not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the securities. It simply establishes a rate of exchange at a future date. Additionally, although such contracts tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged currency, at the same time, they tend to limit any potential gain, which might result from an increase in the value of that currency.
Although the Fund values its assets daily in terms of U.S. dollars, it does not intend to convert its holdings of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis. It will do so from time to time, and investors should be aware of the costs of currency conversion. Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (the spread) between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency to the Fund at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the Fund desire to resell that currency to the dealer.
FOREIGN FUTURES AND OPTIONS. Participation in foreign futures and foreign options transactions involves the execution and clearing of trades on or subject to the rules of a foreign board of trade. Neither the National Futures Association nor any domestic exchange regulates activities of any foreign boards of trade, including the execution, delivery and clearing of transactions, or has the power to compel enforcement of the rules of a foreign board of trade or any applicable foreign law. This is true even if the exchange is formally linked to a domestic market so that a position taken on the market may be liquidated by a transaction on another market. Moreover, such laws or regulations will vary depending on the foreign country in which the foreign futures or foreign options transaction occurs. For these reasons, customers who trade foreign futures or foreign options contracts may not be afforded certain of the protective measures provided by the Commodity Exchange Act, the CFTCs regulations and the rules of the National Futures Association and any domestic exchange, including the right to use reparations proceedings before the Commission and arbitration proceedings provided by the National Futures Association or any domestic futures exchange. In particular, funds received from the Fund for foreign futures or foreign options transactions may not be provided the same protections as funds received in respect of transactions on United States futures exchanges. In addition, the price of any foreign futures or foreign options contract and, therefore, the potential profit and loss thereon may be affected by any variance in the foreign exchange rate between the time the Funds order is placed and the time it is liquidated, offset or exercised.
FUTURES CONTRACTS. Transactions in Futures. The Fund may enter into futures contracts, including stock index, interest rate and currency futures (futures or futures contracts).
Stock index futures contracts may be used to provide a hedge for a portion of the Funds portfolio, as a cash management tool, or as an efficient way for the Fund Manager to implement either an increase or decrease in portfolio market exposure in response to changing market conditions. The Fund may, purchase or sell futures contracts with respect to any stock index. Nevertheless, to hedge the Funds portfolio successfully, the Fund must sell futures contracts with respect to indices or sub-indices whose movements will have a significant correlation with movements in the prices of the Funds portfolio securities.
Interest rate or currency futures contracts may be used to manage the Funds exposure to changes in prevailing levels of interest rates or currency exchange rates in order to establish more definitely the effective return on securities or currencies held or intended to be acquired by the Fund. In this regard, the Fund could sell interest rate or currency futures as an offset against the effect of expected increases in interest rates or currency exchange rates and purchase such futures as an offset against the effect of expected declines in interest rates or currency exchange rates.
The Fund will enter into futures contracts, which are traded on national or foreign futures exchanges, and are standardized as to maturity date and underlying financial instrument. Futures exchanges and trading in the United States are regulated under the Commodity Exchange Act by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). Futures are traded in London at the London International Financial Futures Exchange in Paris at the MATIF and in Tokyo at the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Although techniques other than the sale and purchase of futures contracts could be used for the above-referenced purposes, futures contracts offer an effective and relatively low cost means of implementing the Funds objectives in these areas.
Although the Fund has no current intention of engaging in futures or options transactions other than those described above, it reserves the right to do so. Such futures and options trading might involve risks, which differ from those involved in the futures and options described in this SAI.
TRADING IN FUTURES CONTRACTS. A futures contract provides for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified amount of a specific financial instrument ( e.g. , units of a stock index) for a specified price, date, time and place designated at the time the contract is made. Brokerage fees are incurred when a futures contract is bought or sold and margin deposits must be maintained. Entering into a contract to buy is commonly referred to as buying or purchasing a contract or holding a long position. Entering into a contract to sell is commonly referred to as selling a contract or holding a short position.
Unlike when the Fund purchases or sells a security, no price would be paid or received by the Fund upon the purchase or sale of a futures contract. Upon entering into a futures contract, and to maintain the Funds open positions in futures contracts, the Fund would be required to deposit with its custodian or futures broker in a segregated account in the name of the futures broker an amount of cash, U.S. government securities, suitable money market instruments, or other liquid securities, known as initial margin. The margin required for a particular futures contract is set by the exchange on which the contract is traded, and may be significantly modified from time to time by the exchange during the term of the contract. Futures contracts are customarily purchased and sold on margins that may range upward from less than 5% of the value of the contract being traded.
If the price of an open futures contract changes (by increase in underlying instrument or index in the case of a sale or by decrease in the case of a purchase) so that the loss on the futures contract reaches a point at which the margin on deposit does not satisfy margin requirements, the broker will require an increase in the margin. However, if the value of a position increases because of favorable price changes in the futures contract so that the margin deposit exceeds the required margin, the broker will pay the excess to the Fund.
These subsequent payments, called variation margin, to and from the futures broker, are made on a daily basis as the price of the underlying assets fluctuate making the long and short positions in the futures contract more or less valuable, a process known as marking to the market. The Fund expects to earn interest income on its margin deposits.
Although certain futures contracts, by their terms, require actual future delivery of and payment for the underlying instruments, in practice most futures contracts are usually closed out before the delivery date. Closing out an open futures contract purchase or sale is effected by entering into an offsetting futures contract sale or purchase, respectively, for the same aggregate amount of the identical underlying instrument or index and the same delivery date. If the offsetting purchase price is less than the original sale price, the Fund realizes a gain; if it is more, the Fund realizes a loss. Conversely, if the offsetting sale price is more than the original purchase price, the Fund realizes a gain; if it is less, the Fund realizes a loss. The transaction costs must also be included in these calculations. There can be no assurance, however, that the Fund will be able to enter into an offsetting transaction with respect to a particular futures contract at a particular time. If the Fund is not able to enter into an offsetting transaction, the Fund will continue to be required to maintain the margin deposits on the futures contract.
For example, one contract in the Financial Times Stock Exchange 100 Index future is a contract to buy 25 pounds sterling multiplied by the level of the UK Financial Times 100 Share Index on a given future date. Settlement of a stock index futures contract may or may not be in the underlying instrument or index. If not in the underlying instrument or index, then settlement will be made in cash, equivalent over time to the difference between the contract price and the actual price of the underlying asset at the time the stock index futures contract expires.
SPECIAL RISKS OF TRANSACTIONS IN FUTURES CONTRACTS.
VOLATILITY AND LEVERAGE. The prices of futures contracts are volatile and are influenced, among other things, by actual and anticipated changes in the market and interest rates, which in turn are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and national and international political and economic events. Most United States futures exchanges limit the amount of fluctuation permitted in futures contract prices during a single trading day. The daily limit establishes the maximum amount that the price of a futures contract may vary either up or down from the previous days settlement price at the end of a trading session. Once the daily limit has been reached in a particular type of futures contract, no trades may be made on that day at a price beyond that limit. The daily limit governs only price movement during a particular trading day and therefore does not limit potential losses, because the limit may prevent the liquidation of unfavorable positions. Futures contract prices have occasionally moved to the daily limit for several consecutive trading days with little or no trading, thereby preventing prompt liquidation of futures positions and subjecting some futures traders to substantial losses.
Because of the low margin deposits required, futures trading involves an extremely high degree of leverage. As a result, a relatively small price movement in a futures contract may result in immediate and substantial loss, as well as gain, to the investor. For example, if at the time of purchase, 10% of the value of the futures contract were deposited as margin, a subsequent 10% decrease in the value of the futures contract would result in a total loss of the margin deposit, before any deduction for the transaction costs, if the account were then closed out. A 15% decrease would result in a loss equal to 150% of the original margin deposit, if the contract were closed out. Thus, a purchase or sale of a futures contract may result in losses in excess of the amount of margin deposited to maintain the futures contract. However, the Fund would presumably have sustained comparable losses if, instead of the futures contract, it had invested in the underlying financial instrument and sold it after the decline. Furthermore, in the case of a futures contract purchase, in order to be certain that the Fund has sufficient assets to satisfy its obligations under a futures contract, the Fund earmarks to the futures contract money market instruments or other liquid securities equal in value to the current value of the underlying instrument less the margin deposit.
LIQUIDITY. The Fund may elect to close some or all of its futures positions at any time prior to their expiration. The Fund would do so to reduce exposure represented by long futures positions or short futures positions. The Fund may close its positions by taking opposite positions, which would operate to terminate the Funds position in the futures contracts. Final determinations of variation margin would then be made, additional cash would be required to be paid by or released to the Fund, and the Fund would realize a loss or a gain.
Futures contracts may be closed out only on the exchange or board of trade where the contracts were initially traded. Although the Fund intends to purchase or sell futures contracts only on exchanges or boards of trade where there appears to be an active market, there is no assurance that a liquid market on an exchange or board of trade will exist for any particular contract at any particular time. The reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange are substantially the same as those discussed under Special Risks of Transactions in Options on Futures Contracts. In the event that a liquid market does not exist, it might not be possible to close out a futures contract, and in the event of adverse price movements, the Fund would continue to be required to make daily cash payments of variation margin. However, in the event futures contracts have been used to hedge the underlying instruments, the Fund would continue to hold the underlying instruments subject to the hedge until the futures contracts could be terminated. In such circumstances, an increase in the price of underlying instruments, if any, might partially or completely offset losses on the futures contract. However, as described below, there is no guarantee that the price of the underlying instruments will, in fact, correlate with the price movements in the futures contract and thus provide an offset to losses on a futures contract.
HEDGING RISK. A decision of whether, when, and how to hedge involves skill and judgment, and even a well conceived hedge may be unsuccessful to some degree because of unexpected market behavior or market or interest rate trends. There are several risks in connection with the use by the Fund of futures contracts as a hedging device. One risk arises because of the possible imperfect correlation between movements in the prices of the futures contracts and movements in the prices of the underlying instruments, which are the subject of the hedge. The Fund Manager will, however, attempt to reduce this risk by entering into futures contracts whose movements, in its judgment, will have a significant correlation with movements in the prices of the Funds underlying instruments sought to be hedged.
Successful use of futures contracts by the Fund for hedging purposes is also subject to the Fund Managers ability to correctly predict movements in the direction of the market. It is possible that, when the Fund has sold futures to hedge its portfolio against a decline in the market, the index, indices, or instruments underlying futures might advance and the value of the underlying instruments held in the Funds portfolio might decline. If this were to occur, the Fund would lose money on the futures and also would experience a decline in value in its underlying instruments. However, while this might occur to a certain degree, the Fund Manager believes that over time the value of the Funds portfolio will tend to move in the same direction as the market indices used to hedge the portfolio. It is also possible that if the Fund were to hedge against the possibility of a decline in the market (adversely affecting the underlying instruments held in its portfolio) and prices instead increased, the Fund would lose part or all of the benefit of increased value of those underlying instruments that it has hedged, because it would have offsetting losses in its futures positions. In addition, in such situations, if the Fund had insufficient cash, it might have to sell underlying instruments to meet daily variation margin requirements. Such sales of underlying instruments might be, but would not necessarily be, at increased prices (which would reflect the rising market). The Fund might have to sell underlying instruments at a time when it would be disadvantageous to do so.
In addition to the possibility that there might be an imperfect correlation, or no correlation at all, between price movements in the futures contracts and the portion of the portfolio being hedged, the price movements of futures contracts might not correlate perfectly with price movements in the underlying instruments due to certain market distortions. First, all participants in the futures market are subject to margin deposit and maintenance requirements. Rather than meeting additional margin deposit requirements, investors might close futures contracts through offsetting transactions, which could distort the normal relationship between the underlying instruments and futures markets. Second, the margin requirements in the futures market are less onerous than margin requirements in the securities markets, and as a result the futures market might attract more speculators than the securities markets do. Increased participation by speculators in the futures market might also cause temporary price distortions. Due to the possibility of price distortion in the futures market and also because of the imperfect correlation between price movements in the underlying instruments and movements in the prices of futures contracts, even a correct forecast of general market trends by the Fund Manager might not result in a successful hedging transaction over a very short time period.
ILLIQUID OR RESTRICTED SECURITIES. Restricted securities may be sold only in privately negotiated transactions or in a public offering with respect to which a registration statement is in effect under the Securities Act of 1933 (the 1933 Act). Where registration is required, the Fund may be obligated to pay all or part of the registration expenses and a considerable period may elapse between the time of the decision to sell and the time the Fund may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to develop, the Fund might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed when it decided to sell. Restricted securities will be priced at fair value as determined in accordance with procedures prescribed by the Board of Trustees of the Trust. If through the appreciation of illiquid securities or the depreciation of liquid securities, the Fund should be in a position where more than 15% of the value of its net assets are invested in illiquid assets, including restricted securities, the Fund will take appropriate steps to protect liquidity.
Notwithstanding the above, the Fund may purchase securities which, while privately placed, are eligible for purchase and sale under Rule 144A under the 1933 Act. This rule permits certain qualified institutional buyers to trade in privately placed securities even though such securities are not registered under the 1933 Act. The Fund Manager under the supervision of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, will consider whether securities purchased under Rule 144A are illiquid and thus subject to the Funds restriction of investing no more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities. A determination of whether a Rule 144A security is liquid or not is a question of fact. In making this determination, the Fund Manager will consider the trading markets for the specific security taking into account the unregistered nature of a Rule 144A security. In addition, the Fund Manager could consider: (1) the frequency of trades and quotes, (2) the number of dealers and potential purchases, (3) any dealer undertakings to make a market, and (4) the nature of the security and of marketplace trades ( e.g. , the time needed to dispose of the security, the method of soliciting offers and the mechanics of transfer). The liquidity of Rule 144A securities would be monitored, and if as a result of changed conditions it is determined that a Rule 144A security is no longer liquid, the Funds holdings of illiquid securities would be reviewed to determine what, if any, steps are required to assure that the Fund does not invest more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities. Investing in Rule 144A securities could have the effect of increasing the amount of the Funds assets invested in illiquid securities if qualified institutional buyers are unwilling to purchase such securities.
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 are subject to the Funds policies regarding the quality of debt securities.
Purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of principal and interest. Direct debt instruments may not be rated by any nationally recognized rating service. If the Fund does not receive scheduled interest or principal payments on such indebtedness, the Funds share price and yield could be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured offer the Fund more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of non-payment of scheduled interest or principal. However, there is no assurance that the liquidations of collateral from a secured loan would satisfy the borrowers 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 developing 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.
Investments in loans through direct assignment of a financial institutions interests with respect to a loan may involve additional risks to the Fund. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the Fund 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, the Fund 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. Direct debt instruments that are not in the form of securities may offer less legal protection to the Fund in the event of fraud or misrepresentation. In the absence of definitive regulatory guidance, the Fund relies on the Fund Managers research in an attempt to avoid situations where fraud or misrepresentation could adversely affect the Fund.
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 Fund has direct recourse against the borrower, it 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 the Fund were determined to be subject to the claims of the agents general creditors, the Fund might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or interest.
Direct indebtedness purchased by the Fund may include letters of credit, revolving credit facilities, or other standby financing commitments obligating the Fund to pay additional cash on demand. These commitments may have the effect of requiring the Fund to increase its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise have done so, even if the borrowers condition makes it unlikely that the amount will ever be repaid. The Fund will set aside appropriate liquid assets in a custodial account to cover its potential obligations under standby financing commitments.
The Fund limits the amount of total assets that it will invest in any one issuer or, in issuers within the same industry (see the Funds investment limitations). For purposes of these limitations, 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 the Fund and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the Fund the direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC interpretations require the 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 the Funds 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.
MATURITY OF DEBT SECURITIES. The maturity of debt securities may be considered long (10 years or more), intermediate (3 to 10 years), or short-term (less than 3 years). In general, the principal values of longer-term securities fluctuate more widely in response to changes in interest rates than those of shorter-term securities, providing greater opportunity for capital gain or risk of capital loss. A decline in interest rates usually produces an increase in the value of debt securities, while an increase in interest rates generally reduces their value.
MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH SECURITIES. Interests in pools of mortgage pass-through securities differ from other forms of debt securities (which normally provide periodic payments of interest in fixed amounts and the payment of principal in a lump sum at maturity or on specified call dates). Instead, mortgage pass-through securities provide monthly payments consisting of both interest and principal payments. In effect, these payments are a pass-through of the monthly payments made by the individual borrowers on the underlying residential mortgage loans, net of any fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of such securities. Unscheduled payments of principal may be made if the underlying mortgage loans are repaid or refinanced or the underlying properties are foreclosed, thereby shortening the securities weighted average life. Some mortgage pass-through securities (such as securities guaranteed by GNMA) are described as modified pass-through securities. These securities entitle the holder to receive all interest and principal payments owed on the mortgage pool, net of certain fees, on the scheduled payment dates regardless of whether the mortgagor actually makes the payment.
The principal governmental guarantor of mortgage pass-through securities is GNMA. GNMA is authorized to guarantee, with the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury, the timely payment of principal and interest on securities issued by lending institutions approved by GNMA (such as savings and loan institutions, commercial banks and mortgage bankers) and backed by pools of mortgage loans. These mortgage loans are either insured by the Federal Housing Administration or guaranteed by the Veterans Administration. A pool or group of such mortgage loans is assembled and after being approved by GNMA, is offered to investors through securities dealers.
Government-related guarantors of mortgage pass-through securities ( i.e. , not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury) include FNMA and FHLMC. FNMA is a government-sponsored corporation owned entirely by private stockholders. It is subject to general regulation by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. FNMA purchases conventional ( i.e. , not insured or guaranteed by any government agency) residential mortgages from a list of approved sellers/servicers which include state and federally chartered savings and loan associations, mutual savings banks, commercial banks and credit unions and mortgage bankers. Mortgage pass-through securities issued by FNMA are guaranteed as to timely payment of principal and interest by FNMA but are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury.
FHLMC was created by Congress in 1970 for the purpose of increasing the availability of mortgage credit for residential housing. It is a U.S. government-sponsored corporation formerly owned by the twelve Federal Home Loan Banks and now owned entirely by private stockholders. FHLMC issues Participation Certificates (PCs), which represent interests in conventional mortgages from FHLMCs national portfolio. FHLMC guarantees the timely payment of interest and ultimate collection of principal, but PCs are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury.
Commercial banks, savings and loan institutions, private mortgage insurance companies, mortgage bankers and other secondary market issuers also create pass-through pools of conventional residential mortgage loans. Such issuers may, in addition, be the originators and/or servicers of the underlying mortgage loans as well as the guarantors of the mortgage pass-through securities. The Fund does not purchase interests in pools created by such non-governmental issuers.
Resets. The interest rates paid on the Adjustable Rate Mortgage Securities (ARMs) in which the Fund may invest generally are readjusted or reset at intervals of one year or less to an increment over some predetermined interest rate index. There are two main categories of indices: those based on U.S. Treasury securities and those derived from a calculated measure, such as a cost of funds index or a moving average of mortgage rates. Commonly utilized indices include the one-year and five-year constant maturity Treasury Note rates, the three-month Treasury Bill rate, the 180-day Treasury Bill rate, rates on longer-term Treasury securities, the National Median Cost of Funds, the one-month or three-month London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), the prime rate of a specific bank, or commercial paper rates. Some indices, such as the one-year constant maturity Treasury Note rate, closely mirror changes in market interest rate levels. Others tend to lag changes in market rate levels and tend to be somewhat less volatile.
Caps and Floors. The underlying mortgages which collateralize the ARMs in which the Fund invests will frequently have caps and floors which limit the maximum amount by which the loan rate to the residential borrower may change up or down: (1) per reset or adjustment interval, and (2) over the life of the loan. Some residential mortgage loans restrict periodic adjustments by limiting changes in the borrowers monthly principal and interest payments rather than limiting interest rate changes. These payment caps may result in negative amortization. The value of mortgage securities in which the Fund invests may be affected if market interest rates rise or fall faster and farther than the allowable caps or floors on the underlying residential mortgage loans. Additionally, even though the interest rates on the underlying residential mortgages are adjustable, amortization and prepayments may occur, thereby causing the effective maturities of the mortgage securities in which the Fund invests to be shorter than the maturities stated in the underlying mortgages.
OPTIONS. Writing Covered Call Options. The Fund may write (sell) American or European style covered call options and purchase options to close out options previously written by the Fund. In writing covered call options, the Fund expects to generate additional premium income which should serve to enhance the Funds total return and reduce the effect of any price decline of the security or currency involved in the option. Covered call options will generally be written on securities or currencies which, in the Fund Managers opinion, are not expected to have any major price increases or moves in the near future but which, over the long term, are deemed to be attractive investments for the Fund.
A call option gives the holder (buyer) the right to purchase a security or currency at a specified price (the exercise price) at expiration of the option (European style) or at any time until a certain date (the expiration date) (American style). So long as the obligation of the writer of a call option continues, he may be assigned an exercise notice by the broker-dealer through whom such option was sold, requiring him to deliver the underlying security or currency against payment of the exercise price. This obligation terminates upon the expiration of the call option, or such earlier time at which the writer effects a closing purchase transaction by repurchasing an option identical to that previously sold. To secure his obligation to deliver the underlying security or currency in the case of a call option, a writer is required to deposit in escrow the underlying security or currency or other assets in accordance with the rules of a clearing corporation.
The Fund will write only covered call options. This means that the Fund will own the security or currency subject to the option or an option to purchase the same underlying security or currency, having an exercise price equal to or less than the exercise price of the covered option, or will establish and maintain with its custodian for the term of the option, an account consisting of cash, U.S. government securities or other liquid securities having a value equal to the fluctuating market value of the securities or currencies on which the Fund holds a covered call position.
Portfolio securities or currencies on which call options may be written will be purchased solely on the basis of investment considerations consistent with the Funds investment objective. The writing of covered call options is a conservative investment technique believed to involve relatively little risk (in contrast to the writing of naked or uncovered options, which the Fund will not do), but capable of enhancing the Funds total return. When writing a covered call option, the Fund, in return for the premium, gives up the opportunity for profit from a price increase in the underlying security or currency above the exercise price, but conversely retains the risk of loss should the price of the security or currency decline. Unlike one who owns securities or currencies not subject to an option, the Fund has no control over when it may be required to sell the underlying securities or currencies, since it may be assigned an exercise notice at any time prior to the expiration of its obligation as a writer. If a call option, which the Fund has written, expires, the Fund will realize a gain in the amount of the premium; however, such gain may be offset by a decline in the market value of the underlying security or currency during the option period. If the call option is exercised, the Fund will realize a gain or loss from the sale of the underlying security or currency. The Fund does not consider a security or currency covered by a call to be pledged as that term is used in the Funds policy which limits the pledging or mortgaging of its assets.
The premium received is the market value of an option. The premium the Fund will receive from writing a call option will reflect, among other things, the current market price of the underlying security or currency, the relationship of the exercise price to such market price, the historical price volatility of the underlying security or currency, and the length of the option period. Once the decision to write a call option has been made, the Fund Manager, in determining whether a particular call option should be written on a particular security or currency, will consider the reasonableness of the anticipated premium and the likelihood that a liquid secondary market will exist for those options. The premium received by the Fund for writing covered call options will be recorded as a liability of the Fund. This liability will be adjusted daily to the options current market value, which will be the latest sale price at the time at which the net asset value per share of the Fund is computed (close of the New York Stock Exchange), or, in the absence of such sale, the latest asked price. The option will be terminated upon expiration of the option, the purchase of an identical option in a closing transaction, or delivery of the underlying security or currency upon the exercise of the option.
Closing transactions will be effected in order to realize a profit on an outstanding call option, to prevent an underlying security or currency from being called, or, to permit the sale of the underlying security or currency. Furthermore, effecting a closing transaction will permit the Fund to write another call option on the underlying security or currency with either a different exercise price or expiration date or both. If the Fund desires to sell a particular security or currency from its portfolio on which it has written a call option, or purchased a put option, it will seek to effect a closing transaction prior to, or concurrently with, the sale of the security or currency. There is, of course, no assurance that the Fund will be able to effect such closing transactions at favorable prices. If the Fund cannot enter into such a transaction, it may be required to hold a security or currency that it might otherwise have sold. When the Fund writes a covered call option, it runs the risk of not being able to participate in the appreciation of the underlying securities or currencies above the exercise price, as well as the risk of being required to hold on to securities or currencies that are depreciating in value. This could result in higher transaction costs. The Fund will pay transaction costs in connection with the writing of options to close out previously written options. Such transaction costs are normally higher than those applicable to purchases and sales of portfolio securities.
Call options written by the Fund will normally have expiration dates of less than nine months from the date written. The exercise price of the options may be below, equal to, or above the current market values of the underlying securities or currencies at the time the options are written. From time to time, the Fund may purchase an underlying security or currency for delivery in accordance with an exercise notice of a call option assigned to it, rather than delivering such security or currency from its portfolio. In such cases, additional costs may be incurred.
The Fund will realize a profit or loss from a closing purchase transaction if the cost of the transaction is less or more than the premium received from the writing of the option. Because increases in the market price of a call option will generally reflect increases in the market price of the underlying security or currency, any loss resulting from the repurchase of a call option is likely to be offset in whole or in part by appreciation of the underlying security or currency owned by the Fund.
OPTIONS ON FUTURES CONTRACTS. The Fund may purchase and sell options on the same types of futures in which it may invest. Options on futures are similar to options on underlying instruments except that options on futures give the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in a futures contract (a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a put), rather than to purchase or sell the futures contract, at a specified exercise price at any time during the period of the option. Upon exercise of the option, the delivery of the futures position by the writer of the option to the holder of the option will be accompanied by the delivery of the accumulated balance in the writers futures margin account which represents the amount by which the market price of the futures contract, at exercise, exceeds (in the case of a call) or is less than (in the case of a put) the exercise price of the option on the futures contract. Purchasers of options who fail to exercise their options prior to the exercise date suffer a loss of the premium paid. As an alternative to writing or purchasing call and put options on stock index futures, The Fund may write or purchase call and put options on stock indices. Such options would be used in a manner similar to the use of options on futures contracts.
SPECIAL RISKS OF TRANSACTIONS IN OPTIONS ON FUTURES CONTRACTS. The risks described under Special Risks of Transactions in Futures Contracts are substantially the same as the risks of using options on futures. In addition, where the Fund seeks to close out an option position by writing or buying an offsetting option covering the same underlying instrument, index or contract and having the same exercise price and expiration date, its ability to establish and close out positions on such options will be subject to the maintenance of a liquid secondary market. Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include the following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain options; (ii) restrictions may be imposed by an exchange on opening transactions or closing transactions or both; (iii) trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or series of options, or underlying instruments; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or a clearing corporation may not at all times be adequate to handle current trading volume; or (vi) one or more exchanges could, for economic or other reasons, decide or be compelled at some future date to discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options), in which event the secondary market on that exchange (or in the class or series of options) would cease to exist, although outstanding options on the exchange that had been issued by a clearing corporation as a result of trades on that exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms. There is no assurance that higher than anticipated trading activity or other unforeseen events might not, at times, render certain of the facilities of any of the clearing corporations inadequate, and thereby result in the institution by an exchange of special procedures which may interfere with the timely execution of customers orders.
PURCHASING CALL OPTIONS. The Fund may purchase American or European style call options. As the holder of a call option, the Fund has the right to purchase the underlying security or currency at the exercise price at any time during the option period (American style) or at the expiration of the option (European style). The Fund may enter into closing sale transactions with respect to such options, exercise them or permit them to expire. The Fund may purchase call options for the purpose of increasing its current return or avoiding tax consequences, which could reduce its current return. The Fund may also purchase call options in order to acquire the underlying securities or currencies. Examples of such uses of call options are provided below.
Call options may be purchased by the Fund for the purpose of acquiring the underlying securities or currencies for its portfolio. Utilized in this fashion, the purchase of call options enables the Fund to acquire the securities or currencies at the exercise price of the call option plus the premium paid. At times the net cost of acquiring securities or currencies in this manner may be less than the cost of acquiring the securities or currencies directly. This technique may also be useful to the Fund in purchasing a large block of securities or currencies that would be more difficult to acquire by direct market purchases. So long as it holds such a call option rather than the underlying security or currency itself, the Fund is partially protected from any unexpected decline in the market price of the underlying security or currency and in such event could allow the call option to expire, incurring a loss only to the extent of the premium paid for the option.
