UNITED STATES

 

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

 

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM N-CSR

 

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED MANAGEMENT

 

INVESTMENT COMPANIES

 

Investment Company Act file number 811-10325

 

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

666 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

 

Van Eck Associates Corporation
666 THIRD AVENUE, NEW YORK, NY 10017
(Name and address of agent for service)

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (212) 293-2000

 

Date of fiscal year end: SEPTEMBER 30

 

Date of reporting period: SEPTEMBER 30, 2020

 

Item 1. Report to Shareholders

ANNUAL REPORT
September 30, 2020

 

VANECK VECTORS®

 

Biotech ETF BBH
   
Environmental Services ETF EVX®
   
Gaming ETF BJK®
   
Pharmaceutical ETF PPH®
   
Retail ETF RTH®
   
Semiconductor ETF SMH®
   
Video Gaming and eSports ETF ESPO®

 

     
  800.826.2333 vaneck.com
 
   
   
President’s Letter 1
Management Discussion 2
Performance Comparison  
Biotech ETF 5
Environmental Services ETF 6
Gaming ETF 7
Pharmaceutical ETF 8
Retail ETF 9
Semiconductor ETF 10
Video Gaming and eSports ETF 11
Explanation of Expenses 13
Schedule of Investments  
Biotech ETF 14
Environmental Services ETF 15
Gaming ETF 16
Pharmaceutical ETF 18
Retail ETF 19
Semiconductor ETF 20
Video Gaming and eSports ETF 21
Statements of Assets and Liabilities 24
Statements of Operations 26
Statements of Changes in Net Assets 28
Financial Highlights  
Biotech ETF 32
Environmental Services ETF 32
Gaming ETF 33
Pharmaceutical ETF 33
Retail ETF 34
Semiconductor ETF 34
Video Gaming and eSports ETF 35
Notes to Financial Statements 36
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 43
Tax Information 45
Board of Trustees and Officers 46
Approval of Investment Management Agreements 48

 

Certain information contained in this report represents the opinion of the investment adviser which may change at any time. This information is not intended to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results or investment advice. Current market conditions may not continue. The information contained herein regarding each index has been provided by the relevant index provider. Also, unless otherwise specifically noted, any discussion of the Funds’ holdings, the Funds’ performance, and the views of the investment adviser are as of September 30, 2020.

 

VANECK VECTORS ETFs

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Dear Fellow Shareholders:

 

The level of stimulus from the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) this year has been almost unprecedented and has had investment consequences. Financial markets have benefited from the Fed stimulus and the case for gold investing has become more solid.

 

Perhaps the surprise from this summer’s data is that the global economy is doing quite well, supporting the markets, despite the social distancing that we all feel in our personal lives. Important commodities like copper have regained pre-COVID-19 highs. In addition, China’s industrial recovery is pointing to all-time highs in activity, even though consumer activity is lagging a little.

 

One beneficiary is high yield bonds, particularly “fallen angels”—bonds that have been downgraded from investment grade. In a recessionary environment, some bonds are going to default or be downgraded. Fixed income markets this year generally started recovering after the Fed announced plans to intervene. We have already seen a record amount of new fallen angel bond volume—over $140B as of July 31, 20201—and expect more through the remainder of the calendar year.

 

Similar to 2016, when crude oil also swooned, we have seen a lot of energy companies become fallen angels, and the fallen angel strategy is buying those downgraded bonds. As reviewed in a recent blog, New Fallen Angel Bonds Drive Performance, these new energy fallen angels are among the top contributors to performance of the fallen angel strategy so far this year. As long as the Fed remains supportive, we believe this strategy should continue to do well.

 

We do, however, see two particular risks to this scenario: 1) an unforeseen rise in interest rates in the U.S. triggered by higher global growth or other factors; and 2) a bump in the return to full employment. An incredible number of people have been laid off in the U.S. and, regardless of GDP numbers, people are unlikely to quickly return to work at the same levels as the start of the year. Concern may be high enough for policy makers to take additional steps (any of which, however, remain, as yet, uncertain) that may impact the financial recovery.

 

The investing outlook sometimes does change suddenly, as it certainly has at times this year. To get our quarterly investment outlooks, please subscribe to “Investment Outlook” on vaneck.com. Should you have any questions regarding fund performance, please contact us at 800.826.2333 or visit our website.

 

We sincerely thank you for investing in VanEck’s investment strategies. On the following pages, you will find a performance discussion and financial statements for each of the funds for the twelve month period ended September, 2020. As always, we value your continued confidence in us and look forward to helping you meet your investment goals in the future.

 

 

Jan F. van Eck
CEO and President
VanEck Vectors ETF Trust

October 19, 2020

 

Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. An investor should consider the investment objective, risks, charges and expenses of the Funds carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus and summary prospectus, which contain this and other information, call 800.826.2333 or visit vaneck.com. Please read the prospectus and summary prospectus carefully before investing.

 

 

1 Source: FactSet, ICE Data Indices, LLC and Morningstar.
1

VANECK VECTORS ETFs

MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION
September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Biotech

 

Biotech stocks had an excellent year, with the Fund gaining 37.71%. Having started the 12 month period near the lows they later hit in the midst of the market’s plunge—in the third and fourth weeks in March—they recovered quickly thereafter, hitting a high on July 30 and ending the period having made a sizeable gain over the entire period. In an article1 in early August, The Wall Street Journal ascribed the “recent surge in biotech stocks” to not only investor interest in “potential vaccines to combat Covid-19”, but also anticipation of further investment by governments in “drug discovery and development.”

 

While, by the end of September 2019, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the U.S. had approved just 28 new drugs, in the remaining three months of the year, a further 20 were approved.2 The pace of approvals accelerated in 2020 and, by mid-September, the FDA had approved 40 “novel drugs.”3

 

The three top positive contributions to the Fund’s performance came from: Moderna, Amgen and Regeneron Pharmaceuticals (5.1%, 14.9% and 5.0% of Fund net assets respectively). The companies that detracted most from performance were Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Grifols and IQVIA Holdings (1.2%, sold by the Fund by period end and 4.5% of Fund net assets, respectively).

 

Environmental Services

 

The Fund lost 4.23% over the 12 month period under review. Having reached a high toward the end of February, as with so many other stocks, environmental services stocks declined precipitously at the end of March to reach a low on March 23. Thereafter, however, they never fully recovered, ending slightly down on the year.

 

The slowdown in economic activity resulting from the COVID-19 virus led to solid waste volumes, especially industrial and commercial, plummeting.4 However, having bottomed out at the end of April, these started to rise both rapidly and significantly during the second quarter and into the third quarter. But the expectation remains that volumes for the year will certainly remain down in comparison to 2019.

 

While large-cap stocks contributed some positive total returns, both small- and mid-cap stocks detracted from the total return of the Fund. Darling International, Inc. (4.0% of Fund net assets), Evoqua Water Technologies (4.1% of Fund net assets) and STERIS (4.0% of Fund net assets) were the top three contributors to positive total returns. Advanced Emissions Solutions (sold by Fund by period end), Newpark Resources (sold by Fund by period end) and Covanta Holding (3.6% of Fund net assets) detracted the most from performance.

 

Gaming

 

While gaming stocks were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fund posted a gain of 10.03% for the 12 month period. Having reached a high in mid-January, as with so many other stocks, gaming stocks plummeted in March to reach a low on March 18. Thereafter, however, they clawed their way back up, ending slightly up on the year.

 

In Macau, China, the world’s biggest gaming hub, the devastating effect of COVID-19 on the gross revenue from “Games of Fortune” (as the Macau authorities describe them) is best illustrated by the figures for April and June. For these two months the figures were 754 million Macanese pataca (MOP) and MOP716 million respectively.5 In 2019 the figures for the same two months were MOP23,588 million and MOP23,812 million respectively. By October, however, revenues had improved somewhat, with a revenue in September of MOP2,211 million, up 66% on August’s figure of MOP1,330 million.6

 

The virus wreaked similar havoc in Nevada. In March, the “gaming win”7 stood at $618,129,278 (vs. $1,022,961,241 in 20198). However, in April, it crashed 99.61% to $3,646,658 (vs. $936,465,930 in 2019). In May it increased to $5,808,507. It was only in June that business improved to $566,806,790 (vs. $1,040,978,076 in 2019). The figure for the gaming win in August upped to $743,038,562, but was still down approximately 22% on August 2019’s figure of $953,623,896, and slightly down from July 2020’s figure of $756,793,269.

 

Ireland-, Sweden- and U.S.-listed companies were the leading contributors to performance. Eight countries detracted from performance, with Australian and Swedish companies detracting the most.

2

 

 

Pharmaceutical

 

Pharmaceutical stocks had a solid, if eventful, 12 months. By the end of September, they had largely recovered from the low they hit on March 23, 2020 and the Fund had gained 11.02%. As with biotech stocks, hopes for potential vaccines for COVID-19 and expectations of higher government spending on drug discovery and development have helped underpin investor optimism in the sector.

 

While Catalent, Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly (4.6%, 5.2% and 4.9% of Fund net assets, respectively) were the three largest positive contributors to performance, Amarin Corporation (0.1% of Fund net assets), Mylan (3.4% of Fund net assets) and Bausch Health Companies (2.4% of Fund net assets) were the Fund’s three largest detractors.

 

Retail

 

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Fund had an excellent year, returning 31.22% for the 12 month period under review. While “brick and mortar”, e.g., department stores, retail took a battering during the COVID-19 pandemic (no customers, no staff), those companies with well-developed ecommerce capabilities or deemed “essential” during the crisis thrived.

 

Businesses involved in Internet and catalog retail contributed by far the most to the positive performance of the Fund with Amazon (19.3% of Fund net assets) contributing the most of any individual company in the Fund’s portfolio. While no single sector detracted from performance, companies in the health care providers and services contributed the least to performance.

 

Semiconductor

 

The Fund had an excellent year, returning 48.60% for the 12 month period under review. With global semiconductor sales of $412.1 billion (down 12.1%),9 2019 was not as good a year as 2018 with sales of $468.8 billion.10 However, seemingly little affected by the COVID-19 crisis, in each of the first two quarters of 2020, sales remained firm. While down somewhat in the first quarter, the second, with sales of $103.6 billion,11 showed an increase of 5.1% over the same periods in 2019.

 

Large-capitalization stocks continued to be key drivers of the Fund’s returns. NVIDIA, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company and Advanced Micro Devices (8.2%, 11.0% and 4.8% of Fund net assets, respectively) were the three top contributing companies. No one company detracted from performance, but Universal Display (1.1% of Fund net assets), ON Semiconductor (0.8% of Fund net assets) and NXP Semiconductors (4.4% of Fund net assets) contributed the least.

 

Video Games and eSports

 

Video gaming and esports stocks provided outstanding returns during the period, performing the best of any of the VanEck Vectors industry ETFs, and returning a commendable 82.25%. The COVID-19 pandemic had an immediate and direct effect on the fortunes of video game companies, as consumers around the world were forced inside and left without traditional entertainment options. Against the pandemic backdrop, video game-related revenues and engagement metrics soared to all-time highs, leading to rising stock prices for the vast majority of companies participating.

 

Leading contributing companies over the period from inception were NVIDIA, Sea and Advanced Micro Devices (8.3%, 6.3% and 6.8% of the Fund’s net assets respectively). Only three companies detracted from performance and, then, only minimally: Konami Holdings (1.9% of Fund net assets), Gungho Online Entertainment (sold by Fund by period end) and DeNA Co. (0.6% of Fund net assets).

 

All Fund assets referenced are Total Net Assets as of September 30, 2020.

 

 
1  The Wall Street Journal: During Covid-19 Pandemic, Biotech IPOs Already Surpass Record, August 10, 2020, https://www.wsj.com/articles/during-covid-19-pandemic-biotech-ipos-already-surpass-record-11597051800
2  U.S. Food & Drug Administration: New Drug Therapy Approvals 2019, January 2020, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/new-drugs-fda-cders-new-molecular-entities-and-new-therapeutic-biological-products/new-drug-therapy-approvals-2019#:~:text=Novel%20drugs%20approved%20in%202019,Wakix%2C%20Xpovio%2C%20and%20Zulresso.
3  U.S. Food & Drug Administration: Novel Drug Approvals for 2020, September 2, 2020, https://www.fda.gov/drugs/new-drugs-fda-cders-new-molecular-entities-and-new-therapeutic-biological-products/novel-drug-approvals-2020
3

VANECK VECTORS ETFs

MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION

September 30, 2020 (unaudited) (continued)

 

4 Goldman Sachs: Americas Environmental Services—2Q’20 Preview: Raising our estimates as faster recovery materializes, July 27, 2020
5 Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau, Macao SAR: Monthly Gross Revenue from Games of Fortune, http://www.dicj.gov.mo/web/en/information/DadosEstat_mensal/2020/index.html
6 Ibid.
7 Or “gross revenue,” defined (in short) as: the total of all:
  (a) Cash received as winnings;
  (b) Cash received in payment for credit extended by a licensee to a patron for purposes of gaming; and
  (c) Compensation received for conducting any game, or any contest or tournament in conjunction with interactive gaming, in which the licensee is not party to a wager, less the total of all cash paid out as losses to patrons, those amounts paid to fund periodic payments and any other items made deductible as losses by NRS 463.3715. For the purposes of this section, cash or the value of noncash prizes awarded to patrons in a contest or tournament are not losses, except that losses in a contest or tournament conducted in conjunction with an inter-casino linked system may be deducted to the extent of the compensation received for the right to participate in that contest or tournament. For a full definition see Nevada Gaming Control Act, https://www.leg.state.nv.us/NRS/NRS-463.html#NRS463Sec0161
8 Nevada Gaming Control Board: Abbreviated Revenue Release, http://gaming.nv.gov/index.aspx?page=172
9 Semiconductor Industry Association: Worldwide Semiconductor Sales Decrease 12 Percent to $412 Billion in 2019, February 3, 2020, https://www.semiconductors.org/worldwide-semiconductor-sales-decrease-12-percent-to-412-billion-in-2019/
10 Semiconductor Industry Association: More Than 1 Trillion Semiconductors Sold Annually for the First Time Ever in 2018, February 14, 2019, https://www.semiconductors.org/more-than-1-trillion-semiconductors-sold-annually-for-the-first-time-ever-in-2018/
11 Semiconductor Industry Association: Global Semiconductor Sales Increase 5.1 Percent Year-to-Year in June; Q2 Sales Down Slightly Compared to Q1, August 3, 2020, https://www.semiconductors.org/global-semiconductor-sales-increase-5-1-percent-year-to-year-in-june-q2-sales-down-slightly-compared-to-q1/
4

VANECK VECTORS BIOTECH ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MVBBHTR1 SPTR2
One Year 37.85% 37.71% 37.84% 15.15%
Five Year 7.65% 7.62% 7.79% 14.15%
Life* 19.29% 19.27% 19.47% 14.36%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 12/20/11; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 12/21/11.
   
1 MVIS® US Listed Biotech 25 Index (MVBBHTR) is a rules based, modified capitalization weighted, float adjusted index intended to give investors a means of tracking the overall performance of companies involved in the biotech industry. Biotechnology includes research (including research contractors), development as well as production, marketing and sales of drugs based on genetic analysis and diagnostic equipment (excluding pharmacies).
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     

 

This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.

   

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 12 for more information.

5

VANECK VECTORS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV AXENVTR1 SPTR2
One Year (3.91)% (4.23)% (4.42)% 15.15%
Five Year 12.30% 12.03% 12.51% 14.15%
Ten Year 9.23% 9.17% 9.68% 13.74%
   
1 NYSE Arca Environmental Services Index (AXENVTR) is a rules based, modified equal dollar weighted index intended to give investors a means of tracking the overall performance of the common stocks and depositary receipts of U.S. exchange-listed companies involved in environmental services. The Environmental Services Index is designed to measure the performance of widely held, highly capitalized companies engaged in business activities that may benefit from the global increase in demand for consumer waste disposal, removal and storage of industrial by-products, and the management of associated resources.
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Ten Year)
     

 

This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price over the past 10 years. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.