PURCHASING PUT OPTIONS. The Fund may purchase American or European style put options. As the holder of a put option, the Fund has the right to sell the underlying security or currency at the exercise price at any time during the option period (American style) or at the expiration of the option (European style). The Fund may enter into closing sale transactions with respect to such options, exercise them or permit them to expire. The Fund may purchase put options for defensive purposes in order to protect against an anticipated decline in the value of its securities or currencies. An example of such use of put options is provided below.
The Fund may purchase a put option on an underlying security or currency (a protective put) owned by the Fund as a defensive technique in order to protect against an anticipated decline in the value of the security or currency. Such hedge protection is provided only during the life of the put option when the Fund, as the holder of the put option, is able to sell the underlying security or currency at the put exercise price regardless of any decline in the underlying securitys market price or currencys exchange value. For example, a put option may be purchased in order to protect unrealized appreciation of a security or currency where the Fund Manager deems it desirable to continue to hold the security or currency because of tax considerations. The premium paid for the put option and any transaction costs would reduce any capital gain otherwise available for distribution when the security or currency is eventually sold.
The Fund may also purchase put options at a time when the Fund does not own the underlying security or currency. By purchasing put options on a security or currency it does not own, the Fund seeks to benefit from a decline in the market price of the underlying security or currency. If the put option is not sold when it has remaining value, and if the market price of the underlying security or currency remains equal to or greater than the exercise price during the life of the put option, the Fund will lose its entire investment in the put option. In order for the purchase of a put option to be profitable, the market price of the underlying security or currency must decline sufficiently below the exercise price to cover the premium and transaction costs, unless the put option is sold in a closing sale transaction.
REGULATORY LIMITATIONS. The Fund will engage in futures contracts and options thereon only for bona fide hedging, yield enhancement, and risk management purposes, in each case in accordance with rules and regulations of the CFTC.
The Fund may not purchase or sell futures contracts or related options if, with respect to positions which do not qualify as bona fide hedging under applicable CFTC rules, the sum of the amounts of initial margin deposits and premiums paid on those portions would exceed 5% of the net asset value of the Fund after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such contracts it has entered into; provided, however, that in the case of an option that is in-the money at the time of purchase, the in-the-money amount may be excluded in calculating the 5% limitation. For purposes of this policy options on futures contracts and foreign currency options traded on a commodities exchange will be considered related options. This policy may be modified by the Board of Trustees without a shareholder vote and does not limit the percentage of the Funds assets at risk to 5%.
The Funds use of futures contracts may result in leverage. Therefore, to the extent necessary, in instances involving the purchase of futures contracts or the writing of call or put options thereon by the Fund, an amount of cash, U.S. government securities or other appropriate liquid securities, equal to the market value of the futures contracts and options thereon (less any related margin deposits), will be identified in an account with the Funds custodian to cover (such as owning an offsetting position) the position, or alternative cover will be employed. Assets used as cover or held in an identified account cannot be sold while the position in the corresponding option or future is open, unless they are replaced with similar assets. As a result, the commitment of a large portion of the Funds assets to cover or identified accounts could impede portfolio management or the Funds ability to meet redemption requests or other current obligations.
If the CFTC or other regulatory authorities adopt different (including less stringent) or additional restrictions, the Fund would comply with such new restrictions.
OTHER INVESTMENT COMPANIES. The Funds investments in an underlying portfolio of Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), mutual funds and closed-end funds involve certain additional expenses and certain tax results, which would not be present in a direct investment in the underlying funds. As a result, the cost of investing in the Fund will be higher than the cost of investing directly in underlying fund shares and may be higher than other mutual funds that invest directly in stocks and bonds. Each underlying fund is subject to specific risks, depending on the nature of the underlying fund. These risks could include sector risk (increased risk from a focus on one or more sectors of the market), as well as risks associated with fixed income securities, real estate investments, and commodities.
EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS. ETFs are passive funds that track their related index and have the flexibility of trading like a security. They are managed by professionals and provide the investor with diversification, cost and tax efficiency, liquidity, marginability, are useful for hedging, have the ability to go long and short, and some provide quarterly dividends. Additionally, ETFs are unit investment trusts (UITs) that have two markets. The primary market is where institutions swap creation units in block-multiples of 50,000 shares for in-kind securities and cash in the form of dividends. The secondary market is where individual investors can trade as little as a single share during trading hours on the exchange. This is different from open-ended mutual funds that are traded after hours once the net asset value (NAV) is calculated. ETFs share many similar risks with open-end and closed-end funds as discussed in the following paragraphs.
OPEN-END INVESTMENT COMPANIES. The 1940 Act provides that an underlying fund whose shares are purchased by the Fund will be obligated to redeem shares held by the Fund only in an amount up to 1% of the underlying funds outstanding securities during any period of less than 30 days. Shares held by the Fund in excess of 1% of an underlying funds outstanding securities therefore, will generally be considered not readily marketable securities, which, together with other such securities, may not exceed 15% of the Funds assets. In some cases deemed appropriate by the Fund Manager or the Board of Trustees, Shares held by the Fund in excess of 1% of an underlying funds outstanding securities will be considered readily marketable securities (for example, exchange traded funds which are registered as open-end investment companies but listed on an exchange).
Under certain circumstances an underlying fund may determine to make payment of a redemption by the Fund wholly or partly by a distribution in kind of securities from its portfolio, in lieu of cash, in conformity with the rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission. In such cases, the Fund may hold securities distributed by an underlying fund until the Fund Manager determines that it is appropriate to dispose of such securities.
Investment decisions by the investment advisers of the underlying funds are made independently of the Fund and the Fund Manager. Therefore, the investment adviser of one underlying fund may be purchasing shares of the same issuer whose shares are being sold by the investment adviser of another such fund. The result of this would be an indirect expense to the Fund without accomplishing any investment purpose.
CLOSED-END INVESTMENT COMPANIES. The Fund may invest their assets in closed-end investment companies (or closed-end funds), subject to the investment restrictions set forth below. The Fund, together with any company or companies controlled by the Fund, and any other investment companies having the Fund Manager as an investment adviser, may purchase in the aggregate only up to 3% of the total outstanding voting stock of any closed-end fund. Shares of closed-end funds are typically offered to the public in a one-time initial public offering by a group of underwriters who retain a spread or underwriting commission of between 4% or 6% of the initial public offering price. Such securities are then listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange, the American Stock Exchange, the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation System (commonly known as NASDAQ) and, in some cases, may be traded in other over-the-counter markets. Because the shares of closed-end funds cannot be redeemed upon demand to the issuer like the shares of an open-end investment company (such as the Fund), investors seek to buy and sell shares of closed-end funds in the secondary market.
The Fund generally will purchase shares of closed-end funds only in the secondary market. The Fund will incur normal brokerage costs on such purchases similar to the expenses the Fund would incur for the purchase of securities of any other type of issuer in the secondary market. The Fund may, however, also purchase securities of a closed-end fund in an initial public offering when, in the opinion of the Fund Manager, based on a consideration of the nature of the closed-end funds proposed investments, the prevailing market conditions and the level of demand for such securities, they represent an attractive opportunity for growth of capital. The initial offering price typically will include a dealer spread, which may be higher than the applicable brokerage cost if the Fund purchased such securities in the secondary market.
The shares of many closed-end funds, after their initial public offering, frequently trade at a price per share, which is less than the net asset value per share, the difference representing the market discount of such shares. This market discount may be due in part to the investment objective of long-term appreciation, which is sought by many closed-end funds, as well as to the fact that the shares of closed-end funds are not redeemable by the holder upon demand to the issuer at the next determined net asset value but rather are subject to the principles of supply and demand in the secondary market. A relative lack of secondary market purchasers of closed-end fund shares also may contribute to such shares trading at a discount to their net asset value.
The Fund may invest in shares of closed-end funds that are trading at a discount to net asset value or at a premium to net asset value. There can be no assurance that the market discount on shares of any closed-end fund purchased by the Fund will ever decrease. In fact, it is possible that this market discount may increase and the Fund may suffer realized or unrealized capital losses due to further decline in the market price of the securities of such closed-end funds, thereby adversely affecting the net asset value of the Funds shares. Similarly, there can be no assurance that any shares of a closed-end fund purchased by the Fund at a premium will continue to trade at a premium or that the premium will not decrease subsequent to a purchase of such shares by the Fund.
Closed-end funds may issue senior securities (including preferred stock and debt obligations) for the purpose of leveraging the closed-end funds common shares in an attempt to enhance the current return to such closed-end funds common shareholders. The Funds investment in the common shares of closed-end funds that are financially leveraged may create an opportunity for greater total return on its investment, but at the same time may be expected to exhibit more volatility in market price and net asset value than an investment in shares of investment companies without a leveraged capital structure.
MASTER/FEEDER STRUCTURE. Notwithstanding these limitations, the Fund reserves the right to convert to a master/feeder structure at a future date. If the Board approved the use of a master-feeder structure for the Fund, the Fund (the feeder fund) would invest all of its investable assets in an open-end management investment company (the master fund) with substantially the same investment objectives, policies and limitations as the Fund. For this purpose, all of the Funds investable assets means that the only investment securities that would be held by the Fund would be the Funds interest in the master fund. Under such a structure, one or more feeder funds, such as the Fund, invest all of their assets in a master fund, which, in turn, invests directly in a portfolio of securities. If required by applicable law, the Fund will seek shareholder approval before converting to a master/feeder structure. If the requisite regulatory authorities determine that such approval is not required, shareholders will be deemed, by purchasing shares, to have consented to such a conversion and no further shareholder approval will be sought. Such a conversion is expressly permitted under the investment objective and fundamental policies of the Fund.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. The Fund may invest in repurchase agreements. A repurchase agreement is an instrument under which the investor (such as the Fund) acquires ownership of a security (known as the underlying security) and the seller ( i.e. , a bank or primary dealer) agrees, at the time of the sale, to repurchase the underlying security at a mutually agreed upon time and price, thereby determining the yield during the term of the agreement. This results in a fixed rate of return insulated from market fluctuations during such period, unless the seller defaults on its repurchase obligations. The Fund will only enter into repurchase agreements where: (i) the underlying securities are of the type (excluding maturity limitations) which the Funds investment guidelines would allow it to purchase directly, (ii) the market value of the underlying security, including interest accrued, will be at all times at least equal to the value of the repurchase agreement, and (iii) payment for the underlying security is made only upon physical delivery or evidence of book-entry transfer to the account of the Funds custodian. Repurchase agreements usually are for short periods, often under one week, and will not be entered into by the Fund for a duration of more than seven days if, as a result, more than 15% of the net asset value of the Fund would be invested in such agreements or other securities which are not readily marketable.
The Fund will assure that the amount of collateral with respect to any repurchase agreement is adequate. As with a true extension of credit, however, there is risk of delay in recovery or the possibility of inadequacy of the collateral should the seller of the repurchase agreement fail financially. In addition, the Fund could incur costs in connection with the disposition of the collateral if the seller were to default. The Fund will enter into repurchase agreements only with sellers deemed to be creditworthy by, or pursuant to guidelines established by, the Board of Trustees of the Trust and only when the economic benefit to the Fund is believed to justify the attendant risks. The Fund has adopted standards for the sellers with whom they will enter into repurchase agreements. The Board of Trustees of the Trust believe these standards are designed to reasonably assure that such sellers present no serious risk of becoming involved in bankruptcy proceedings within the time frame contemplated by the repurchase agreement. The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements only with well-established securities dealers or with member banks of the Federal Reserve System.
SHORT SALES. The Fund may sell securities short as part of its overall portfolio management strategies involving the use of derivative instruments and to offset potential declines in long positions in similar securities. A short sale is a transaction in which the Fund sells a security it does not own or have the right to acquire (or that it owns but does not wish to deliver) in anticipation that the market price of that security will decline.
When the Fund makes a short sale, the broker-dealer through which the short sale is made must borrow the security sold short and deliver it to the party purchasing the security. The Fund is required to make a margin deposit in connection with such short sales; the Fund may have to pay a fee to borrow particular securities and will often be obligated to pay over any dividends and accrued interest on borrowed securities.
If the price of the security sold short increases between the time of the short sale and the time the Fund covers its short position, the Fund will incur a loss; conversely, if the price declines, the Fund will realize a capital gain. Any gain will be decreased, and any loss increased, by the transaction costs described above. The successful use of short selling may be adversely affected by imperfect correlation between movements in the price of the security sold short and the securities being hedged.
To the extent the Fund sells securities short, it will provide collateral to the broker-dealer and (except in the case of short sales against the box) will maintain additional asset coverage in the form of cash, U.S. government securities or other liquid securities with its custodian in a segregated account in an amount at least equal to the difference between the current market value of the securities sold short and any amounts required to be deposited as collateral with the selling broker (not including the proceeds of the short sale. The Fund may sell securities short to the full extent permitted under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act). A short sale is against the box to the extent the Fund contemporaneously owns, or has the right to obtain at no added cost, securities identical to those sold short.
SPECIAL RISKS OF TRANSACTIONS IN OPTIONS ON FUTURES CONTRACTS. The risks described under Special Risks of Transactions on Futures Contracts are substantially the same as the risks of using options on futures. In addition, where the Fund seeks to close out an option position by writing or buying an offsetting option covering the same underlying instrument, index or contract and having the same exercise price and expiration date, its ability to establish and close out positions on such options will be subject to the maintenance of a liquid secondary market. Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an exchange include the following: (i) there may be insufficient trading interest in certain options; (ii) restrictions may be imposed by an exchange on opening transactions or closing transactions or both; (iii) trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions may be imposed with respect to particular classes or series of options, or underlying instruments; (iv) unusual or unforeseen circumstances may interrupt normal operations on an exchange; (v) the facilities of an exchange or a clearing corporation may not at all times be adequate to handle current trading volume; or (vi) one or more exchanges could, for economic or other reasons, decide or be compelled at some future date to discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options), in which event the secondary market on that exchange (or in the class or series of options) would cease to exist, although outstanding options on the exchange that had been issued by a clearing corporation as a result of trades on that exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms. There is no assurance that higher than anticipated trading activity or other unforeseen events might not, at times, render certain of the facilities of any of the clearing corporations inadequate, and thereby result in the institution by an exchange of special procedures which may interfere with the timely execution of customers orders.
SWAP AGREEMENTS. The Fund may enter into interest rate, index and currency exchange rate swap agreements in attempts to obtain a particular desired return at a lower cost to the Fund than if the Fund has invested directly in an instrument that yielded that desired return. Swap agreements are two-party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors for periods ranging from a few weeks to more than one year. In a standard swap transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of returns) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments. The gross returns to be exchanged or swapped between the parties are calculated with respect to a notional amount, i.e. , the return on or increase in value of a particular dollar amount invested at a particular interest rate, in a particular foreign currency, or in a basket of securities representing a particular index. The notional amount of the swap agreement is only a fictive basis on which to calculate the obligations the parties to a swap agreement have agreed to exchange. The Funds obligations (or rights) under a swap agreement will generally be equal only to the amount to be paid or received under the agreement based on the relative values of the positions held by each party to the agreement (the net amount). The Funds obligations under a swap agreement will be accrued daily (offset against any amounts owing to the Fund) and any accrued but unpaid net amounts owed to a swap counterparty will be covered by the maintenance of a segregated account consisting of cash, U.S. government securities, or other liquid securities, to avoid leveraging of the Funds portfolio. The Fund will not enter into a swap agreement with any single party if the net amount owed or to be received under existing contracts with that party would exceed 5% of the Funds assets.
Whether the Funds use of swap agreements enhance the Funds total return will depend on the Fund Managers ability correctly to predict whether certain types of investments are likely to produce greater returns than other investments. Because they are two-party contracts and may have terms of greater than seven days, swap agreements may be considered to be illiquid. Moreover, the Fund bears the risk of loss of the amount expected to be received under a swap agreement in the event of the default or bankruptcy of a swap agreement counterparty. The Fund Manager will cause the Fund to enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that would be eligible for consideration as repurchase agreement counterparties under the Funds repurchase agreement guidelines. The swap market is a relatively new market and is largely unregulated. It is possible that developments in the swaps market, including potential government regulation, could adversely affect the Funds ability to terminate existing swap agreements or to realize amounts to be received under such agreements.
Certain swap agreements are exempt from most provisions of the Commodity Exchange Act (CEA) and, therefore, are not regulated as futures or commodity option transactions under the CEA, pursuant to regulations of the CFTC. To qualify for this exemption, a swap agreement must be entered into by eligible participants, which include the following, provided the participants total assets exceed established levels: a bank or trust company, savings association or credit union, insurance company, investment company subject to regulation under the 1940 Act, commodity pool, corporation, partnership, proprietorship, organization, trust or other entity, employee benefit plan, governmental entity, broker-dealer, futures commission merchant, natural person, or regulated foreign person. To be eligible, natural persons and most other entities must have total assets exceeding $10 million; commodity pools and employees benefit plans must have assets exceeding $5 million. In addition, an eligible swap transaction must meet three conditions. First, the swap agreement may not be part of a fungible class of agreements that are standardized as to their material economic terms. Second, the creditworthiness of parties with actual or potential obligations under the swap agreement must be a material consideration in entering into or determining the terms of the swap agreement, including pricing, cost or credit enhancement terms. Third, swap agreements may not be entered into and traded on or through a multilateral transaction execution facility.
TRADING IN FUTURES CONTRACTS. A futures contract provides for the future sale by one party and purchase by another party of a specified amount of a specific financial instrument ( e.g. , units of a stock index) for a specified price, date, time and place designated at the time the contract is made. Brokerage fees are incurred when a futures contract is bought or sold and margin deposits must be maintained. Entering into a contract to buy is commonly referred to as buying or purchasing a contract or holding a long position. Entering into a contract to sell is commonly referred to as selling a contract or holding a short position.
Unlike when the Fund purchases or sells a security, no price would be paid or received by the Fund upon the purchase or sale of a futures contract. Upon entering into a futures contract, and to maintain the Funds open positions in futures contracts, the Fund would be required to deposit with its custodian or futures broker in a segregated account in the name of the futures broker an amount of cash, U.S. government securities, suitable money market instruments, or other liquid securities, known as initial margin. The margin required for a particular futures contract is set by the exchange on which the contract is traded, and may be significantly modified from time to time by the exchange during the term of the contract. Futures contracts are customarily purchased and sold on margins that may range upward from less than 5% of the value of the contract being traded.
If the price of an open futures contract changes (by increase in underlying instrument or index in the case of a sale or by decrease in the case of a purchase) so that the loss on the futures contract reaches a point at which the margin on deposit does not satisfy margin requirements, the broker will require an increase in the margin. However, if the value of a position increases because of favorable price changes in the futures contract so that the margin deposit exceeds the required margin, the broker will pay the excess to the Fund.
These subsequent payments, called variation margin, to and from the futures broker, are made on a daily basis as the price of the underlying assets fluctuate making the long and short positions in the futures contract more or less valuable, a process known as marking to the market. The Fund expects to earn interest income on its margin deposits.
Although certain futures contracts, by their terms, require actual future delivery of and payment for the underlying instruments, in practice most futures contracts are usually closed out before the delivery date. Closing out an open futures contract purchase or sale is effected by entering into an offsetting futures contract sale or purchase, respectively, for the same aggregate amount of the identical underlying instrument or index and the same delivery date. If the offsetting purchase price is less than the original sale price, the Fund realizes a gain; if it is more, the Fund realizes a loss. Conversely, if the offsetting sale price is more than the original purchase price, the Fund realizes a gain; if it is less, the Fund realizes a loss. The transaction costs must also be included in these calculations. There can be no assurance, however, that the Fund will be able to enter into an offsetting transaction with respect to a particular futures contract at a particular time. If the Fund is not able to enter into an offsetting transaction, the Fund will continue to be required to maintain the margin deposits on the futures contract.
For example, one contract in the Financial Times Stock Exchange 100 Index future is a contract to buy 25 pounds sterling multiplied by the level of the UK Financial Times 100 Share Index on a given future date. Settlement of a stock index futures contract may or may not be in the underlying instrument or index. If not in the underlying instrument or index, then settlement will be made in cash, equivalent over time to the difference between the contract price and the actual price of the underlying asset at the time the stock index futures contract expires.
WARRANTS. The Fund may invest in warrants. Warrants are pure speculation in that they have no voting rights, pay no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the corporation issuing them. Warrants basically are options to purchase equity securities at a specific price valid for a specific period of time. They do not represent ownership of the securities, but only the right to buy them. Warrants differ from call options in that warrants are issued by the issuer of the security, which may be purchased on their exercise, whereas call options may be written or issued by anyone. The prices of warrants do not necessarily move parallel to the prices of the underlying securities.
WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES and FORWARD COMMITMENT TRANSACTIONS. The Fund may, from time to time, purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis. The price for such securities, which may be expressed in yield terms, is fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is made, but delivery and payment for the when-issued securities take place at a later date. Normally, the settlement date occurs within one month of the purchase, but may take up to three months. During the period between purchases and settlement, no payment is made by the Fund to the issuer and no interest accrues to the Fund. At the time the Fund makes the commitment to purchase a security on a when-issued basis, it will record the transaction and reflect the value of the security in determining its net asset value. The Fund will maintain, in a segregated account with the custodian, cash or appropriate liquid securities equal in value to commitments for when-issued securities. When-issued and forward commitment transactions involve the risk that the price or yield obtained in a transaction may be less favorable than the price or yield available in the market when the transaction takes place.
WRITING COVERED PUT OPTIONS. The Fund may write American or European style covered put options and purchase options to close out options previously written by the Fund. A put option gives the purchaser of the option the right to sell and the writer (seller) has the obligation to buy, the underlying security or currency at the exercise price during the option period (American style) or at the expiration of the option (European style). So long as the obligation of the writer continues, he may be assigned an exercise notice by the broker-dealer through whom such option was sold, requiring him to make payment of the exercise price against delivery of the underlying security or currency. The operation of put options in other respects, including their related risks and rewards, is substantially identical to that of call options.
The Fund would write put options only on a covered basis, which means that the Fund would maintain in a segregated account cash, U.S. government securities or other liquid appropriate securities in an amount not less than the exercise price or the Fund will own an option to sell the underlying security or currency subject to the option having an exercise price equal to or greater than the exercise price of the covered option at all times while the put option is outstanding. (The rules of a clearing corporation currently require that such assets be deposited in escrow to secure payment of the exercise price.) The Fund would generally write covered put options in circumstances where the Fund Manager wishes to purchase the underlying security or currency for the Funds portfolio at a price lower than the current market price of the security or currency. In such event the Fund would write a put option at an exercise price, which, reduced by the premium received on the option, reflects the lower price it is willing to pay. Since the Fund would also receive interest on debt securities or currencies maintained to cover the exercise price of the option, this technique could be used to enhance current return during periods of market uncertainty. The risk in such a transaction would be that the market price of the underlying security or currency would decline below the exercise price less the premiums received. Such a decline could be substantial and result in a significant loss to the Fund. In addition, the Fund, because it does not own the specific securities or currencies, which it may be required to purchase in exercise of the put, cannot benefit from appreciation, if any, with respect to such specific securities or currencies.
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS. These consist of various types of marketable securities issued by the United States Treasury, i.e. , bills, notes and bonds. Such securities are direct obligations of the United States government and differ mainly in the length of their maturity. Treasury bills, the most frequently issued marketable government security, have a maturity of up to one year and are issued on a discount basis.
UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AGENCY SECURITIES. These consist of debt securities issued by agencies and instrumentalities of the United States government, including the various types of instruments currently outstanding or which may be offered in the future. Agencies include, among others, the Federal Housing Administration, government National Mortgage Association (GNMA), Farmers Home Administration, Export-Import Bank of the United States, Maritime Administration, and General Services Administration. Instrumentalities include, for example, each of the Federal Home Loan Banks, the National Bank for Cooperatives, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC), the Farm Credit Banks, the Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA), and the United States Postal Service. These securities are either: (i) backed by the full faith and credit of the United States government ( e.g. , United States Treasury Bills); (ii) guaranteed by the United States Treasury ( e.g. , GNMA mortgage-backed securities); (iii) supported by the issuing agencys or instrumentalitys right to borrow from the United States Treasury ( e.g. , FNMA Discount Notes); or (iv) supported only by the issuing agencys or instrumentalitys own credit ( e.g. , Tennessee Valley Association).
LACK OF OPERATING HISTORY RISK. The Fund is newly formed and therefore has no performance history for investors to evaluate. In addition, certain types of transactions may have a disproportionate impact on the Funds performance if the Fund does not achieve significant scale. The Fund may also not grow to an economically viable size and thus may be liquidated at a time that is not beneficial for all of its shareholders.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS. Under abnormal market or economic conditions, the Fund may adopt a temporary defensive investment position in the market. When a Fund assumes such a position, cash reserves may be a significant percentage (up to 100%) of the Funds total net assets. To the extent the Fund invests in money market mutual funds for cash positions, there will be some duplication of expenses because the Fund pays its pro-rata portion of such money market funds advisory fees and operational fees. During times when the Fund holds a significant portion of its net assets in cash, it will not be investing according to its investment objective, and the Funds performance may be negatively affected as a result.
Fundamental Investment Limitations
The Trust (on behalf of the Fund) has adopted the following restrictions as fundamental policies, which may not be changed without the favorable vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, as defined in the 1940 Act. Under the 1940 Act, the vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities means the vote of the holders of the lesser of (i) 67% of the shares of the Fund represented at a meeting at which the holders of more than 50% of its outstanding shares are represented or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund. Except for the fundamental investment limitations listed below, the investment policies and limitations described in this Statement of Additional Information are not fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
The Fund may not:
1.
Issue senior securities, borrow money or pledge its assets, except that: (i) the Fund may borrow from banks in amounts not exceeding one-third of its total assets (including the amount borrowed); and (ii) this restriction shall not prohibit the Fund from engaging in options transactions or short sales in accordance with its objective and strategies;
2.
Act as underwriter (except to the extent the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the sale of securities in its investment portfolio);
3.
Invest 25% or more of its net assets, calculated at the time of purchase and taken at market value, in securities of issuers in any one industry (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities or repurchase agreements secured by U.S. government securities);
4.
Purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities (although the Fund may purchase and sell securities which are secured by real estate and securities of companies that invest or deal in real estate);
5.
Purchase or sell commodities, unless acquired as a result of ownership of securities or other instruments and provided that this restriction does not prevent the Fund from engaging in transactions involving currencies and futures contracts and options thereon or investing in securities or other instruments that are secured by commodities;
6.
Make loans of money (except for the lending of its portfolio securities, purchases of debt securities consistent with the investment policies of the Fund and repurchase agreements); or
7.
With respect to 75% of its total assets, invest 5% or more of its total assets in securities of a single issuer or hold more than 10% of the voting securities of such issuer (does not apply to investment in the securities of the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities, or other investment companies). As a matter of operating policy, the Fund will not consider repurchase agreements to be subject to the above-stated 5% limitation if all of the collateral underlying the repurchase agreements are U.S. government securities and such repurchase agreements are fully collateralized.
Non-Fundamental Investment Limitations
The following lists the non-fundamental investment restriction applicable to the Fund. This restriction can be changed by the Board of Trustees, but the change will only be effective after notice is given to shareholders of the Fund.
1.
The Fund may not invest 15% or more of the value of its net assets, computed at the time of investment, in illiquid securities. Illiquid securities are those securities without readily available market quotations, including repurchase agreements having a maturity of more than seven days. Illiquid securities may include restricted securities not determined by the Board of Trustees to be liquid, non-negotiable time deposits, over-the-counter options and repurchase agreements providing for settlement in more than seven days after notice.
Except with respect to borrowing and illiquid securities, if a percentage or rating restriction on investment or use of assets set forth herein or in the Prospectus is adhered to at the time a transaction is effected, later changes in percentage resulting from any cause other than actions by the Fund will not be considered a violation.
The management and affairs of the Fund are supervised by the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees consists of five individuals, four of whom are not interested persons (as defined under the 1940 Act) of the Trust and the Advisor (Independent Trustees). The Trustees are fiduciaries for the Funds shareholders and are governed by the laws of the State of Delaware in this regard. The Board of Trustees establishes policies for the operation of the Fund and appoints the officers who conduct the daily business of the Fund.
Board Leadership Structure . The Trust is led by Mr. Brian Nielsen, who has served as the Chairman of the Board since 2011. Mr. Nielsen is an interested person by virtue of his affiliation with Gemini Fund Services, LLC, (the Trusts Administrator, Fund Accountant, and Transfer Agent) and Northern Lights Distributors, LLC (the Funds Distributor). The Board of Trustees is comprised of Mr. Nielsen and four Independent Trustees. Under certain 1940 Act governance guidelines that apply to the Trust, the Independent Trustees will meet in executive session, at least quarterly. Under the Trusts Agreement and Declaration of Trust and By-Laws, the Chairman of the Board is responsible for (a) presiding at board meetings, (b) calling special meetings on an as-needed basis, (c) execution and administration of Trust policies including (i) setting the agendas for board meetings and (ii) providing information to board members in advance of each board meeting and between board meetings. Generally, the Trust believes it best to have a non-executive Chairman of the Board, who together with the President (principal executive officer), are seen by our shareholders, business partners and other stakeholders as providing strong leadership. The Trust believes that its Chairman, the independent chair of the Audit Committee, the Independent Lead Trustee, and, as an entity, the full Board of Trustees, provide effective leadership that is in the best interests of the Trust, its funds and each shareholder.
Board Risk Oversight . The Board of Trustees is comprised of Mr. Nielsen and four Independent Trustees with a standing independent Audit Committee with a separate chair. The Board is responsible for overseeing risk management, and the full Board regularly engages in discussions of risk management and receives compliance reports that inform its oversight of risk management from its Chief Compliance Officer at quarterly meetings and on an ad hoc basis, when and if necessary. The Audit Committee considers financial and reporting risk within its area of responsibilities. Generally, the Board believes that its oversight of material risks is adequately maintained through the compliance-reporting chain where the Chief Compliance Officer is the primary recipient and communicator of such risk-related information.
Trustee Qualifications . Generally, the Trust believes that each Trustee is competent to serve because of their individual overall merits including: (i) experience, (ii) qualifications, (iii) attributes and (iv) skills. Mr. Nielsen has over 10 years of business experience in the investment management and brokerage business and possesses a strong understanding of the regulatory framework under which investment companies must operate. Charles Hobson Dry, a business consultant with over thirty years experience specializing in Native American Tribal business/economic and casino development and over fifty years engineering experience with NASA, received a Bachelor of Science degree from Murray State College and advanced degrees from UCLA, Los Angeles, and the University of Houston. Anthony Lewis has been Chairman and CEO of The Lewis Group USA, an executive consulting firm, for the past ten years, and also serves as a Director, the Chairman of the Compensation Committee, and a Member of the Audit Committee of Torotel Inc. Keith Rhoades served as the Director then Senior Director of General Ledger/Financial Research for Union Pacific Railroad, and Randy Skalla has served as the President of LF Enterprises, Inc. since 2001 and is a member of the Orizon Investment Counsel Board. The Trust does not believe any one factor is determinative in assessing a Trustees qualifications, but that the collective experience of each Trustee makes them each highly qualified.
The Board of Trustees has established four standing committees the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee, the Nominating Committee and the Valuation Committee. All Independent Trustees are members of the Audit Committee and the Nominating Committee. Inclusion of all Independent Trustees as members of the Audit Committee and the Nominating Committee allows all such Trustees to participate in the full range of the Board of Trustees oversight duties, including oversight of risk management processes.
In accordance with the fund governance standards prescribed by the SEC under the 1940 Act, the Independent Trustees on the Nominating Committee select and nominate all candidates for Independent Trustee positions. Each Trustee was appointed to serve on the Board of Trustees because of his experience, qualifications, attributes and/or skills as set forth above. The Board of Trustees reviews its leadership structure regularly. The Board of Trustees believes that the structure described above facilitates the orderly and efficient flow of information to the Trustees from the officers of the Trust, the advisers of the funds that comprise the Trust and other service providers, and facilitates the effective evaluation of the risks and other issues, including conflicts of interest, that may impact the Trust as a whole as well as the funds individually. The Board of Trustees believes that the orderly and efficient flow of information and the ability of the Board of Trustees to bring each Trustees experience and skills to bear in overseeing the Trusts operations is important given the characteristics and circumstances of the Trust, including: the unaffiliated nature of each investment adviser and the fund(s) managed by such adviser; the number of funds that comprise the Trust; the variety of asset classes that those funds reflect; the net assets of the Trust; the committee structure of the Trust; and the independent distribution arrangements of each of the Trusts series. For these reasons, the Board of Trustees believes that its leadership structure is appropriate.
The Board of Trustees role is one of oversight rather than day-to-day management of any of the Trusts series. The Trusts Audit Committee assists with this oversight function. The Board of Trustees oversight extends to the Trusts risk management processes. Those processes are overseen by Trust officers, including the President, the Treasurer, the Secretary and Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), who regularly report to the Board of Trustees on a variety of matters at Board meetings.
Investment advisers managing the Trusts series report to the Board of Trustees, on a regular and as-needed basis, on actual and possible risks affecting the Trusts series. These investment advisers report to the Board of Trustees on various elements of risk, including investment, credit, liquidity, valuation, operational and compliance risks, as well as any overall business risks that could impact the Trusts series.
The Board of Trustees has appointed the CCO, who reports directly to the Board of Trustees and who participates in its regular meetings. In addition, the CCO presents an annual report to the Board of Trustees in accordance with the Trusts compliance policies and procedures. The CCO, together with the Trusts Treasurer and Secretary, regularly discusses risk issues affecting the Trust and its series during Board of Trustee meetings. The CCO also provides updates to the Board of Trustees on the operation of the Trusts compliance policies and procedures and on how these procedures are designed to mitigate risk. Finally, the CCO and/or other officers of the Trust report to the Board of Trustees in the event that any material risk issues arise in between Board meetings.
Trustees and Officers. The Trustees and the officers of the Trust are listed below with their addresses, present positions with the Trust and principal occupations over at least the last five years. Unless otherwise noted, the address of each Trustee and Officer is 4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2, Omaha, Nebraska 68137.
Independent Trustees
Name, Address and Age |
Position/Term of Office* |
Principal Occupation During the Past Five Years |
Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Trustee |
Other Directorships held by Trustee |
Charles Hobson Dry Age: 72 |
Trustee since May 2011 |
Founder and President, Government Procurement Solutions, LLC (government consulting firm), Native Gaming Solutions, LLC (gaming consulting firm), American Gateway, LLC (transportation development and consulting company), Native American Personnel Services, LLC (staffing firm), Oklahoma BioFuels, Inc. |
5 |
Board of Aviation at the University of Oklahoma . |
Anthony H. Lewis Age: 64 |
Trustee since May 2011 |
Chairman and CEO of The Lewis Group USA (executive consulting firm). |
5 |
Director, Chairman of the Compensation Committee, and Member of the Audit Committee of Torotel Inc. (magnet manufacturer) |
Keith Rhoades Age: 63 |
Trustee since May 2011 |
Director and then Senior Director, General Ledger/Financial Research, Union Pacific Railroad (from 1988 to 2008). Retired since 2008. |
5 |
|
Randy Skalla Age: 49 |
Trustee since May 2011 |
President, L5 Enterprises, Inc. since 2001 (financial services company). |
5 |
Orizon Investment Counsel (financial services company) Board Member |
Interested Trustees and Officers
Name, Address and Age |
Position/Term of Office* |
Principal Occupation During the Past Five Years |
Number of Portfolios in Fund Complex Overseen by Trustee |
Other Directorships held by Trustee |
Brian Nielsen**** Age: 38 |
Trustee since May 2011 |
Assistant Secretary to Northern Lights Fund Trust since 2011; Director and Secretary of Constellation Trust Company since 2004; Assistant Secretary of Gemcom, LLC (financial printer) since 2004; Assistant Secretary and Manager of Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC since 2004; Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of AdvisorOne Funds since 2003; Assistant Secretary of Gemini Fund Services, LLC (since 2003); General Counsel, Manager, President and Secretary of Northern Lights Distributors, LLC (mutual fund distributor) since 2003; General Counsel and Secretary of NorthStar Financial Services Group, LLC since 2003; General Counsel and Secretary of CLS Investments, LLC (investment advisor) since 2001; General Counsel and Secretary of Orion Advisor Services, LLC (RIA services company) (transportation development and consulting company) since 2001. |
5 |
|
Andrew Rogers 450 Wireless Blvd. Hauppauge, NY 11788 Age: 41 |
President since May 2011 |
President and Manager, Gemini Fund Services, LLC since 2006, formerly Senior Vice President and Director of Administration from 2001 to 2005; formerly Manager, Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC from 2006 to 2008; Manager since 2006 and President since 2004, GemCom LLC. |
N/A |
N/A |
James P. Ash 450 Wireless Blvd. Hauppauge, NY 11788 Age: 34 |
Secretary since May 2011 |
Administration, Gemini Fund Services, LLC since 2006; Vice President, Fund Administration, Gemini Fund Services, LLC 2004 to 2006; Vice-President, GemCom, LLC since 2004; Senior Fund Administrator, Gemini Fund Services, LLC from 2001 to 2004. |
N/A |
N/A |
Kevin E. Wolf 450 Wireless Blvd. Hauppauge, NY 11788 Age: 40 |
Treasurer since May 2011 |
Director of Fund Administration, Gemini Fund Services, LLC since 2006; Vice President, Fund Administration, Gemini Fund Services, LLC from 2004 to 2006; Vice-President, GemCom, LLC since 2004; Senior Fund Administrator, Gemini Fund Services, LLC 2001-2004. |
N/A |
N/A |
James Colantino 450 Wireless Blvd. Hauppauge, NY 11788 Age: 40 |
Assistant Treasurer since May 2011 |
Vice President from 2004 to Present; Senior Fund Administrator from 1999 to 2004, Gemini Fund Services, LLC. |
N/A |
N/A |
Erik Naviloff 450 Wireless Blvd. Hauppauge, NY 11788 Age: 42 |
Assistant Treasurer since May 2011 |
Assistant Vice President, Gemini Fund Services, LLC, since 2007; Senior Accounting Manager, Fixed Income, Dreyfus Corporation, from 2002 to 2007. |
N/A |
N/A |
Richard Gleason 450 Wireless Blvd. Hauppauge, NY 11788 Age: 33 |
Assistant Treasurer since May 2011 |
Manager of Fund Administration, Gemini Fund Services, LLC since 2008; Senior Fund Administrator, Gemini Fund Services, LLC from 2005 to 2008. |
N/A |
N/A |
Dawn Borelli 450 Wireless Blvd. Hauppauge, NY 11788 Age: 38 |
Assistant Treasurer since May 2011 |
Assistant Vice President, Fund Administration, Gemini Fund Services, LLC since 2010, Assistant Vice President, Global Fund Administration, Legg Mason & Co. LLC (financial service company) from 2003 to 2010. |
N/A |
N/A |
Emile Molineaux 450 Wireless Blvd. Hauppauge, NY 11788 Age: 48 |
Chief Compliance Officer since May 2011 |
General Counsel, CCO and Senior Vice President, Gemini Fund Services, LLC; Secretary and CCO, Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC since 2003; In-house Counsel, The Dreyfus Funds from 1999 to 2003. |
N/A |
N/A |
* The term of office for each Trustee and Officer listed above will continue indefinitely.
**** Brian Nielsen is an interested person of the Trust as that term is defined under the 1940 Act, because of his affiliation with Gemini Fund Services, LLC, (the Trusts Administrator, Fund Accountant, and Transfer Agent) and Northern Lights Distributors, LLC (the Funds Distributor).
Board Committees
Audit Committee . The Trust has an Audit Committee, which is comprised of the independent members of the Board of Trustees. The Audit Committee reviews financial statements and other audit-related matters for the Fund. The Audit Committee also holds discussions with management and with the Funds independent auditor concerning the scope of the audit and the auditors independence and will meet at least four times annually.
Nominating Committee . The Trust has a Nominating Committee, which is comprised of the independent members of the Board of Trustees. The Nominating Committee is responsible for seeking and reviewing candidates for consideration as nominees for the position of trustee and meets only as necessary. The Nominating Committee generally will not consider shareholder nominees.
Valuation Committee . The Trust has a Valuation Committee. The Valuation Committee is responsible for the following: (1) monitoring the valuation of Fund securities and other investments; and (2) as required, when the Board of Trustees is not in session, determining the fair value of illiquid securities and other holdings after consideration of all relevant factors, which determinations are reported to the Board. The Valuation Committee is currently comprised of Kevin Wolf, Emile Molineaux and Andrew Rogers. The Valuation Committee meets as necessary when a price for a portfolio security is not readily available.
Each Trustee who is not an interested person of the Trust or Fund Manager will receive a quarterly fee of $2,000, as well as reimbursement for any reasonable expenses incurred attending the meetings to be paid at the end of each calendar quarter. The interested persons who serve as Trustees of the Trust receive no compensation for their services as Trustees. None of the executive officers receive compensation from the Trust. The Trust does not have a bonus, profit sharing, pension or retirement plan. Because the Trust only recently commenced operations, none of the Trustees have received any fees.
Name of Trustee |
Aggregate Compensation From Trust ** |
Pension or Retirement Benefits Accrued as Part of Fund Expenses |
Estimated Annual Benefits Upon Retirement |
Total Compensation From Trust and Fund Complex*** Paid to Trustees |
Charles Hobson Dry |
$0 |
None |
None |
$0 |
Anthony Lewis |
$0 |
None |
None |
$0 |
Keith Rhoades |
$0 |
None |
None |
$0 |
Randy Skalla |
$0 |
None |
None |
$0 |
Brian Nielsen* |
None |
None |
None |
None |
_______________
* This Trustee is deemed to be an interested person as defined in the 1940 Act as a result of his affiliation with Gemini Fund Services, LLC (the Trusts Administrator, Transfer Agent and Fund Accountant), Northern Lights Distributors, LLC (the Funds Distributor) and Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC (the Trusts compliance service provider).
**There are currently multiple series comprising the Trust. Trustees fees will be allocated equally to each fund in the Trust.
***The term Fund Complex refers to the Northern Lights Fund Trust II.
Trustee Ownership
The following table indicates the dollar range of equity securities that each Trustee beneficially owned in the Fund and other series of the Trust as of [_____] , 2011.
Name of Trustee |
Dollar Range of Equity Securities in the Fund |
Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity Securities in All Registered Investment Companies Overseen by Trustee in Family of Investment Companies |
Charles Hobson Dry |
None |
None |
Anthony Lewis |
None |
None |
Keith Rhoades |
None |
None |
Randy Skalla |
None |
None |
Brian Nielsen* |
None |
None |
* This Trustee is deemed to be an interested person as defined in the 1940 Act as a result of his affiliation with Gemini Fund Services, LLC (the Trusts Administrator, Transfer Agent and Fund Accountant), Northern Lights Distributors, LLC (the Funds Distributor) and Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC (the Trusts compliance service provider).
As of the date of this SAI, the Trustees and officers, as a group, did not own any shares of the Fund and less than 1.00% of the Fund Complexs outstanding shares.
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF THE FUND
The beneficial ownership, either directly or indirectly, of more than 25% of the voting securities of the Fund creates presumption of control of the Fund, under Section 2(a)(9) of the Act.
As of [ ______ ], 2011, the following persons owned, beneficially or of record, 5% or more of a class of shares of the Fund. [ table to be updated ]
Name of Shareholder |
Share Class Owned |
% Of Share Class Owned |
% Of Total Fund Shares Owned |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Water Oak Advisors, LLC is organized under the laws of the State of Florida as a limited liability company, and is registered as an investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The Fund Manager manages the general business affairs and the investment operations of the Fund pursuant to an investment advisory agreement with the Trust dated [_______], 2011 (the Advisory Agreement).
Under the Advisory Agreement, the Fund Manager, under the supervision of the Board, agrees (directly or through a sub-adviser) to invest the assets of the Fund in accordance with applicable law and the investment objective, policies and restrictions set forth in the Funds current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, and subject to such further limitations as the Trust may from time to time impose by written notice to the Fund Manager. The Fund Manager shall act as the investment advisor to the Fund and, as such shall (directly or through a sub-adviser) (i) obtain and evaluate such information relating to the economy, industries, business, securities markets and securities as it may deem necessary or useful in discharging its responsibilities here under, (ii) formulate a continuing program for the investment of the assets of the Fund in a manner consistent with its investment objective, policies and restrictions, and (iii) determine from time to time securities to be purchased, sold or retained by the Fund, and implement those decisions, including the selection of entities with or through which such purchases or sales are to be effected; provided, that the Fund Manager (directly or through a sub-adviser) will place orders pursuant to its investment determinations either directly with the issuer or with a broker or dealer, and if with a broker or dealer, (a) will attempt to obtain the best price and execution of its orders, and (b) may nevertheless in its discretion purchase and sell portfolio securities from and to brokers who provide the Fund Manager with research, analysis, advice and similar services and pay such brokers in return a higher commission or spread than may be charged by other brokers. The Fund Manager also provides the Fund with all necessary office facilities and personnel for servicing the Funds investments, compensates all officers, Trustees and employees of the Trust who are officers, directors or employees of the Fund Manager, and all personnel of the Fund or the Fund Manager performing services relating to research, statistical and investment activities. The Advisory Agreement was approved by the Board of the Trust, including by a majority of the Independent Trustees, at a meeting held on [August 11, 2011].
In addition, the Fund Manager, directly subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, provides the management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the Fund. These services include providing facilities for maintaining the Trusts 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 Funds records and the registration of the Funds 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.
The following table sets forth the annual management fee rate payable by the Fund to the Fund Manager pursuant to the Advisory Agreement, expressed as a percentage of the Funds average daily net assets:
Fund |
Total Management Fee |
WOA All Assets I |
1.15% |
The fee is computed daily and payable monthly. The Fund Manager has agreed contractually to waive its management fee and to reimburse operating expenses (exclusive of any front-end or contingent deferred sales loads, brokerage fees and commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses, borrowing costs (such as interest and dividend expense on securities sold short), taxes and extraordinary or non-recurring expenses, including, but not limited to, litigation) at least until [December 31, 2013], such that net annual fund operating expenses of the Fund do not exceed the percentages in the table below. Waiver/reimbursement is subject to possible recoupment from the Fund in future years on a rolling three-year basis (within three years after the fees have been waived or reimbursed) if such recoupment can be achieved within the foregoing expense limits. No reimbursement amount will be paid to the Fund Manager in any fiscal quarter unless the Trusts Board of Trustees has determined in advance that a reimbursement is in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders. Fee waiver and reimbursement arrangements can decrease the Funds expenses and increase its performance.
Fund |
Expense Cap |
Minimum Duration |
WOA All Assets I |
1.65% |
[December 31, 2013] |
Expenses not expressly assumed by the Fund Manager under the Advisory Agreement are paid by the Fund. Under the terms of the Advisory Agreement, the Fund is responsible for the payment of the following expenses among others: (a) the fees payable to the Fund Manager, (b) the fees and expenses of Trustees who are not affiliated persons of the Fund Manager or Distributor (as defined under the section entitled The Distributor) (c) the fees and certain expenses of the Custodian (as defined under the section entitled Custodian) and Transfer and Dividend Disbursing Agent (as defined under the section entitled Transfer Agent), including the cost of maintaining certain required records of the Fund and of pricing the Funds shares, (d) the charges and expenses of legal counsel and independent accountants for the Fund, (e) brokerage commissions and any issue or transfer taxes chargeable to the Fund in connection with its securities transactions, (f) all taxes and corporate fees payable by the Fund to governmental agencies, (g) the fees of any trade association of which the Fund may be a member, (h) the cost of share certificates representing shares of the Fund, (i) the cost of fidelity and liability insurance, (j) the fees and expenses involved in registering and maintaining registration of the Fund and of its shares with the SEC, qualifying its shares under state securities laws, including the preparation and printing of the Funds registration statements and prospectuses for such purposes, (k) all expenses of shareholders and Trustees meetings (including travel expenses of trustees and officers of the Trust who are directors, officers or employees of the Fund Manager) and of preparing, printing and mailing reports, proxy statements and prospectuses to shareholders in the amount necessary for distribution to the shareholders, and (l) litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Trusts business.
The Advisory Agreement will continue in effect for two (2) years initially and thereafter shall continue from year to year provided such continuance is approved at least annually by (a) a vote of the majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting specifically called for the purpose of voting on such approval and by (b) the majority vote of either all of the Trustees or the vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund. The Advisory Agreement may be terminated without penalty on 60 days written notice by a vote of a majority of the Trustees or by the Fund Manager, or by holders of a majority of that Funds outstanding shares. The Advisory Agreement shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment.
Portfolio Managers
Clarke Lemons , Founder and President of Water Oak Advisors, provides overall leadership and direction to the firm. Mr. Lemons has been honored as a Top 100 Independent Advisor by Barrons , as well as other top investment publications. Prior to founding the firm in 1996, he served as a portfolio manager, managing money for a large independent advisor located in Florida. Mr. Lemons has a MBA from Rollins College, a B.A. in History from Florida State University, and currently holds the Series 65 and Series 2 exams.
Chris Hylen, CFP , brings nearly two decades of investment experience to Water Oak Advisors. He currently serves as the President of the firms Naples office. His educational background consists of a MBA from Rollins College and a B.A. in Business from James Madison University. Mr. Hylen holds the Series 65 license and is a long-time CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER.
Steve Curley, CFP , Director at Water Oak Advisors, serves as a Senior Advisor and helps provide broad based leadership to the firm. His educational background consists of a MBA from University of Central Florida and a B.A. in Finance from University of North Florida. Mr. Curley holds the Series 65 license and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER.
Scott Macaione, CFP, Director at Water Oak Advisors, serves as a Senior Advisor and helps provide broad based leadership to the firm. His educational background consists of a B.S. in Finance from Stonehill College. Mr. Macaione holds the Series 65 license and is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER.
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC, 840 111 th Avenue North, Suite 10, Naples, Florida 34108 (the Sub-Adviser), is organized under the laws of the state of Florida as a limited liability company and is registered as an investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. The Sub-Adviser has designed an ETF portfolio with the objective of achieving comprehensive returns when compared to broad market indices, while reducing volatility. This is accomplished by constructing an asset allocation that is well diversified and contains holdings that do not always move in same direction as the overall market. Uniquely, an inverse position is also included in the Sub-Advisers strategy which will increase in value as the market declines. The portfolio is actively managed and the Sub-Adviser uses a very conservative, income producing option overlay strategy on each of the ETFs in the portfolio. By selling monthly covered calls, the strategy allows us to manage uncertainty on a month-to-month basis.
The fee paid to the Sub-Adviser is governed by a subadvisory agreement (the Sub-Advisory Agreement) with the Fund Manager whereby the Fund Manager pays the Sub-Adviser a fee for managing the Fund's investment strategies and providing other services. The Sub-Advisory Agreement provides that it will terminate in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act). The Sub-Advisory Agreement may be terminated by the Trust, the Fund Manager, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, upon written notice to the Sub-Adviser, or by the Sub-Adviser upon at least 60 days written notice. The Sub-Advisory Agreement provides that it will continue in effect for a period of more than one year from its execution only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually in accordance with the requirements of the 1940 Act.
Pursuant to a Sub-Advisory Agreement between the Fund Manager and Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser is entitled to receive an annual sub-advisory fee, payable monthly, equal to 0.15% of the Funds daily average net assets. The Sub-Adviser is paid by the Fund Manager not the Fund. A discussion regarding the basis for the Board of Trustees approval of the Sub-Adviser and the sub-advisory agreement will be available in the Funds first annual or semi-annual shareholder report.
Portfolio Managers
Kevin Simpson has been the President and Chief Investment Officer of Capital Wealth Planning, LLC, the sub-adviser to the Fund, since 2005. Originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Kevin has been a licensed financial consultant since 1992. Kevin specializes in helping institutions and high-net worth individuals plan and achieve their financial goals through option strategies. He delivers comprehensive investment and financial advice specifically focused on covered call selling to help clients achieve their goals of wealth accumulation. As a graduate of The George Washington University majoring in Finance, Kevin applies institutional investment management strategies to diversified equity and option portfolios. Mr. Simpson has served on many government and non-profit boards in Pennsylvania and Florida. He has taught classes and lectured on investment topics throughout many states. He has also been a published author of countless newspaper and magazine articles. Kevin has previously held a Series 7 license, a Series 63 license, a Life and Health License, and is completing a Certified Financial Planning Designation at the American College. He currently holds his Series 65.
Josh Smith, CFA is responsible for the oversight and management of the trading for the Sub-Advisers investment strategy. Josh brings over six years of experience as a trader, analyst, and portfolio manager for institutional and high net worth clientele in the Greater Cincinnati area where he managed over $500 million in assets. Josh received his B.S. in Finance from Miami University of Ohio. He is a CFA charter holder and a member of the CFA Institute as well as the CFA Society of Cincinnati.
Clarke Lemons, Chris Hylen, Steve Curley, and Scott Macaione of the Fund Manager and Kevin Simpson and Josh Smith of the Sub-Adviser share responsibility for the day-to-day management of the Fund.
As of [ ______ ], 2011, each was responsible for the management of the following types of accounts in addition to the Fund:
Account Type |
Number of Accounts by Account Type |
Total Assets By Account Type |
Number of Accounts by Type Subject to a Performance Fee |
Total Assets By Account Type Subject to a Performance Fee |
Clarke Lemons (Fund Manager) |
|
|
|
|
Registered Investment Companies |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Accounts |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Chris Hylen (Fund Manager) |
|
|
|
|
Registered Investment Companies |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Accounts |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Steve Curley (Fund Manager) |
|
|
|
|
Registered Investment Companies |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Accounts |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Accounts |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Scott Macaione (Fund Manager) |
|
|
|
|
Registered Investment Companies |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Accounts |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Accounts |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Kevin Simpson (Sub-Adviser) |
|
|
|
|
Registered Investment Companies |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Accounts |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Josh Smith (Sub-Adviser) |
|
|
|
|
Registered Investment Companies |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Other Accounts |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
[ ____ ] |
Conflicts of Interest
As indicated in the tables above, a portfolio manager employed by the Fund Manager and the Sub-Adviser may manage numerous accounts for multiple clients for which the Fund Manager also serves as the investment manager. These accounts consist of separate accounts ( i.e. , accounts managed on behalf of individuals or public or private institutions). Portfolio Managers employed by the Fund Manager and the Sub-Adviser make investment decisions for each account based on the investment objectives and policies and other relevant investment considerations applicable to that specific account. The Sub-Adviser serves as sub-adviser to another fund that is distributed by Gemini Fund Services, LLC, the Trusts Administrator, Fund Accountant, and Transfer Agent.
In the event that a portfolio manager or the Sub-Adviser have responsibility for managing more than one account, potential conflicts of interest may arise. The only material conflict of interest identified by the Fund Manager involves the execution of portfolio trades for clients. The Fund Manager uses systems for executing trades that are reasonably designed to provide fair treatment for each of its accounts.
Compensation
The following table shows the dollar range of equity securities beneficially owned by the portfolio managers of the Fund as of the date of this SAI:
Name of Portfolio Manager (Fund Manager) |
Dollar Range of Equity Securities in Managed Fund |
Clarke Lemons |
[ _______ ] |
Chris Hylen |
[ _______ ] |
Steve Curley |
[ _______ ] |
Scott Macaione |
[ _______ ] |
Name of Portfolio Manager (Sub-Adviser) |
Dollar Range of Equity Securities in Managed Fund |
Kevin Simpson |
[ _______ ] |
Josh Smith |
[ _______ ] |
BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
Subject to policies established by the Board of Trustees, the Fund Manager is responsible for investment decisions and for the execution of the Funds portfolio transactions. The Fund has no obligation to deal with any particular broker or dealer in the execution of transactions in portfolio securities. In executing such transactions, the Fund Manger seeks to obtain the best price and execution for its transactions. While the Fund Manager generally seeks reasonably competitive commission rates, the Fund does not necessarily pay the lowest commission.
Where best price and execution may be obtained from more than one broker or dealer, the Fund Manager may, in its discretion, purchase and sell securities through dealers who provide research, statistical and other information to the Fund Manager. Information so received will be in addition to and not in lieu of the services required to be performed by the Fund Manager under its Advisory Agreement and the expenses of the Fund Manager will not necessarily be reduced as a result of the receipt of such supplemental information. Although certain research, market and statistical information from brokers and dealers can be useful to a Fund and the Fund Manager, the Fund Manager has advised that such information is, in its opinion, only supplementary to the Fund Managers own research activities and the information must still be analyzed, weighed and reviewed by the Fund Manager.