 

   

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 12 for more information.

6

VANECK VECTORS GAMING ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MVBJKTR1 SPTR2
One Year 10.53% 10.03% 10.05% 15.15%
Five Year 9.14% 8.97% 9.34% 14.15%
Ten Year 6.61% 6.54% 6.94% 13.74%
   
1 MVIS® Global Gaming Index (MVBJKTR) is a rules based, modified capitalization weighted, float adjusted index intended to give investors a means of tracking the overall performance of companies involved in the casino and gaming industry. Gaming includes casinos and casino hotels, sports betting (including internet gambling and racetracks) and lottery services as well as gaming services, gaming technology and gaming equipment.
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
  Index data prior to September 24, 2012 reflects that of the S-Network Global Gaming Index (WAGRT). Index history which includes periods prior to September 24, 2012 reflects a blend of the performance of WAGRT and MVBJKTR and is not intended for third party use.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Ten Year)
     

 

This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price over the past 10 years. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.

   

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 12 for more information.

7

VANECK VECTORS PHARMACEUTICAL ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MVPPHTR1 SPTR2
One Year 11.08% 11.02% 10.67% 15.15%
Five Year 1.71% 1.66% 1.60% 14.15%
Life* 8.78% 8.64% 8.56% 14.36%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 12/20/11; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 12/21/11.
   
1 MVIS® US Listed Pharmaceutical 25 Index (MVPPHTR) is a rules based, modified capitalization weighted, float adjusted index intended to give investors a means of tracking the overall performance of companies involved in the pharmaceutical industry. Pharmaceuticals include companies engaged primarily in research (including research contractors) and development as well as production, marketing and sales of pharmaceuticals (excluding pharmacies).
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     

 

This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.

   

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 12 for more information.

8

VANECK VECTORS RETAIL ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MVRTHTR1 SPTR2
One Year 31.24% 31.22% 31.11% 15.15%
Five Year 16.90% 16.88% 16.75% 14.15%
Life* 18.67% 18.53% 18.35% 14.36%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 12/20/11; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 12/21/11.
   
1 MVIS® US Listed Retail 25 Index (MVRTHTR) is a rules based, modified capitalization weighted, float adjusted index intended to give investors a means of tracking the overall performance of companies involved in the retail industry. Retail includes companies engaged primarily in retail distribution; wholesalers; online, direct mail retailers; multi-line retailers; specialty retailers, such as apparel, automotive, computer and electronics, drug, home improvement and home furnishing retailers; and food and other staples retailers.
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     

 

This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.

   

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 12 for more information.

9

VANECK VECTORS SEMICONDUCTOR ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MVSMHTR1 SPTR2
One Year 48.42% 48.60% 48.51% 15.15%
Five Year 30.40% 30.38% 30.39% 14.15%
Life* 23.91% 23.97% 23.90% 14.36%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 12/20/11; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 12/21/11.
   
1 MVIS® US Listed Semiconductor 25 Index (MVSMHTR) is a rules based, modified capitalization weighted, float adjusted index intended to give investors a means of tracking the overall performance of companies involved in the semiconductor industry. Semiconductors include companies engaged primarily in the production of semiconductors and semiconductor equipment.
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     

 

This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.

   

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 12 for more information.

10

VANECK VECTORS VIDEO GAMING AND ESPORTS ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MVESPOTR1 SPTR2
One Year 82.53% 82.25% 82.48% 15.15%
Life* 42.45% 42.24% 43.24% 11.81%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 10/16/18; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 10/17/18.
   
1 The MVIS® Global Video Gaming and eSports Index (MVESPOTR) is a rules based, modified capitalization weighted, float adjusted index intended to give investors a means of tracking the overall performance of companies involved in video gaming and eSports.
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     

 

This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.

   

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 12 for more information.

11

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE

(unaudited)

 

The price used to calculate market return (Share Price) is determined by using the closing price listed on its primary listing exchange. Since the shares of each Fund did not trade in the secondary market until after each Fund’s commencement, for the period from commencement to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of each Fund, the NAV of each Fund is used as a proxy for the secondary market trading price to calculate market returns.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Performance information for each Fund reflects temporary waivers of expenses and/or fees. Had each Fund incurred all expenses, investment returns would have been reduced. These returns do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends and distributions or the sale of Fund shares.

 

Investment return and value of the shares of each Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. Fund returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions. Performance current to the most recent month-end is available by calling 800.826.2333 or by visiting vaneck.com.

 

Index returns assume the reinvestment of all income and do not reflect any management fees or brokerage expenses associated with Fund returns. Certain indices may take into account withholding taxes. Investors cannot invest directly in the Index. Returns for actual Fund investors may differ from what is shown because of differences in timing, the amount invested and fees and expenses.

 

The Biotech Index, Gaming Index, Pharmaceutical Index, Retail Index, Semiconductor Index and Global Video Gaming and eSports Index are published by MV Index Solutions GmbH (MVIS®), which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Adviser, Van Eck Associates Corporation. The Environmental Services Index is published by ICE Data Indices, LLC (ICE Data).

 

MVIS and ICE Data are referred to herein as the “Index Providers.” The Index Providers do not sponsor, endorse, or promote the Funds and bear no liability with respect to the Funds or any security.

12

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

EXPLANATION OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

Hypothetical $1,000 investment at beginning of period

As a shareholder of a Fund, you incur operating expenses, including management fees and other Fund expenses. This disclosure is intended to help you understand the ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

The disclosure is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period, April 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020.

 

Actual Expenses

The first line in the table below provides information about account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of other funds.

 

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales. Therefore, the second line of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

        Beginning   Ending   Annualized   Expenses Paid
        Account   Account   Expense   During the Period*
        Value   Value   Ratio   April 1, 2020 –
        April 1, 2020   September 30, 2020   During Period   September 30, 2020
Biotech ETF                    
    Actual   $1,000.00            $ 1,266.70             0.35%   $1.98
    Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $ 1,023.25     0.35%   $1.77
Environmental Services ETF                    
    Actual   $1,000.00   $ 1,287.10     0.55%   $3.14
    Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $ 1,022.25     0.55%   $2.78
Gaming ETF                    
    Actual   $1,000.00   $ 1,513.20     0.65%   $4.08
    Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $ 1,021.75     0.65%   $3.29
Pharmaceutical ETF                    
    Actual   $1,000.00   $ 1,151.70     0.35%   $1.88
    Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $ 1,023.25     0.35%   $1.77
Retail ETF                    
    Actual   $1,000.00   $ 1,411.50     0.35%   $2.11
    Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $ 1,023.25     0.35%   $1.77
Semiconductor ETF                    
    Actual   $1,000.00   $ 1,489.60     0.35%   $2.18
    Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $ 1,023.25     0.35%   $1.77
Video Gaming and eSports ETF                    
    Actual   $1,000.00   $ 1,589.80     0.55%   $3.56
    Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $ 1,022.25     0.55%   $2.78

 

* Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio (for the six months ended September 30, 2020) multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by the number of days in the fiscal year (to reflect the one-half year period).
** Assumes annual return of 5% before expenses
13

VANECK VECTORS BIOTECH ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number
of Shares
        Value  
                 
COMMON STOCKS: 100.0%        
China / Hong Kong: 2.6%        
  43,876     BeiGene Ltd. (ADR) *   $ 12,567,842  
Germany: 1.6%        
  111,468     BioNTech SE (ADR) *     7,716,930  
Netherlands: 3.0%        
  277,239     QIAGEN NV (USD) *     14,488,510  
United States: 92.8%        
  185,008     Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. *     21,170,466  
  86,439     Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. *     12,585,518  
  284,899     Amgen, Inc.     72,409,930  
  81,680     Biogen, Inc. *     23,170,982  
  169,748     BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc. *     12,914,428  
  64,584     Charles River Laboratories International, Inc. *     14,625,047  
  184,812     Exact Sciences Corp. * †     18,841,583  
  538,569     Gilead Sciences, Inc.     34,032,175  
  137,873     Guardant Health, Inc. *     15,411,444  
  67,330     Illumina, Inc. *     20,810,356  
Number
of Shares
        Value  
                 
United States: (continued)        
  296,489     Immunomedics, Inc. *   $ 25,210,460  
  197,127     Incyte Corp. *     17,690,177  
  125,918     Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. *     5,974,809  
  138,200     IQVIA Holdings, Inc. *     21,784,466  
  352,068     Moderna, Inc. *     24,908,811  
  85,673     Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. *     8,238,316  
  75,415     Novavax, Inc. * †     8,171,215  
  37,085     Quidel Corp. *     8,135,707  
  43,588     Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc. *     24,399,691  
  93,896     Sarepta Therapeutics, Inc. *     13,185,815  
  108,578     Seattle Genetics, Inc. *     21,247,629  
  95,436     Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. *     25,970,044  
              450,889,069  
Total Common Stocks: 100.0%
(Cost: $440,417,849)
    485,662,351  
Liabilities in excess of other assets: (0.0)%     (212,140 )
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 485,450,211  


 

 

Definitions:

ADR American Depositary Receipt
USD United States Dollar
   

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $21,317,642.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector   % of Investments   Value  
Biotechnology     80.4 %   $ 390,406,821  
Health Care Services                 3.2                     15,411,444  
Health Care Supplies     1.7       8,135,707  
Life Sciences Tools & Services     14.7       71,708,379  
      100.0 %   $ 485,662,351  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

    Level 1
Quoted
Prices
  Level 2
Significant
Observable
Inputs
  Level 3
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
  Value  
Common Stocks*   $ 485,662,351     $       $        $ 485,662,351  

 

* See Schedule of Investments for geographic sector breakouts.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

14

VANECK VECTORS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number
of Shares
        Value  
             
COMMON STOCKS: 99.8%        
Canada: 3.8%        
  55,480     GFL Environmental, Inc. (USD)   $ 1,179,505  
United States: 96.0%        
  31,558     ABM Industries, Inc.     1,156,916  
  25,782     Cantel Medical Corp.     1,132,861  
  21,530     Casella Waste Systems, Inc. *     1,202,450  
  20,961     Clean Harbors, Inc. *     1,174,445  
  144,037     Covanta Holding Corp.     1,116,287  
  34,513     Darling International, Inc. *     1,243,503  
  24,878     Donaldson Co., Inc.     1,154,837  
  15,196     Ecolab, Inc.     3,036,769  
  71,910     Energy Recovery, Inc. * †     589,662  
  58,816     Evoqua Water Technologies Corp. *     1,248,075  
  40,872     Heritage-Crystal Clean, Inc. *     545,641  
  32,696     Republic Services, Inc.     3,052,172  
  30,334     Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.     583,323  
  87,712     Sharps Compliance Corp. *     549,954  
  19,263     Stericycle, Inc. *     1,214,725  
  7,071     STERIS Plc     1,245,839  
  19,178     Tennant Co.     1,157,584  
  13,049     Tetra Tech, Inc.     1,246,179  
  18,013     US Ecology, Inc.     588,485  
  31,397     Waste Connections, Inc.     3,259,009  
  27,287     Waste Management, Inc.     3,088,070  
              29,586,786  
Total Common Stocks: 99.8%
(Cost: $28,051,126)
    30,766,291  
Other assets less liabilities: 0.2%     49,553  
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 30,815,844  


 

 

Definitions:

USD United States Dollar
   

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $229,633.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector   % of Investments   Value  
Consumer Staples     4.0 %   $ 1,243,503  
Health Care                 9.5                      2,928,654  
Industrials     74.7       22,974,042  
Materials     11.8       3,620,092  
      100.0 %   $ 30,766,291  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

    Level 1
Quoted
Prices
  Level 2
Significant
Observable
Inputs
  Level 3
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
  Value  
Common Stocks*   $ 30,766,291     $       $      $ 30,766,291  

 

* See Schedule of Investments for geographic sector breakouts.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

15

VANECK VECTORS GAMING ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number
of Shares
        Value  
                 
COMMON STOCKS: 99.7%        
Australia: 11.0%        
  166,111     Aristocrat Leisure Ltd. #   $ 3,625,167  
  93,385     Crown Resorts Ltd. #     593,637  
  234,744     Star Entertainment Group Ltd. #     518,196  
  538,160     TABCORP Holdings Ltd. #     1,296,857  
              6,033,857  
Cambodia: 1.1%        
  516,000     Nagacorp Ltd. #     616,698  
China / Hong Kong: 17.4%        
  578,240     Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd. #     3,909,330  
  119,000     Melco International Development Ltd. #     209,697  
  52,318     Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd. (ADR)     871,095  
  262,100     MGM China Holdings Ltd. † #     326,652  
  760,400     Sands China Ltd. #     2,947,490  
  658,000     SJM Holdings Ltd. #     780,041  
  309,600     Wynn Macau Ltd. * #     496,851  
              9,541,156  
France: 2.2%        
  32,927     La Francaise des Jeux SAEM Reg S 144A #     1,208,182  
Greece: 1.0%        
  59,622     OPAP SA #     565,486  
Ireland: 8.5%        
  29,206     Flutter Entertainment Plc #     4,636,028  
Japan: 2.5%        
  19,400     Heiwa Corp. † #     318,879  
  15,279     Sankyo Co. Ltd. #     399,842  
  53,400     Sega Sammy Holdings, Inc. #     650,437  
              1,369,158  
Malaysia: 1.7%        
  638,700     Genting Bhd #     490,150  
  839,198     Genting Malaysia Bhd #     420,719  
              910,869  
Malta: 0.7%        
  54,816     Kindred Group Plc (SDR) #     397,151  
New Zealand: 0.5%        
  133,430     SkyCity Entertainment Group Ltd. #     264,526  
Singapore: 1.6%        
  1,777,100     Genting Singapore Ltd. #     877,181  
Number
of Shares
        Value  
                 
South Korea: 1.2%        
  26,775     Kangwon Land, Inc. #   $ 492,256  
  14,556     Paradise Co. Ltd. #     170,727  
              662,983  
Sweden: 4.5%        
  30,116     Evolution Gaming Group AB Reg S 144A #     1,991,159  
  54,694     NetEnt AB * #     464,197  
              2,455,356  
United Kingdom: 5.2%        
  130,175     GVC Holdings Plc * #     1,633,437  
  61,922     Playtech Ltd. #     289,647  
  266,442     William Hill Plc #     948,917  
              2,872,001  
United States: 40.6%        
  18,855     Boyd Gaming Corp.     578,660  
  32,555     Caesars Entertainment, Inc. * †     1,825,033  
  7,543     Churchill Downs, Inc.     1,235,694  
  73,165     DraftKings, Inc. * †     4,305,029  
  44,898     Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc.     1,658,083  
  31,463     International Game Technology Plc †     350,183  
  73,961     Las Vegas Sands Corp.     3,451,020  
  29,251     MGM Growth Properties LLC     818,443  
  102,040     MGM Resorts International     2,219,370  
  26,746     Penn National Gaming, Inc. * †     1,944,434  
  110,394     VICI Properties, Inc.     2,579,908  
  17,576     Wynn Resorts Ltd. *     1,262,133  
              22,227,990  
Total Common Stocks
(Cost: $50,990,791)
    54,638,622  
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT HELD AS COLLATERAL FOR SECURITIES ON LOAN: 0.0%
(Cost: $109)
Money Market Fund: 0.0%        
  109      State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio     109  
Total Investments: 99.7%
(Cost: $50,990,900)
    54,638,731  
Other assets less liabilities: 0.3%     154,126  
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 54,792,857  


 

See Notes to Financial Statements

16

 

 

Definitions:

ADR American Depositary Receipt
SDR Swedish Depositary Receipt
   

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $7,905,823.
# Security has been valued in good faith pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of Trustees. The aggregate value of fair valued securities is $31,539,537 which represents 57.6% of net assets.
Reg S Security was purchased pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside of the United States. Such a security cannot be sold in the United States without either an effective registration statement filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, or pursuant to an exemption from registration.
144A Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or otherwise restricted. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, unless otherwise noted, and the value amounted to $3,199,341, or 5.8% of net assets.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector
Excluding Collateral for Securities Loaned
  % of Investments   Value  
Consumer Discretionary                90.7 %   $ 49,582,188  
Real Estate     9.3                      5,056,434  
      100.0 %   $ 54,638,622  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

    Level 1
Quoted
Prices
    Level 2
Significant
Observable
Inputs
    Level 3
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
  Value  
Common Stocks                                  
Australia   $     $ 6,033,857            $        $ 6,033,857  
Cambodia           616,698               616,698  
China / Hong Kong     871,095       8,670,061               9,541,156  
France           1,208,182               1,208,182  
Greece           565,486               565,486  
Ireland           4,636,028               4,636,028  
Japan           1,369,158               1,369,158  
Malaysia           910,869               910,869  
Malta           397,151               397,151  
New Zealand           264,526               264,526  
Singapore           877,181               877,181  
South Korea           662,983               662,983  
Sweden           2,455,356               2,455,356  
United Kingdom           2,872,001               2,872,001  
United States     22,227,990                     22,227,990  
Money Market Fund     109                     109  
Total   $ 23,099,194     $ 31,539,537       $     $ 54,638,731  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

17

VANECK VECTORS PHARMACEUTICAL ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number
of Shares
        Value  
                 
COMMON STOCKS: 99.8%        
Denmark: 5.2%        
  177,243     Novo Nordisk A/S (ADR)   $ 12,305,982  
France: 4.9%        
  228,805     Sanofi SA (ADR)     11,479,147  
Ireland: 7.6%        
  543,469     Amarin Corp. Plc (ADR) * †     2,288,005  
  64,936     Jazz Pharmaceuticals Plc (USD) *     9,259,224  
  136,974     Perrigo Co. Plc (USD)     6,288,476  
              17,835,705  
Israel: 4.6%        
  1,197,285     Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. (ADR) *     10,787,538  
Japan: 4.5%        
  588,698     Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. (ADR)     10,502,372  
Switzerland: 5.0%        
  133,906     Novartis AG (ADR)     11,644,466  
United Kingdom: 10.4%        
  220,231     AstraZeneca Plc (ADR)     12,068,659  
  267,469     GlaxoSmithKline Plc (ADR)     10,067,533  
  23,974     GW Pharmaceuticals Plc (ADR) * †     2,333,869  
              24,470,061  
Number
of Shares
        Value  
             
United States: 57.6%        
  128,923     AbbVie, Inc.   $ 11,292,366  
  110,519     AmerisourceBergen Corp.     10,711,501  
  356,279     Bausch Health Cos, Inc. *     5,536,576  
  199,953     Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.     12,055,166  
  125,376     Catalent, Inc. *     10,739,708  
  265,480     Elanco Animal Health, Inc. *     7,414,856  
  77,734     Eli Lilly & Co.     11,506,187  
  78,913     Johnson & Johnson     11,748,567  
  69,804     McKesson Corp.     10,395,910  
  139,175     Merck & Co., Inc.     11,544,566  
  542,403     Mylan NV *     8,043,837  
  63,004     Patterson Companies, Inc.     1,518,711  
  326,512     Pfizer, Inc.     11,982,990  
  66,905     Zoetis, Inc.     11,064,080  
              135,555,021  
Total Common Stocks
(Cost: $262,480,657)
    234,580,292  
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT HELD AS COLLATERAL FOR SECURITIES ON LOAN: 0.9%
(Cost: $2,245,622)
Money Market Fund: 0.9%        
  2,245,622     State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio     2,245,622  
Total Investments: 100.7%
(Cost: $264,726,279)
    236,825,914  
Liabilities in excess of other assets: (0.7)%     (1,676,590 )
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 235,149,324  


 

 

Definitions:

ADR American Depositary Receipt
USD United States Dollar
   

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $4,386,374.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector
Excluding Collateral for Securities Loaned
  % of Investments   Value  
Biotechnology     5.8 %                $ 13,580,371  
Health Care Distributors     9.6       22,626,122  
Pharmaceuticals     84.6       198,373,799  
         100.0 %   $ 234,580,292  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

    Level 1
Quoted
Prices
  Level 2
Significant
Observable
Inputs
  Level 3
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
  Value  
Common Stocks*   $ 234,580,292     $           $         $ 234,580,292  
Money Market Fund     2,245,622                     2,245,622  
Total   $ 236,825,914     $       $     $ 236,825,914  

 

* See Schedule of Investments for geographic sector breakouts.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

18

VANECK VECTORS RETAIL ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number
of Shares
        Value  
                 
COMMON STOCKS: 100.1%        
Canada: 2.1%        
  11,449     Lululemon Athletica, Inc. (USD) *   $ 3,770,957  
China / Hong Kong: 4.5%        
  106,044     JD.com, Inc. (ADR) *     8,230,075  
United States: 93.5%        
  11,130     Amazon.com, Inc. *     35,045,365  
  24,238     AmerisourceBergen Corp.     2,349,147  
  3,746     AutoZone, Inc. *     4,411,439  
  33,966     Best Buy Co., Inc.     3,780,076  
  40,814     Cardinal Health, Inc.     1,916,217  
  26,254     Costco Wholesale Corp.     9,320,170  
  137,503     CVS Caremark Corp.     8,030,175  
  38,387     Dollar General Corp.     8,046,683  
  36,579     Dollar Tree, Inc. *     3,341,126  
  30,679     L Brands, Inc.     975,899  
  57,011     Lowe’s Companies, Inc.     9,455,844  
  26,014     McKesson Corp.     3,874,265  
Number
of Shares
        Value  
                 
United States: (continued)        
  12,187     O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. *   $ 5,619,182  
  51,909     Ross Stores, Inc.     4,844,148  
  77,327     Sysco Corp.     4,811,286  
  55,477     Target Corp.     8,733,189  
  55,234     The Gap, Inc.     940,635  
  71,727     The Home Depot, Inc.     19,919,305  
  118,290     The Kroger Co.     4,011,214  
  149,480     TJX Cos, Inc.     8,318,562  
  115,519     Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.     4,149,443  
  118,013     Walmart, Inc.     16,511,199  
  5,559     Wayfair, Inc. * †     1,617,725  
              170,022,294  
Total Common Stocks: 100.1%
(Cost: $162,127,027)
    182,023,326  
Liabilities in excess of other assets: (0.1)%     (171,542 )
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 181,851,784  


 

 

Definitions:

ADR American Depositary Receipt
USD United States Dollar
   

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $1,536,824.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector   % of Investments   Value  
Consumer Discretionary     69.8 %                $ 127,050,210  
Consumer Staples     21.3       38,803,312  
Health Care     8.9       16,169,804  
      100.0 %   $ 182,023,326  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

    Level 1
Quoted
Prices
  Level 2
Significant
Observable
Inputs
  Level 3
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
  Value  
Common Stocks*   $ 182,023,326     $          $        $ 182,023,326  

 

* See Schedule of Investments for geographic sector breakouts.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

19

VANECK VECTORS SEMICONDUCTOR ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number
of Shares
        Value  
                 
COMMON STOCKS: 100.1%        
Netherlands: 9.3%        
  355,635     ASML Holding N.V. (USD)   $ 131,325,336  
  925,822     NXP Semiconductor N.V. (USD)     115,551,844  
              246,877,180  
Switzerland: 3.0%        
  2,561,282     STMicroelectronics N.V. (USD) †     78,605,745  
Taiwan: 11.0%        
  3,601,207     Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (ADR)     291,949,851  
United States: 76.8%        
  1,560,303     Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. *     127,929,243  
  996,230     Analog Devices, Inc.     116,299,890  
  2,083,770     Applied Materials, Inc.     123,880,127  
  354,985     Broadcom, Inc.     129,328,135  
  820,395     Cadence Design Systems, Inc. *     87,478,719  
  2,988,855     Intel Corp.     154,762,912  
  430,159     KLA-Tencor Corp.     83,339,005  
  382,244     Lam Research Corp.     126,809,447  
  1,471,753     Marvell Technology Group Ltd.     58,428,594  
  785,616     Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.     53,115,498  
  643,078     Microchip Technology, Inc.     66,082,695  
  2,547,594     Micron Technology, Inc. *     119,635,014  
  402,637     NVIDIA Corp.     217,915,197  
  1,010,437     ON Semiconductor Corp. *     21,916,379  
Number
of Shares
        Value  
             
United States: (continued)        
  361,246     Qorvo, Inc. *   $ 46,604,346  
  1,120,893     Qualcomm, Inc.     131,906,688  
  542,871     Skyworks Solutions, Inc.     78,987,731  
  576,079     Teradyne, Inc.     45,775,237  
  914,980     Texas Instruments, Inc.     130,649,994  
  159,290     Universal Display Corp.     28,790,075  
  783,316     Xilinx, Inc.     81,652,860  
              2,031,287,786  
Total Common Stocks
(Cost: $2,547,973,532)
    2,648,720,562  
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT HELD AS COLLATERAL FOR SECURITIES ON LOAN: 0.3%
(Cost: $8,908,520)
Money Market Fund: 0.3%        
  8,908,520     State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio     8,908,520  
Total Investments: 100.4%
(Cost: $2,556,882,052)
    2,657,629,082  
Liabilities in excess of other assets: (0.4)%     (11,364,405 )
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 2,646,264,677  


 

 

Definitions:

ADR American Depositary Receipt
USD United States Dollar
   

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $9,210,867.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector
Excluding Collateral for Securities Loaned
  % of Investments   Value  
Application Software     3.3 %                $ 87,478,719  
Semiconductor Equipment     19.3       511,129,152  
Semiconductors        77.4       2,050,112,691  
      100.0 %   $ 2,648,720,562  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

    Level 1
Quoted
Prices
  Level 2
Significant
Observable
Inputs
  Level 3
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
  Value  
Common Stocks*   $ 2,648,720,562     $       $     $ 2,648,720,562  
Money Market Fund     8,908,520                           8,908,520  
Total   $ 2,657,629,082     $       $     $ 2,657,629,082  

 

* See Schedule of Investments for geographic sector breakouts.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

20

VANECK VECTORS VIDEO GAMING AND ESPORTS ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number
of Shares
        Value  
             
COMMON STOCKS: 100.1%        
China / Hong Kong: 18.3%        
  496,165     Bilibili, Inc. (ADR) *   $ 20,640,464  
  1,679,000     Kingsoft Corp. Ltd. * † #     8,458,944  
  53,475     NetEase, Inc. (ADR)     24,313,478  
  620,700     Tencent Holdings Ltd. #     41,924,440  
              95,337,326  
France: 3.0%        
  174,916     Ubisoft Entertainment SA * #     15,767,526  
Japan: 23.1%        
  361,900     Bandai Namco Holdings, Inc. #     26,500,085  
  202,000     Capcom Co. Ltd. #     11,266,383  
  178,200     DeNa Co. Ltd. #     3,277,537  
  231,300     Konami Holdings Corp. † #     9,999,522  
  951,000     Nexon Co. Ltd. #     23,706,913  
  60,600     Nintendo Co. Ltd. #     34,320,328  
  175,100     Square Enix Holdings Co. Ltd. #     11,581,204  
              120,651,972  
Poland: 4.1%        
  197,881     CD Project SA * #     21,420,845  
Singapore: 6.3%        
  213,261     Sea Ltd. (ADR) * †     32,850,724  
South Korea: 6.3%        
  31,993     NCSoft Corp. #     22,047,435  
  76,562     Netmarble Corp. Reg S 144A * † #     10,831,805  
              32,879,240  
Sweden: 3.1%        
  444,592     Embracer Group AB * #     8,263,731  
  64,542     Stillfront Group AB * #     8,067,214  
              16,330,945  
Taiwan: 2.1%        
  2,362,000     Micro-Star International Co. Ltd. #     10,904,344  
United States: 33.8%        
  348,850     Activision Blizzard, Inc.     28,239,407  
  431,416     Advanced Micro Devices, Inc. *     35,371,798  
  176,511     Electronic Arts, Inc. *     23,018,800  
  79,402     NVIDIA Corp.     42,973,950  
  143,240     Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. *     23,666,113  
  2,500,621     Zynga, Inc. *     22,805,664  
              176,075,732  
Total Common Stocks
(Cost: $393,123,079)
    522,218,654  
Number
of Shares
          Value  
         
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT HELD AS COLLATERAL FOR SECURITIES ON LOAN: 0.0%
(Cost: $309)
Money Market Fund: 0.0%        
  309     State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio   $ 309  
Total Investments: 100.1%
(Cost: $393,123,388)
    522,218,963  
Liabilities in excess of other assets: (0.1)%     (651,430)  
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 521,567,533  


 

See Notes to Financial Statements

21

VANECK VECTORS VIDEO GAMING AND ESPORTS ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

(continued)

 

Definitions:

ADR American Depositary Receipt

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $50,298,117.
# Security has been valued in good faith pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of Trustees. The aggregate value of fair valued securities is $268,338,256 which represents 51.4% of net assets.
Reg S Security was purchased pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside of the United States. Such a security cannot be sold in the United States without either an effective registration statement filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, or pursuant to an exemption from registration.
144A Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or otherwise restricted. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, unless otherwise noted, and the value amounted to $10,831,805, or 2.1% of net assets.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector
Excluding Collateral for Securities Loaned
  % of Investments   Value  
Communication Services        76.2 %                $ 398,009,533  
Consumer Discretionary     5.1       26,500,085  
Information Technology     18.7       97,709,036  
      100.0 %   $ 522,218,654  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

    Level 1
Quoted
Prices
    Level 2
Significant
Observable
Inputs
    Level 3
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
   Value  
Common Stocks                                  
China / Hong Kong   $ 44,953,942     $ 50,383,384            $          $ 95,337,326  
France           15,767,526               15,767,526  
Japan           120,651,972               120,651,972  
Poland           21,420,845               21,420,845  
Singapore     32,850,724                     32,850,724  
South Korea           32,879,240               32,879,240  
Sweden           16,330,945               16,330,945  
Taiwan           10,904,344               10,904,344  
United States     176,075,732                     176,075,732  
Money Market Fund     309                     309  
Total   $ 253,880,707     $ 268,338,256       $     $ 522,218,963  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

22

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23

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

September 30, 2020

 

    Biotech
ETF
    Environmental
Services
ETF
    Gaming
ETF
    Pharmaceutical
ETF
 
                                 
Assets:                                
Investments, at value                                
Unaffiliated issuers (1)(2)   $ 485,662,351     $ 30,766,291     $ 54,638,622     $ 234,580,292  
Short-term investments held as collateral for securities loaned (3)                 109       2,245,622  
Cash     52,279       281,849             177,916  
Cash denominated in foreign currency, at value (4)                 12,472        
Receivables:                                
Investment securities sold     4,050,403       6,376,489       112,793        
Shares of beneficial interest sold                 3,913,772        
Dividends and interest     11,507       28,204       97,896       555,306  
Prepaid expenses     6,550       1,325       1,330       3,946  
Total assets     489,783,090       37,454,158       58,776,994       237,563,082  
                                 
Liabilities:                                
Payables:                                
Investment securities purchased           3,592,195       3,810,544        
Collateral for securities loaned                 109       2,245,622  
Line of credit                        
Shares of beneficial interest redeemed     4,050,139       2,978,951              
Due to Adviser     131,557       887       12,432       57,054  
Due to custodian                 82,619        
Deferred Trustee fees     48,779       2,702       6,805       28,323  
Accrued expenses     102,404       63,579       71,628       82,759  
Total liabilities     4,332,879       6,638,314       3,984,137       2,413,758  
NET ASSETS   $ 485,450,211     $ 30,815,844     $ 54,792,857     $ 235,149,324  
Shares outstanding     2,996,503       310,000       1,400,000       3,788,138  
Net asset value, redemption and offering price per share   $ 162.01     $ 99.41     $ 39.14     $ 62.08  
                                 