The Fund will not purchase securities from, or sell securities to, the Fund Manager or its affiliates. The Fund Manager may not take into account the sale of Fund shares by a broker in allocating brokerage transactions. However, the Fund Manager may place portfolio transactions with brokers or dealers that promote or sell the applicable Funds shares so long as such placements are made pursuant to policies approved by the Board of Trustees that are designed to ensure that the selection is based on the quality of the brokers execution and not on its sales efforts.
The Funds annual portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%. The portfolio turnover rate is calculated by dividing the lesser of sales or purchases of portfolio securities by the average monthly value of the Funds portfolio securities. For purposes of this calculation, portfolio securities exclude securities having a maturity when purchased of one year or less. The turnover rate has a direct effect on the transaction costs (including brokerage costs) to be borne by the Fund.
DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
The Trust has adopted policies and procedures that govern the disclosure of the Funds portfolio holdings. These policies and procedures are designed to ensure that such disclosure is in the best interests of Fund shareholders.
It is the Trusts policy to: (1) ensure that any disclosure of portfolio holdings information is in the best interest of Trust shareholders; (2) protect the confidentiality of portfolio holdings information; (3) have procedures in place to guard against personal trading based on the information; and (4) ensure that the disclosure of portfolio holdings information does not create conflicts between the interests of the Trusts shareholders and those of the Trusts affiliates.
The Fund discloses its portfolio holdings by mailing the annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders approximately two months after the end of the fiscal year and semi-annual period. In addition, the Fund discloses its portfolio holdings reports on Forms N-CSR and Form N-Q two months after the end of each quarter/semi-annual period.
The Fund may choose to make portfolio holdings information available to rating agencies such as Lipper, Morningstar or Bloomberg more frequently on a confidential basis.
Under limited circumstances, as described below, the Funds portfolio holdings may be disclosed to, or known by, certain third parties in advance of their filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Form N-CSR or Form N-Q. In each case, a determination has been made that such advance disclosure is supported by a legitimate business purpose and that the recipient is subject to a duty to keep the information confidential.
The Fund Manager. Personnel of the Fund Manager, including personnel responsible for managing the Funds portfolio, may have full daily access to Fund portfolio holdings since that information is necessary in order for the Fund Manager to provide their management, administrative, and investment services to the Fund. As required for purposes of analyzing the impact of existing and future market changes on the prices, availability, demand and liquidity of such securities, as well as for the assistance of portfolio managers in the trading of such securities, Fund Manager personnel may also release and discuss certain portfolio holdings with various broker-dealers.
The Sub-Adviser. Personnel of the Sub-Adviser, including personnel responsible for managing the Funds portfolio, may have full daily access to Fund portfolio holdings since that information is necessary in order for the Sub-Adviser to provide their management, administrative, and investment services to the Fund. As required for purposes of analyzing the impact of existing and future market changes on the prices, availability, demand and liquidity of such securities, as well as for the assistance of portfolio managers in the trading of such securities, Sub-Adviser personnel may also release and discuss certain portfolio holdings with various broker-dealers.
Gemini Fund Services, LLC. Gemini Fund Services, LLC is the transfer agent, fund accountant, administrator and custody administrator for the Fund; therefore, its personnel have full daily access to the Funds portfolio holdings since that information is necessary in order for them to provide the agreed-upon services for the Trust.
Union Bank. Union Bank, N.A. is custodian for the Fund; therefore, its personnel have full daily access to the Funds portfolio holdings since that information is necessary in order for them to provide the agreed-upon services for the Trust.
[_____________]. [_____________] is the Funds independent registered public accounting firm; therefore, its personnel have access to the Funds portfolio holdings in connection with auditing of the Funds annual financial statements and providing assistance and consultation in connection with SEC filings.
Alston & Bird, LLP. Alston & Bird, LLP is counsel to the Fund; therefore, its personnel have access to the Funds portfolio holdings in connection with review of the Funds annual and semi-annual shareholder reports and SEC filings.
Additions to List of Approved Recipients
The Funds Chief Compliance Officer is the person responsible, and whose prior approval is required, for any disclosure of the Funds portfolio securities at any time or to any persons other than those described above. In such cases, the recipient must have a legitimate business need for the information and must be subject to a duty to keep the information confidential. There are no ongoing arrangements in place with respect to the disclosure of portfolio holdings. In no event shall the Fund, the Fund Manager or any other party receive any direct or indirect compensation in connection with the disclosure of information about the Funds portfolio holdings.
Compliance with Portfolio Holdings Disclosure Procedures
The Trusts Chief Compliance Officer will report periodically to the Board with respect to compliance with the Funds portfolio holdings disclosure procedures, and from time to time will provide the Board any updates to the portfolio holdings disclosure policies and procedures.
There is no assurance that the Trusts policies on disclosure of portfolio holdings will protect the Fund from the potential misuse of holdings information by individuals or firms in possession of that information.
Pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act, the Fund, the investment adviser to the Fund and the Funds principal underwriter has each adopted a Code of Ethics that governs certain personal investment activities of a person having access to investment information of the Fund. The Code of Ethics places limits on personal securities transactions for certain persons, and places strict reporting requirements on these people if they effect a personal securities transaction in a security in which the Fund invests.
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Board has adopted Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures (Policies) on behalf of the Trust, which delegate the responsibility for voting proxies of securities held by the Fund to the Fund Manager and responsibility for voting proxies of securities held by the Fund to the Fund Manager, subject to the Boards continuing oversight. The Policies require that the Fund Manager vote proxies received in a manner consistent with the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders. The Policies also require the Fund Manager to present to the Board, at least annually, the Fund Managers Proxy Policies and a record of each proxy voted by the Fund Manager on behalf of the Fund, including a report on the resolution of all proxies identified by the Fund Manager as involving a conflict of interest. A copy of the Fund Managers Proxy Voting Policies is attached hereto as an Appendix.
The Fund Managers proxy voting policies and procedures are attached as Appendix A to this SAI.
More Information. A copy of the Funds proxy voting policies and procedures are available by calling 1-800-723-8637 and will be sent within three business days of receipt of a request.
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING COMPLIANCE PROGRAM
The Trust has established an Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Program (the Program) as required by the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT Act). To ensure compliance with this law, the Trusts Program provides for the development of internal practices, procedures and controls, designation of anti-money laundering compliance officers, an ongoing training program and an independent audit function to determine the effectiveness of the Program. The Trusts secretary serves as its Anti-Money Laundering Compliance Officer.
Procedures to implement the Program include, but are not limited to, determining that the Funds Distributor and Transfer Agent have established proper anti-money laundering procedures, reporting suspicious and/or fraudulent activity and a providing a complete and thorough review of all new opening account applications. The Trust will not transact business with any person or entity whose identity cannot be adequately verified under the provisions of the USA PATRIOT Act.
As a result of the Program, the Trust may be required to freeze the account of a shareholder if the shareholder appears to be involved in suspicious activity or if certain account information matches information on government lists of known terrorists or other suspicious persons, or the Trust may be required to transfer the account or proceeds of the account to a governmental agency.
PURCHASING AND REDEEMING SHARES
Purchase of Shares
Orders for shares received by the Fund in good order prior to the close of business on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) on each day during such periods that the NYSE is open for trading are priced at NAV per share computed as of the close of the regular session of trading on the NYSE. Orders received in good order after the close of the NYSE, or on a day it is not open for trading, are priced at the close of such NYSE on the next day on which it is open for trading at the next determined NAV or offering price per share. See Shareholder InformationDetermination of Share Price in the Prospectus for a discussion of how NAV is determined.
Redemption of Shares
The Fund will redeem all or any portion of a shareholders shares in the Fund when requested in accordance with the procedures set forth in the Shareholder InformationHow to Redeem Shares section of the Prospectus. Under the 1940 Act, a shareholders right to redeem shares and to receive payment therefore may be suspended at times:
(a)
when the NYSE is closed, other than customary weekend and holiday closings;
(b)
when trading on that exchange is restricted for any reason;
(c)
when an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by the Fund of securities owned by it is not reasonably practicable or it is not reasonably practicable for the Fund to fairly determine the value of its net assets, provided that applicable rules and regulations of the SEC (or any succeeding governmental authority) will govern as to whether the conditions prescribed in (b) or (c) exist; or
(d)
when the SEC by order permits a suspension of the right to redemption or a postponement of the date of payment on redemption.
In case of suspension of the right of redemption, payment of a redemption request will be made based on the NAV next determined after the termination of the suspension.
The Fund may purchase shares of underlying funds which charge a redemption fee to shareholders (such as the Fund) that redeem shares of the underlying fund within a certain period of time (such as one year). The fee is payable to the underlying fund. Accordingly, if the Fund were to invest in an underlying fund and incur a redemption fee as a result of redeeming shares in such underlying fund, the Fund would bear such redemption fee. The Fund will not, however, invest in shares of an underlying fund that is sold with a contingent deferred sales load.
Supporting documents in addition to those listed under Shareholder InformationHow to Redeem Shares in the Prospectus will be required from executors, administrators, Trustees, or if redemption is requested by someone other than the shareholder of record. Such documents include, but are not restricted to, stock powers, Trust instruments, certificates of death, appointments as executor, certificates of corporate authority and waiver of tax required in some states when settling estates.
Northern Lights Distributors, LLC, located at 4020 South 147th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68137 (the "Distributor") serves as the principal underwriter and national distributor for the shares of the Fund pursuant to an Underwriting Agreement with the Trust (the "Underwriting Agreement"). The Distributor is registered as a broker-dealer under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and each state's securities laws and is a member of FINRA. The offering of the Fund's shares is continuous. The Underwriting Agreement provides that the Distributor, as agent in connection with the distribution of Fund shares, will use its best efforts to distribute the Fund's shares. Michael Miola is an affiliated person of the Trust and the Distributor.
The Underwriting Agreement provides that, unless sooner terminated, it will continue in effect for two years initially and thereafter shall continue from year to year, subject to annual approval by (a) the Board or a vote of a majority of the outstanding shares, and (b) by a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust or of the Distributor by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
The Underwriting Agreement may be terminated by the Fund at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the entire Board of the Trust or by vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the Fund on 60 days' written notice to the Distributor, or by the Distributor at any time, without the payment of any penalty, on 60 days' written notice to the Fund. The Underwriting Agreement will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment.
The Distributor may enter into selling agreements with broker-dealers that solicit orders for the sale of shares of the Fund and may allow concessions to dealers that sell shares of the Fund. The Distributor receives the portion of the sales charge on all direct initial investments in the Fund and on all investments in accounts with no designated dealer of record. The Distributor retains the contingent deferred sales charge on redemptions of shares of the Fund that are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge.
The Trust has adopted a Distribution Plan and Agreement pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the "Plan") pursuant to which the Fund is authorized to pay the Distributor, as compensation for Distributor's account maintenance services under this Plan, a distribution and shareholder servicing fee at the rate of up to 0.25% for Class I shares of the Fund's average daily net assets attributable to the class. Such fees are to be paid by the Fund monthly, or at such other intervals as the Board shall determine. Such fees shall be based upon the Fund's average daily net assets during the preceding month, and shall be calculated and accrued daily. The Fund may pay fees to the Distributor at a lesser rate, as agreed upon by the Board of Trustees of the Trust and the Distributor. The Rule 12b-1 Plan authorizes payments to the Distributor as compensation for providing account maintenance services to Class I Fund shareholders, including arranging for certain securities dealers or brokers, administrators and others ("Recipients") to provide these services and paying compensation for these services. The Distributor or other entities also receive the proceeds and contingent deferred sales charges imposed on certain redemptions of shares, which are separate and apart from payments made pursuant to the Plan.
The services to be provided by Recipients may include, but are not limited to, the following: assistance in the offering and sale of Class I and in other aspects of the marketing of the shares to clients or prospective clients of the respective recipients; answering routine inquiries concerning the Fund; assisting in the establishment and maintenance of accounts or sub-accounts in the Fund and in processing purchase and redemption transactions; making the Fund's investment plan and shareholder services available; and providing such other information and services to investors in shares of the Fund as the Distributor or the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, may reasonably request. The distribution services shall also include any advertising and marketing services provided by or arranged by the Distributor with respect to the Fund.
The Distributor is required to provide a written report, at least quarterly to the Board of Trustees of the Trust, specifying in reasonable detail the amounts expended pursuant to the Rule 12b-1 Plan and the purposes for which such expenditures were made. Further, the Distributor will inform the Board of any Rule 12b-1 fees to be paid by the Distributor to Recipients.
The Rule 12b-1 Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount of the Distributor's compensation to be paid by the Fund, unless such amendment is approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the affected class of a Fund (as defined in the 1940 Act). All material amendments must be approved by a majority of the Board of Trustees of the Trust and a majority of the Rule 12b-1 Trustees by votes cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on a Rule 12b-1 Plan. During the term of the Rule 12b-1 Plan, the selection and nomination of non-interested Trustees of the Trust will be committed to the discretion of current non-interested Trustees. The Distributor will preserve copies of the Rule 12b-1 Plan, any related agreements, and all reports, for a period of not less than six years from the date of such document and for at least the first two years in an easily accessible place.
Any agreement related to the Rule 12b-1 Plan will be in writing and provide that: (a) it may be terminated by the Trust or the applicable Fund at any time upon sixty days' written notice, without the payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the respective Rule 12b-1 Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust or the Fund; (b) it will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940 Act); and (c) it will continue in effect for a period of more than one year from the date of its execution or adoption only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a majority of the Board and a majority of the Rule 12b-1 Trustees by votes cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such agreement.
Union Bank, N.A., (Union Bank), [address], acts as custodian for the Fund. As such, BNYM holds all securities and cash of the Fund, delivers and receives payment for securities sold, receives and pays for securities purchased, collects income from investments and performs other duties, all as directed by officers of the Company. Union Bank does not exercise any supervisory function over management of the Fund, the purchase and sale of securities or the payment of distributions to shareholders.
Under the Custody Agreement with Union Bank, Gemini Fund Services, LLC (GFS or the Administrator), serves as custody administrator on behalf of the Fund, and performs certain tasks on behalf of BNYM, for which it receives a share of the custody fees paid to the Custodian, including a share of the asset-based fee and certain transaction fees.
GFS, 4020 South 147 th Street, Suite 2, Omaha, NE 68137, acts as transfer, dividend disbursing, and shareholder servicing agent for the Fund pursuant to a written agreement with the Company. Under the agreement, GFS is responsible for administering and performing transfer agent functions, dividend distribution, shareholder administration, and maintaining necessary records in accordance with applicable rules and regulations. Under the Services Agreement, the Fund Manager is responsible for paying the fees to GFS.
GFS also acts as Administrator to the Fund pursuant to a written agreement with the Fund Manager, on behalf of the Fund. GFS supervises all administrative aspects of the operations of the Fund except those performed by the Fund Manager. As Administrator, GFS is responsible for facilitating administrative services, including: (i) providing services of persons competent to perform such administrative and clerical functions as are necessary to provide effective administration of the Fund; (ii) facilitating the performance of administrative and professional services to the Fund by others, including the Funds Custodian; (iii) preparing, but not paying for, the periodic updating of the Funds Registration Statement, Prospectuses and SAI in conjunction with Fund counsel, including the printing of such documents for the purpose of filings with the SEC and state securities administrators, and preparing reports to the Funds shareholders and the SEC; (iv) preparing in conjunction with Fund counsel, but not paying for, all filings under the securities or Blue Sky laws of such states or countries as are designated by the Distributor, which may be required to register or qualify, or continue the registration or qualification, of the Fund and/or its shares under such laws; (v) preparing notices and agendas for meetings of the Board and minutes of such meetings in all matters required by the 1940 Act to be acted upon by the Board; and (vi) monitoring daily and periodic compliance with respect to all requirements and restrictions of the 1940 Act, the Internal Revenue Code and the Prospectus.
For services rendered as administrator, GFS receives a fund administration fee equal to the greater of $35,000 minimum or 0.08% on net assets up to $250 million, 0.06% on net assets of $250 million to $500 million, 0.04% on net assets of $500 million to $1 billion, 0.03% on net assets of over $3 billion. The Fund also pays the Administrator for any out-of-pocket expenses.
GFS, pursuant to the Fund Accounting Service Agreement, provides the Fund with accounting services, including: (i) daily computation of net asset value; (ii) maintenance of security ledgers and books and records as required by the 1940 Act; (iii) production of the Funds listing of portfolio securities and general ledger reports; (iv) reconciliation of accounting records; (v) calculation of yield and total return for the Fund; (vi) maintaining certain books and records described in Rule 31a-1 under the 1940 Act, and reconciling account information and balances among the Funds custodian or Fund Manager; and (vii) monitoring and evaluating daily income and expense accruals, and sales and redemptions of shares of the Fund.
For services rendered to the Fund pursuant to the Fund Services Agreement, the Fund will pay GFS a fund accounting fee equal to $25,000 per fund portfolio, plus; 0.01% on net assets greater than $25 million. The Fund also pays GFS for any out-of-pocket expenses.
Pursuant to a Compliance Service Agreement with the Trust, Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC, (NLCS) an affiliate of GFS, provides a Chief Compliance Officer to the Trust. Under the terms of the Agreement, NLCS is paid an annual fee by the Fund Manager, and is reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
[_____________] serves as the Funds independent registered public accounting firm.
Alston & Bird, LLP, 950 F St. NW, Washington, DC 20004 serves as counsel to the Trust.
The following discussion is general in nature and should not be regarded as an exhaustive presentation of all possible tax ramifications. The tax considerations relevant to a specific shareholder depend upon its specific circumstances, and the following general summary does not attempt to discuss all potential tax considerations that could be relevant to a prospective shareholder with respect to the Fund or its investments. This general summary is based on the Code, the Federal Income Tax Regulations promulgated thereunder, and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof as of the date hereof, all of which are subject to change (potentially on a retroactive basis).
The following discussion of tax consequences is for the general information of shareholders that are subject to tax. Shareholders that are IRAs or other qualified retirement plans are generally exempt from income taxation under the Code. All shareholders should consult a qualified tax advisor regarding their investment in the Fund.
The Fund has qualified and intends to continue to qualify and has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Code, which requires compliance with certain requirements concerning the sources of its income, diversification of its assets, and the amount and timing of its distributions to shareholders. Such qualification does not involve supervision of management or investment practices or policies by any government agency or bureau. By so qualifying, the Fund should not be subject to federal income or excise tax on its net investment income or net capital gain, which are distributed to shareholders in accordance with the applicable timing requirements. Net investment income and net capital gain of the Fund will be computed in accordance with Section 852 of the Code.
Net investment income is made up of dividends and interest less expenses. Net capital gain for a fiscal year is computed by taking into account any capital loss carryforward of the Fund. Under the recently enacted Regulated Investment Company Act of 2010, the Fund will be permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. However, losses incurred during those future years will be required to be utilized prior to the losses incurred in pre-enactment tax years. Thus, pre-enactment capital loss carryforwards may be more likely to expire unused. Additionally, post-enactment capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under previous law.
The Fund intends to distribute all of its net investment income, any excess of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses, and any excess of net long-term capital gains over net short-term capital losses in accordance with the timing requirements imposed by the Code and therefore should not be required to pay any federal income or excise taxes. Distributions of net investment income and net capital gain will be made after the end of each fiscal year, and no later than December 31 of each year. Both types of distributions will be in shares of the Fund unless a shareholder elects to receive cash.
To be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Code, the Fund must also (a) derive at least 90% of its gross income from dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities loans, net income from certain publicly traded partnerships and gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income (including, but not limited to, gains from options, futures or forward contracts) derived with respect to the business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies, and (b) diversify its holding so that, at the end of each fiscal quarter, (i) at least 50% of the market value of the Funds assets is represented by cash, U.S. government securities and securities of other regulated investment companies, and other securities (for purposes of this calculation, generally limited in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the market value of the Funds assets and 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer) and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of its assets is invested in the securities of (other than U.S. government securities or the securities of other regulated investment companies) any one issuer, two or more issuers which the Fund controls and which are determined to be engaged in the same or similar trades or businesses, or the securities of certain publicly traded partnerships.
If the Fund fails to qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M in any fiscal year, it will be treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes. As such the Fund would be required to pay income taxes on its net investment income and net realized capital gains, if any, at the rates generally applicable to corporations. Shareholders of the Fund generally would not be liable for income tax on the Funds net investment income or net realized capital gains in their individual capacities. Distributions to shareholders, whether from the Funds net investment income or net realized capital gains, would be treated as taxable dividends to the extent of current or accumulated earnings and profits of the Fund.
The Fund is subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax on certain undistributed amounts of ordinary income and capital gain under a prescribed formula contained in Section 4982 of the Code. The formula requires payment to shareholders during a calendar year of distributions representing at least 98% of the Funds ordinary income for the calendar year and at least 98% of its capital gain net income ( i.e. , the excess of its capital gains over capital losses) realized during the one-year period ending October 31 during such year plus 100% of any income that was neither distributed nor taxed to the Fund during the preceding calendar year. Under ordinary circumstances, the Fund expects to time its distributions so as to avoid liability for this excise tax.
Distributions of taxable net investment income and the excess of net short-term capital gain over net long-term capital loss are taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. In most cases the Fund will hold shares in underlying funds for less than 12 months, such that its sales of such shares from time to time will not qualify as long-term capital gains for those investors who hold shares of the Fund in taxable accounts.
Distributions of net capital gain (capital gain dividends) generally are taxable to shareholders as short-term capital gain; regardless of the length of time the shares of the Trust have been held by such shareholders.
A redemption of Fund shares by a shareholder will result in the recognition of taxable gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the amount realized and the shareholders tax basis in his or her Fund shares. Such gain or loss is treated as a capital gain or loss if the shares are held as capital assets. However, any loss realized upon the redemption of shares within six months from the date of their purchase will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any amounts treated as capital gain dividends during such six-month period. All or a portion of any loss realized upon the redemption of shares may be disallowed to the extent shares are purchased (including shares acquired by means of reinvested dividends) within 30 days before or after such redemption.
Distributions of taxable net investment income and net capital gain will be taxable as described above, whether received in additional cash or shares. Shareholders electing to reinvest distributions in the form of additional shares will have a cost basis for federal income tax purposes in each share so received equal to the net asset value of a share on the reinvestment date.
All distributions of taxable net investment income and net capital gain, whether received in shares or in cash, must be reported by each taxable shareholder on his or her federal income tax return. Dividends or distributions declared in October, November or December as of a record date in such a month, if any, will be deemed to have been received by shareholders on December 31, if paid during January of the following year. Redemptions of shares may result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the shareholder and are also subject to these reporting requirements.
Under the Code, the Fund will be required to report to the Internal Revenue Service all distributions of taxable income and capital gains as well as gross proceeds from the redemption or exchange of Fund shares, except in the case of certain exempt shareholders. Under the backup withholding provisions of Section 3406 of the Code, distributions of taxable net investment income and net capital gain and proceeds from the redemption or exchange of the shares of a regulated investment company may be subject to withholding of federal income tax in the case of non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish the investment company with their taxpayer identification numbers and with required certifications regarding their status under the federal income tax law, or if the Fund is notified by the IRS or a broker that withholding is required due to an incorrect TIN or a previous failure to report taxable interest or dividends. If the withholding provisions are applicable, any such distributions and proceeds, whether taken in cash or reinvested in additional shares, will be reduced by the amounts required to be withheld.
Options, Futures, Forward Contracts and Swap Agreements
To the extent such investments are permissible for the Fund, the Funds transactions in options, futures contracts, hedging transactions, forward contracts, straddles and foreign currencies will be subject to special tax rules (including mark-to-market, constructive sale, straddle, wash sale and short sale rules), the effect of which may be to accelerate income to the Fund, defer losses to the Fund, cause adjustments in the holding periods of the Funds securities, convert long-term capital gains into short-term capital gains and convert short-term capital losses into long-term capital losses. These rules could therefore affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders.
To the extent such investments are permissible, certain of the Funds hedging activities (including its transactions, if any, in foreign currencies or foreign currency-denominated instruments) are likely to produce a difference between its book income and its taxable income. If the Funds book income exceeds its taxable income, the distribution (if any) of such excess book income will be treated as (i) a dividend to the extent of the Funds remaining earnings and profits (including earnings and profits arising from tax-exempt income), (ii) thereafter, as a return of capital to the extent of the recipients basis in the shares, and (iii) thereafter, as gain from the sale or exchange of a capital asset. If the Funds book income is less than taxable income, the Fund could be required to make distributions exceeding book income to qualify as a regulated investment company that is accorded special tax treatment.
Passive Foreign Investment Companies
Investment by the Fund in certain passive foreign investment companies (PFICs) could subject the Fund to a U.S. federal income tax (including interest charges) on distributions received from the company or on proceeds received from the disposition of shares in the company, which tax cannot be eliminated by making distributions to Fund shareholders. However, the Fund may elect to treat a PFIC as a qualified electing fund (QEF), in which case the Fund will be required to include its share of the companys income and net capital gains annually, regardless of whether it receives any distribution from the company.
The Fund also may make an election to mark the gains (and to a limited extent losses) in such holdings to the market as though it had sold and repurchased its holdings in those PFICs on the last day of the Funds taxable year. Such gains and losses are treated as ordinary income and loss. The QEF and mark-to-market elections may accelerate the recognition of income (without the receipt of cash) and increase the amount required to be distributed for the Fund to avoid taxation. Making either of these elections therefore may require the Fund to liquidate other investments (including when it is not advantageous to do so) to meet its distribution requirement, which also may accelerate the recognition of gain and affect the Funds total return.
Foreign Currency Transactions
The Funds transactions in foreign currencies, foreign currency-denominated debt securities and certain foreign currency options, futures contracts and forward contracts (and similar instruments) may give rise to ordinary income or loss to the extent such income or loss results from fluctuations in the value of the foreign currency concerned.
Foreign Taxation
Income received by the Fund from sources within foreign countries may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by such countries. Tax treaties and conventions between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce or eliminate such taxes. If more than 50% of the value of the Funds total assets at the close of its taxable year consists of securities of foreign corporations, the Fund may be able to elect to pass through to its shareholders the amount of eligible foreign income and similar taxes paid by the Fund. If this election is made, a shareholder generally subject to tax will be required to include in gross income (in addition to taxable dividends actually received) his or her pro rata share of the foreign taxes paid by the Fund, and may be entitled either to deduct (as an itemized deduction) his or her pro rata share of foreign taxes in computing his or her taxable income or to use it as a foreign tax credit against his or her U.S. federal income tax liability, subject to certain limitations. In particular, a shareholder must hold his or her shares (without protection from risk of loss) on the ex-dividend date and for at least 15 more days during the 30-day period surrounding the ex-dividend date to be eligible to claim a foreign tax credit with respect to a gain dividend. No deduction for foreign taxes may be claimed by a shareholder who does not itemize deductions. Each shareholder will be notified within 60 days after the close of the Funds taxable year whether the foreign taxes paid by the Fund will pass through for that year.
Generally, a credit for foreign taxes is subject to the limitation that it may not exceed the shareholders U.S. tax attributable to his or her total foreign source taxable income. For this purpose, if the pass-through election is made, the source of the Funds income will flow through to shareholders of the Fund. With respect to the Fund, gains from the sale of securities will be treated as derived from U.S. sources and certain currency fluctuation gains, including fluctuation gains from foreign currency-denominated debt securities, receivables and payables will be treated as ordinary income derived from U.S. sources. The limitation on the foreign tax credit is applied separately to foreign source passive income, and to certain other types of income. A shareholder may be unable to claim a credit for the full amount of his or her proportionate share of the foreign taxes paid by the Fund. The foreign tax credit can be used to offset only 90% of the revised alternative minimum tax imposed on corporations and individuals and foreign taxes generally are not deductible in computing alternative minimum taxable income.
Original Issue Discount and Pay-In-Kind Securities
Current federal tax law requires the holder of a U.S. Treasury or other fixed income zero coupon security to accrue as income each year a portion of the discount at which the security was purchased, even though the holder receives no interest payment in cash on the security during the year. In addition, pay-in-kind securities will give rise to income, which is required to be distributed and is taxable even though the Fund holding the security receives no interest payment in cash on the security during the year.
Some of the debt securities (with a fixed maturity date of more than one year from the date of issuance) that may be acquired by the Fund may be treated as debt securities that are issued originally at a discount. Generally, the amount of the original issue discount (OID) is treated as interest income and is included in income over the term of the debt security, even though payment of that amount is not received until a later time, usually when the debt security matures. A portion of the OID includable in income with respect to certain high-yield corporate debt securities (including certain pay-in-kind securities) may be treated as a dividend for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
Some of the debt securities (with a fixed maturity date of more than one year from the date of issuance) that may be acquired by the Fund in the secondary market may be treated as having market discount. Generally, any gain recognized on the disposition of, and any partial payment of principal on, a debt security having market discount is treated as ordinary income to the extent the gain, or principal payment, does not exceed the accrued market discount on such debt security. Market discount generally accrues in equal daily installments. The Fund may make one or more of the elections applicable to debt securities having market discount, which could affect the character and timing of recognition of income.
Some debt securities (with a fixed maturity date of one year or less from the date of issuance) that may be acquired by a Fund may be treated as having acquisition discount, or OID in the case of certain types of debt securities. Generally, the Fund will be required to include the acquisition discount, or OID, in income over the term of the debt security, even though payment of that amount is not received until a later time, usually when the debt security matures. The Fund may make one or more of the elections applicable to debt securities having acquisition discount, or OID, which could affect the character and timing of recognition of income.
If the Fund holds the foregoing kinds of securities, it may be required to pay out as an income distribution each year an amount that is greater than the total amount of cash interest the Fund actually received. Such distributions may be made from the cash assets of the Fund or by liquidation of portfolio securities, if necessary (including when it is not advantageous to do so). The Fund may realize gains or losses from such liquidations. In the event the Fund realizes net capital gains from such transactions, its shareholders may receive a larger capital gain distribution, if any, than they would in the absence of such transactions.
Shareholders of the Fund may be subject to state and local taxes on distributions received from the Fund and on redemptions of the Funds shares.
A brief explanation of the form and character of the distribution accompany each distribution. In January of each year the Fund issues to each shareholder a statement of the federal income tax status of all distributions.
Shareholders should consult their tax advisors about the application of federal, state and local and foreign tax law in light of their particular situation.
The Fund has not yet commenced operations as of the date of this SAI and therefore does not have a financial history.
Appendix A
Proxy Voting Policy
Northern Lights Fund Trust II
PART C
OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 28.
EXHIBITS.
Previously filed on June 16, 2011 in the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-1A, and hereby incorporated by reference.
2 Previously filed on June 14, 2011 in the Registrant's Proxy/Registration Statement on Form N-14, and hereby incorporated by reference.
3 Previously filed on June 28, 2011 in the Registrant's Pre-Effective Amendment No. 2, and hereby incorporated by reference.
4 Previously filed on August 3, 2011 in the Registrant's Proxy/Registration Statement on Form N-14, and hereby incorporated by reference.
5 Previously filed on August 3, 2011 in the Registrant's Post-Effective Amendment No. 2, and hereby incorporated by reference.
6 Previously filed on August 19, 2011 in the Registrant's Post-Effective Amendment No. 3, and hereby incorporated by reference.
7 Previously filed on August 26, 2011 in the Registrant's Post-Effective Amendment No. 4, and hereby incorporated by reference.
8 To be filed by subsequent amendment.
9 Is filed herewith.
ITEM 29.
PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH THE REGISTRANT.
None.
ITEM 30.
INDEMNIFICATION.
Article VIII, Section 2(a) of the Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides that to the fullest extent that limitations on the liability of Trustees and officers are permitted by the Delaware Statutory Trust Act of 2002, the officers and Trustees shall not be responsible or liable in any event for any act or omission of: any agent or employee of the Trust; any investment adviser or principal underwriter of the Trust; or with respect to each Trustee and officer, the act or omission of any other Trustee or officer, respectively. The Trust, out of the Trust Property, is required to indemnify and hold harmless each and every officer and Trustee from and against any and all claims and demands whatsoever arising out of or related to such officers or Trustees performance of his or her duties as an officer or Trustee of the Trust. This limitation on liability applies to events occurring at the time a person serves as a Trustee or officer of the Trust whether or not such person is a Trustee or officer at the time of any proceeding in which liability is asserted. Nothing contained in the Agreement and Declaration of Trust indemnifies, holds harmless or protects any officer or Trustee from or against any liability to the Trust or any shareholder to which such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of such persons office.
Article VIII, Section 2(b) provides that every note, bond, contract, instrument, certificate or undertaking and every other act or document whatsoever issued, executed or done by or on behalf of the Trust, the officers or the Trustees or any of them in connection with the Trust shall be conclusively deemed to have been issued, executed or done only in such Persons capacity as Trustee and/or as officer, and such Trustee or officer, as applicable, shall not be personally liable therefore, except as described in the last sentence of the first paragraph of Section 2 of Article VIII.
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to trustees, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the provisions of Delaware law and the Agreement and Declaration of the Registrant or the By-Laws of the Registrant, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised 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. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a trustee, officer or controlling person of the Trust in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such trustee, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
ITEM 31.
BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF THE INVESTMENT ADVISER.
Certain information pertaining to the business and other connections of each Advisor of each series of the Trust is hereby incorporated herein by reference to the section of the respective Prospectus captioned Investment Advisor and to the section of the respective Statement of Additional Information captioned Investment Advisory and Other Services. The information required by this Item 31 with respect to each director, officer or partner of each Advisor is incorporated by reference to the Advisors Uniform Application for Investment Adviser Registration (Form ADV) on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Each Advisors Form ADV may be obtained, free of charge, at the SECs website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov, and may be requested by File No. as follows:
Ascentia Capital Partners, LLC, the Adviser to Alternative Strategies Mutual Fund -- File No. 801-65018
Two Oaks Investment Management, LLC, the Adviser to the Two Oaks Diversified Growth and Income Fund -- File No. 801-72390
Advisors Preferred, LLC, the Adviser to Hundredfold Select Alternative Fund, Hundredfold Select Global Fund, and Hundredfold Select Equity Fund File No. 801-72430
North Star Investment Management Corp., the Adviser to North Star Opportunity Fund File No. 801-62013.
RJO Investment Management LLC, the Adviser to the Mariner Hyman Beck Global Fund File No. 801-71417.
Water Oak Advisors, LLC, the Adviser to the Water Oak Fund File No. 801-66872.
ITEM 32.
PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER.
(a)
Northern Lights Distributors, LLC (NLD), is the principal underwriter for all series of Northern Lights Fund Trust II except Hundredfold Select Alternative Fund, Hundredfold Select Global Fund and Hundredfold Select Equity Fund. NLD also acts as principal underwriter for the following:
AdvisorOne Funds, Bryce Capital Funds, Copeland Trust, Epiphany Funds, Ladenburg Thalmann Alternative Strategies Fund, Miller Investment Trust, Nile Capital Investment Trust, North Country Funds, Northern Lights Variable Trust, and Northern Lights Fund Trust, Roge Partners Funds and The Saratoga Advantage Trust.
(b)
NLD is registered with Securities and Exchange Commission as a broker-dealer and is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. The principal business address of NLD is 4020 South 147th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68137. NLD is an affiliate of Gemini Fund Services, LLC. To the best of Registrants knowledge, the following are the members and officers of NLD:
Name |
Positions and Offices with Underwriter |
Positions and Offices with the Fund |
W. Patrick Clarke |
Manager |
None |
Brian Nielsen |
Manager, President, Secretary |
Trustee |
Daniel Applegarth |
Treasurer |
None |
Mike Nielsen |
Chief Compliance Officer and AML Compliance Officer |
None |
(c) Not Applicable.
ITEM 33.
LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS.
The following entities prepare, maintain and preserve the records required by Section 31 (a) of the 1940 Act for the Registrant. These services are provided to the Registrant for such periods prescribed by the rules and regulations of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission under the 1940 Act and such records are the property of the entity required to maintain and preserve such records and will be surrendered promptly on request.
Bank of New York Mellon (BNYM), located at One Wall Street, New York, New York 10286, provides custodian services to the Two Oaks Diversified Growth and Income Fund pursuant to a Custody Agreement between BNYM and the Trust.
US Bank, National Association, 1555 North River Center Drive, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212, provides custodian services to the Alternative Strategies Mutual Fund and Hundredfold Select Alternative Funds, Hundredfold Select Global fund and Hundredfold Select Equity Fund pursuant to a Custody Agreement between US Bank and the Trust.
Union Bank, National Association, 350 California Street, 6 th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94104, provides custodian services to the North Star Opportunity Fund, Cobalt Tactical Income Fund and WOA All Asset I.pursuant to a Custody Agreement between Union Bank and the Trust.
Gemini Fund Services, LLC (GFS), located at 4020 South 147th Street, Suite 2, Omaha, Nebraska 68137, provides transfer agent and dividend disbursing services pursuant to a Transfer Agency and Service Agreements between GFS and the Trust. In such capacities, GFS provides pricing for each Funds portfolio securities, keeps records regarding securities and other assets in custody and in transfer, bank statements, canceled checks, financial books and records, and keeps records of each shareholders account and all disbursement made to shareholders. GFS also maintains all records required pursuant to Administrative Service Agreements with the Trust.
NLD, located at 4020 South 147th Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68137, serves as principal underwriter for all series of Northern Lights Fund Trust II, except Hundredfold Select Alternative Fund, Hundredfold Select Global Fund and Hundredfold Select Equity Fund. NLD maintains all records required to be maintained pursuant to each Funds Distribution Plan and Agreement adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act.
Ascentia Capital Partners, LLC, located at 5485 Kietzke Lane, Reno, NV 89511, pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, maintains all records required pursuant to such agreement with respect to Alternative Strategies Mutual Fund.
Two Oaks Investment Management, LLC, located at 7110 North Fresno Street, Suite 450, Fresno CA, 93720 pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, maintains all records required pursuant to such agreement with respect to the Two Oaks Diversified Growth and Income Fund.
Advisors Preferred, LLC located at 1445 Research Blvd, Suite 530, Rockville, MD 20850 pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, maintains all records required pursuant to such agreement with respect to the Hundredfold Select Alternative Fund, Hundredfold Select Global Fund and Hundredfold Select Equity Fund.
North Star Investment Management Corp. located at 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 1416, Chicago, IL 60606 pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, maintains all records required pursuant to such agreement with respect to the North Star Opportunity Fund.
RJO Investment Management, LLC located at 227 South Riverside Plaza, Suite 900, Chicago, IL 60606 pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, maintains all records required pursuant to such agreement with respect to the Mariner Hyman Beck Global Fund.
Water Oak Advisors LLC located at 450 S. Orange Avenue, 4 th Floor, Orlando, FL 32801 pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust, maintains all records required pursuant to such agreement with respect to the WOA All Asset I..
ITEM 34.
MANAGEMENT SERVICES.
Not applicable.
ITEM 35.
UNDERTAKINGS.
See Item 30 above, second paragraph.
Signatures
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Registrant has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registrants registration statement on Form N-1A to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Hauppauge, State of New York on the 20th day of September, 2011.
NORTHERN LIGHTS FUND TRUST II
(Registrant)
By: Andrew Rogers*
President and Principal Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this registration statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities on September 20, 2011.
Brian Nielsen* |
Trustee & Chairman |
September 20, 2011 |
Charles Hobson Dry* |
Trustee |
September 20, 2011 |
Anthony Lewis* |
Trustee |
September 20, 2011 |
Keith Rhoades* |
Trustee |
September 20, 2011 |
Randy Skalla* |
Trustee |
September 20, 2011 |
Andrew Rogers* |
President and Principal Executive Officer |
September 20, 2011 |
Kevin Wolf* |
Treasurer and Principal Accounting Officer |
September 20, 2011 |
*By: /s/ James Ash
James Ash
Attorney-in-Fact - Pursuant to Powers of Attorney.
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit |
Exhibit No. |
Investment Advisory Agreement between the Registrant and North Star Investment Management Corp., with respect to the North Star Opportunity Fund |
99.28(d)(4) |
Sub-advisory Agreement between Advisors Preferred, LLC and Hundredfold Advisors, LLC with respect to the Hundredfold Select Alternative Fund, Hundredfold Select Global Fund and Hundredfold Select Equity Fund |
99.28(d)(13) |
Expense Limitation Agreement between the Registrant, with respect to North Star Opportunity Fund |
99.28(h)(10) |
Consent of Alston and Bird, LLP |
99.28(i)(2) |
Code of Ethics for Water Oak Advisors, LLC |
99.28(p)(12) |
Code of Ethics for Capital Wealth Planning, LLC. |
99.28(p)(13) |
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
Between
and
NORTH STAR INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT CORPORATION
AGREEMENT, made as of August 11, 2011 between Northern Lights Fund Trust II, a Delaware statutory trust (the "Trust"), and North Star Investment Management Corporation , an Illinois corporation (the "Adviser"), located at 20 N. Wacker Drive, Suite 116, Chicago, Illinois 60606
RECITALS:
WHEREAS, the Trust is an open-end management investment company and is registered as such under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act");
WHEREAS, the Trust is authorized to issue shares of beneficial interest in separate series, each having its own investment objective or objectives, policies and limitations;
WHEREAS, the Trust offers shares in the series named on Appendix A hereto (such series, together with all other series subsequently established by the Trust and made subject to this Agreement in accordance with Section 1.3, being herein referred to as a "Fund," and collectively as the "Funds");
WHEREAS, the Adviser is or soon will be registered as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940; and
WHEREAS, the Trust desires to retain the Adviser to render investment advisory services to the Trust with respect to each Fund in the manner and on the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth;
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. Services of the Adviser.
1.1 Investment Advisory Services. The Adviser shall act as the investment adviser to each Fund and, as such, shall (i) obtain and evaluate such information relating to the economy, industries, business, securities markets and securities as it may deem necessary or useful in discharging its responsibilities hereunder, (ii) formulate a continuing program for the investment of the assets of each Fund in a manner consistent with its investment objective(s), policies and restrictions, and (iii) determine from time to time securities to be purchased, sold, retained or lent by each Fund, and implement those decisions, including the selection of entities with or through which such purchases, sales or loans are to be effected; provided, that the Adviser will place orders pursuant to its investment determinations either directly with the issuer or with a broker or dealer, and if with a broker or dealer, (a) will attempt to obtain the best price and execution of its orders, and (b) may nevertheless in its discretion purchase and sell portfolio securities from and to brokers who provide the Adviser with research, analysis, advice and similar services and pay such brokers in return a higher commission than may be charged by other brokers.
The Trust hereby authorizes any entity or person associated with the Adviser or any sub-adviser retained by the Adviser pursuant to Section 9 of this Agreement, which is a member of a national securities exchange, to effect any transaction on the exchange for the account of the Trust which is permitted by Section 11(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 11a2-2(T) thereunder, and the Trust hereby consents to the retention of compensation for such transactions in accordance with Rule 11a2-2(T)(a)(2)(iv).
The Adviser shall carry out its duties with respect to each Fund's investments in accordance with applicable law and the investment objectives, policies and restrictions set forth in each Fund's then-current Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information, and subject to such further limitations as the Trust may from time to time impose by written notice to the Adviser.
1.2 Administrative Services. The Trust has engaged the services of an administrator. The Adviser shall provide such additional administrative services as reasonably requested by the Board of Trustees or officers of the Trust; provided, that the Adviser shall not have any obligation to provide under this Agreement any direct or indirect services to Trust shareholders, any services related to the distribution of Trust shares, or any other services which are the subject of a separate agreement or arrangement between the Trust and the Adviser. Subject to the foregoing, in providing administrative services hereunder, the Adviser shall:
1.2.1 Office Space, Equipment and Facilities. Provide such office space, office equipment and office facilities as are adequate to fulfill the Advisers obligations hereunder.
1.2.2 Personnel. Provide, without remuneration from or other cost to the Trust, the services of individuals competent to perform the administrative functions which are not performed by employees or other agents engaged by the Trust or by the Adviser acting in some other capacity pursuant to a separate agreement or arrangement with the Trust.
1.2.3 Agents. Assist the Trust in selecting and coordinating the activities of the other agents engaged by the Trust, including the Trust's shareholder servicing agent, custodian, administrator, independent auditors and legal counsel.
1.2.4 Trustees and Officers. Authorize and permit the Adviser's directors, officers and employees who may be elected or appointed as Trustees or officers of the Trust to serve in such capacities, without remuneration from or other cost to the Trust.
1.2.5 Books and Records. Assure that all financial, accounting and other records required to be maintained and preserved by the Adviser on behalf of the Trust are maintained and preserved by it in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
1.2.6 Reports and Filings. Assist in the preparation of (but not pay for) all periodic reports by the Fund to its shareholders and all reports and filings required to maintain the registration and qualification of the Funds and Fund shares, or to meet other regulatory or tax requirements applicable to the Fund , under federal and state securities and tax laws.
1.3 Additional Series. In the event that the Trust establishes one or more series after the effectiveness of this Agreement ("Additional Series"), Appendix A to this Agreement may be amended to make such Additional Series subject to this Agreement upon the approval of the Board of Trustees of the Trust and the shareholder(s) of the Additional Series, in accordance with the provisions of the Act. The Trust or the Adviser may elect not to make any such series subject to this Agreement.
1.4 Change in Management or Control. The Adviser shall provide at least sixty (60) days' prior written notice to the Trust of any change in the ownership or management of the Adviser, or any event or action that may constitute a change in control, as that term is defined in Section 2 of the Act . The Adviser shall provide prompt notice of any change in the portfolio manager(s) responsible for the day-to-day management of the Funds.
2.1 Expenses to be Paid by Adviser. The Adviser shall pay all salaries, expenses and fees of the officers, Trustees and employees of the Trust who are officers, directors , members or employees of the Adviser.
In the event that the Adviser pays or assumes any expenses of the Trust not required to be paid or assumed by the Adviser under this Agreement, the Adviser shall not be obligated hereby to pay or assume the same or any similar expense in the future; provided, that nothing herein contained shall be deemed to relieve the Adviser of any obligation to the Funds under any separate agreement or arrangement between the parties.
2.2 Expenses to be Paid by the Fund. Each Fund shall bear all expenses of its operation, except those specifically allocated to the Adviser under this Agreement or under any separate agreement between the Trust and the Adviser. Subject to any separate agreement or arrangement between the Trust and the Adviser, the expenses hereby allocated to the Fund , and not to the Adviser, include but are not limited to:
2.2.1 Custody. All charges of depositories, custodians, and other agents for the transfer, receipt, safekeeping, and servicing of the Fund' s cash, securities, and other property.
2.2.2 Shareholder Servicing. All expenses of maintaining and servicing shareholder accounts, including but not limited to the charges of any shareholder servicing agent, dividend disbursing agent, transfer agent or other agent engaged by the Trust to service shareholder accounts.
2.2.3 Shareholder Reports. All expenses of preparing, setting in type, printing and distributing reports and other communications to shareholders.
2.2.4 Prospectuses. All expenses of preparing, converting to EDGAR format, filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission or other appropriate regulatory body, setting in type, printing and mailing annual or more frequent revisions of the Fund 's Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information and any supplements thereto and of supplying them to shareholders.
2.2.5 Pricing and Portfolio Valuation. All expenses of computing the Fund 's net asset value per share, including any equipment or services obtained for the purpose of pricing shares or valuing the Fund 's investment portfolio.
2.2.6 Communications. All charges for equipment or services used for communications between the Adviser or the Trust and any custodian, shareholder servicing agent, portfolio accounting services agent, or other agent engaged by the Trust.
2.2.7 Legal and Accounting Fees. All charges for services and expenses of the Trust's legal counsel and independent accountants.
2.2.8 Trustees' Fees and Expenses. All compensation of Trustees other than those affiliated with the Adviser, all expenses incurred in connection with such unaffiliated Trustees' services as Trustees, and all other expenses of meetings of the Trustees and committees of the Trustees.
2.2.9 Shareholder Meetings. All expenses incidental to holding meetings of shareholders, including the printing of notices and proxy materials, and proxy solicitations therefor.
2.2.10 Federal Registration Fees. All fees and expenses of registering and maintaining the registration of the Fund under the Act and the registration of the Fund 's shares under the Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act"), including all fees and expenses incurred in connection with the preparation, converting to EDGAR format, setting in type, printing, and filing of any Registration Statement, Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information under the 1933 Act or the Act, and any amendments or supplements that may be made from time to time.
2.2.11 State Registration Fees. All fees and expenses of taking required action to permit the offer and sale of the Fund 's shares under securities laws of various states or jurisdictions, and of registration and qualification of the Fund under all other laws applicable to the Trust or its business activities (including registering the Trust as a broker-dealer, or any officer of the Trust or any person as agent or salesperson of the Trust in any state).
2.2.12 Confirmations. All expenses incurred in connection with the issue and transfer of Fund shares, including the expenses of confirming all share transactions.
2.2.13 Bonding and Insurance. All expenses of bond, liability, and other insurance coverage required by law or regulation or deemed advisable by the Trustees of the Trust, including, without limitation, such bond, liability and other insurance expenses that may from time to time be allocated to the Fund in a manner approved by its Trustees.
2.2.14 Brokerage Commissions. All brokers' commissions and other charges incident to the purchase, sale or lending of the Fund 's portfolio securities.
2.2.15 Taxes. All taxes or governmental fees payable by or with respect to the Fund to federal, state or other governmental agencies, domestic or foreign, including stamp or other transfer taxes.
2.2.16 Trade Association Fees. All fees, dues and other expenses incurred in connection with the Trust's membership in any trade association or other investment organization.
2.2.18 Compliance Fees. All charges for services and expenses of the Trust's Chief Compliance Officer.
2.2.19 Nonrecurring and Extraordinary Expenses. Such nonrecurring and extraordinary expenses as may arise including the costs of actions, suits, or proceedings to which the Trust is a party and the expenses the Trust may incur as a result of its legal obligation to provide indemnification to its officers, Trustees and agents.
3. Advisory Fee.
As compensation for all services rendered, facilities provided and expenses paid or assumed by the Adviser under this Agreement, each Fund shall pay the Adviser on the last day of each month, or as promptly as possible thereafter, a fee calculated by applying a monthly rate, based on an annual percentage rate of 1.00% of the Fund's average daily net assets for the month. The annual percentage rate applicable to each Fund is set forth in Appendix A to this Agreement, as it may be amended from time to time in accordance with Section 1.3 of this Agreement. If this Agreement shall be effective for only a portion of a month with respect to a Fund, the aforesaid fee shall be prorated for the portion of such month during which this Agreement is in effect for the Fund.
The Adviser will vote, or make arrangements to have voted, all proxies solicited by or with respect to the issuers of securities in which assets of a Fund may be invested from time to time. Such proxies will be voted in a manner that Adviser deem, in good faith, to be in the best interest of the Fund and in accordance with its proxy voting policy. The Adviser agrees to provide a copy of its proxy voting policy to the Trust prior to the execution of this Agreement, and any amendments thereto promptly.
5.1 Tax Treatment. Both the Adviser and the Trust shall maintain, or arrange for others to maintain, the books and records of the Trust in such a manner that treats each Fund as a separate entity for federal income tax purposes.
5.2 Ownership. All records required to be maintained and preserved by the Trust pursuant to the provisions or rules or regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission under Section 31(a) of the Act and maintained and preserved by the Adviser on behalf of the Trust are the property of the Trust and shall be surrendered by the Adviser promptly on request by the Trust; provided, that the Adviser may at its own expense make and retain copies of any such records.
The Trust shall furnish or otherwise make available to the Adviser such copies of each Fund 's Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information, financial statements, proxy statements, reports and other information relating to its business and affairs as the Adviser may, at any time or from time to time, reasonably require in order to discharge its obligations under this Agreement.
The Adviser shall prepare and furnish to the Trust such reports, statistical data and other information in such form and at such intervals as the Trust may reasonably request.
8. Code of Ethics.
The Adviser has adopted a written code of ethics complying with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the Act and will provide the Trust with a copy of the code and evidence of its adoption. Within 45 days of the last calendar quarter of each year while this Agreement is in effect, the Adviser will provide to the Board of Trustees of the Trust a written report that describes any issues arising under the code of ethics since the last report to the Board of Trustees, including, but not limited to, information about material violations of the code and sanctions imposed in response to the material violations; and which certifies that the Adviser has adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent "access persons" (as that term is defined in Rule 17j-1) from violating the code.
Subject to the Trust's obtaining the initial and periodic approvals required under Section 15 of the Act, the Adviser may retain one or more sub-advisers, at the Adviser's own cost and expense, for the purpose of managing the investments of the assets of one or more Funds of the Trust. Retention of one or more sub-advisers shall in no way reduce the responsibilities or obligations of the Adviser under this Agreement and the Adviser shall, subject to Section 11 of this Agreement, be responsible to the Trust for all acts or omissions of any sub-adviser in connection with the performance of the Adviser's duties hereunder.
10. Services to Other Clients.
Nothing herein contained shall limit the freedom of the Adviser or any affiliated person of the Adviser to render investment management and administrative services to other investment companies, to act as investment adviser or investment counselor to other persons, firms or corporations, or to engage in other business activities.
11. Limitation of Liability of Adviser and its Personnel.
Neither the Adviser nor any director, manager, officer or employee of the Adviser performing services for the Trust at the direction or request of the Adviser in connection with the Adviser's discharge of its obligations hereunder shall be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with any matter to which this Agreement relates, and the Adviser shall not be responsible for any action of the Trustees of the Trust in following or declining to follow any advice or recommendation of the Adviser or any sub-adviser retained by the Adviser pursuant to Section 9 of this Agreement; PROVIDED, that nothing herein contained shall be construed (i) to protect the Adviser against any liability to the Trust or its shareholders to which the Adviser would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence in the performance of the Adviser's duties, or by reason of the Adviser's reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, or (ii) to protect any director, manager, officer or employee of the Adviser who is or was a Trustee or officer of the Trust against any liability of the Trust or its shareholders to which such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of such person's office with the Trust.
Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to require to the Trust to take any action contrary to its Declaration of Trust or its By-Laws or any applicable law, regulation or order to which it is subject or by which it is bound, or to relieve or deprive the Trustees of the Trust of their responsibility for and control of the conduct of the business and affairs of the Trust.
The term of this Agreement shall begin as of the date and year upon which the Fund listed on Appendix A commences investment operations, and unless sooner terminated as hereinafter provided, this Agreement shall remain in effect for a period of two years. Thereafter, this Agreement shall continue in effect with respect to each Fund from year to year, subject to the termination provisions and all other terms and conditions hereof; PROVIDED, such continuance with respect to a Fund is approved at least annually by vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund or by the Trustees of the Trust; PROVIDED, that in either event such continuance is also approved annually by the vote, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, of a majority of the Trustees of the Trust who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of either party hereto. The Adviser shall furnish to the Trust, promptly upon its request, such information as may reasonably be necessary to evaluate the terms of this Agreement or any extension, renewal or amendment thereof.
14. Amendment or Assignment of Agreement.
Any amendment to this Agreement shall be in writing signed by the parties hereto; PROVIDED, that no such amendment shall be effective unless authorized (i) by resolution of the Trustees of the Trust, including the vote or written consent of a majority of the Trustees of the Trust who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of either party hereto, and (ii) by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund affected by such amendment as required by applicable law. This Agreement shall terminate automatically and immediately in the event of its assignment.
This Agreement may be terminated as to any Fund at any time by either party hereto, without the payment of any penalty, upon sixty (60) days' prior written notice to the other party; PROVIDED, that in the case of termination by any Fund, such action shall have been authorized (i) by resolution of the Trust's Board of Trustees, including the vote or written consent of Trustees of the Trust who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of either party hereto, or (ii) by vote of majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund.
The Trust is named the Northern Lights Fund Trust II and each Fund may be identified, in part, by the name "Northern Lights."
The Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the Trust's Declaration of Trust and agrees that the obligations assumed by the Trust or a Fund, as the case may be, pursuant to this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the Trust or a Fund, as the case may be, and its assets, and the Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders or any shareholder of the Trust. 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 Fund under the Declaration of Trust are separate and distinct from those of any and all other Funds. The Adviser further understands and agrees that no Fund of the Trust shall be liable for any claims against any other Fund of the Trust and that the Adviser must look solely to the assets of the pertinent Fund of the Trust for the enforcement or satisfaction of any claims against the Trust with respect to that Fund.