Net Assets consist of:                                
Aggregate paid in capital   $ 522,864,905     $ 41,336,755     $ 64,959,986     $ 332,307,287  
Total distributable earnings (loss)     (37,414,694 )     (10,520,911 )     (10,167,129 )     (97,157,963 )
NET ASSETS   $ 485,450,211     $ 30,815,844     $ 54,792,857     $ 235,149,324  
(1)   Value of securities on loan   $ 21,317,642     $ 229,633     $ 7,905,823     $ 4,386,374  
(2)   Cost of investments   $ 440,417,849     $ 28,051,126     $ 50,990,791     $ 262,480,657  
(3)   Cost of short-term investments held as collateral for securities loaned   $     $     $ 109     $ 2,245,622  
(4)   Cost of cash denominated in foreign currency   $     $     $ 12,463     $  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

24

 

 

Retail
ETF
    Semiconductor
ETF
    Video Gaming
and eSports
ETF
 
                     
$ 182,023,326     $ 2,648,720,562     $ 522,218,654  
        8,908,520       309  
              470,118  
              127,266  
                     
        87,217,025       192,830  
        34,886,904       935  
  47,057       2,389,718       173,492  
  2,641       13,114       3,967  
  182,073,024       2,782,135,843       523,187,571  
                     
        17,440,624       898,473  
        8,908,520       309  
        3,984,928       476,860  
        104,658,387        
  34,930       676,311       175,254  
  115,366       15,203        
  6,820       42,635       339  
  64,124       144,558       68,803  
  221,240       135,871,166       1,620,038  
$ 181,851,784     $ 2,646,264,677     $ 521,567,533  
  1,221,531       15,170,937       8,500,000  
$ 148.87     $ 174.43     $ 61.36  
                     
$ 171,138,305     $ 2,601,629,377     $ 393,563,000  
  10,713,479       44,635,300       128,004,533  
$ 181,851,784     $ 2,646,264,677     $ 521,567,533  
$ 1,536,824     $ 9,210,867     $ 50,298,117  
$ 162,127,027     $ 2,547,973,532     $ 393,123,079  
$     $ 8,908,520     $ 309  
$     $     $ 127,266  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

25

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the Year Ended September 30, 2020

 

    Biotech
ETF
    Environmental
Services
ETF
    Gaming
ETF
    Pharmaceutical
ETF
 
                         
Income:                                
Dividends   $ 3,018,101     $ 330,987     $ 687,362     $ 4,402,731  
Interest     261       193       171       238  
Securities lending income     45,614       18,977       10,807       27,601  
Foreign taxes withheld     (13,813 )     (4,192 )     (14,736 )     (217,388 )
Total income     3,050,163       345,965       683,604       4,213,182  
                                 
Expenses:                                
Management fees     1,411,239       169,331       165,791       705,625  
Professional fees     68,721       70,310       70,443       66,794  
Custody and accounting fees     29,245       27,356       39,184       30,143  
Reports to shareholders     24,675       10,586       12,017       17,846  
IOPV fees     5,712             5,509       4,062  
Trustees’ fees and expenses     12,423       317       176       5,247  
Registration fees     4,594       6,901       5,169       5,576  
Transfer agent fees     200       200       200       200  
Insurance     8,938       1,702       1,685       5,368  
Interest     11,006             508       7,948  
Other     5,320       1,000       3,779       2,933  
Total expenses     1,582,073       287,703       304,461       851,742  
Waiver of management fees     (160,681 )     (101,413 )     (88,120 )     (138,347 )
Net expenses     1,421,392       186,290       216,341       713,395  
Net investment income     1,628,771       159,675       467,263       3,499,787  
                                 
Net realized gain (loss) on:                                
Investments     (40,769,794 )     (6,015,068 )     (3,697,559 )     (19,412,913 )
In-kind redemptions     44,343,087       4,232,201       2,339,895       23,762,097  
Capital gain distributions received                 787        
Foreign currency transactions and foreign denominated assets and liabilities           4       (7,958 )      
Net realized gain (loss)     3,573,293       (1,782,863 )     (1,364,835 )     4,349,184  
                                 
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:                                
Investments     111,943,737       239,751       8,613,829       20,416,513  
Foreign currency transactions and foreign denominated assets and liabilities                 1,918        
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)     111,943,737       239,751       8,615,747       20,416,513  
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations   $ 117,145,801     $ (1,383,437 )   $ 7,718,175     $ 28,265,484  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

26

 

 

Retail
ETF
    Semiconductor
ETF
    Video Gaming
and eSports
ETF
 
                     
$ 1,406,636     $ 33,430,296     $ 1,221,565  
  326       6,455       255  
  1,960       141,409       48,004  
        (2,034,079 )     (128,229 )
  1,408,922       31,544,081       1,141,595  
                     
  375,184       6,658,157       935,048  
  67,115       68,475       67,359  
  28,561       52,200       45,093  
  16,075       90,305       21,606  
  5,656       5,711       3,381  
  3,245       64,480       8,558  
  5,172       6,111       9,272  
  200       200       200  
  3,628       15,240       2,436  
  270       18,870       2,324  
  1,689       22,791       1,557  
  506,795       7,002,540       1,096,834  
  (131,054 )     (345,202 )     (59,209 )
  375,741       6,657,338       1,037,625  
  1,033,181       24,886,743       103,970  
                     
  (4,786,723 )     (49,967,925 )     (906,768 )
  12,056,803       589,773,697        
               
                     
              (19,565 )
  7,270,080       539,805,772       (926,333 )
                     
  24,679,366       193,386,180       126,217,930  
                     
              (633 )
  24,679,366       193,386,180       126,217,297  
$ 32,982,627     $ 758,078,695     $ 125,394,934  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

27

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

 

    Biotech ETF     Environmental Services ETF  
    Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
    Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
 
Operations:                                
Net investment income   $ 1,628,771     $ 1,220,768     $ 159,675     $ 138,740  
Net realized gain (loss)     3,573,293       (5,451,394 )     (1,782,863 )     3,118,604  
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)     111,943,737       (54,057,304 )     239,751       (1,067,809 )
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations     117,145,801       (58,287,930 )     (1,383,437 )     2,189,535  
                                 
Distributions to shareholders:                                
From distributable earnings     (1,250,208 )     (1,899,023 )     (165,025 )     (95,100 )
                                 
Share transactions:*                                
Proceeds from sale of shares     195,549,299       45,900,271       12,786,779       29,326,383  
Cost of shares redeemed     (144,293,768 )     (143,308,258 )     (16,911,063 )     (19,092,505 )
Increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from share transactions     51,255,531       (97,407,987 )     (4,124,284 )     10,233,878  
Total increase (decrease) in net assets     167,151,124       (157,594,940 )     (5,672,746 )     12,328,313  
Net Assets, beginning of year     318,299,087       475,894,027       36,488,590       24,160,277  
Net Assets, end of year   $ 485,450,211     $ 318,299,087     $ 30,815,844     $ 36,488,590  
                                 
* Shares of Common Stock Issued (no par value)                                
Shares sold     1,275,000       400,000       130,000       300,000  
Shares redeemed     (975,000 )     (1,200,000 )     (170,000 )     (200,000 )
Net increase (decrease)     300,000       (800,000 )     (40,000 )     100,000  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

28

 

 

Gaming ETF     Pharmaceutical ETF  
Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
    Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
 
                             
$ 467,263     $ 769,118     $ 3,499,787     $ 3,577,677  
  (1,364,835 )     (2,157,504 )     4,349,184       (36,404,108 )
  8,615,747       285,460       20,416,513       7,257,515  
  7,718,175       (1,102,926 )     28,265,484       (25,568,916 )
                             
  (800,020 )     (849,750 )     (3,321,670 )     (3,869,339 )
                             
  33,435,454       3,636,558       388,323,148       147,451,491  
  (9,359,864 )     (3,726,047 )     (319,778,063 )     (252,397,944 )
                             
  24,075,590       (89,489 )     68,545,085       (104,946,453 )
  30,993,745       (2,042,165 )     93,488,899       (134,384,708 )
  23,799,112       25,841,277       141,660,425       276,045,133  
$ 54,792,857     $ 23,799,112     $ 235,149,324     $ 141,660,425  
                             
  1,000,000       100,000       6,450,000       2,550,000  
  (250,000 )     (100,000 )     (5,150,000 )     (4,350,000 )
  750,000             1,300,000       (1,800,000 )

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

29

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

(continued)

 

    Retail ETF     Semiconductor ETF  
             
    Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
   

 

Year Ended
September 30,
2020

    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
 
Operations:                                
Net investment income   $ 1,033,181     $ 1,128,265     $ 24,886,743     $ 17,752,181  
Net realized gain (loss)     7,270,080       2,451,083       539,805,772       113,864,810  
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)     24,679,366       (8,435,510 )     193,386,180       17,079,544  
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations     32,982,627       (4,856,162 )     758,078,695       148,696,535  
                                 
Distributions to shareholders:                                
From distributable earnings     (950,056 )     (1,300,386 )     (19,250,343 )     (14,202,995 )
                                 
Share transactions:*                                
Proceeds from sale of shares     145,515,451       52,873,806       13,726,301,764       19,302,146,323  
Cost of shares redeemed     (66,852,325 )     (111,684,252 )     (13,179,602,021 )     (19,291,227,031 )
Increase in net assets resulting from share transactions     78,663,126       (58,810,446 )     546,699,743       10,919,292  
Total increase in net assets     110,695,697       (64,966,994 )     1,285,528,095       145,412,832  
Net Assets, beginning of period     71,156,087       136,123,081       1,360,736,582       1,215,323,750  
Net Assets, end of period   $ 181,851,784     $ 71,156,087     $ 2,646,264,677     $ 1,360,736,582  
                                 
* Shares of Common Stock Issued (no par value)                                
Shares sold     1,150,000       500,000       99,350,000       188,800,000  
Shares redeemed     (550,000 )     (1,100,000 )     (95,600,000 )     (188,800,000 )
Net increase     600,000       (600,000 )     3,750,000        

 

 

* Commencement of operations

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

30

 

 

Video Gaming and eSports ETF  
Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    For the Period
October 16,
2018* through
September 30,
2019
 
             
$ 103,970     $ 64,985  
  (926,333 )     (205,932 )
  126,217,297       2,877,646  
  125,394,934       2,736,699  
             
  (125,100 )     (2,000 )
             
  357,494,489       36,068,511  
         
  357,494,489       36,068,511  
  482,764,323       38,803,210  
  38,803,210        
$ 521,567,533     $ 38,803,210  
             
  7,350,000       1,150,000  
         
  7,350,000       1,150,000  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

31

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding throughout each year:

  

    Biotech ETF  
    For the Year Ended September 30,  
    2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
Net asset value, beginning of year   $ 118.04     $ 136.11     $ 134.17     $ 115.25     $ 114.45  
Income from investment operations:                                        
Net investment income     0.59 (a)     0.39 (a)     0.52 (a)     0.58 (a)     0.33  
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments     43.85       (17.91 )     2.10 (d)     18.67       0.81  
Total from investment operations     44.44       (17.52 )     2.62       19.25       1.14  
Less:                                        
Dividends from net investment income     (0.47 )     (0.55 )     (0.68 )     (0.33 )     (0.34 )
Net asset value, end of year   $ 162.01     $ 118.04     $ 136.11     $ 134.17     $ 115.25  
Total return (b)     37.71 %     (12.84 )%     2.00 %     16.77 %     0.97 %
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                        
Net assets, end of year (000’s)   $ 485,450     $ 318,299     $ 475,894     $ 717,330     $ 598,914  
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets     0.39 %     0.40 %     0.40 %     0.39 %     0.40 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets     0.40 %     0.31 %     0.41 %     0.48 %     0.29 %
Portfolio turnover rate (c)     40 %     24 %     30 %     27 %     41 %
       
    Environmental Services ETF  
    For the Year Ended September 30,  
    2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
Net asset value, beginning of year   $ 104.25     $ 96.64     $ 86.02     $ 69.68     $ 58.37  
Income from investment operations:                                        
Net investment income     0.46 (a)     0.46 (a)     0.42 (a)     0.66 (a)     0.63  
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments     (4.83 )     7.47       10.98       16.21       11.36  
Total from investment operations     (4.37 )     7.93       11.40       16.87       11.99  
Less:                                        
Dividends from net investment income     (0.47 )     (0.32 )     (0.78 )     (0.53 )     (0.68 )
Net asset value, end of year   $ 99.41     $ 104.25     $ 96.64     $ 86.02     $ 69.68  
Total return (b)     (4.23 )%     8.30 %     13.36 %     24.31 %     20.75 %
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                        
Net assets, end of year (000’s)   $ 30,816     $ 36,489     $ 24,160     $ 17,204     $ 17,420  
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets     0.85 %     0.81 %     0.98 %     0.95 %     0.93 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets     0.55 %     0.55 %     0.56 %     0.55 %     0.55 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense     0.55 %     0.55 %     0.55 %     0.55 %     0.55 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets     0.47 %     0.47 %     0.47 %     0.86 %     1.00 %
Portfolio turnover rate (c)     38 %     20 %     24 %     20 %     40 %

 

 

(a) Calculated based upon average shares outstanding
(b) Total return is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the net asset value at the beginning of year, reinvestment of any dividends and distributions at net asset value on the dividend/distributions payment date and a redemption at the net asset value on the last day of the year. The return includes adjustments in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and as such, the net asset values for financial reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset values and returns for shareholder transactions. The return does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends/distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(c) Portfolio turnover rates exclude securities received or delivered as a result of processing in-kind capital share transactions.
(d) The amount shown for a share outstanding does not correspond with the aggregate net gain (loss) on investments for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchases of shares in relation to fluctuating market values of the investments of the Fund.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

32

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding throughout each year:

 

    Gaming ETF  
    For the Year Ended September 30,  
    2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
Net asset value, beginning of year   $ 36.61     $ 39.76     $ 42.61     $ 36.15     $ 29.82  
Income from investment operations:                                        
Net investment income (a)     0.51       1.07       1.03       1.13       0.94  
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments     3.25       (3.09 )     (2.80 )     6.40       6.69  
Total from investment operations     3.76       (2.02 )     (1.77 )     7.53       7.63  
Less:                                        
Dividends from net investment income     (1.23 )     (1.13 )     (1.08 )     (1.07 )     (1.30 )
Net asset value, end of year   $ 39.14     $ 36.61     $ 39.76     $ 42.61     $ 36.15  
Total return (b)     10.03 %     (4.73 )%     (4.51 )%     21.58 %     26.23 %
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                        
Net assets, end of year (000’s)   $ 54,793     $ 23,799     $ 25,841     $ 23,436     $ 19,881  
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets     0.92 %     0.94 %     0.86 %     0.94 %     0.93 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets     0.65 %     0.66 %     0.66 %     0.65 %     0.67 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense     0.65 %     0.65 %     0.65 %     0.65 %     0.65 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets     1.41 %     2.92 %     2.24 %     2.97 %     2.88 %
Portfolio turnover rate (c)     29 %     20 %     31 %     22 %     29 %
       
    Pharmaceutical ETF  
    For the Year Ended September 30,  
    2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
Net asset value, beginning of year   $ 56.93     $ 64.37     $ 57.75     $ 57.44     $ 63.01  
Income from investment operations:                                        
Net investment income (a)     1.06       1.04       1.01       1.18       1.24  
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments     5.14       (7.37 )     6.62       0.26       (5.41 )
Total from investment operations     6.20       (6.33 )     7.63       1.44       (4.17 )
Less:                                        
Dividends from net investment income     (1.05 )     (1.11 )     (1.01 )     (1.13 )     (1.40 )
Net asset value, end of year   $ 62.08     $ 56.93     $ 64.37     $ 57.75     $ 57.44  
Total return (b)     11.02 %     (9.88 )%     13.42 %     2.59 %     (6.72 )%
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                        
Net assets, end of year (000’s)   $ 235,149     $ 141,660     $ 276,045     $ 285,190     $ 231,938  
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets     0.42 %     0.43 %     0.43 %     0.40 %     0.41 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets     0.35 %     0.36 %     0.36 %     0.35 %     0.35 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets     1.74 %     1.77 %     1.70 %     2.14 %     2.04 %
Portfolio turnover rate (c)     18 %     21 %     18 %     40 %     25 %

 

 