18. Confidentiality.
The Adviser agrees to treat all records and other information relating to the Trust and the securities holdings of the Funds as confidential and shall not disclose any such records or information to any other person unless (i) the Board of Trustees of the Trust has approved the disclosure or (ii) such disclosure is compelled by law. In addition, the Adviser and the Adviser's officers, directors and employees are prohibited from receiving compensation or other consideration, for themselves or on behalf of the Fund, as a result of disclosing the Fund's portfolio holdings. The Adviser agrees that, consistent with the Adviser's Code of Ethics, neither the Adviser nor the Adviser's officers, directors, members or employees may engage in personal securities transactions based on nonpublic information about a Fund's portfolio holdings.
19. This Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of New York.
20. Interpretation and Definition of Terms.
Any question of interpretation of any term or provision of this Agreement having a counterpart in or otherwise derived from a term or provision of the Act shall be resolved by reference to such term or provision of the Act and to interpretation thereof, if any, by the United States courts, or, in the absence of any controlling decision of any such court, by rules, regulations or orders of the Securities and Exchange Commission validly issued pursuant to the Act. Specifically, the terms "vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities," "interested persons," "assignment" and "affiliated person," as used in this Agreement shall have the meanings assigned to them by Section 2(a) of the Act. In addition, when the effect of a requirement of the Act reflected in any provision of this Agreement is modified, interpreted or relaxed by a rule, regulation or order of the Securities and Exchange Commission, whether of special or of general application, such provision shall be deemed to incorporate the effect of such rule, regulation or order.
The captions in this Agreement are included for convenience of reference only and in no way define or delineate any of the provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.
22. Execution in Counterparts.
This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but both of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument.
[ Signature Page Follows ]
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have caused this Agreement to be signed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized as of the date and year first above written.
Name: Andrew Rogers
Title: President
NORTH STAR INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT CORP
Name: Peter Gottlieb
Title: President
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
APPENDIX A
SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of the 17th day of May, 2011, by and between Advisors Preferred, LLC (the Adviser), a Maryland limited liability company registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the Advisers Act), and Hundredfold Advisors, LLC , a Virginia limited liability company organized under the laws of Virginia (the Subadviser) and also registered under the Advisers Act, with respect to Hundredfold Select Alternative Fund, Hundredfold Select Global Fund, Hundredfold Select Equity Fund (each a Fund, collectively the Funds), a series of the NORTHERN LIGHTS FUND TRUST II , a Delaware statutory trust (the Trust).
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS, the Trust is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the 1940 Act);
WHEREAS, the Adviser has, pursuant to an Investment Advisory Agreement with the Trust dated as of the 17 th day of May, 2011 (the Advisory Agreement), been retained to act as investment adviser for the Fund;
WHEREAS, the Adviser represents that the Advisory Agreement permits the Adviser to delegate certain of its duties under the Advisory Agreement to other investment advisers, subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act; and
WHEREAS, the Adviser desires to retain Subadviser to assist it in the provision of a continuous investment program for that portion of the Funds assets that the Adviser will assign to the Subadviser (Subadviser Assets), and Subadviser is willing to render such services subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement,
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties do mutually agree and promise as follows with respect to each Fund:
1.
Appointment as Subadviser . The Adviser hereby appoints the Subadviser to act as investment adviser for and to manage the Subadviser Assets subject to the supervision of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust and subject to the terms of this Agreement; and the Subadviser hereby accepts such appointment. In such capacity, the Subadviser shall be responsible for the investment management of the Subadviser Assets. It is recognized that the Subadviser and certain of its affiliates may act as investment adviser to one or more other investment companies and other managed accounts and that the Adviser and the Trust do not object to such activities.
2.
Duties of Subadviser .
(a)
Investments . The Subadviser is hereby authorized and directed and hereby agrees, subject to the stated investment policies and restrictions of the Fund as set forth in the Funds prospectus (Prospectus) and statement of additional information (SAI) as currently in effect and, as soon as practical after the Trust, the Fund or the Adviser notifies the Subadviser thereof, as supplemented or amended from time to time and subject to the directions of the Adviser and the Trusts Board of Trustees, to monitor on a continuous basis the performance of the Subadviser Assets and to conduct a continuous program of investment, evaluation and, if appropriate, sale and reinvestment of the Subadviser Assets. The Adviser agrees to provide the Subadviser with such assistance as may be reasonably requested by the Subadviser in connection with the Subadvisers activities under this Agreement, including, without limitation, providing information concerning the Fund, its funds available, or to become available, for investment and generally as to the conditions of the Funds or the Trusts affairs.
(b)
Compliance with Applicable Laws and Governing Documents . In the performance of its services under this Agreement, the Subadviser shall act in conformity with the Prospectus, SAI and the Trusts Agreement and Declaration of Trust and By-Laws as currently in effect and, as soon as practical after the Trust, the Fund or the Adviser notifies the Subadviser thereof, as supplemented, amended and/or restated from time to time (referred to hereinafter as the Declaration of Trust and By-Laws, respectively) and with the instructions and directions received in writing from the Adviser or the Trustees of the Trust and will conform to, and comply with, the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the Code), and all other applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Without limiting the preceding sentence, the Adviser promptly shall notify the Subadviser as to any act or omission of the Subadviser hereunder that the Adviser reasonably deems to constitute or to be the basis of any noncompliance or nonconformance with any of the Trusts Declaration of Trust and By-Laws, the Prospectus and the SAI, the instructions and directions received in writing from the Adviser or the Trustees of the Trust, the 1940 Act, the Code, and all other applicable federal and state laws and regulations. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Adviser shall remain responsible for ensuring the Funds and the Trusts overall compliance with the 1940 Act, the Code and all other applicable federal and state laws and regulations and the Subadviser is only obligated to comply with this subsection (b) with respect to the Subadviser Assets. The Adviser timely will provide the Subadviser with a copy of the minutes of the meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Trust to the extent they may affect the Fund or the services of the Subadviser, copies of any financial statements or reports made by the Fund to its shareholders, and any further materials or information which the Subadviser may reasonably request to enable it to perform its functions under this Agreement.
The Adviser shall perform quarterly and annual tax compliance tests to ensure that the Fund is in compliance with Subchapter M of the Code. In this regard, the Adviser acknowledges that the Subadviser shall rely completely upon the Advisers determination of whether and to what extent the Fund is in compliance with Subchapter M of the Code and that the Subadviser has no separate and independent responsibility to test the Fund for such compliance. In connection with such compliance tests, the Adviser shall inform the Subadviser at least ten (10) business days prior to a calendar quarter end if the Subadviser Assets are out of compliance with the diversification requirements under Subchapter M. If the Adviser notifies the Subadviser that the Subadviser Assets are not in compliance with such requirements noted above, the Subadviser will take prompt action to bring the Subadviser Assets back into compliance within the time permitted under the Code thereunder.
The Adviser will provide the Subadviser with reasonable advance notice of any change in the Funds investment objectives, policies and restrictions as stated in the Prospectus and SAI, and the Subadviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement, manage the Subadviser Assets consistent with such changes, provided that the Subadviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Trust or the Adviser. In addition to such notice, the Adviser shall provide to the Subadviser a copy of a modified Prospectus and SAI reflecting such changes. The Adviser acknowledges and will ensure that the Prospectus and SAI will at all times be in compliance with all disclosure requirements under all applicable federal and state laws and regulations relating to the Trust or the Fund, including, without limitation, the 1940 Act, and the rules and regulations thereunder, and that the Subadviser shall have no liability in connection therewith, except as to the accuracy of material information furnished in writing by the Subadviser to the Trust or to the Adviser specifically for inclusion in the Prospectus and SAI. The Subadviser hereby agrees to provide to the Adviser in a timely manner such information relating to the Subadviser and its relationship to, and actions for, the Trust as may be required to be contained in the Prospectus, SAI or in the Trusts Registration Statement on Form N-1A and any amendments thereto.
(c)
Securities Transactions . The Subadviser and any affiliated person of the Subadviser will not purchase securities or other instruments from or sell securities or other instruments to the Fund; provided, however, the Subadviser or any affiliated person of the Subadviser may purchase securities or other instruments from or sell securities or other instruments to the Fund if such transaction is permissible under applicable laws and regulations, including, without limitation, the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
The Subadviser, on its own behalf and with respect to its Access Persons (as defined in subsection (e) of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act), agrees to observe and comply with Rule 17j-1 and its Code of Ethics (which shall comply in all material respects with Rule 17j-1), as the same may be amended from time to time. On at least an annual basis, the Subadviser will comply with the reporting requirements of Rule 17j-1, which include (i) certifying to the Adviser and the Trust that the Subadviser and its Access Persons have complied with the Subadvisers Code of Ethics with respect to the Subadviser Assets and (ii) identifying any violations which have occurred with respect to the Subadviser Assets. The Subadviser will have also submitted its Code of Ethics for its initial approval by the Trusts Board of Trustees no later than the date of execution of this agreement and subsequently within six months of any material change thereto.
(d)
Books and Records . The Subadviser shall maintain separate detailed records as are required by applicable laws and regulations of all matters hereunder pertaining to the Subadviser Assets (the Funds Records), including, without limitation, brokerage and other records of all securities transactions. The Subadviser acknowledges that the Funds Records are property of the Trust; except to the extent that the Subadviser is required to maintain the Funds Records under the Advisers Act or other applicable law and except that the Subadviser, at its own expense, is entitled to make and keep a copy of the Funds Records for its internal files. The Funds Records shall be available to the Adviser or the Trust at any time upon reasonable request during normal business hours and shall be available for telecopying promptly to the Adviser during any day that the Fund is open for business as set forth in the Prospectus.
(e)
Information Concerning Subadviser Assets and Subadviser . From time to time as the Adviser or the Trust reasonably may request in good faith, the Subadviser will furnish the requesting party reports on portfolio transactions and reports on the Subadviser Assets, all in such reasonable detail as the parties may reasonably agree in good faith. The Subadviser will also inform the Adviser in a timely manner of material changes in portfolio managers responsible for Subadviser Assets, any changes in the ownership or management of the Subadviser, or of material changes in the control of the Subadviser. Upon the Trusts or the Advisers reasonable request, the Subadviser will make available its officers and employees to meet with the Trusts Board of Trustees to review the Subadviser Assets via telephone on a quarterly basis and on a less frequent basis as agreed upon by the parties in person.
Subject to the other provisions of this Agreement, the Subadviser will also provide such information or perform such additional acts with respect to the Subadviser Assets as are reasonably required for the Trust or the Adviser to comply with their respective obligations under applicable laws, including without limitation, the Code, the 1940 Act, the Advisers Act, and the Securities Act, and any rule or regulation thereunder.
(f)
Custody Arrangements . The Trust or the Adviser shall notify the Subadviser of the identities of its custodian banks and the custody arrangements therewith with respect to the Subadviser Assets and shall give the Subadviser written notice of any changes in such custodian banks or custody arrangements. The Subadviser shall on each business day provide the Adviser and the Trusts custodian such information as the Adviser and the Trusts custodian may reasonably request in good faith relating to all transactions concerning the Subadviser Assets. The Trust shall instruct its custodian banks to (A) carry out all investment instructions as may be directed by the Subadviser with respect to the Subadviser Assets (which instructions may be orally given if confirmed in writing); and (B) provide the Subadviser with all operational information necessary for the Subadviser to trade the Subadviser Assets on behalf of the Fund. The Subadviser shall have no liability for the acts or omissions of the authorized custodian(s), unless such act or omission is required by and taken in reliance upon instructions given to the authorized custodian(s) by a representative of the Subadviser properly authorized (pursuant to written instruction by the Adviser) to give such instructions.
3.
Independent Contractor . In the performance of its services hereunder, the Subadviser is and shall be an independent contractor and unless otherwise expressly provided herein or otherwise authorized in writing, shall have no authority to act for or represent the Fund, the Trust or the Adviser in any way or otherwise be deemed an agent of the Fund, the Trust or the Adviser.
4.
Expenses . During the term of this Agreement, Subadviser will pay all expenses incurred by it in connection with its activities under this Agreement. The Subadviser shall, at its sole expense, employ or associate itself with such persons as it believes to be particularly fitted to assist it in the execution of its duties under this Agreement. The Subadviser shall not be responsible for the Trusts, the Funds or Advisers expenses, which shall include, but not be limited to, the cost of securities, commodities and other investments (including brokerage commissions and other transaction charges, if any) purchased for the Fund and any losses incurred in connection therewith, expenses of holding or carrying Subadviser Assets, including, without limitation, expenses of dividends on stock borrowed to cover a short sale and interest, fees or other charges incurred in connection with leverage and related borrowings with respect to the Subadviser Assets, organizational and offering expenses (which include, but are not limited to, out-of-pocket expenses, but not overhead or employee costs of the Subadviser); expenses for legal, accounting and auditing services; taxes and governmental fees; dues and expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; costs of printing and distributing shareholder reports, proxy materials, prospectuses, stock certificates and distribution of dividends; charges of the Funds custodians and sub-custodians, administrators and sub-administrators, registrars, transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents and dividend reinvestment plan agents; payment for portfolio pricing services to a pricing agent, if any; registration and filing fees of the SEC; expenses of registering or qualifying securities of the Fund for sale in the various states; freight and other charges in connection with the shipment of the Funds portfolio securities; fees and expenses of non-interested Trustees; salaries of shareholder relations personnel; costs of shareholders meetings; insurance; interest; brokerage costs; and litigation and other extraordinary or non-recurring expenses. The Trust or the Adviser, as the case may be, shall reimburse the Subadviser for any expenses of the Fund or the Adviser as may be reasonably incurred by such Subadviser on behalf of the Fund or the Adviser. The Subadviser shall keep and supply to the Trust and the Adviser reasonable records of all such expenses.
5.
Investment Analysis and Commentary . The Subadviser will provide quarterly performance analysis and market commentary (the Investment Report) during the term of this Agreement. The Investment Reports are due within 10 days after the end of each quarter. In addition, interim Investment Reports shall be issued at such times as may be mutually agreed upon by the Adviser and Subadviser; provided however, that any such interim Investment Report will be due within 10 days of the end of the month in which such agreement is reached between the Adviser and Subadviser. The subject of each Investment Report shall be mutually agreed upon. The Adviser is freely able to publicly distribute the Investment Report.
6.
Compensation . For the services provided pursuant to this Agreement, the Subadviser is entitled to an annual fee equal to 0.65% of the Subadviser Assets up to $150 million in assets per fund and 0.80% for assets in excess of $150 million per fund. Such fee will be computed daily and paid no later than the seventh (7 th ) business day following the end of each month, from the Adviser, calculated at an annual rate based on the Subadviser Assets average daily net asset value. For purposes of applying the fee schedule, Subadvisor Assets will be calculated at the individual fund level.
The method of determining the net asset value of the Subadviser Assets for purposes hereof shall be the same as the method of determining net asset value for purposes of establishing the offering and redemption price of the shares of the Trust as described in the Funds Prospectus and/or SAI. If this Agreement shall be effective for only a portion of a month with respect to the Fund, the aforesaid fee shall be prorated for the portion of such month during which this Agreement is in effect for the Fund.
7.
Exclusivity . The Subadviser will not subadvise or license the Funds investment strategy for another regulated investment company as defined in the Code under Subchapter M without mutual consent of both the Adviser and Subadviser for a period of 12 months. Exclusivity is not applicable to the sub-investment strategies that combined, constitute the Funds investment strategy.
8.
Representations and Warranties of Subadviser . The Subadviser represents and warrants to the Adviser and the Trust as follows:
(a)
The Subadviser is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act;
(b)
The Subadviser is a limited liability company duly organized and properly registered and operating under the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia with the power to own and possess its assets and carry on its business as it is now being conducted and as proposed to be conducted hereunder;
(c)
The execution, delivery and performance by the Subadviser of this Agreement are within the Subadvisers powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary actions of its directors or shareholders, and no action by, or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Subadviser for execution, delivery and performance by the Subadviser of this Agreement, and the execution, delivery and performance by the Subadviser of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a violation of, or a material default under, (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the Subadvisers governing instruments, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the Subadviser; and
(d)
The Form ADV of the Subadviser provided to the Adviser and the Trust is a true and complete copy of the form, including that part or parts of the Form ADV filed with the SEC, that part or parts maintained in the records of the Subadviser, and/or that part or parts provided or offered to clients, in each case as required under the Advisers Act and rules thereunder, and the information contained therein is accurate and complete in all material respects and does not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
9.
Representations and Warranties of Adviser . The Adviser represents and warrants to the Subadviser as follows:
(a)
The Adviser is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act;
(b)
The Adviser is a limited liability company duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the State of Maryland with the power to own and possess its assets and carry on its business as it is now being conducted and as proposed to be conducted hereunder;
(c)
The execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement are within the Advisers powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action on the part of its directors, shareholders or managing unitholder, and no action by, or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Adviser for the execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement, and the execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a violation of, or a material default under, (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the Advisers governing instruments, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the Adviser;
(d)
The Form ADV of the Adviser provided to the Subadviser and the Trust is a true and complete copy of the form, including that part or parts of the Form ADV filed with the SEC, that part or parts maintained in the records of the Adviser, and/or that part or parts provided or offered to clients, in each case as required under the Advisers Act and rules thereunder, and the information contained therein is accurate and complete in all material respects and does not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading;
(e)
The Adviser acknowledges that it received a copy of the Subadvisers Form ADV prior to the execution of this Agreement; and
(f)
The Adviser and the Trust have duly entered into the Advisory Agreement pursuant to which the Trust authorized the Adviser to delegate certain of its duties under the Advisory Agreement to other investment advisers, including without limitation, the appointment of a subadviser with respect to assets of the Fund, including without limitation the Advisers entering into and performing this Agreement.
10.
Survival of Representations and Warranties; Duty to Update Information . All representations and warranties made by the Subadviser and the Adviser pursuant to the recitals above and Sections 8 and 9, respectively, shall survive for the duration of this Agreement and the parties hereto shall promptly notify each other in writing upon becoming aware that any of the foregoing representations and warranties are no longer true or accurate in all material effects.
11.
Liability and Indemnification .
(a)
Liability . The Subadviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering its services in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, but otherwise, in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Subadviser or a reckless disregard of its duties hereunder, the Subadviser, each of its affiliates and all respective partners, officers, directors and employees (Affiliates) and each person, if any, who within the meaning of the Securities Act controls the Subadviser (Controlling Persons), if any, shall not be subject to any expenses or liability to the Adviser, the Trust or the Fund or any of the Funds shareholders, in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates, including without limitation for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of Subadviser Assets. The Adviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering its obligations in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, but otherwise (except as set forth in Section 11(c) below), in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Adviser or a reckless disregard of its duties hereunder, the Adviser, any of its Affiliates and each of the Advisers Controlling Persons, if any, shall not be subject to any liability to the Subadviser, for any act or omission in the case of, or connected with, rendering services hereunder or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of Subadviser Assets. Notwithstanding the foregoing, nothing herein shall relieve the Adviser and the Subadviser from any of their obligations under applicable law, including, without limitation, the federal and state securities laws.
(b)
Indemnification . The Subadviser shall indemnify the Adviser, the Trust and the Fund, and their respective Affiliates and Controlling Persons for any liability and expenses, including without limitation reasonable attorneys fees and expenses, which the Adviser, the Trust and/or the Fund and their respective Affiliates and Controlling Persons may sustain as a result of the Subadvisers willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, reckless disregard of its duties hereunder or violation of applicable law, including, without limitation, the federal and state securities laws. Unless otherwise obligated under applicable law, the Subadviser shall not be liable for indirect, punitive, special or consequential damages arising out of this Agreement.
The Adviser shall indemnify the Subadviser, its Affiliates and its Controlling Persons, for any liability and expenses, including without limitation reasonable attorneys fees and expenses, which may be sustained as a result of the Advisers willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, reckless disregard of its duties hereunder or violation of applicable law, including, without limitation, the federal and state securities laws.
(c)
The Subadviser shall not be liable to the Adviser for acts of the Subadviser which result from acts of the Adviser, including, but not limited to, a failure of the Adviser to provide accurate and current information with respect to any records maintained by the Adviser, which records are not also maintained by or otherwise available to the Subadviser upon reasonable request.
12.
Duration and Termination .
(a)
Duration . Unless sooner terminated, this Agreement shall continue for an initial period of no more than two years following the date and year upon which the Fund commences investment operations, and thereafter shall continue automatically for successive annual periods with respect to the Fund, provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the Trusts Board of Trustees or vote of the lesser of (a) 67% of the shares of the Fund represented at a meeting if holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present in person or by proxy or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund; provided that in either event its continuance also is approved by a majority of the Trusts Trustees who are not interested persons (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b)
Termination . Notwithstanding whatever may be provided herein to the contrary, this Agreement may be terminated at any time with respect to the Fund, without payment of any penalty:
(i)
By vote of a majority of the Trusts Board of Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund (as defined in the 1940 Act), or by the Adviser, in each case, upon 60 days written notice to the Subadviser;
(ii)
By any party hereto upon written notice to the other party in the event of a breach of any provision of this Agreement by the other party if the breach is not cured within 15 days of notice of the breach; or
(iii)
By the Subadviser upon 60 days written notice to the Adviser and the Trust.
This Agreement shall not be assigned (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) and shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment or upon the termination of the Advisory Agreement.
13.
Duties of the Adviser .
(a)
The Adviser shall continue to have responsibility for all services to be provided to the Fund pursuant to the Advisory Agreement and shall oversee and review the Subadvisers performance of its duties under this Agreement. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall obligate the Adviser to provide any funding or other support for the purpose of directly or indirectly promoting investments in the Fund.
(b)
Voting of Proxies . The Adviser shall retain full discretionary authority to exercise voting rights with respect to the securities and other investments in the Subadviser Assets. The Adviser, including without limitation its designee, shall have the power to vote, either in person or by proxy, all securities in which the Subadviser Assets may be invested from time to time, and shall not be required to seek or take instructions from, the Subadviser, the Fund or the Trust or take any action with respect thereto.
The Adviser will establish a written procedure for proxy voting in compliance with current applicable rules and regulations, including but not limited to Rule 30b1-4 under the 1940 Act. The Adviser or its designee will provide a copy of such procedure and establish a process for the timely distribution of the Subadvisers voting record with respect to the Funds securities and other information necessary for the Fund to complete information required by Form N-1A under the 1940 Act and the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the Securities Act), Form N-PX under the 1940 Act, and Form N-CSR under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, as amended, respectively.
(c)
Agent . The Adviser is hereby appointed the Trusts agent and attorney-in-fact for the limited purposes of executing account documentation, agreements, contracts and other documents as the Adviser shall be requested by brokers, dealers, counterparties and other persons in connection with its management of the Subadviser Assets. The Adviser agrees to provide the Trust with copies of any such agreements executed on behalf of the Trust.
(d)
Brokerage . The Adviser is authorized, subject to the supervision and the plenary authority of the Trusts Board of Trustees, to establish and maintain accounts on behalf of the Fund with, and place orders for the investment and reinvestment, including without limitation purchase and sale of the Subadviser Assets with or through, such persons, brokers (including, to the extent permitted by applicable law, any broker affiliated with the Adviser or Subadviser) or dealers (collectively Brokers) as Adviser may elect and negotiate commissions to be paid on such transactions. The Adviser, however, is not required to obtain the consent of the Trusts Board of Trustees prior to establishing any such brokerage account. The Subadviser shall place all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio investments for the Funds account with Brokers selected by the Adviser. In the selection of such Brokers and the placing of such orders, the Adviser shall seek to obtain for the Fund the most favorable price and execution available, except to the extent it may be permitted to pay higher brokerage commissions for brokerage and research services, as provided below. In using its reasonable efforts to obtain for the Fund the most favorable price and execution available, the Adviser, bearing in mind the best interests of the Fund at all times, shall consider all factors it deems relevant, including price, the size of the transaction, the breadth and nature of the market for the security, the difficulty of the execution, the amount of the commission, if any, the timing of the transaction, market prices and trends, the reputation, experience and financial stability of the Broker involved, and the quality of service rendered by the Broker in other transactions. The Adviser shall not consider a Brokers sale of Fund shares when selecting the Broker to execute trades.
14.
Reference to Adviser and Subadviser .
(a)
The Subadviser grants, subject to the conditions below, the Adviser non-exclusive rights to use, display and promote trademarks of the Subadviser in conjunction with any activity associated with the Fund. In addition, the Adviser may promote the identity of and services provided by the Subadviser to the Adviser, which references shall not differ in substance from those included in the Prospectus, SAI and this Agreement, in any advertising or promotional materials. The Adviser shall protect the goodwill and reputation of the Subadviser in connection with marketing and promotion of the Fund. The Adviser shall submit to the Subadviser for its review and approval all such public informational materials relating to the Fund that refer to any recognizable variant or any registered mark or logo or other proprietary designation of the Subadviser. Approval shall not be unreasonably withheld by the Subadviser and notice of approval or disapproval will be provided in a timely manner. Subsequent advertising or promotional materials having very substantially the same form as previously approved by the Subadviser may be used by the Adviser without obtaining the Subadvisers consent unless such consent is withdrawn in writing by the Subadviser.
(b)
Neither the Subadviser nor any Affiliate or agent of Subadviser shall make reference to or use the name of the Adviser or any of its Affiliates, or any of their clients, except references concerning the identity of and services provided by the Adviser to the Fund or to the Subadviser, which references shall not differ in substance from those included in the Prospectus, SAI and this Agreement, in any advertising or promotional materials without the prior approval of Adviser, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. The Subadviser hereby agrees to make all reasonable efforts to cause any Affiliate of the Subadviser to satisfy the foregoing obligation.
15.
Amendment . This Agreement may be amended by mutual consent of the parties, provided that the terms of any material amendment shall be approved by: (a) the Trusts Board of Trustees or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund (as required by the 1940 Act), and (b) the vote of a majority of those Trustees of the Trust who are not interested persons of any party to this Agreement cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, if such approval is required by applicable law.
16.
Confidentiality . Subject to the duties of the Adviser, the Trust and the Subadviser to comply with applicable law, including any demand of any regulatory or taxing authority having jurisdiction, the parties hereto shall treat as confidential and shall not disclose any and all information pertaining to the Fund and the actions of the Subadviser, the Adviser and the Fund in respect thereof; except to the extent:
(a)
Authorized . The Adviser or the Trust has authorized such disclosure;
(b)
Court or Regulatory Authority . Disclosure of such information is expressly required or requested by a court or other tribunal of competent jurisdiction or applicable federal or state regulatory authorities;
(c)
Publicly Known Without Breach . Such information becomes known to the general public without a breach of this Agreement or a similar confidential disclosure agreement regarding such information;
(d)
Already Known . Such information already was known by the party prior to the date hereof;
(e)
Received From Third Party . Such information was or is hereafter rightfully received by the party from a third party (expressly excluding the Funds custodian, prime broker and administrator) without restriction on its disclosure and without breach of this Agreement or of a similar confidential disclosure agreement regarding them; or
(f)
Independently Developed . The party independently developed such information.
In addition, the Subadviser and its officers, directors and employees are prohibited from receiving compensation or other consideration, for themselves or on behalf of the Fund, as a result of disclosing the Funds portfolio holdings. The Subadviser agrees, consistent with its Code of Ethics, that neither it nor its officers, directors or employees may engage in personal securities transactions based on non-public information about the Funds portfolio holdings.
17.
Notice . Any notice that is required to be given by the parties to each other under the terms of this Agreement shall be in writing, delivered, or mailed postpaid to the other parties, or transmitted by facsimile with acknowledgment of receipt, to the parties at the following addresses or facsimile numbers, which may from time to time be changed by the parties by notice to the other party:
(a)
If to the Subadviser:
HUNDREDFOLD ADVISORS, LLC
Phone:
Email:
(b)
If to the Adviser:
ADVISORS PREFERRED, LLC
Phone: 240-223-1998
Email: cayers-rigsby@advisorspreferred.com
18.
Jurisdiction . This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the substantive laws of the State of Delaware without reference to choice of law principles thereof and in accordance with the 1940 Act. In the case of any conflict, the 1940 Act shall control.
19.
Counterparts . This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, all of which shall together constitute one and the same instrument.
20.
Certain Definitions . For the purposes of this Agreement and except as otherwise provided herein, interested person, affiliated person, and assignment shall have their respective meanings as set forth in the 1940 Act, subject, however, to such exemptions as may be granted by the SEC.
21.
Captions . The captions herein are included for convenience of reference only and shall be ignored in the construction or interpretation hereof.
22.
Severability . If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision or applicable law, the remainder of the Agreement shall not be affected adversely and shall remain in full force and effect.
23.
Entire Agreement . This Agreement, together with all exhibits, attachments and appendices, contains the entire understanding and agreement of the parties with respect to the subject matter hereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day and year first written above.
ADVISORS PREFERRED, LLC
By: /s/ Catherine Ayers-Rigsby
Name: Catherine Ayers-Rigsby
Title: CEO
HUNDREDFOLD ADVISORS, LLC
By: /s/ Mary K. Collins
Name: Mary K. Collins
Title: Managing Member
NORTHERN LIGHTS FUND TRUST II
OPERATING EXPENSES LIMITATION AGREEMENT
NORTH STAR OPPORTUNITY FUND
THIS OPERATING EXPENSES LIMITATION AGREEMENT (the Agreement) is effective as of the 11
th
day of August, 2011, by and between NORTHERN LIGHTS FUND TRUST II, a Delaware statutory trust (the Trust), on behalf of the NORTH STAR OPPORTUNITY FUND, (the Fund) a series of the Trust and the Advisor of such Fund, North Star Investment Management Corporation (the Advisor).
WITNESSETH:
WHEREAS
, the Advisor renders advice and services to the Fund pursuant to the terms and provisions of an Investment Advisory Agreement between the Trust and the Advisor dated as of the 11th day of August, 2011 (the Investment Advisory Agreement); and
WHEREAS
, the Fund is responsible for, and have assumed the obligation for, payment of certain expenses pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreement that have not been assumed by the Advisor; and
WHEREAS
, the Advisor desires to limit the Funds Operating Expenses (as that term is defined in Paragraph 2 of this Agreement) pursuant to the terms and provisions of this Agreement, and the Trust (on behalf of the Funds) desires to allow the Advisor to implement those limits;
NOW THEREFORE
, in consideration of the covenants and the mutual promises hereinafter set forth, the parties, intending to be legally bound hereby, mutually agree as follows:
1.
Limit on Operating Expenses
. The Advisor hereby agrees to limit the Funds current Operating Expenses to an annual rate, expressed as a percentage of the Funds average annual net assets, to the amounts listed in
Appendix A
(the Annual Limit). In
the event
that the current Operating Expenses of the Funds, as accrued each month, exceed its Annual Limit, the Advisor will pay to that Fund, on a monthly basis, the excess expense within 30 days of being notified that an excess expense payment is due.
2.
Definition
.
For purposes of this Agreement, the term Operating Expenses with respect to the Fund, is defined to include all expenses necessary or appropriate for the operation of the Fund and including the Advisors investment advisory or management fee detailed in the Investment Advisory Agreement, any Rule 12b-l fees and other expenses described in the Investment Advisory Agreement, but does not include any front-end or contingent deferred loads, brokerage fees and commissions, acquired fund fees and expenses, borrowing costs (such as interest and dividend expense on securities sold short), taxes and extraordinary expenses such as litigation.
3. Reimbursement of Fees and Expenses . The Advisor retains its right to receive reimbursement of any excess expense payments paid by it pursuant to this Agreement in future years on a rolling three year basis, if such reimbursement can be achieved within the Operating Expense Limitations listed in Appendix A .
4.
Term
. This Agreement shall become effective on the date first above written and shall remain in effect until at least March 31, 2013 unless sooner terminated as
provided in Paragraph 5 of this Agreement, and shall continue in effect for successive twelve-month periods provided that such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a majority of the Trustees of the Trust.
5.
Termination
.
This Agreement may be terminated at any time, and without payment of any penalty, by the Board of Trustees of the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, upon sixty (60) days written notice to the Advisor. This Agreement may not be terminated by the Advisor without the consent of the Board of Trustees of the Trust. This Agreement will automatically terminate, with respect to the Funds listed in
Appendix A
if the Investment Advisory Agreement for the Fund is terminated, with such termination effective upon the effective date of the Investment Advisory Agreements termination for the Fund.
6.
Assignment
.
This Agreement and all rights and obligations hereunder may not be assigned without the written consent of the other party.
7.
Severability
.
If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision, statute or rule, or shall be otherwise rendered invalid, the remainder of this Agreement shall not be affected thereby.
8.
Governing Law
. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of New York without giving effect to the conflict of laws principles thereof; provided that nothing herein shall be construed to preempt, or to be inconsistent with, any federal law, regulation or rule, including the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and any rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF
, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be duly executed and attested by their duly authorized officers, all on the day and year first above written.
NORTHERN LIGHTS FUND TRUST II |
NORTH STAR INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT CORPORATION |
on behalf of the North Star Opportunity Fund |
|
By: /s/ Andrew Rogers |
By: /s/ Peter Gottlieb |
Name: Andrew Rogers |
Name: Peter Gottlieb |
Title: President |
Title: President |
Appendix A
Fund |
Operating Expense Limit |
|
|
North Star Opportunity Fund Class A Class I |
1.99% 1.74% |
CONSENT OF ALSTON & BIRD, LLP, COUNSEL FOR THE REGISTRANT
We hereby consent to the use of our name and the references to our firm under the caption Legal Counsel included in or made a part of Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement of Northern Light Fund Trust II on Form N-1A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Alston & Bird LLP
By: /s/ David J. Baum
A Partner
Washington, DC
September 20, 2011
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
CODE OF ETHICS
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
840 111 th Avenue North
Suite 10
Naples, FL 34108
Tel: 239-290-4351
Table of Contents
_____________________________________________________________________________
1.0 PREAMBLE
2.0 DEFINITIONS
3.0 CORE PRINCIPLES
3.1 Compliance with Laws, Rules and Regulations
3.2 Integrity, Objectivity and Competence
3.3 Conflicts of Interest
3.4 Confidentiality
3.5 Fair Dealing and Disclosure
4.0 PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
4.1 General Standards
4.2 Prohibited Purchases and Sales
4.3 pre-Trade Approval Exceptions
4.4 Approval Procedures
5.0 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
5.1 Reporting of Personal Securities Holdings
5.2 Reporting of Personal Securities Transactions
5.3 Review of Reports
5.4 Exceptions from Reporting Requirements
6.0 PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES
6.1 Gifts and Gratuities
6.2 Directorships
6.3 Brokerage Accounts
6.4 Disclosure
6.5 Outside Business Activities
7.0 INSIDER TRADING
7.1 Policy Statement
7.2 Insider Trading
7.3 What is Inside Information
7.4 Who is an Insider
7.5 When is Information Material
7.6 When is Information Public
7.7 Possession of the Information Is Enough to Prohibit Trading
7.8 Tender Offers
7.9 Misappropriated Information
7.10 Restrictions on Disclosure of Company Inside Information
7.11 Insider Trading Procedures
7.12 Prevention
7.13 Detection
7.14 Watch Lists and Restricted Lists
7.15 Annual Review
7.16 Penalties
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Effective Date: July 1, 2009
8.0 CODE VIOLATIONS
8.1 Overview
8.2 Reporting
8.3 Sanctions
9.0 REVIEW
9.1 Annual Review
9.2 Interim Review
10.0 TRAINING
10.1 Annual Training
10.2 New Employees
11.0 CODE WAIVERS
12.0 RECORDKEEPING
12.1 Requirements
12.2 Form ADV, Part II
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
1
1.0 PREAMBLE
This Code of Ethics (the “ Code ” ) is an expression of Capital Wealth Planning, LLC ’ s (this
“ Company ” ) recognition of its fiduciary obligations to its clients and its duty to comply with all
federal and state securities laws. It is the Company ’ s intent to use the Code to set out ideals for
the ethical conduct of the Company and its employees in the performance of their investment
advisory services. These ideals are premised on the fundamental principles of openness, integrity,
honesty, fairness and trust. These ideals are both an indication of the value the Company places
on the ethical conduct of its employees and a challenge to its employees to live up to the high
standards demanded by the investment advisory profession.
The Company strives to maintain the highest standards of ethics and conduct in all of its business
relationships. The Company ’ s business philosophy is that its clients deserve undivided loyalty
and effort and that their interests always come first. The Code memorializes this philosophy
through written standards of business conduct that deter wrongdoing and promote, among other
things:
Honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent
conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships;
Compliance with all applicable securities laws, rules and regulations;
The protection of material nonpublic information about the Company ’ s securities
recommendations and its clients ’ securities holdings and transactions;
Full, fair, accurate and timely disclosure by Access Persons of all personal securities
transactions and holdings;
Pre-clearance by Access Persons before they directly or indirectly acquire beneficial
ownership in any security in an initial public offering or a private placement;
The prompt internal reporting of violations of the Code; and
Accountability for adherence to the Code.
Only by conducting business in accordance with the highest ethical, legal and moral standards
can this Company achieve its goals. Since corporate behavior begins with the individual behavior
of its personnel, the Company has adopted the Code so that its Supervised Persons may know
the individual ethical, legal and moral standards expected of them. All activities of the Company ’ s
Supervised Persons should be guided by and adhere to these standards.
It is a condition of employment with the Company that a Supervised Person receives a copy of
the Code and agrees to abide by the Code. ( Exhibit A: Code Acknowledgement ) The Company
urges each Supervised Person, no matter how long or short a time he or she may have been
affiliated with the Company, to study this Code and to review it periodically. Abiding by its letter
and its spirit is important to each Supervised Person ’ s personal success and to the collective
success of the Company.
2.0 DEFINITIONS
For purposes of the Code, the following terms have the meanings specified in this section:
“ Access Persons ” means (a) any director, trustee or officer of the Company or (b) any
Supervised Person of the Company (i) who has access to nonpublic information
regarding any client ’ s purchase or sale of securities, or nonpublic information regarding
the portfolio holdings of any reportable fund or (ii) who is involved in making securities
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recommendations to clients, or who has access to such recommendations that are
nonpublic ( Exhibit B: Supervised and Access Persons ).
“ Advisers Act ” means the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended.
“ 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. Automatic Investment Plan shall include a
dividend reinvestment plan.
“ Compliance Manual ” means the compilation of compliance policies and procedures
developed by the Company in accordance with federal and state securities laws and
regulations.
“ Covered Security ” means any stock, bond, future, investment contract or any other
instrument that is considered a “ security ” under §202(a)(18) of the Advisers Act.
“ Covered Security ” does not include: (i) direct obligations of the Government of the
United States; (ii) banker ’ s acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper
and high-quality short-term debt instruments, including repurchase agreements; (iii)
shares of money market funds; (iv) shares of mutual funds (unless the Company acts as
an investment adviser or principal underwriter for the fund); (v) units of a unit investment
trust if the unit investment trust is invested exclusively in unaffiliated mutual funds; or (vi)
a de minimis amount of shares ( i.e . less than 1000) of companies with a market
capitalization of over $5 billion.
“ Nonpublic Personal Financial Information ” means (i) information supplied by a client; (ii)
information resulting from a transaction with a client involving a financial product or
service; (iii) information otherwise obtained in connection with the Company providing a
product or service to a client. Nonpublic Information includes the fact that the entity or
individual is a client of the Company, but does not include information that the Company
has a reasonable basis to believe is lawfully made “ publicly available. ”
“ Supervised Persons ” means (i) any of the Company ’ s officers, directors, managers (or
other persons occupying a similar status or performing similar functions); (ii) employees
or members of their immediate family (including any relative by blood or marriage living in
the Supervised Person ’ s household), (iii) any other persons who provide advice on behalf
of the Company and are subject to the Company ’ s supervision and control; and (iv) any
temporary workers, consultants and independent contractors of the Company. ( Exhibit B:
Supervised and Access Persons )
3.0
CORE PRINCIPLES
3.1 Compliance with Laws, Rules and Regulations
As an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the
Company and its Supervised Persons are subject to (a) regulation by federal and state securities
authorities and (b) federal and state securities laws. The Company expects its Supervised
Persons to comply with both the spirit and letter of all federal and state securities laws, rules and
regulations applicable to the Company ’ s investment advisory operations and business.
Supervised Persons should seek guidance whenever they are in doubt as to the applicability of
any law, rule or regulation regarding any contemplated course of action.
3.2 Integrity, Objectivity and Competence
A Supervised Person shall offer and provide investment advisory services with integrity,
objectivity and competence. Integrity requires a Supervised Person to be, among other things,
honest and candid within the constraints of client confidentiality. Integrity requires that a
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Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Supervised Person ’ s advisory services must not be subordinated to personal gain and advantage.
Objectivity requires intellectual honesty and impartiality. The principle of objectivity imposes an
obligation on the Supervised Person to be free of conflicts of interest. Competence requires an
adequate level of knowledge and skill and the ability to apply that knowledge and skill effectively
when providing investment advisory services to clients.
3.3 Conflicts of Interest
Each Supervised Person should be scrupulous in avoiding any conflict of interest with regard to
the Company ’ s or a client ’ s interests. A “ conflict of interest ” occurs when a Supervised Person ’ s
private interest interferes with the interests of the Company or a client. A conflict situation can
arise when a Supervised Person pursues interests that prevent the Supervised Person from
performing his or her duties objectively or effectively. Any conflict of interest that arises in a
specific situation or transaction must be disclosed by the Supervised Person and resolved before
taking any action.
Conflicts of interest may also arise where the Company or its Supervised Persons have reason to
favor the interests of one client over another client (e.g., larger accounts over smaller accounts,
accounts compensated by performance fees over accounts not so compensated, accounts in
which Supervised Persons have made material personal investments, accounts of close friends
or relatives of Supervised Persons). Supervised Persons are specifically prohibited from
inappropriate favoritism of one client over another client that would constitute a breach of
fiduciary duty.
Accordingly, Supervised Persons are reminded to strictly adhere to the policies and procedures
as set forth in the Compliance Manual regarding brokerage, including, allocation, best execution,
soft dollars, and directed brokerage.
3.4 Confidentiality
Supervised Persons must exercise care in maintaining the confidentiality of (a) any client ’ s (or
former client ’ s) Nonpublic Personal Financial Information, (b) any material nonpublic information
about the Company ’ s securities recommendations and (c) any material nonpublic information
about clients ’ (or former clients ’ ) securities holdings and transactions. Supervised Persons shall
not disclose any information about a client (or former client) including the client ’ s identity, the
client ’ s financial circumstances, the client ’ s security holdings, the securities investments made by
the Company on behalf of the client, information about the client ’ s contemplated securities
transactions or advice furnished to the client by the Company without the specific consent of the
client (or former client) unless in response to proper legal process.
All Supervised Persons are required to comply with the Company ’ s Privacy Policy and
Information Security Policy as set forth in the Compliance Manual. Supervised Persons should
consult with the Chief Compliance Officer if they believe they have a legal obligation to disclose
confidential information. The obligation to preserve the confidentiality of this information shall
continue after the Supervised Person ’ s association with the Company ends.
3.5 Fair Dealing and Disclosure
Supervised Persons shall perform investment advisory services in a manner that is fair and
reasonable. Supervised Persons shall endeavor to at all times deal fairly with the Company ’ s
clients and shall not seek unfair advantage through improper concealment, abuse of improperly
acquired confidential information, or misrepresentation of material facts. Supervised Persons
shall make a full and fair disclosure of all material facts to the Company ’ s clients and such
disclosure shall be accurate, timely and understandable. Supervised Persons shall not use
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Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
knowledge about pending or currently considered securities transactions for clients to profit
personally, directly or indirectly, as a result of such transactions.
4.0 PERSONAL SECURITIES TRANSACTIONS
4.1 General Standards
All personal securities transactions shall be conducted in such a manner as to be consistent with
this Code and to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest or any abuse of an Access
Person ’ s position of trust and responsibility.
4.2 Prohibited Purchases and Sales
All personal securities transactions of an Access Person shall be subject to the following
prohibitions, procedures and approvals. No Access Person may purchase, directly or indirectly,
any Covered Security in which he or she has, or because of such transaction acquires, any direct
or indirect beneficial ownership and which to his actual knowledge at the time of such purchase or
sale, is (a) the subject of an initial public offering; (b), if such transaction is not in the open market;
or (c) if such transaction is made pursuant to any exemption from the registration provisions of
the federal securities laws, unless such transaction has been approved in advance by the Chief
Compliance Officer.
4.3 Approval Procedures
To obtain pre-approval for the purchase or sale of a Covered Security pursuant to section 4.2
above, the Access Person must submit a Trade Approval Form ( Exhibit C: Trade Approval Form )
to the Chief Compliance Officer.
5.0 REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
5.1 Reporting of Personal Securities Holdings
All Access Persons must submit a personal securities holdings report (the “ Holdings Report ” )
( Exhibit D: Holdings Report ). The Holdings Report must be submitted (a) no later than ten (10)
days after an individual becomes an Access Person and (b) at least once each twelve-month
period thereafter. The information contained in the Holdings Report must be current as of a date
not more than (i) forty-five (45) days prior to the date the individual becomes an Access Person or
(ii) forty-five (45) days prior to the date the Access Person submits the twelve-month report. An
Access Person may provide the Company with duplicate account statements in lieu of the
Holdings Report.
5.2 Reporting of Personal Securities Transactions
All Access Persons must submit personal securities transaction reports (the “ Transactions
Report ” ) ( Exhibit E: Transactions Report ). The Transactions Report must be submitted no later
than thirty (30) days after the end of each calendar quarter. The information contained in the
Transactions Report must cover all transactions made by the Access Person during that quarter.
An Access Person may provide the Company with duplicate trade confirmations in lieu of the
Transactions Report.
5.3 Review of Reports
The Chief Compliance Officer shall review all Holdings Reports and Transactions Reports to:
(a) Assess whether the Access Person followed required procedures;
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Effective Date: July 1, 2009
(b) Assess whether the Access Person is trading for his or her own account in the same
securities he or she is trading for clients, and, if so, whether the clients are receiving
terms as favorable as the Access Person takes for him or herself;
(c) Periodically analyze the Access Person ’ s trading for patterns that may indicate abuse
(such as market timing);
(d) Investigate any substantial disparities between the quality of performance the Access
Person achieves for his or her own account and the quality of performance the
Supervised Person achieves for his or her clients ’ accounts; and
(e) Investigate any substantial disparities between the percentage of trades that are
profitable when the Access Person trades for his or her own account and the percentage
of trades that are profitable when the Access Person trades for his or her clients ’
accounts.
5.4 Exceptions from Reporting Requirements
An Access Person is not required to submit a:
(a) Holdings Report with respect to securities held in accounts over which the Access Person
does not have any direct or indirect control;
(b) Transactions Report with respect to transactions effected pursuant to an Automatic
Investment Plan;
(c) Transactions Report if the report would duplicate information contained in broker trade
confirmations or account statements that the Company holds in its records, provided that
the Company receives such confirmations or statements no later than thirty (30) days
after the end of the applicable calendar quarter; or
(d) Transactions Report or a Holdings Report with respect to transactions or holdings
involving a security that is not a Covered Security.
6.0 PROHIBITED ACTIVITIES
6.1 Gifts; Gratuities and Rebates
A conflict of interest occurs when the personal interests of employees interfere or could
potentially interfere with their responsibilities to the Company and its clients. The overriding
principle is that a Supervised Person should not accept inappropriate gifts, favors, entertainment,
special accommodations, or other thanks of material value that could influence their decision-
making or make them feel beholden to a person or company.
Accordingly, no Supervised Person may:
Receive, solicit or accept any gift, service or other thing of more than de minimis value
from any person or entity that transacts business with or on behalf of the Company;
Give or offer to give any gift of more than de minimis value to existing clients, prospective
clients, or any entity that transacts business with or on behalf of the Company without
pre-approval by the Chief Compliance Officer;
Give or accept cash gifts or cash equivalents to or from a client, prospective client, or any
entity that transacts business with or on behalf of the Company;
Rebate, directly or indirectly, to any person, firm or corporation any part of the
compensation received by the Company or the Supervised Person;
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Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Provide or accept extravagant or excessive entertainment to or from a client, prospective
client, or any person or entity that does or seeks to do business with or on behalf of the
Company. Supervised Persons may provide or accept a business entertainment event,
such as dinner or a sporting event, of reasonable value, if the person or entity providing
the entertainment is present; or
Use his or her position with the Company to obtain anything of value from a client,
supplier, person to whom the employee refers business, or any other entity with which
the Company does business.
All Supervised Persons are required to complete a Gift Report ( Exhibit F: Gift Report Form ) when
accepting or providing a gift.
6.2 Directorships
Because of the high potential for conflicts of interest and insider trading problems, no Supervised
Person may serve as director of any company, whether for-profit, non-profit or charitable, without
first obtaining the approval of Chief Compliance Officer. Any such approval shall be based on a
determination by the Chief Compliance Officer that such board service will be consistent with the
interests of the clients of the Company and that such Supervised Person will (i) be isolated from
those making investment decisions with respect to such company by appropriate procedures and
(ii) recuse himself or herself from voting upon any decisions by the board as to whether such
company should engage (or extend or terminate the engagement of) the Company as an
investment adviser.
6.3 Brokerage Accounts
Supervised Persons may not open or maintain brokerage accounts or place personal securities
transaction with a broker that has not been approved by the Chief Compliance Officer. The
Company shall maintain a list of approved brokerage accounts for each Supervised Person.
( Exhibit G: Brokerage Account Form )
6.4 Disclosure
No Supervised Person may recommend, implement or attempt to cause any securities
transactions by a client or participate in any investment decision without disclosing his or her
material beneficial ownership, business or personal relationship, or other material interest in the
issuer or its affiliates, to the Chief Compliance Officer. If the Chief Compliance Officer deems the
disclosed interest to present a material conflict, the Supervised Person may not participate in any
decision-making process regarding the securities of that issuer.
6.5 Outside Business Activities
A Supervised Person may not engage in any outside business activity that involves the receipt of
compensation, either directly or indirectly, from any other person or entity other than the
Company, without first obtaining the written approval of Chief Compliance Officer. All Supervised
Persons are required to complete an annual questionnaire detailing any outside business
activities ( Exhibit H: Outside Business Activity Questionnaire ).
7.0 INSIDER TRADING
7.1 Policy Statement
The Company forbids all personnel, either personally or on behalf of others, to trade on material
nonpublic information or to communicate material nonpublic information to others in violation of
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Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
the law. In addition, the Company discourages its Supervised Persons or other employees from
seeking or knowingly obtaining material, nonpublic information.
An employee of the Company may not buy or sell securities for their personal portfolio(s) where
their decision is substantially derived, in whole or in part, by reason of his or her employment with
the Company unless the information is also available to the investing public on reasonable inquiry.
No employee of the Company shall prefer his or her own interest to that of the Company ’ s clients.
The Company is committed to providing absolute client confidentiality. Employees may not
communicate material nonpublic information to any party outside of the Company.
7.2 Insider Trading
Insider trading is defined as the buying or selling of a security, in breach of a fiduciary duty or
other relationship of trust and confidence, while in possession of material, nonpublic information
about the security. Insider trading violations may also include “ tipping ” such information,
securities trading by the person “ tipped, ” and securities trading by those who misappropriate such
information.
Insider trading is the trading that takes place when those privileged with confidential information
about important events use the special advantage of that knowledge to reap profits or avoid
losses on the stock market to the detriment of the source of the information and the typical
investors who buy or sell their stock without the advantage of “ inside ” information. For purposes
of insider trading, a person trades on the basis of material nonpublic information if a trader is
“ aware ” of the material nonpublic information when making the purchase or sale. While the law
concerning insider trading is not static, it is generally understood that the law prohibits:
1. Trading by an insider while in possession of material nonpublic information;
2. Trading by a non-insider while in possession of material nonpublic information, where the
information either was disclosed to the non-insider in violation of the insider ’ s duty to
keep it confidential or was misappropriated; and
3. Communicating material nonpublic information to others.
7.3 What is Inside Information?
“ Inside Information ” means material information about securities that has not been disseminated
to, or is not generally available to, the general public (also referred to in conversation as “ material
non-public information ” ).
7.4 Who is an Insider?
The rule against insider trading prohibits trading while in possession of information which is
received, directly or indirectly, from an “ Insider ” who discloses that information through a breach
of duty. The concept of an “ Insider ” is broad. It includes officers, directors, members, 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 course of performing services for the Company and,
as a result, is given access to information solely for the company ’ s purposes. A temporary insider
can include, among others, a company ’ s attorneys, accountants, consultants, bank lending
officers, and the employees of such organizations. In addition, the Company and/or its affiliates
may become a temporary insider of companies that the Company advises or for which the
Company performs other services.
If an employee receives, either directly or indirectly, material, nonpublic information from an
“ Insider, ” the employee must not trade in the security to which the information pertains. If an
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employee does not know the ultimate source of the information received, the employee must not
trade in the securities until the employee has taken reasonable steps to assure that the ultimate
source of the information is not an “ Insider. ” When an employee does not know the ultimate
source of the information, there is a risk that the information was initially leaked by an “ Insider ”
through the breach of a duty. The reason for taking steps to ascertain the source of the
information is to reduce that risk. If an employee learns that the source of material information is
an “ Insider, ” the employee must not trade in the security to which the information pertains until it
is ascertained that the information is public.
While the rule against insider trading is dependent upon a showing that the Insider who leaked
the information did so through a breach of duty, it will, in most instances, be very difficult to
ascertain whether such a breach occurred in connection with the release of information. There
are various contexts in which a person breaches a duty by transmitting material, non-public
information. For example, an officer of an issuer violates his duty if he intentionally transmits
material, non-public information concerning the company without any justifiable business purpose
and the officer knows or should know that the recipient of the information will trade in the issuer ’ s
securities after receiving such information. A secretary of a law firm working on a merger
breaches her duty to the law firm by revealing information about the issuer which is the subject of
the merger. The printer at a print shop who is working on disclosure documents which have not
yet been filed with the SEC breaches his duty to his employer by disclosing information about the
impending transaction.
Because it is difficult to know whether an Insider is breaching a duty by disclosing information, as
a cautionary measure, employees should not trade in a security when the employee has received
material, non-public information about the security from an Insider, regardless of whether the
employee has been able to ascertain that the information was disclosed in connection with a
breach of a duty .
7.5 When is Information Material?
Information is “ material ” if its disclosure would be likely to have an impact on the price of a
security or if reasonable investors would want to know the information. Either positive or negative
information may be material. While it is not possible to define all categories of material
information, there are various categories of information that are particularly sensitive and, as a
general rule, should always be considered material.
Examples of such information include:
Financial results;
Projections of future earnings or losses;
News of a pending or proposed merger;
Acquisitions/Divestitures;
Impending bankruptcy or financial liquidity problems;
Gain or loss of a substantial customer or supplier;
Changes in dividend policy;
New product announcements of a significant nature;
Significant pricing changes;
Stock splits;
New equity or debt offerings;
Significant litigation exposure due to actual or threatened litigation; or
Major changes in senior management.
Information relating to the market for a security, such as a significant purchase or sale order, also
may be material. If an employee is not sure whether information received is material, the
employee should discuss it with the Chief Compliance Officer before trading on such information.
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The Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ” ) considers one kind of information --
earnings guidance -- to virtually always be material. When an issuer official engages in a private
conversation with a portfolio manager who is seeking guidance about earnings estimates, the
issuer official is taking on a high degree risk that he or she may be disclosing material, non-public
information. If the issuer official communicates non-public information selectively to the portfolio
manager that the Company ’ s anticipated earnings may be higher than, lower than, or even the
same as, what analysts have been forecasting, there is a risk that the issuer official is violating
Regulation FD which prohibits selective disclosure of material non-public information.
While a portfolio manager who receives such selective disclosure is not subject to the prohibitions
of Regulation FD, a portfolio manager should, nevertheless, avoid soliciting such selectively
disclosed information. In this regard, a portfolio manager should be wary of the kind of
information received from an issuer official immediately following the end of an issuer ’ s fiscal
quarter or year end before the results of the fiscal period are publicly released. This does not
mean that conversations with issuer officials are prohibited during the period between the end of
a fiscal period and the issuer ’ s public release of earnings information; it just means that a portfolio
manager should be cautious in such conversations and, if the information received is too specific,
the portfolio manager should refrain from trading until the portfolio manager has discussed the
information received with the Chief Compliance Officer.