(a) Calculated based upon average shares outstanding
(b) Total return is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the net asset value at the beginning of year, reinvestment of any dividends and distributions at net asset value on the dividend/distributions payment date and a redemption at the net asset value on the last day of the year. The return includes adjustments in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and as such, the net asset values for financial reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset values and returns for shareholder transactions. The return does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends/distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(c) Portfolio turnover rates exclude securities received or delivered as a result of processing in-kind capital share transactions.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

33

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding throughout each year:

 

    Retail ETF  
    For the Year Ended September 30,  
    2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
Net asset value, beginning of year   $ 114.49     $ 111.44     $ 81.42     $ 78.02     $ 73.57  
Income from investment operations:                                        
Net investment income (a)     1.22       1.31       1.13       1.15       0.93  
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments     34.25       2.72       30.32       3.64       5.27  
Total from investment operations     35.47       4.03       31.45       4.79       6.20  
Less:                                        
Dividends from net investment income     (1.09 )     (0.98 )     (1.43 )     (1.39 )     (1.75 )
Net asset value, end of year   $ 148.87     $ 114.49     $ 111.44     $ 81.42     $ 78.02  
Total return (b)     31.22 %     3.82 %     39.01 %     6.25 %     8.42 %
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                        
Net assets, end of year (000’s)   $ 181,852     $ 71,156     $ 136,123     $ 58,746     $ 118,706  
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets     0.47 %     0.48 %     0.52 %     0.50 %     0.43 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets     0.96 %     1.25 %     1.15 %     1.46 %     1.22 %
Portfolio turnover rate (c)     12 %     9 %     16 %     17 %     9 %
       
    Semiconductor ETF  
    For the Year Ended September 30,  
    2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
Net asset value, beginning of year   $ 119.14     $ 106.41     $ 93.34     $ 69.36     $ 49.97  
Income from investment operations:                                        
Net investment income (a)     1.88       1.75       1.19       1.10       0.82  
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments     55.53       12.62       13.28       23.46       19.67  
Payment from Adviser                             0.04 (d)
Total from investment operations     57.41       14.37       14.47       24.56       20.53  
Less:                                        
Dividends from net investment income     (2.12 )     (1.64 )     (1.40 )     (0.58 )     (1.14 )
Net asset value, end of year   $ 174.43     $ 119.14     $ 106.41     $ 93.34     $ 69.36  
Total return (b)     48.60 %     14.09 %     15.61 %     35.63 %     41.73 %
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                        
Net assets, end of year (000’s)   $ 2,646,265     $ 1,360,737     $ 1,215,324     $ 800,053     $ 577,130  
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets     0.37 %     0.39 %     0.39 %     0.38 %     0.41 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.36 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %     0.35 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets     1.31 %     1.68 %     1.14 %     1.38 %     1.45 %
Portfolio turnover rate (c)     14 %     19 %     23 %     22 %     53 %

 

 

(a) Calculated based upon average shares outstanding
(b) Total return is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the net asset value at the beginning of year, reinvestment of any dividends and distributions at net asset value on the dividend/distributions payment date and a redemption at the net asset value on the last day of the year. The return includes adjustments in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and as such, the net asset values for financial reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset values and returns for shareholder transactions. The return does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends/distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(c) Portfolio turnover rates exclude securities received or delivered as a result of processing in-kind capital share transactions.
(d) For the year ended September 30, 2016, 0.06% of total return, representing $0.04 per share, consisted of a payment by the Adviser (See Note 3).

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

34

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding throughout each period:

 

    Video Gaming and eSports ETF  
            For the Period  
    For the   October 16,  
    Year Ended   2018(f) through  
    September 30,   September 30,  
    2020   2019  
Net asset value, beginning of period     $ 33.74       $ 30.88    
Income from investment operations:                      
Net investment income (a)       0.03         0.12    
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments       27.67         2.75    
Total from investment operations       27.70         2.87    
Less:                      
Dividends from net investment income       (0.08 )       (0.01 )  
Net asset value, end of period     $ 61.36       $ 33.74    
Total return (b)       82.25 %       9.31 %(c)  
Ratios/Supplemental Data                      
Net assets, end of period (000’s)     $ 521,568       $ 38,803    
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets       0.58 %       0.99 %(d)  
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets       0.55 %       0.55 %(d)  
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense       0.55 %       0.55 %(d)  
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets       0.06 %       0.38 %(d)  
Portfolio turnover rate (e)       25 %       27 %(c)  

 

 

(a) Calculated based upon average shares outstanding
(b) Total return is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the net asset value at the beginning of period, reinvestment of any dividends and distributions at net asset value on the dividend/distributions payment date and a redemption at the net asset value on the last day of the period. The return includes adjustments in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and as such, the net asset values for financial reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset values and returns for shareholder transactions. The return does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends/distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(c) Not Annualized
(d) Annualized
(e) Portfolio turnover rates exclude securities received or delivered as a result of processing in-kind capital share transactions.
(f) Commencement of operations

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

35

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Note 1—Fund Organization—VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company. The Trust was incorporated in Delaware as a statutory trust on March 15, 2001. The Trust operates as a series fund, and offers multiple investment portfolios, each of which represents a separate series of the Trust. These financial statements relate only to the investment portfolios listed in the diversification table below (each a “Fund” and, collectively, the “Funds”).

 

Fund   Diversification Classification
Biotech ETF   Non-Diversified
Environmental Services ETF   Non-Diversified
Gaming ETF   Non-Diversified
Pharmaceutical ETF   Non-Diversified
Retail ETF   Non-Diversified
Semiconductor ETF   Non-Diversified
Video Gaming and eSports ETF   Non-Diversified

 

Each Fund was created to provide investors with the opportunity to purchase a security representing a proportionate undivided interest in a portfolio of securities consisting of substantially all of the common stocks in approximately the same weighting as their index.

 

Note 2—Significant Accounting Policies—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

The Funds are investment companies and follow accounting and reporting requirements of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 946 Financial Services—Investment Companies.

 

The following summarizes the Funds’ significant accounting policies.

 

A. Security Valuation—The Funds value their investments in securities and other assets and liabilities at fair value daily. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Securities traded on national exchanges are valued at the closing price on the markets in which the securities trade. Securities traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market LLC (“NASDAQ”) are valued at the NASDAQ official closing price. Over-the-counter securities not included on NASDAQ and listed securities for which no sale was reported are valued at the mean of the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded they are categorized as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy (described below). Certain foreign securities, whose values may be affected by market direction or events occurring before the Funds’ pricing time (4:00 p.m. Eastern Time) but after the last close of the securities’ primary market, are fair valued using a pricing service and are categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The pricing service, using methods approved by the Board of Trustees, considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to intraday trading in the U.S. markets, based on indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators such as prices of relevant ADR’s and futures contracts. The Funds may also fair value securities in other situations, such as when a particular foreign market is closed but the Fund is open. Short-term debt securities with sixty days or less to maturity are valued at amortized cost, which with accrued interest approximates fair value. Money market fund investments are valued at net asset value and are considered to be Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The Pricing Committee of Van Eck Associates Corporation (the “Adviser”) provides oversight of the Funds’ valuation policies and procedures, which are approved by the Funds’ Board of Trustees. Among other things, these procedures allow the Funds to utilize independent pricing services, quotations from securities dealers, and other market sources to determine fair value. The Pricing Committee convenes regularly to review the fair value of financial instruments or other assets. If market quotations for a security or other asset are not readily available, or if the Adviser believes they do not otherwise reflect the fair value of a security or asset, the security or asset will be fair valued by the Pricing Committee in accordance with the Funds’ valuation policies and procedures. The Pricing Committee employs various methods for calibrating the valuation approaches utilized to determine fair value, including a regular review of key inputs and assumptions, periodic comparisons to valuations provided by other independent pricing services, transactional back-testing and disposition analysis.
36

 

 

  Certain factors such as economic conditions, political events, market trends, the nature of and duration of any restrictions on disposition, trading in similar securities of the issuer or comparable issuers and other security specific information are used to determine the fair value of these securities. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these securities may be categorized either as Level 2 or Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The price which the Funds may realize upon sale of an investment may differ materially from the value presented in the Schedules of Investments.
   
  The Funds utilize various methods to measure the fair value of their investments on a recurring basis, which includes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:
   
  Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
   
  Level 2 — Significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).
   
  Level 3 — Significant unobservable inputs (including each Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).
   
  A summary of the inputs and the levels used to value the Funds’ investments are located in the Schedules of Investments. Additionally, tables that reconcile the valuation of the Funds’ Level 3 investments and that present additional information about valuation methodologies and unobservable inputs, if applicable, are located in the Schedules of Investments.
   
B. Federal Income Taxes—It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required.
   
C. Distributions to Shareholders—Dividends to shareholders from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually by each Fund (except for dividends from net investment income on Pharmaceutical ETF, which are declared and paid quarterly). Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. income tax regulations, which may differ from such amounts determined in accordance with GAAP.
   
D. Currency Translation—Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies and commitments under foreign currency contracts are translated into U.S. dollars at the closing prices of such currencies each business day as quoted by one or more sources. Purchases and sales of investments are translated at the exchange rates prevailing when such investments are acquired or sold. Foreign denominated income and expenses are translated at the exchange rates prevailing when accrued. The portion of realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that result from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed in the financial statements. Such amounts are included with the net realized and unrealized gains and losses on investment securities in the Statements of Operations. Recognized gains or losses attributable to foreign currency fluctuations on foreign currency denominated assets, other than investments, and liabilities are recorded as net realized gain (loss) and net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on foreign currency transactions and foreign denominated assets and liabilities in the Statements of Operations.
   
E. Restricted Securities—The Funds may invest in securities that are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale. These securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration or to the public if the securities are registered. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at an acceptable price may be difficult. Information regarding restricted securities, if any, is included at the end of each Fund’s Schedule of Investments.
   
F. Offsetting Assets and Liabilities—In the ordinary course of business, the Funds enter into transactions subject to enforceable master netting or other similar agreements. Generally, the right of offset in those agreements allows the Funds to offset any exposure to a specific counterparty with any collateral received or delivered to that
37

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

  counterparty based on the terms of the agreements. The Funds may pledge or receive cash and or securities as collateral for derivative instruments and securities lending. For financial reporting purposes, the Funds present securities lending assets and liabilities on a gross basis in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Cash collateral received for securities lending in the form of money market fund investments, if any, at September 30, 2020 is presented in the Schedules of Investments and in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral is disclosed in Note 9 (Securities Lending).
   
G. Other—Security transactions are accounted for on trade date. Realized gains and losses are determined based on the specific identification method. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date except that certain dividends from foreign securities are recognized upon notification of the ex-dividend date. Interest income, including amortization of premiums and discounts, is accrued as earned.
   
  The Funds earn interest income on uninvested cash balances held at the custodian bank. Such amounts, if any, are presented as interest income in the Statements of Operations.
   
  The character of distributions received from certain investments may be comprised of net investment income, capital gains, and return of capital. It is the Funds’ policy to estimate the character of distributions received from these investments based on historical data if actual amounts are not available. After each calendar year end, these investments report the actual tax character of these distributions. Differences between the estimated and actual amounts are reflected in the Funds’ records in the year in which they are reported by adjusting the related cost basis of investments, capital gains and income, as necessary.
   
  In the normal course of business, the Funds enter into contracts that contain a variety of general indemnifications. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Funds that have not yet occurred. However, the Adviser believes the risk of loss under these arrangements to be remote.

 

Note 3—Investment Management and Other Agreements—The Adviser is the investment adviser to the Funds. The Adviser receives a management fee, calculated daily and payable monthly based on an annual rate of each Fund’s average daily net assets. The Adviser has agreed, until at least February 1, 2021, to waive management fees and assume expenses to prevent each Fund’s total annual operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, interest expense, trading expenses, taxes and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding the expense limitations listed in the table below.

 

The management fee rates and expense limitations for the year ended September 30, 2020, are as follows:

 

    Management   Expense
Fund   Fees Rates   Limitations
Biotech ETF     0.35 %     0.35 %
Environmental Services ETF     0.50       0.55  
Gaming ETF     0.50       0.65  
Pharmaceutical ETF     0.35       0.35  
Retail ETF     0.35       0.35  
Semiconductor ETF     0.35       0.35  
Video Gaming and eSports ETF     0.50       0.55  

 

Refer to the Statements of Operations for amounts waived/assumed by the Adviser.

 

In addition, Van Eck Securities Corporation, an affiliate of the Adviser, acts as the Funds’ distributor (the “Distributor”). Certain officers and a Trustee of the Trust are officers, directors or stockholders of the Adviser and Distributor.

 

During the year ended September 30, 2016, the Adviser voluntarily reimbursed the Semiconductor ETF $340,000 for transactional losses. The per share and total return impact to the Fund is reflected in the Financial Highlights.

 

Effective November 4, 2019, State Street Bank and Trust Company is the Funds’ custodian, securities lending agent and transfer agent. Prior to November 4, 2019, Bank of New York Mellon provided these services to the Funds.

 

For the year ended September 30, 2020, there were offsets to custodian fees under an expense offset agreement and these amounts are reflected in custody expense in the Statements of Operations.

38

 

 

Note 4—Capital Share Transactions—As of September 30, 2020, there were an unlimited number of capital shares of beneficial interest authorized by the Trust with no par value. Fund shares are not individually redeemable and are issued and redeemed at their net asset value per share only through certain authorized broker-dealers (“Authorized Participants”) in blocks of shares (“Creation Units”), or multiples thereof, as follows:

 

Fund Creation Units
Biotech ETF* 25,000
Environmental Services ETF* 25,000
Gaming ETF* 25,000
Pharmaceutical ETF 50,000
Retail ETF 50,000
Semiconductor ETF 50,000
Video Gaming and eSports ETF 50,000

 

* Effective September 1, 2020 Creation Units changed from 50,000 to 25,000 shares.

 

The consideration for the purchase or redemption of Creation Units of the Funds generally consists of the in-kind contribution or distribution of securities constituting the Funds’ underlying index (“Deposit Securities”) plus a balancing cash component to equate the transaction to the net asset value per share of the Fund on the transaction date. Cash may also be substituted in an amount equivalent to the value of certain Deposit Securities, generally as a result of market circumstances, or when the securities are not available in sufficient quantity for delivery, or are not eligible for trading by the Authorized Participant. The Funds may issue Creation Units in advance of receipt of Deposit Securities subject to various conditions, including, for the benefit of the Funds, a requirement to maintain cash collateral on deposit at the custodian equal to at least 115% of the daily marked to market value of the missing Deposit Securities.

 

Authorized Participants purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay transaction fees directly to the transfer agent. In addition, the Funds may impose certain variable fees for creations and redemptions with respect to transactions in Creation Units for cash, or on transactions effected outside the clearing process, which are treated as increases in capital. These variable fees, if any, are reflected in share transactions in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets.