The Company ’ s research efforts may sometimes include contacting customers and suppliers of
an issuer and visiting retail or distribution centers for the issuer ’ s products. When such field
research is conducted, a portfolio manager should always use your actual name. It is not
necessary to disclose your affiliation with the Company, but a portfolio manager should not
affirmatively misrepresent such affiliation. It is permissible to discuss the issuer with employees
of the issuer to obtain general information; however, if a portfolio manager believes that he or she
may have received material, non-public information, the portfolio manager should discuss what
was received with the Chief Compliance Officer in order to evaluate the Company ’ s ability to
trade in the securities to which the information pertains.
Lastly, an employee should understand that, although employees are not permitted to trade while
in possession of material, non-public information which emanated from an Insider who breached
their duty, the SEC itself has recognized that it is permitted to gather non-material pieces of non-
public information “ to create a mosaic from which a material, non-public conclusion may be
drawn ” as the insider trading laws are not intended to restrict such activity and analysis.
7.6 When is Information Public?
Information is “ public ” when it has been disseminated broadly to investors in the marketplace.
Tangible evidence of such dissemination is the best indication that the information is public. For
example, information is public after it has become available to the general public through a public
filing with the SEC, publication on the Dow Jones Newswires, The Wall Street Journal or some
other publication of general circulation and after sufficient time has passed so that the information
has been disseminated widely.
If an employee is not sure whether information received is public, the employee should discuss it
with the Chief Compliance Officer before trading on such information.
Information furnished by an issuer in a web cast or conference call which is publicly announced in
advance and made available to analysts, investment managers and the general investing public
also would be deemed public. On the other hand, information provided by an officer of an issuer
in a one-on-one private conversation with a portfolio manager would generally not be deemed
public information. Consequently, portfolio managers should be careful in having one-on-one
conversations with Insiders since it is possible that material information which has not yet been
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publicly disseminated might be disclosed in such conversations. If it is, a portfolio manager
should not trade in the subject security until the information is public.
Rumors do not necessarily constitute public information. If the so-called “ rumor ” is reported as a
rumor in the financial press, then you can consider it public. However, if it is not disseminated in
a manner that constitutes “ public ” information as described above you run the risk that the
information is non-public and, if it is both material and was disclosed, directly or indirectly, through
the breach of a duty, you may be prohibited from trading on the basis of it. That is why you
should always try to ascertain the original source of information that you receive. One acceptable
way to determine whether a “ rumor ” is publicly available would be to call the issuer ’ s public
relations officer and inquire as to whether the company has publicly confirmed or denied the
rumor. You should not contact any other officer or employee of the issuer to determine the
accuracy of a rumor because a confirmation or a denial of the rumor could, in itself, constitute
non-public information.
Before information can be considered to be generally available, a reasonable period must have
elapsed after the information was first made known for the information to be disseminated among
investors. Generally, this means that a person who has access to inside information should wait
72 hours after that information is announced publicly before dealing in securities.
7.7 Possession of the Information Is Enough to Prohibit Trading
The SEC takes the position that a party who is in possession of improperly obtained material,
non-public information concerning an issuer may not trade in the issuer ’ s securities regardless of
whether the person is relying on the information in making the trade. According to the SEC,
possession is enough to create liability, and it is not a defense to an insider trading violation that a
person did not rely upon the information they possessed when the trade was made.
7.8 Tender Offers
Tender offers represent a particular concern in the law of insider trading for two reasons. First,
tender offer activity often produces extraordinary fluctuations in the price of the target company ’ s
securities. Trading during this time period is more likely to attract regulatory attention (and
produces a disproportionate percentage of insider trading cases). Second, the SEC has adopted
a rule which expressly forbids trading and “ tipping ” while in possession of Inside Information
regarding a tender offer received from the tender offeror, the target company or anyone acting on
behalf of either. The Company ’ s employees should exercise particular caution any time they
believe that they may have become aware of any non-public information (regardless of how trivial
such information may be) relating to a tender offer.
7.9 Misappropriated Information
There may be circumstances in which an employee may obtain information about an issuer from
persons who are not employed by, or owe a duty of confidentiality to, the issuer and are not
deemed to be Insiders or Temporary Insiders. Such non-insiders may be persons who have, or
are employed with companies who have, arms-length dealings with the issuer, such as vendors
and suppliers. “ Non-insiders ” should be distinguished from “ quasi-insiders. ” A quasi-insider is
someone who possesses a relationship with the issuer which gives him or her access to
confidential information about the issuer and has a duty to keep such information confidential. An
attorney, accountant or consultant to the issuer are typical examples of quasi-insiders. An
employee should not solicit or obtain information about the issuer from quasi-insiders.
While an employee should not solicit information from quasi-insiders, it is permissible for an
employee to solicit information from non-insiders concerning the issuer. An employee should not,
under any circumstances, however, provide any form of payment or item of value to non-insiders
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
in exchange for the information. In addition, an employee should understand that an employee of
a non-insider entity such as a supplier, vendor or other entity which has arms-length dealings with
the issuer, while not owing a duty of confidentiality to the issuer, may owe a duty to his or her own
employer not to disclose confidential information to persons such as analysts or fund managers.
Though an employee may not know, in a particular situation, whether such employee has a duty
of confidentiality, if an employee does learn, based on the circumstances, that the employee
would be breaching any duty to his employer by disclosing the information, the employee should
not obtain such information from that person.
7.10 Restrictions on Disclosure of Company Inside Information
It is possible that material nonpublic information may be obtained from time to time in the course
of employment related activities performed on behalf of the Company. The Company ’ s officers
and employees may not disclose any inside information (whether or not it is material) relating to
the Company, its investors or any securities transactions to any person outside the Company
unless such disclosure has been authorized by the Company ’ s Chief Compliance Officer. Inside
information may not be communicated to anyone inside or outside of the Company, except
among the Company ’ s deal team members on a “ need to know ” basis. This information must
also be secured. For example, employes should restrict access to paper files and computer files
and be aware that conversations containing inside information, if appropriate at all, should be
conducted in private.
7.11 Insider Trading Procedures
Any question as to what constitutes material nonpublic information should be resolved in the most
conservative fashion ( i.e. that the determination be made that the information in question is
material nonpublic information) or the question should be referred to the Chief Compliance Officer
or his or her designee.
Before trading in securities of a company about which you may have potential inside information,
ask the following questions:
Is the information material?
Is this information that an investor would consider important in making his or her
investment decisions?
Is this information that would substantially affect the market price of the securities if
generally disclosed?
Is the information public?
To whom has the information been provided?
Has the information been effectively communicated to the marketplace by being
published in a publication(s) of general circulation ( i.e. The Wall Street Journal, The New
York Times) or on the Internet via a recognized and legitimate web site?
If an employee receives information that may constitute material, nonpublic information, the
employee:
Should not buy or sell any securities, including options or other securities convertible into
or exchangeable for such securities, for a personal or related person account or a client
account;
Should not communicate such information to any other person (other than the Chief
Compliance Officer); and
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Should discuss promptly such information with the Chief Compliance Officer.
Under no circumstances should information that may constitute material, nonpublic information be
shared with any persons not employed by the Company, including family members and friends.
7.12 Prevention
All employees should take the following steps to safeguard the confidentiality of inside
information:
Do not discuss confidential information in public places such as elevators, hallways,
restrooms or at social gatherings;
To the extent practicable, limit access to the Company ’ s offices where confidential
information could be observed or overheard to employees with a business need for being
in the area;
Avoid using speakerphones in areas where unauthorized persons may overhear
conversations;
Exercise care to avoid placing documents containing confidential information in areas
where they may be read by unauthorized persons and store such documents in secure
locations when they are not in use; and
Properly destroy copies of confidential documents no longer needed or not otherwise
required to be maintained under federal securities laws.
7.13 Detection
The Chief Compliance Officer shall periodically review the Quarterly Transactions Reports and
Personal Securities Holdings reports (together with any brokerage statements) of the Company ’ s
Supervised Persons to ensure that no insider trading is taking place. The Chief Compliance
Officer shall also make sure that all employees of the Company adhere to the personal securities
transactions and reporting requirements set forth in the Company ’ s Code of Ethics.
7.14 Watch Lists and Restricted Lists
Whenever the Chief Compliance Officer determines that an employee is in possession of material
non-public information with respect to a company such company will either be placed on a Watch
List or on a Restricted List. If the Company is placed on a Watch List, the flow of information to
other Company personnel will be restricted in order to allow such persons to continue their
ordinary investment activities. If the Chief Compliance Officer determines that material nonpublic
information is in the possession of an employee and cannot be adequately isolated through the
use of the Watch List, the company will be placed on the Restricted List. The Chief Compliance
Officer will also have the discretion of placing a company on the Restricted List even though no
breach of the Watch List has or is expected to occur with respect to the material nonpublic
information about the company.
The Chief Compliance Officer will be responsible for determining whether to remove a particular
company from the Watch List or Restricted List. The only persons who will have access to the
Watch List or the Restricted List are such persons who are affected by the information. The
Watch List and the Restricted List are highly confidential and should not be discussed with or
disseminated to anyone other than the persons noted above.
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
7.15 Annual Review
The Chief Compliance Officer shall discuss insider trading issues with each employee each year.
The review shall emphasize the necessity to continually maintain client confidentiality, to avoid
insider trading, and to comply with the Company ’ s Code of Ethics. An employee ’ s execution of
the Insider Trading Affidavit ( Exhibit I: Insider Trading Affidavit ) is an acknowledgment of that
employee ’ s understanding of these topics.
7.16 Penalties
Civil and criminal penalties for trading on or communicating material nonpublic information are
severe, both for individuals involved in such unlawful conduct and their employers and other
controlling persons. 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.
Penalties include:
Civil injunctions;
Treble damages;
Disgorgement of profits;
Jail sentences (up to 10 years) for each violation;
Fines for the person who committed the violation of up to three times the profit gained or
loss avoided, whether the person actually benefited or the benefit accrued to a “ tippee ” of
that person; and
Severe monetary fines for the employer or other controlling person (i.e., supervisors).
EACH EMPLOYEE HAS THE ULTIMATE RESPONSIBILITY FOR COMPLYING WITH THE
PROCEDURES FOR THE HANDLING OF INSIDE INFORMATION.
8.0 CODE VIOLATIONS
8.1 Overview
The Code does not attempt to identify all possible conflicts of interest, and literal compliance with
each of its specific provisions will not shield Supervised Persons from liability for personal trading
or other conduct that violates a fiduciary duty to advisory clients.
8.2 Reporting
Each Supervised Person is expected to discharge his or her responsibilities in full compliance
with the Code. Each Supervised Person is responsible for the prompt reporting of any existing or
potential violations of the Code to the Chief Compliance Officer ( Exhibit J: Code Violations ).
Failure to do so is itself a violation of the Code. No Supervised Person shall retaliate against any
other Supervised Person for reports of potential violations that are made in good faith. Any such
retaliation would be in itself considered a violation of the Code.
8.3 Sanctions
Any violations discovered by or reported to the Chief Compliance Officer shall be reviewed and
investigated promptly. Any disciplinary action shall be based on, among other things, the severity
of the infraction, whether it is a first or repeat offense, and whether it is part of a pattern of
disregard for the letter and intent of this Code. Upon recommendation of the Chief Compliance
Officer, the Company may impose such sanctions for violation of the Code as it deems
appropriate, including, but not limited to, a letter of censure, suspension or termination of
employment, reversal of a securities trade at the violator ’ s expense and risk, including
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
disgorgement of any profit; and, in serious cases, referral to law enforcement or regulatory
authorities. The Company shall keep a record of Code violations and any disciplinary actions
taken pursuant to this Section 8.3. ( Exhibit K: Disciplinary Actions ).
9.0 REVIEW
9.1 Annual Review
Annual review of the Code is an important component of the Company ’ s ongoing process of self-
evaluation and review of compliance procedures. The Chief Compliance Officer shall perform an
annual review of the policies and procedures contained in this Code to determine whether such
policies and procedures are adequate and effective. In undertaking such annual review, the Chief
Compliance Officer shall consider the following factors:
1. Compliance matters that arose during the prior year;
2. Any changes in the Company ’ s business activities or relationships; and
3. Any changes to applicable securities laws or regulations that may prompt revision to such
policies and procedures.
9.2 Interim Review
The Chief Compliance Officer shall undertake an interim review of policies and procedures
contained in this Code in response to significant compliance events, changes in business
arrangements or regulatory developments.
10.0 TRAINING
10.1 Annual Training
Training shall take place periodically at the discretion of the Chief Compliance Officer, but no less
than annually. All Supervised Persons shall be required to attend any training session or read any
applicable materials. Supervised Persons are required to recertify annually that they have read
and understand the Code.
10.2 New Employees
New employees to the Company will be required to attend an orientation session that explains
their obligations under the Code.
11.0 CODE WAIVERS
The Chief Compliance Officer has the authority to waive any provision of this Code, provided,
however, that such waiver does not result in violation of applicable federal or state securities laws.
The Chief Compliance Officer shall record in writing all instances where a waiver to this Code has
been granted, the person requesting such waiver, the reason the waiver was requested and the
reason the waiver was granted.
12.0 RECORDKEEPING REQUIREMENTS
12.1 Recordkeeping Requirements
The Company shall be required to keep:
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
(a) A copy of the Code that is in effect or has been in effect at any time within the last five (5)
years;
(b) A record of any violation of the Code and of any action taken as a result of the violations;
(c) A record of all Supervised Persons ’ written acknowledgement of receipt of the Code (and
any amendments to the Code);
(d) A record of all Supervised Persons ’ written acknowledgement of annual receipt of the
Code;
(e) A record of each Holdings Report and Transactions Report submitted by Supervised
Persons;
(f) A record of the names of persons who are currently, or within the past five (5) years were,
Supervised Persons;
(g) A copy of Trade Approval Forms for at least five years after the end of the fiscal year in
which the approval is granted or denied; and
(h) A copy of any waivers to Code provisions or procedures granted by the Chief Compliance
Officer.
12.2 Form ADV Part II
The Company shall describe the Code on Schedule F of Form ADV Part II (Item 9) and state that
the Company will provide a copy of the Code to any client or prospective client upon request.
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit A
CODE OF ETHICS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
By signing in the space provided below, you certify that:
1.
You have received a copy of the Capital Wealth Planning, LLC Code of Ethics;
2.
You have read and understand all provisions of the Capital Wealth Planning, LLC Code
of Ethics;
3.
You have agreed to comply with the terms of the Capital Wealth Planning, LLC Code of
Ethics; and
4.
You acknowledge that you have a continuing obligation, even after your employment, to
safeguard material nonpublic and other confidential information acquired as a result of
your employment with Capital Wealth Planning, LLC.
Signature:
______________________________
Name:
______________________________
Title:
______________________________
Date:
______________________________
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit B
SUPERVISED PERSONS AND ACCESS PERSONS
Name
Type
Positions
Start Date
Termination Date
Held
Kevin Simpson
Access
President
CCO
June 30, 2009
Portfolio
Manager
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit C
TRADE APPROVAL
Employee Name
Account Name & Number
Date of Transaction
Security Name
Security Symbol
Number of Shares
Transaction Type (Buy or Sell)
Limit or Stop Loss (Yes or No)
Name of Broker
I hereby certify that I have read and understand the Capital Wealth Planning, LLC Code of Ethics
and that this transaction is being made in compliance with all aspects of Company ’ s policies.
Further, I certify that I am not aware of any material, non public information concerning this issuer
or the market for its securities. Nor am I aware of any plans of the Company to purchase this
security for the Company ’ s clients.
THIS TRANSACTION DOES NOT INVOLVE THE ACQUISITION OF SECURITIES IN
AN INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING OR A PRIVATE PLACEMENT.
I AM NOT AWARE OF ANY CONFLICT OF INTEREST WITH ANY CLIENT ACCOUNT
THAT WOULD EXIST AS A RESULT OF THE PROPOSED TRADE.
___________________________
___________________________
Sign Name
Date
___________________________
Print Name
Authorization
Chief Compliance Officer or Designee:_____________________________________________
Approved _________________
Denied __________________
Trading Limitations: ____________________________________________________________
Reason for Denial: _____________________________________________________________
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit D
INITIAL AND ANNUAL PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS REPORT
Name: ___________________________________
Signature: ____________________________________
Title: ____________________________________
Date: ________________________________________
PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS INFORMATION
Check one or more applicable boxes:
I have no reportable personal securities holdings.
I have reportable personal securities holdings, as disclosed below.
I have reportable securities holdings, as disclosed on the attached brokerage statements.
The Company is in receipt of brokerage statements reflecting my personal securities holdings.
Account Number
Security Name and
Number of
Principal Amount
Broker or Bank Name
Ticker/CUSIP
Shares/Par
Attach additional sheets as necessary.
Reviewed by:
____________________________
_____________________________
______________
Print Name
Signature
Date
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit E
QUARTERLY PERSONAL TRANSACTION REPORT
Name: ________________________________________
For the Quarter Ended: ___________________
Signature: _____________________________________
Date: _________________________________
I am reporting below all transactions required to be reported for the quarter pursuant to Capital Wealth Planning, LLC ’ s Code of Ethics.
I have completed and returned this form by the 30th calendar day following the quarter-end .
Required Transactions to Report
I am required to report all transactions of securities* in which I have a direct or indirect beneficial ownership interest. I am also required
to report any transaction executed within an automatic investment plan that overrides a pre-determined schedule.
“ Securities ” include stocks, bonds, closed-end mutual funds and exchange-traded funds.
Transactions Not Required to be Reported
I am not required to report shares of registered open-end investment companies not managed by Capital Wealth Planning, LLC,
securities issued by the United States Government, bankers ’ acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, money
market mutual funds and other money market instruments and transactions effected through an automatic investment plan or a de
minimis amount of shares (i.e. less than 1000) of companies with a market capitalization of over $10 billion.
REPORTABLE TRANSACTIONS
Check one or more applicable boxes:
I had no reportable transactions during the period.
I had reportable transactions, as disclosed below.
I had reportable transactions, as disclosed on the attached brokerage statements.
The Company is in receipt of brokerage statements reflecting my reportable personal securities
transactions.
If transactions are reported:
I hereby recertify that I am aware of the Company ’ s policies regarding prohibition of insider trading,
and declare that I have not violated these policies in conducting personal trades during the quarter
ended _____________. Signature: ____________________________ Date: ____________
Trade Date Security
#Shares/
Purchase/
Price
Principal
Broker
Account
Name and
Par Int Rate/ Sale/Other
Amount
Name
Number
Ticker/CUSIP Maturity
Attach additional sheets as necessary.
Reviewed by:
____________________________
_____________________________
______________
Print Name
Signature
Date
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit F
GIFT REPORT
From/To
Gift
Estimated Worth
Relationship to Person
Giving/Accepting
I hereby certify that I have disclosed all gifts:
___________________________
___________________________
Sign Name
Date
___________________________
Print Name
Review
I hereby certify that I have reviewed the above listed gifts:
Chief Compliance Officer: _____________________________________________
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit G
BROKERAGE ACCOUNTS
Every Access Person of Capital Wealth Planning, LLC must disclose to the firm any and all
securities and futures accounts:
In the name of the employee, over which the employee exercises discretion (express or in fact) or
in which the employee has an interest.
In the name of a related person of the employee, over which such related person exercises
discretion (express or in fact) or in which such related person has an interest. For purposes of
this disclosure form, a “ related person ” should be deemed to include the employee ’ s spouse and
any other person with whom the employee resides or to whom the employee provides financial
support.
Employees are not required to disclose Federal Reserve Board “ Treasury Direct ” accounts.
With respect to the required disclosure regarding such accounts, please be advised of the
following (please check one):
As of the date hereof, no such accounts are in existence. However, if such an account
will be opened subsequent to the date hereof, I agree to obtain the approval of the
Compliance Officer prior to the account being opened.
Set forth below is a complete list of all such accounts (use additional forms if necessary).
The Compliance Officer will be sending a letter requesting duplicate confirms and statements for
each of the accounts disclosed below. Please provide accurate account numbers and mailing
addresses.
Name and Number of
Name of Organization
Address of Organization
Account
Where Account is Located
Where Account is Located
1
2.
3.
4.
.
Social Security No.: ___________________
Employee
Name:
Employee
.
Date: _____________________________
Signature:
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit H
OUTSIDE BUSINESS ACTIVITY QUESTIONNAIRE
1.
Do you have any outside employment or business activity?
__ YES __ NO
If YES, please describe: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
2.
Do you or any of your immediate family members (e.g., spouses, parents, children or
siblings) serve as a director, officer, trustee or audit, compensation or nominating
committee member for any publically traded company or business entity?
__ YES __ NO
If YES, please describe: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
3.
Do you or any of your immediate family members hold Advisory Committee positions of any
business entity where the members of the committee have the ability or authority to affect
or influence the selection of investment managers or the selection of the investment of the
entity ’ s operating, endowment, pension or other funds?
__ YES __ NO
If YES, please describe: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
4.
Do you or any of your immediate family members hold positions on the Board of Directors,
Trustees or any advisory Committee of a client of Capital Wealth Planning, LLC or any
potential client who is actively considering engaging Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
investment advisory services?
__ YES __ NO
If YES, please describe: ____________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
___________________________
___________________________
Sign Name
Date
___________________________
Print Name
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit I
INSIDER TRADING AFFIDAVIT
1. Client confidentiality is of paramount importance in the financial services industry. I understand that
I may not communicate nonpublic information to any party outside of Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
(the “ Company ” ).
2. Client files are available to me in the course of my normal work on a “ need to know ” basis only.
3. I may not recommend trading in a security to any clients or other parties based on material
nonpublic information.
4. I understand that I am required to submit Quarterly Transactions Reports and Personal Securities
Holdings Reports in accordance with the Company ’ s Code of Ethics and that all transactions
executed by me in my personal accounts will be reviewed by the Chief Compliance Officer.
5. I understand that I may not execute a trade based on nonpublic information. If I obtain nonpublic
information about a security, I must report any personal transactions or transactions of any related
parties in that security to the Chief Compliance Officer immediately after its occurrence.
6. I understand that violation of the provisions of this policy is cause for immediate discipline. In
addition, the violation will be reported by the Company to the appropriate regulatory agency.
7. I understand that I am obligated to report violations of this policy by other employees to the Chief
Compliance Officer and the appropriate regulatory agency.
8. This policy is adopted in order to prevent the misuse of material, nonpublic information by Company
employees in violation of the Investment Advisors Act of 1940, as amended, and the Insider
Trading and Securities Fraud Enforcement Act of 1988.
9. I agree to abide by the Company ’ s Code of Ethics as described in the Company ’ s Compliance
Manual, which is incorporated herein by reference.
10. My signature below indicates that I have received a copy of the Company ’ s Code of Ethics and
Compliance Manual and have read and understood all applicable provisions relating to insider
trading and personal securities transactions. I agree to continually abide by these policies.
___________________________
___________________________
Sign Name
Date
___________________________
Print Name
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
Exhibit J
CODE VIOLATIONS
Name of Reporting Person: _____________________
Position: ____________________________________
Date of Report: _______________________________
Date of
Violation
Code §
Actions Taken
Violation
Review
I hereby certify that I have reviewed the above listed violations:
Chief Compliance Officer: _____________________________________________
Capital Wealth Planning, LLC
Code of Ethics
Effective Date: July 1, 2009
WATER OAK ADVISORS, LLC
CODE OF ETHICS
Summary
WOAs Code of Ethics is based on the guiding principle that the interests of the client are our top priority. WOAs officers, directors, advisors, and other employees have a fiduciary duty to our clients and must diligently perform that duty to maintain the complete trust and confidence of our clients. When the potential for conflict arises, it is our obligation to put the clients interests over the interests of either employees or the company.
Background
WOA views our Code as a living document that exists to ensure that the interests of our clients are continually
protected. We review the Code annually and update it to keep current with changes in the industry.
Objectives
The purpose of our Code of Ethics is to ensure that when employees buy or sell securities for their personal account, they do not create actual or potential conflict with our clients. We do not allow any employees to use non-public material information for their personal profit or to use internal research for their personal benefit in conflict with the benefit to our clients.
General Provisions
The Code of Ethics applies to access persons. Access persons are employees with access to WOA Investment Policy Committee minutes and research. They would include advisors, their assistants, Compliance personnel, and senior management. New access employees are briefed on the Code and are given a copy when hired or appointed as an advisor agent. Before being appointed or within one week of their hire, they must indicate in writing that they have
read the Code and agree to its provisions. After that, we require them to review the Code annually and acknowledge, in writing, by March 31 st that their personal investing has complied with the requirements.
The following provisions apply to all access persons:
Personal transactions: The Code requires all persons to report their personal securities transactions to WOA. This includes any activity in any account where the person has a monetary interest.
Reportable securities: The Code applies to the buying and selling of equities, bonds, closed end mutual funds, options, futures, and private placements. The SEC has exempted from reporting certain securities, including open-end mutual funds, certificates of deposit, and short-term government obligations.
Brokerage accounts: All persons must provide WOA with a current list of their brokerage accounts on an annual basis. WOA will then instruct the brokerage firm to send duplicate statements and confirms WOA Compliance. Access persons must also provide a list of brokerage accounts controlled by the access person or by anyone who resides in the same household (same address) as the access person.
Reporting requirements: All persons must report their personal transactions to WOA. This is accomplished by the receipt of a Personal Trading Report due by the thirtieth day of the month following a calendar quarter.
General restrictions: The following restrictions also apply:
·
You may not give or accept gifts of a value greater than $100.
·
You must get approval of WOA to serve on a board of directors.
·
You must get approval of WOA to participate in private placement transactions.
·
You must disclose all new brokerage accounts and other securities holdings within ten (10) days of employment or prior to appointment as an investment advisor and quarterly thereafter.
Pre-clearance of trades: At this time, WOA does not require pre-clearance of trades.
Monitoring and Enforcement
We take seriously our responsibility to oversee and enforce WOAs Code of Ethics. The CCO who is also the Managing Member is mandated to supervise WOAs compliance activities. Additionally, WOA educates employees through initial orientation and annual review sessions. The CCO has primary responsibility for ensuring that employees are following all applicable provisions of the Code of Ethics. The CCO also sees that the appropriate procedures and systems are in place to monitor compliance. When there is reason to believe an employee has violated the Code, the CCO/Managing Member will conduct an in-depth review and will determine the appropriate action. Sanctions under the Code range in severity from a caution, to warnings, fines, or dismissal.
CODE OF ETHICS - INSIDER TRANSACTIONS
WOAs policy prohibits any person from acting upon or otherwise misusing non-public or inside information. No advisory representative or other employee, officer or director of WOA may recommend any transaction in a security or its derivative to advisory clients or engage in personal securities transactions for a security or its derivatives if the advisory representative possesses material, nonpublic information regarding the security. The Agreement to Abide by Written Policy of WOA on Insider Trading must be read and signed by every officer, director, advisory representative and employee of WOA. Covered persons shall direct any questions regarding the companys policy on insider trading to the CCO.
WOA Procedures: Insider Trading
a. Prevention of Insider Trading . For purposes of preventing insider trading, the CCO shall:
1. design an appropriate educational program and provide educational materials to familiarize officers,
directors, employees and advisory representatives with WOAs policy;
2. answer questions and inquiries regarding WOAs policy;
3. review WOAs policy on a regular basis and update it as necessary to reflect regulatory and industry
changes;
4. resolve issues as to whether information received by an officer, director, employee or advisory
representative constitutes material and non-public information;
5. upon determination that an officer, director, employee, or advisory representative has possession of
material non-public information:
I. implement measures, including but not limited to Chinese Walls, to prevent dissemination of
such information; and,
II. restrict officers, directors, employees and advisory representatives from trading on any affected
securities;
6. hold meetings with all employees at least annually to review the policy.
b. Detection of Insider Trading. For purposes of detecting insider trading, the CCO or his or her designee
shall, on a quarterly basis:
1. review the trading activity reports filed by each officer, director, employee and advisory
representative;
2. submit his or her trading records and other relevant information to another senior manager for review;
3. review the trading activity of accounts managed by WOA;
4. if applicable, review trading activity involving WOAs own account; and
5. coordinate the review of such reports with other appropriate officers, directors, employees and advisory representatives of WOA.