 

Note 5—Investments—For the year ended September 30, 2020, purchases and sales of investments (excluding short-term investments and in-kind capital share transactions) and purchases and sales of investments resulting from in-kind capital share transactions (excluding short-term investments) were as follows:

 

            In-kind Capital Share Transactions
Fund   Purchases   Sales   Purchases   Sales
Biotech ETF   $ 160,463,971     $ 163,088,286     $ 191,607,417     $ 137,136,837  
Environmental Services ETF     12,995,337       15,595,338       12,784,674       14,312,415  
Gaming ETF     12,399,952       9,772,229       33,230,698       12,255,536  
Pharmaceutical ETF     37,165,797       37,060,417       350,007,325       281,495,236  
Retail ETF     12,694,656       15,550,957       145,519,780       63,792,606  
Semiconductor ETF     279,532,245       267,992,654       9,113,947,128       8,570,483,528  
Video Gaming and eSports ETF     82,235,388       48,271,270       324,165,502        

 

Note 6—Income Taxes—As of September 30, 2020, for Federal income tax purposes, the identified cost of investments owned, gross unrealized appreciation, gross unrealized depreciation and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments owned were as follows:

 

        Gross   Gross   Net Unrealized
    Tax Cost of   Unrealized   Unrealized   Appreciation
Fund   Investments   Appreciation   Depreciation   (Depreciation)
Biotech ETF   $ 441,117,913     $ 76,559,861     $ (32,015,423 )   $ 44,544,438  
Environmental Services ETF     28,052,504       3,997,490       (1,283,701 )     2,713,789  
Gaming ETF     52,224,520       8,077,279       (5,663,068 )     2,414,211  
Pharmaceutical ETF     264,875,886       10,019,152       (38,069,122 )     (28,049,970 )
Retail ETF     162,145,330       26,394,450       (6,516,454 )     19,877,996  
Semiconductor ETF     2,556,882,052       183,223,077       (82,476,047 )     100,747,030  
Video Gaming and eSports ETF     394,192,783       131,785,656       (3,759,477 )     128,026,180  
39

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

At September 30, 2020, the components of distributable earnings (loss) on a tax basis, for each Fund, were as follows:

 

    Undistributed   Accumulated   Other   Net Unrealized   Total
    Ordinary   Capital   Temporary   Appreciation   Distributable
Fund   Income   Losses   Differences   (Depreciation)   Earnings (Loss)
Biotech ETF   $ 1,162,803     $ (83,073,156 )   $ (48,779 )   $ 44,544,438     $ (37,414,694 )
Environmental Services ETF     99,096       (13,331,095 )     (2,701 )     2,713,789       (10,520,911 )
Gaming ETF     325,168       (12,900,594 )     (6,805 )     2,415,102       (10,167,129 )
Pharmaceutical ETF     888,954       (69,968,625 )     (28,322 )     (28,049,970 )     (97,157,963 )
Retail ETF     614,848       (9,772,545 )     (6,820 )     19,877,996       10,713,479  
Semiconductor ETF     19,750,196       (75,819,291 )     (42,635 )     100,747,030       44,635,300  
Video Gaming and eSports ETF     869,436       (890,112 )     (339 )     128,025,548       128,004,533  

 

The tax character of dividends paid to shareholders during the years ended September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019 was as follows:

 

    2020   2019
    Ordinary   Ordinary
    Income   Income
Fund   Dividends   Dividends
Biotech ETF   $ 1,250,208     $ 1,899,023  
Environmental Services ETF     165,025       95,100  
Gaming ETF     800,020       849,750  
Pharmaceutical ETF     3,321,670       3,869,339  
Retail ETF     950,056       1,300,386  
Semiconductor ETF     19,250,343       14,202,995  
Video Gaming and eSports ETF     125,100       2,000  

 

At September 30, 2020, the Funds had capital loss carryforwards available to offset future capital gains as follows:

 

    Short-Term   Long-Term    
    Capital Losses   Capital Losses    
Fund   with No Expiration   with No Expiration   Total
Biotech ETF   $ (5,870,462 )   $ (77,202,694 )   $ (83,073,156 )
Environmental Services ETF     (4,230,864 )     (9,100,231 )     (13,331,095 )
Gaming ETF     (3,465,157 )     (9,435,437 )     (12,900,594 )
Pharmaceutical ETF     (3,967,224 )     (66,001,401 )     (69,968,625 )
Retail ETF     (2,692,096 )     (7,080,449 )     (9,772,545 )
Semiconductor ETF     (61,040,390 )     (14,778,901 )     (75,819,291 )
Video Gaming and eSports ETF     (724,941 )     (165,171 )     (890,112 )

 

During the period ended September 30, 2020, as a result of permanent book to tax differences primarily due to the tax treatment of in-kind redemptions, the Funds incurred differences that affected distributable earnings (loss) and aggregate paid in capital by the amounts in the table below. Net assets were not affected by these reclassifications.

 

    Increase   Increase
    (Decrease) in   (Decrease)
    Distributable   in Aggregate
Fund   Earnings (Loss)   Paid in Capital
Biotech ETF   $ (41,825,656 )   $ 41,825,656  
Environmental Services ETF     (4,222,183 )     4,222,183  
Gaming ETF     (2,171,228 )     2,171,228  
Pharmaceutical ETF     (21,837,097 )     21,837,097  
Retail ETF     (12,055,639 )     12,055,639  
Semiconductor ETF     (589,711,560 )     589,711,560  
Video Gaming and eSports ETF            

 

The Funds recognize the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained assuming examination by applicable tax authorities. Management has analyzed the Funds’ tax positions, and has concluded that no liability for unrecognized tax benefits should be recorded related to uncertain tax positions taken on return filings for all open tax years. The Funds do not have exposure for additional years that might still be open in

40

 

 

certain foreign jurisdictions. Therefore, no provision for income tax is required in the Funds’ financial statements. However, certain Funds are subject to foreign taxes on the appreciation in value of certain investments. The Funds provide for such taxes on both realized and unrealized appreciation.

 

The Funds recognize interest and penalties, if any, related to uncertain tax positions as income tax expense in the Statements of Operations. During the year ended September 30, 2020, the Funds did not incur any interest or penalties.

 

Note 7—Principal Risks—Non-diversified funds generally hold securities of fewer issuers than diversified funds (See Note 1) and may be more susceptible to the risks associated with these particular issuers, or to a single economic, political or regulatory occurrence affecting these issuers. The Funds may purchase securities on foreign exchanges. Securities of foreign issuers involve special risks and considerations not typically associated with investing in U.S. issuers. These risks include devaluation of currencies, currency controls, less reliable information about issuers, different securities transaction clearance and settlement practices, future adverse political and economic developments and local/regional conflicts or natural or other disasters, such as the recent coronavirus outbreak. These risks are heightened for investments in emerging market countries. Moreover, securities of many foreign issuers and their markets may be less liquid and their prices more volatile than those of comparable U.S. issuers.

 

A recent outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus, which was first detected in China in December 2019, has subsequently spread internationally and has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. The coronavirus has resulted in closing borders, quarantines, disruptions to supply chains and customer activity, loss of life, as well as general concern and uncertainty. The coronavirus has already negatively impacted the economies of many nations, individual companies, and the market. This pandemic is expected to have a continued impact in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen presently.

 

A more complete description of risks is included in each Fund’s Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information.

 

Note 8—Trustee Deferred Compensation Plan—The Trust has a Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Plan”) for Trustees under which the Trustees can elect to defer receipt of their trustee fees until retirement, disability or termination from the Board of Trustees. The fees otherwise payable to the participating Trustees are deemed invested in shares of the Funds as directed by the Trustees.

 

The expense for the Plan is included in “Trustees’ fees and expenses” in the Statements of Operations. The liability for the Plan is shown as “Deferred Trustee fees” in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Note 9—Securities Lending—To generate additional income, each of the Funds may lend its securities pursuant to a securities lending agreement with the securities lending agent. Each Fund may lend up to 33% of its investments requiring that the loan be continuously collateralized by cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities, or any combination of cash and such securities at all times equal to at least 102% (105% for foreign securities) of the market value on the securities loaned. Daily market fluctuations could cause the value of loaned securities to be more or less than the value of the collateral received. When this occurs, the collateral is adjusted and settled on the next business day. During the term of the loan, the Funds will continue to receive any dividends, interest or amounts equivalent thereto, on the securities loaned while receiving a fee from the borrower and or earning interest on the investment of the cash collateral. Such fees and interest are shared with the securities lending agent under the terms of the securities lending agreement. Securities lending income is disclosed as such in the Statements of Operations. Cash collateral is maintained on the Funds’ behalf by the lending agent and is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio. Non-cash collateral consists of U.S. Treasuries and U.S. Government Agency securities, and is not disclosed in the Funds’ Schedules of Investments or Statements of Assets and Liabilities as it is held by the agent on behalf of the Funds, and the Funds do not have the ability to re-hypothecate those securities. Loans are subject to termination at the option of the borrower or the Funds. Upon termination of the loan, the borrower will return to the Fund securities identical to the securities loaned. The Funds bear the risk of delay in recovery of, or even loss of rights in, the securities loaned should the borrower of the securities fail financially. The value of loaned securities and related collateral, if any, at September 30, 2020 are presented on a gross basis in the Schedules of Investments and Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The following is a summary of the Funds’ securities on loan and related collateral as of September 30, 2020:

41

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

    Market Value            
    of Securities   Cash   Non-Cash   Total
Fund   on Loan   Collateral   Collateral   Collateral
Biotech ETF   $ 21,317,642     $     $ 21,725,290     $ 21,725,290  
Environmental Services ETF     229,633             240,092       240,092  
Gaming ETF     7,905,823       109       8,068,278       8,068,387  
Pharmaceutical ETF     4,386,374       2,245,622       2,235,647       4,481,269  
Retail ETF     1,536,824             1,614,114       1,614,114  
Semiconductor ETF     9,210,867       8,908,520       493,419       9,401,939  
Video Gaming and eSports ETF     50,298,117       309       53,020,808       53,021,117  

 

The following table presents money market fund investments held as collateral by type of security on loan as of September 30, 2020:

 

    Gross Amount of
Recognized Liabilities
for Securities
Lending Transactions*
in the Statements of
Assets and Liabilities
Fund   Equity Securities
Gaming ETF               $ 109      
Pharmaceutical ETF     2,245,622  
Semiconductor ETF     8,908,520  
Video Gaming and eSports ETF     309  

 

* Remaining contractual maturity: overnight and continuous

 

Note 10—Bank Line of Credit—The Funds may participate in a $200 million committed credit facility (the “Facility”) to be utilized for temporary financing for the settlement of sales or purchases of portfolio securities, the repurchase or redemption of shares of the Funds at the request of the shareholders and other temporary or emergency purposes. The Funds have agreed to pay commitment fees, pro rata, based on the unused but available balance. Interest is charged to the Funds based on prevailing market rates in effect at the time of borrowings. During the year ended September 30, 2020, the following Funds borrowed under this Facility:

 

    Days   Average Daily   Average
Fund   Outstanding   Loan Balance   Interest Rate
Biotech ETF     171        $ 924,253       1.73 %  
Environmental Services ETF*     72       1,127,562       1.72  
Gaming ETF     46       173,214       2.39  
Pharmaceutical ETF     279       519,627       2.19  
Retail ETF     50       179,889       2.26  
Semiconductor ETF     182       1,734,924       2.10  
Video Gaming and eSports ETF     132       394,467       1.76  

 

* The custodian voluntarily waived interest expense for this borrowing activity in the amount of $3,793 during the year ended September 30, 2020.

 

Outstanding loan balances as of September 30, 2020, if any, are reflected in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

 

Note 11—Recent Accounting Pronouncements—The Funds adopted all provisions of the Accounting Standards Update No. 2018-13, Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”) that eliminate and modify certain disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. Based on management’s evaluation, the adoption of the ASU 2018-13 had no material impact on the financial statements and related disclosures.

 

Note 12—Subsequent Event Review—The Funds have evaluated subsequent events and transactions for potential recognition or disclosure through the date the financial statements were issued.

42

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Shareholders of VanEck Vectors Biotech ETF, VanEck Vectors Environmental Services ETF, VanEck Vectors Gaming ETF, VanEck Vectors Pharmaceutical ETF, VanEck Vectors Retail ETF, VanEck Vectors Semiconductor ETF and VanEck Vectors Video Gaming and eSports ETF and the Board of Trustees of VanEck Vectors ETF Trust

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities of VanEck Vectors Biotech ETF, VanEck Vectors Environmental Services ETF, VanEck Vectors Gaming ETF, VanEck Vectors Pharmaceutical ETF, VanEck Vectors Retail ETF, VanEck Vectors Semiconductor ETF and VanEck Vectors Video Gaming and eSports ETF (collectively referred to as the “Funds”) (seven of the series constituting VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (the “Trust”)), including the schedules of investments, as of September 30, 2020, and the related statements of operations, changes in net assets, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds (seven of the series constituting VanEck Vectors ETF Trust) at September 30, 2020, and the results of their operations, changes in net assets and financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

  Individual fund constituting
the VanEck Vectors ETF Trust
  Statement of
  operations  
  Statements of
changes in net assets
  Financial highlights
               
  VanEck Vectors Biotech ETF   For the year ended September 30, 2020   For each of the two years in the period ended September 30, 2020   For each of the five years in the period ended September 30, 2020
  VanEck Vectors Environmental Services ETF            
               
  VanEck Vectors Gaming ETF            
               
  VanEck Vectors Pharmaceutical ETF            
               
  VanEck Vectors Retail ETF            
               
  VanEck Vectors Semiconductor ETF            
  VanEck Vectors Video Gaming and eSports ETF   For the year ended September 30, 2020   For the year ended September 30, 2020 and the period October 16, 2018 (commencement of operations) through September 30, 2019   For the year ended September 30, 2020 and the period October 16, 2018 (commencement of operations) through September 30, 2019

 

Basis for Opinion

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Trust’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on each of the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Trust in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of September 30, 2020, by correspondence with the custodian and

43

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

(continued)

 

brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from broker were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more of the VanEck investment companies since 1999.

 

New York, New York

November 23, 2020

44

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

TAX INFORMATION

(unaudited)

 

The information set forth below relates to distributions paid during each Fund’s current fiscal year as required by federal laws. Shareholders, however, must report dividends on a calendar year basis for income tax purposes, which may include dividends for portions of two fiscal years of a Fund.

 

Accordingly, the information needed by shareholders for calendar year 2020 income tax purposes will be sent to them in early 2021. Please consult your tax advisor for proper treatment of this information.

 

The following information is provided with respect to the distributions paid during the taxable year ended September 30, 2020:

 

                                  Video  
    Biotech   Environmental   Gaming   Retail   Semiconductor   Gaming  
    ETF   Services ETF   ETF   ETF   ETF   and eSports  
Record Date     12/24/2019     12/24/2019          12/24/2019     12/24/2019     12/24/2019           12/24/2019    
Ex Date   12/23/2019     12/23/2019     12/23/2019     12/23/2019     12/23/2019     12/23/2019    
Payable Date   12/30/2019     12/30/2019     12/30/2019     12/30/2019     12/30/2019     12/30/2019    
Amount Paid Per Share   $0.047240     $0.471500     $1.230800     $1.090100     $2.122200     $0.083400    
                                       
Ordinary Income:                                                              
Qualified Dividend Income for Individuals       100.00 %              100.00 %      63.71 %*          100.00 %                   66.78 %     100.00 %*
Dividends Qualifying for the Dividends Received Deduction for Corporations       100.00 %     100.00 %     23.33 %*     100.00 %     52.75 %     12.12 %*
Foreign Source Income                       64.92 %*                     64.97 %*
Foreign Taxes Paid Per Share         $       $       $ 0.020989 **   $       $       $ 0.012329 **  
                                                               
    Pharmaceutical ETF                      
Record Date   10/02/2019     12/31/2019     04/02/2020     07/02/2020                        
Ex Date   10/01/2019     12/30/2019        04/01/2020     07/01/2020                        
Payable Date   10/07/2019     01/06/2020     04/07/2020     07/08/2020                        
Amount Paid Per Share   $0.292000     $0.172900     $0.337400     $0.249300                        
                                               
Ordinary Income:                                                              
Qualified Dividend Income for Individuals       100.00 %*     100.00 %     100.00 %     100.00 %                    
Dividends Qualifying for the Dividends Received Deduction for Corporations       59.27 %*     82.60 %     59.76 %     59.76 %                    
Foreign Source Income                                                      
Foreign Taxes Paid Per Share     $       $       $       $                        

 

* Expressed as a percentage of the cash distribution grossed up for foreign taxes.
** The foreign taxes paid represent taxes incurred by the Fund on income received by the Fund from foreign sources. Foreign taxes paid may be included in taxable income with an offsetting deduction from gross income or may be taken as a credit for taxes paid to foreign governments. You should consult your tax adviser regarding the appropriate treatment of foreign taxes paid.

45

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Name, Address1
and Year of Birth
  Position(s)
Held with
the Trust
  Term of
Office2 and
Length of
Time Served
  Principal Occupation(s)
During Past Five Years
  Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex3
Overseen
  Other Directorships Held Outside the
Fund Complex3 During Past Five Years
Independent Trustees                
David H. Chow,
1957*†
  Chairman Trustee   Since 2008
Since 2006
  Founder and CEO, DanCourt Management LLC (financial/ strategy consulting firm and Registered Investment Adviser), March 1999 to present.   55   Director, Forward Management LLC and Audit Committee Chairman, May 2008 to June 2015; Trustee, Berea College of Kentucky, May 2009 to present and currently Chairman of the Investment Committee; Member of the Governing Council of the Independent Directors Council, October 2012 to present; President, July 2013 to June 2015, and Board Member of the CFA Society of Stamford, July 2009 to present; Trustee, MainStay Fund Complex4, January 2016 to present and currently Chairman of the Risk and Compliance Committee.
                     
Laurie A. Hesslein,
1959*†
  Trustee   Since 2019   Citigroup, Managing Director, and Business Head, Local Consumer Lending North America, and CEO and President, CitiFinancial Servicing LLC (2013 - 2017).   55   Trustee, Eagle Growth and Income Opportunities Fund; Trustee, THL Credit Senior Loan Fund.
                     
R. Alastair Short,
1953*†
  Trustee   Since 2006   President, Apex Capital Corporation (personal investment vehicle).   66   Chairman and Independent Director, EULAV Asset Management; Trustee, Kenyon Review; Trustee, Children’s Village. Formerly, Independent Director, Tremont offshore funds.
                     
Peter J. Sidebottom,
1962*†
  Trustee   Since 2012   Lead Partner, North America Banking and Capital Markets Strategy, Accenture, May 2017 to present; Partner, PWC/Strategy & Financial Services Advisory, February 2015 to March 2017; Founder and Board Member, AspenWoods Risk Solutions, September 2013 to February 2016; Independent consultant, June 2013 to February 2015; Partner, Bain & Company (management consulting firm), April 2012 to December 2013; Executive Vice President and Senior Operating Committee Member, TD Ameritrade (on-line brokerage firm), February 2009 to January 2012.   55   Board Member, Special Olympics, New Jersey, November 2011 to September 2013; Director, The Charlotte Research Institute, December 2000 to 2009; Board Member, Social Capital Institute, University of North Carolina Charlotte, November 2004 to January 2012; Board Member, NJ-CAN, July 2014 to 2016.
                     
Richard D. Stamberger,
1959*†
  Trustee   Since 2006   President and CEO, SmartBrief, LLC (business media company).   66   Director, Food and Friends, Inc.
                     
Interested Trustee                    
Jan F. van Eck,
19635
  Trustee, Chief Executive Officer and President   Trustee (Since 2006); Chief Executive Officer and President (Since 2009)   Director, President and Chief Executive Officer of Van Eck Associates Corporation (VEAC), Van Eck Absolute Return Advisers Corporation (VEARA) and Van Eck Securities Corporation (VESC); Officer and/or Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC and/or the Trust   66   Director, National Committee on US-China Relations.

 

 

1 The address for each Trustee and officer is 666 Third Avenue, 9th Floor, New York, New York 10017.
2 Each Trustee serves until resignation, death, retirement or removal. Officers are elected yearly by the Trustees.
3 The Fund Complex consists of the VanEck Funds, VanEck VIP Trust and the Trust.
4 The MainStay Fund Complex consists of MainStay Funds, MainStay Funds Trust, MainStay VP Funds Trust and MainStay MacKay Defined Term Municipal Opportunities Fund.
5 “Interested person” of the Trust within the meaning of the 1940 Act. Mr. van Eck is an officer of VEAC, VEARA and VESC.
* Member of the Audit Committee.
Member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.
46

 

 

Officer’s Name,
Address1 and
Year of Birth
  Position(s)
Held with
the Trust
  Term of Office2
and Length of
Time Served
  Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years
Officer Information            
Matthew A. Babinsky,
1983
  Assistant Vice President and Assistant Secretary   Since 2016   Assistant Vice President, Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Secretary of VEAC, VEARA and VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Associate, Clifford Chance US LLP.
             
Russell G. Brennan,
1964
  Assistant Vice President and Assistant Treasurer   Since 2008   Assistant Vice President of VEAC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA.
             
Charles T. Cameron,
1960
  Vice President   Since 2006   Portfolio Manager of VEAC; Officer and/or Portfolio Manager of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Director of Trading of VEAC.
             
John J. Crimmins,
1957
  Vice President, Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer   Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer (Since 2012); Treasurer (Since 2009)   Vice President of VEAC and VEARA; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Vice President of VESC.
             
Eduardo Escario,
1975
  Vice President   Since 2012   Regional Director, Business Development/Sales for Southern Europe and South America of VEAC.
             
Henry Glynn,
1983
  Assistant Vice President   Since 2018   Head of ETF Capital Markets Europe of Van Eck Switzerland AG. Formerly, Member of the Capital Markets team at Vanguard Group.
             
F. Michael Gozzillo,
1965
  Chief Compliance Officer   Since 2018   Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of VEAC and VEARA; Chief Compliance Officer of VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Chief Compliance Officer of City National Rochdale, LLC and City National Rochdale Funds.
             
Laura Hamilton,
1977
  Vice President   Since 2019   Assistant Vice President of VEAC and VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Operations Manager of Royce & Associates.
             
Nicholas Jackson,
1974
  Assistant Vice President   Since 2018   Vice President, Business Development of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd.
             
Laura I. Martínez,
1980
  Vice President and Assistant Secretary   Vice President (Since 2016); Assistant Secretary (Since 2008)   Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Assistant Secretary of VEAC, VEARA and VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Assistant Vice President of VEAC, VEARA and VESC.
             
Matthew McKinnon,
1970
  Assistant Vice President   Since 2018   Head of Business Development of Asia Pacific of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd. Formerly, Director, Intermediaries and Institutions of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd.
             
Arian Neiron,
1979
  Vice President   Since 2018   Managing Director and Head of Asia Pacific of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd.; Officer and/or Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC and/or the Trust.
             
James Parker,
1969
  Assistant Treasurer   Since 2014   Assistant Vice President of VEAC; Manager, Portfolio Administration of VEAC and VEARA. Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA.
             
Adam Phillips,
1970
  Vice President   Since 2018   ETF Chief Operating Officer of VEAC; Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC.
             
Philipp Schlegel,
1974
  Vice President   Since 2016   Managing Director of Van Eck Switzerland AG.
             
Jonathan R. Simon,
1974
  Senior Vice President, Secretary and Chief Legal Officer   Senior Vice President (Since 2016); Secretary and Chief Legal Officer (Since 2014)   Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of VEAC, VEARA and VESC; Officer and/or Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC and/or the Trust. Formerly, Vice President of VEAC, VEARA and VESC.

 

 

1 The address for each Officer is 666 Third Avenue, 9th Floor, New York, New York 10017.
2 Officers are elected yearly by the Trustees.
47

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

At a meeting held on June 11, 2020 (the “Renewal Meeting”), the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of VanEck Vectors® ETF Trust (the “Trust”), including all of the Trustees that are not interested persons of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”), approved the continuation of the investment management agreements between the Trust and Van Eck Associates Corporation (the “Adviser”) (the “Investment Management Agreements”) with respect to the VanEck Vectors Biotech ETF, Environmental Services ETF, Gaming ETF, Long/Flat Trend ETF (formerly NDR CMG Long/Flat Allocation ETF), Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF, Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF, Morningstar International Moat ETF, Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, Pharmaceutical ETF, Retail ETF, Semiconductor ETF, and Video Gaming and eSports ETF (each, a “Fund” and together, the “Funds”).

 

The Board’s approval of the Investment Management Agreements was based on a comprehensive consideration of all of the information available to the Trustees and was not the result of any single factor. Some of the factors that figured particularly in the Trustees’ deliberations and how the Trustees considered those factors are described below, although individual Trustees may have evaluated the information presented differently, giving different weights to various factors.

 

In preparation for the Renewal Meeting, the Trustees held a meeting on May 7, 2020. At that meeting, the Trustees discussed the information the Adviser and Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent third party data provider, had provided to them in advance. The information provided to the Trustees included, among other things, information about the performance and expenses of the Funds and the Funds’ peer funds (certain other index-based exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”)), information about the advisory services provided to the Funds and the personnel providing those services, and the profitability and other benefits enjoyed by the Adviser and its affiliates as a result of the Adviser’s relationship with the Funds. In reviewing performance information for the Funds against their peer groups, the Trustees considered that each Fund seeks to track a different index than the funds in its designated peer group and, therefore, each Fund’s performance will differ from its peers. In addition, as noted below, the Trustees reviewed certain performance information for each Fund which was not provided by Broadridge and which did not compare each Fund’s performance to the performance of its peer group. For these and other reasons, the Trustees noted that the peer group performance information did not necessarily provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Funds.

 

The Independent Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Management Agreements was based, in part, on their review of information obtained through discussions with the Adviser at the Renewal Meeting and with the Adviser at the May 7, 2020 meeting regarding the management of the Funds and information obtained at other meetings of the Trustees and/or based on their review of the materials provided by the Adviser, including the background and experience of the portfolio managers and others involved in the management and administration of the Funds. The Trustees also considered the terms of, and scope of services that the Adviser provides under, the Investment Management Agreements, including, where applicable, the Adviser’s commitment to waive certain fees and/or pay expenses of each of the Funds to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of each of the Funds from exceeding agreed upon limits for a period of time.

 

The Trustees concluded that the Adviser and its personnel have the requisite expertise and skill to manage the Funds’ portfolios. In evaluating the performance of each Fund, the Trustees reviewed various performance metrics but relied principally on a comparison of the “gross” performance of each Fund (i.e., measured without regard to the impact of fees and expenses) to the performance of its benchmark index, in each case incorporating any systematic fair value adjustments to the underlying securities. Based on the foregoing, the Trustees concluded that the investment performance of the Funds was satisfactory.

 

The Trustees also considered information relating to the financial condition of the Adviser and the current status, as they understood it, of the Adviser’s compliance environment.

 

As noted above, the Trustees were also provided various data from Broadridge comparing the Funds’ expenses and performance to that of certain other ETFs. The Trustees noted that the information provided showed that each Fund had management fees (after the effect of any applicable fee waiver) below the average and median of its respective peer group of funds, except for each of VanEck Vectors Morningstar International Moat ETF and Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, which had management fees (after the effect of any applicable fee waiver) greater than the average and median of its respective peer group of funds. The Trustees also noted that the information provided showed that each Fund had a total expense ratio (after the effect of any applicable expense limitation) below the average and median of its respective peer group of funds, except for each of VanEck Vectors Gaming ETF, Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF, Morningstar International Moat ETF, Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, Long/Flat Trend ETF and Video Gaming and eSports

48

 

 

ETF, which had a total expense ratio (after the effect of any applicable expense limitation) greater than the average and/or median of its respective peer group of funds. With respect to these Funds, the Trustees reviewed the amount by which these Funds’ management fees and/or total expense ratios (after the effect of any applicable expense limitation) exceeded the average and/or median of their respective peer groups and information provided by the Adviser providing context for these comparisons. The Trustees concluded, in light of this information and the other information available to them, that the fees paid by the Funds were reasonable in light of the performance of the Funds and the quality of services received.

 

The Trustees also considered the benefits, other than the fees under the Investment Management Agreements, received by the Adviser from serving as adviser to the Funds.

 

The Trustees also considered information provided by the Adviser about the overall profitability of the Adviser and its profitability or loss in respect of each Fund. The Trustees reviewed each Fund’s asset size, expense ratio and expense cap and noted that the Investment Management Agreements do not include breakpoints in the advisory fee rates as asset levels in a Fund increase. The Trustees considered the volatility of the asset classes in which certain of the Funds invest, potential variability in the net assets of these Funds and the sustainability of any potential economies of scale which may exist given where fees are currently set. The Trustees also evaluated the extent to which management fees for the Funds effectively incorporate the benefits of economies of scale. The Trustees noted that the Adviser has capped expenses on each Fund since its inception, although the cap was not necessarily exceeded each year. Based on the foregoing and the other information available to them, the Trustees determined that the advisory fee rate for each Fund is reasonable and appropriate in relation to the current asset size of each Fund and the other factors discussed above and that the advisory fee rate for each Fund currently reflects an appropriate sharing with shareholders of any economies of scale which may exist. The Trustees also determined that the profits earned by the Adviser with respect to the Funds that were profitable to the Adviser were reasonable in light of the nature and quality of the services received by such Funds.

 

The Independent Trustees were advised by and met in executive session with their independent counsel at the Renewal Meeting and at their May 7, 2020 meeting as part of their consideration of the Agreements.

 

In voting to approve the continuation of the Investment Management Agreements, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the terms of each Investment Management Agreement are reasonable and fair in light of the services to be performed, expenses to be incurred and such other matters as the Trustees considered relevant in the exercise of their reasonable judgment. The Trustees further concluded that each Investment Management Agreement is in the best interest of each Fund and such Fund’s shareholders.

49

 

This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the respective Fund’s prospectus and summary prospectus, which includes more complete information. Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. An investor should consider the investment objective, risks, charges and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus and summary prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 800.826.2333 or visit vaneck.com. Please read the prospectus and summary prospectus carefully before investing.

 

Additional information about the VanEck Vectors ETF Trust’s (the “Trust”) Board of Trustees/Officers and a description of the policies and procedures the Trust uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities are provided in the Statement of Additional Information. The Statement of Additional Information and information regarding how the Trust voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve month period ending June 30 is available, without charge, by calling 800.826.2333, or by visiting vaneck.com, or on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at https://www.sec.gov.

 

The Trust files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-PORT. The Trust’s Form N-PORT filings are available on the Commission’s website at https://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 202.942.8090. The Fund’s complete schedule of portfolio holdings is also available by calling 800.826.2333 or by visiting vaneck.com.

 

 

 

 

Investment Adviser:
Distributor:
Van Eck Associates Corporation
Van Eck Securities Corporation
666 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017
vaneck.com
 
Account Assistance: 800.826.2333 INDUAR
 
ANNUAL REPORT
September 30, 2020

 

VANECK VECTORS®

 

 

 

Long/Flat Trend ETF LFEQ®
   
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF DURA®
   
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF GOAT®
   
Morningstar International Moat ETF MOTI®
   
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF MOAT®
   
Real Asset Allocation ETF RAAX®

 

     
  800.826.2333 vaneck.com
 
   
   
President’s Letter 1
Management Discussion 2
Performance Comparison  
Long/Flat Trend ETF 4
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF 5
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF 6
Morningstar International Moat ETF 7
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF 8
Real Asset Allocation ETF 9
Explanation of Expenses 11
Schedule of Investments  
Long/Flat Trend ETF 12
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF 13
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF 15
Morningstar International Moat ETF 17
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF 20
Real Asset Allocation ETF (Consolidated Schedule of Investments) 22
Statements of Assets and Liabilities (Consolidated for Real Asset Allocation ETF) 24
Statements of Operations (Consolidated for Real Asset Allocation ETF) 26
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (Consolidated for Real Asset Allocation ETF) 28
Financial Highlights  
Long/Flat Trend ETF 30
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF 30
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF 31
Morningstar International Moat ETF 31
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF 32
Real Asset Allocation ETF (Consolidated Financial Highlights) 32
Notes to Financial Statements (Consolidated for Real Asset Allocation ETF) 33
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 41
Tax Information 43
Board of Trustees and Officers 44
Approval of Investment Management Agreements 46

 

Certain information contained in this report represents the opinion of the investment adviser which may change at any time. This information is not intended to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results or investment advice. Current market conditions may not continue. The information contained herein regarding each index has been provided by the relevant index provider. Also, unless otherwise specifically noted, any discussion of the Funds’ holdings, the Funds’ performance, and the views of the investment adviser are as of September 30, 2020.

 

VANECK VECTORS ETFs

PRESIDENT’S LETTER
September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Dear Fellow Shareholders:

 

The level of stimulus from the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) this year has been almost unprecedented and has had investment consequences. Financial markets have benefited from the Fed stimulus and the case for gold investing has become more solid.

 

Perhaps the surprise from this summer’s data is that the global economy is doing quite well, supporting the markets, despite the social distancing that we all feel in our personal lives. Important commodities like copper have regained pre-COVID-19 highs. In addition, China’s industrial recovery is pointing to all-time highs in activity, even though consumer activity is lagging a little.

 

One beneficiary is high yield bonds, particularly “fallen angels”—bonds that have been downgraded from investment grade. In a recessionary environment, some bonds are going to default or be downgraded. Fixed income markets this year generally started recovering after the Fed announced plans to intervene. We have already seen a record amount of new fallen angel bond volume—over $140B as of July 31, 20201—and expect more through the remainder of the calendar year.

 

Similar to 2016, when crude oil also swooned, we have seen a lot of energy companies become fallen angels, and the fallen angel strategy is buying those downgraded bonds. As reviewed in a recent blog, New Fallen Angel Bonds Drive Performance, these new energy fallen angels are among the top contributors to performance of the fallen angel strategy so far this year. As long as the Fed remains supportive, we believe this strategy should continue to do well.

 

We do, however, see two particular risks to this scenario: 1) an unforeseen rise in interest rates in the U.S. triggered by higher global growth or other factors; and 2) a bump in the return to full employment. An incredible number of people have been laid off in the U.S. and, regardless of GDP numbers, people are unlikely to quickly return to work at the same levels as the start of the year. Concern may be high enough for policy makers to take additional steps (any of which, however, remain, as yet, uncertain) that may impact the financial recovery.

 

The investing outlook sometimes does change suddenly, as it certainly has at times this year. To get our quarterly investment outlooks, please subscribe to “Investment Outlook” on vaneck.com. Should you have any questions regarding fund performance, please contact us at 800.826.2333 or visit our website.

 

We sincerely thank you for investing in VanEck’s investment strategies. On the following pages, you will find a performance discussion and financial statements for each of the funds for the twelve month period ended September, 2020. As always, we value your continued confidence in us and look forward to helping you meet your investment goals in the future.

 

 

Jan F. van Eck
CEO and President
VanEck Vectors ETF Trust

 

October 19, 2020

 

Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. An investor should consider the investment objective, risks, charges and expenses of the Funds carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus and summary prospectus, which contain this and other information, call 800.826.2333 or visit vaneck.com. Please read the prospectus and summary prospectus carefully before investing.

 

 

1 Source: FactSet, ICE Data Indices, LLC and Morningstar.
1

VANECK VECTORS ETFs

MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Market Review

 

All funds were affected by both the wide market sell off in late-February and ensuing market volatility, sparked by the evolving COVID-19 pandemic—both domestically in the U.S. and internationally. However, remedial measures, both financial and fiscal, taken by central governments around the world in response to the crisis (including the asset purchasing program of the U.S. Federal Reserve), resulted in a positive “bounce back” in markets in April.

 

Long/Flat Trend

 

VanEck Vectors® Long/Flat Trend ETF (LFEQ®) returned +14.22%* in the 12 month period ended September 30, 2020. The Fund takes a guided allocation approach designed to help investors manage risk in the U.S. equity market. The Fund seeks to track the Ned Davis Research CMG US Large Cap Long/Flat Index (NDRCMGLF) from Ned Davis Research (NDR), a world-renowned provider of institutional quality research. It is a rules-based index that follows a proprietary model developed by NDR and CMG Capital Management Group, Inc. (CMG).

 

The model measures the overall health of the market through an evaluation of market breadth. In this case, market breadth refers to advancing and declining price trends and countertrends at the GICS®1 industry group level. The model computes a robust moving average score daily to capture multi-industry and multi-term trend and countertrend measures to gauge overall market health. It then calculates the score’s directional trend to see if it is improving or declining. Collectively, the score and its directional trend determine the equity allocation of either 100%, 50%, or 0%. At 0%, the allocation would be entirely to cash.

 

The heightened volatility and broad market selloff in early 2020 nearly led to the model going to cash. However, the model’s long-term trend indicators remained bullish and kept the model fully invested, which allowed the Fund to fully participate in the market rebound after the selloff. The Fund’s allocation to equities remained unchanged over the 12 month period.2

 

Morningstar Durable Dividend

 

VanEck Vectors Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF (DURA®) seeks to replicate as closely as possible, before fees and expenses, the price and yield performance of the Morningstar® US Dividend Valuation IndexSM (MSUSDVTU). The index is intended to track the overall performance of high dividend yielding U.S. companies with strong financial health and attractive valuations according to Morningstar.

 

The Fund returned -1.26%* over the 12 month period under review. The consumer staples, information technology and health care sectors were the top contributors to positive performance and the energy sector detracted by far the most from performance for the period, with the financial and communications services sectors also both detracting from performance.

 

Morningstar Global Wide Moat

 

The newest addition to our Morningstar Moat Index investment lineup, VanEck Vectors Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF (GOAT®) seeks to replicate as closely as possible, before fees and expenses, the price and yield performance of the Morningstar® Global Wide Moat Focus IndexSM (MSGWMFNU). The index is intended to track the overall performance of global companies with sustainable competitive advantages, i.e., “moats,” and attractive valuations according to Morningstar’s equity research team. The index contains at least 50 stocks that are reviewed each quarter.

 

VanEck Vectors Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF returned +13.70%* for the 12 month period under review. The information technology, health care and communication services sectors contributed most to performance and the energy and financial sectors detracted the most. Companies in the United States contributed by far the most to performance, while those in Mexico, Canada and Belgium detracted the most.

 

Morningstar International Moat

 

Launched over five years ago as a means to capture moat-based opportunities abroad, VanEck Vectors Morningstar International Moat ETF (MOTI®) seeks to replicate as closely as possible, before fees and expenses, the price and yield performance of the Morningstar® Global ex-US Moat Focus IndexSM (MGEUMFUN). The index

2

 

 

is intended to track the overall performance of wide and narrow moat rated companies in developed and emerging markets outside the U.S. with sustainable competitive advantages at attractive prices according to Morningstar’s equity research team. The index contains at least 50 stocks that are reviewed each quarter.

 

For the 12 month period under review, the fund returned -0.14%.* Of several sectors contributing positively to performance, the industrials sector contributed by far the most. Three sectors, financial, communication services and real estate, detracted the most from performance. While companies in Germany contributed the most to performance, those in the U.K. detracted the most.

 

Morningstar Wide Moat

 

VanEck Vectors Morningstar Wide Moat ETF (MOAT®), now with an eight year track record, seeks to replicate as closely as possible, before fees and expenses, the price and yield performance of the Morningstar® Wide Moat Focus IndexSM (MWMFTR). The index targets U.S. companies with sustainable competitive advantages, i.e., “moats,” and attractive valuations in the view of Morningstar’s team of more than 100 equity analysts.3

 

According to the forward-looking process of Morningstar’s Equity Research group, companies with moats have the potential to create above-average returns for longer periods of time. The index’s approach to investing in U.S. companies with wide economic moats when they are attractively priced has resulted in long-term outperformance versus the broad U.S. equity market.4

 

The Fund returned +10.40%* for the 12 month period under review. The primary driver of performance was the Fund’s exposure to the information technology sector. In addition, stocks in the health care and consumer discretionary sectors contributed to solid positive returns. The energy sector was the largest detractor from the Fund’s performance.

 

Real Asset Allocation

 

In its pursuit of long-term total return, VanEck Vectors® Real Asset Allocation ETF (RAAX®) seeks to maximize real returns, while seeking to reduce downside risk during sustained market declines. The Fund seeks to achieve this by allocating primarily to exchange-traded products that provide exposure to real assets, which include commodities, real estate, natural resources, master limited partnerships (MLPs) and infrastructure. The Fund seeks to reduce downside risk by using a rules-based approach to determine when to allocate to cash and cash equivalents.

 

Over the 12 month period, the Fund returned -18.32%.* While gold and gold equities contributed by far the most positively to the Fund’s total return, their contributions were far outweighed by the aggregated negative returns of natural resources equities, followed by those of U.S. Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), master limited partnerships (MLPs) and infrastructure.

 

* Returns based on NAV.

 

 
1 Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) is a widely accepted equity securities classification system developed by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) and Standard & Poor’s.
   
2 Allocations to equities (long) represented by the S&P 500® Index. The S&P 500 Index consists of 500 widely held U.S. common stocks covering the industrial, utility, financial and transportation sectors. Allocations to cash (flat) represented by the Solactive 13-week U.S. T-bill Index. The Solactive 13-week U.S. T-bill Index is a rules-based index mirroring the performance of the current U.S. 13-week T-bill.
   
3 Equity analysts referred to are part of Morningstar’s Equity Research group which consists of various wholly-owned subsidiaries of Morningstar, Inc., including but not limited to, Morningstar Research Services LLC.
   
4 Based on the Morningstar Wide Moat Focus Index versus the Morningstar US Market Index from the period 2/14/2007–9/30/2020.
3

VANECK VECTORS LONG/FLAT TREND ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV NDRCMGLF1 SPTR2
One Year 14.52% 14.22% 15.15% 15.15%
Life* 9.20% 9.10% 9.78% 12.05%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 10/04/17; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 10/05/17.
   
1 The Ned Davis Research CMG US Large Cap Long/Flat Index (the “NDR CMG Index”) (NDRCMGLF) is a rules-based index that follows a proprietary model developed by Ned Davis Research, Inc. in conjunction with CMG Capital Management Group, Inc. To help limit potential loss associated with adverse market conditions, the model produces trade signals to dictate the NDR CMG Index’s equity allocation ranging from 100% fully invested (i.e., “long”) to 100% in cash (i.e., “flat”).
  When the NDR CMG Index is long, or 100% fully invested, it will be allocated to the S&P 500 Index. When the NDR CMG Index is flat, or 100% cash, it will be allocated to the Solactive 13-week U.S. T-bill Index.
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     
This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.    

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 10 for more information.

4

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR DURABLE DIVIDEND ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON
September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MSUSDVTU1 SPTR2
One Year (1.11)% (1.26)% (1.06)% 15.15%
Life* 6.19% 6.08% 6.35% 14.78%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 10/30/18; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 10/31/2018.
   
1 The Morningstar® US Dividend Valuation IndexSM (MSUSDVTU) is a rules-based index intended to offer exposure to companies that the Index Provider determines have a high dividend yield, strong financial health and an attractive uncertainty-adjusted valuation.
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     
This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.  

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 10 for more information.

5

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR GLOBAL WIDE MOAT ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MSGWMFNU1 SPTR2
One Year 13.82% 13.70% 13.69% 15.15%
Life* 15.20% 15.01% 15.18% 14.78%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 10/30/18; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 10/31/2018.
   
1 The Morningstar® Global Wide Moat Focus IndexSM (MSGWMFNU) is a rules-based index intended to offer exposure to companies that the Index Provider determines have sustainable competitive advantages based on a proprietary methodology that considers quantitative and qualitative factors.
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     
This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.    

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 10 for more information.

6

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR INTERNATIONAL MOAT ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON
September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MGEUMFUN1 SPTR2
One Year (0.08)% (0.14)% 0.06% 15.15%
Five Year 5.26% 5.30% 5.93% 14.15%
Life* 2.44% 2.48% 3.09% 11.69%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 7/13/15; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 7/14/15.
   
1 Morningstar® Global ex-US Moat Focus IndexSM (MGEUMFUN) is a rules-based index intended to offer exposure to companies that Morningstar, Inc. determines have sustainable competitive advantages based on a proprietary methodology that considers quantitative and qualitative factors (“wide and narrow moat companies”).
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     
This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.    

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 10 for more information.

7

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR WIDE MOAT ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MWMFTR1 SPTR2
One Year 10.27% 10.40% 10.73% 15.15%
Five Year 16.05% 16.04% 16.61% 14.15%
Life* 13.90% 13.91% 14.46% 13.54%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 4/24/12; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 4/25/12.
   
1 Morningstar® Wide Moat Focus IndexSM (MWMFTR) is a rules-based index intended to offer exposure to companies that Morningstar, Inc. determines have sustainable competitive advantages based on a proprietary methodology that considers quantitative and qualitative factors (“wide moat companies”).
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     
This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.  

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 10 for more information.

8

VANECK VECTORS REAL ASSET ALLOCATION ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON
September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV BCOMTR1 RABLND2
One Year (18.36)% (18.32)% (8.20)% (9.28)%
Life* (7.51)% (7.53)% (6.88)% (3.26)%
   
* Commencement of Fund: 4/9/2018; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 4/10/2018.
   
1 On January 31, 2020, the Bloomberg Commodity Index (BCOMTR) replaced the Real Asset Blended Index (RABLND) as the Fund’s broad-based benchmark index. The Fund changed its index as it believes the Bloomberg Commodity Index is more representative of broad commodities exposure. BCOMTR is calculated on an excess return basis and reflects commodity futures price movements.
   
2 The Blended Real Asset Index (RABLND) is calculated by Van Eck Absolute Return Advisers Corporation and comprises an equally weighted blend of the returns of Bloomberg Commodity Index, S&P Real Assets Equity Index and VanEck® Natural Resources Index. Equal weightings are reset monthly.
   
    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     
This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad-based index.  

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 10 for more information.

9

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE

(unaudited)

 

The price used to calculate market return (Share Price) is determined by using the closing price listed on its primary listing exchange. Since the shares of each Fund did not trade in the secondary market until after each Fund’s commencement, for the period from commencement to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of each Fund, the NAV of each Fund is used as a proxy for the secondary market trading price to calculate market returns.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Performance information for each Fund reflects temporary waivers of expenses and/or fees. Had each Fund incurred all expenses, investment returns would have been reduced. These returns do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends and distributions or the sale of Fund shares.

 

Investment return and value of the shares of each Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. Fund returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions. Performance current to the most recent month-end is available by calling 800.826.2333 or by visiting vaneck.com.

 

Index returns assume the reinvestment of all income and do not reflect any management fees or brokerage expenses associated with Fund returns. Certain indices may take into account withholding taxes. Investors cannot invest directly in the Index. Returns for actual Fund investors may differ from what is shown because of differences in timing, the amount invested and fees and expenses.

 

The Morningstar® Global ex-US Moat Focus IndexSM, Morningstar® Global Wide Moat Focus IndexSM, Morningstar® US Dividend Valuation IndexSM and Morningstar® Wide Moat Focus IndexSM are published by Morningstar. The Morningstar name and logo are registered trademarks of Morningstar. Morningstar Global ex-US Moat Focus IndexSM, Morningstar Global Wide Moat Focus IndexSM, Morningstar® US Dividend Valuation IndexSM and Morningstar Wide Moat Focus IndexSM are service marks of Morningstar. The Ned Davis Research CMG US Large Cap Long/Flat Index is published by Ned Davis Research, Inc. (“NDR”). The Blended Real Asset Index is calculated by VanEck Absolute Advisers Corporation. On January 31, 2020, the Bloomberg Commodity Index replaced the Blended Real Asset Index as the Fund’s broad-based benchmark index. The Fund changed its index as it believes the Bloomberg Commodity Index is more representative of broad commodities exposure.

 

Morningstar and NDR are referred to herein as the “Index Providers”. The Index Providers do not sponsor, endorse, or promote the Funds and bear no liability with respect to the Funds or any security.

10

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

EXPLANATION OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

Hypothetical $1,000 investment at beginning of period

As a shareholder of a Fund, you incur operating expenses, including management fees and other Fund expenses. This disclosure is intended to help you understand the ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

The disclosure is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period, April 1, 2020 to September 30, 2020.

 

Actual Expenses

The first line in the table below provides information about account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of other funds.

 

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales. Therefore, the second line of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

    Beginning   Ending   Annualized   Expenses Paid  
    Account   Account   Expense   During the Period*  
    Value   Value   Ratio   April 1, 2020 –  
    April 1, 2020   September 30, 2020   During Period   September 30, 2020  
Long/Flat Trend ETF                  
Actual   $1,000.00   $1,305.80   0.55%   $3.17  
Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $1,022.25   0.55%   $2.78  
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF          
Actual   $1,000.00   $1,161.00   0.29%   $1.57  
Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $1,023.55   0.29%   $1.47  
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF              
Actual   $1,000.00   $1,287.20   0.52%   $2.97  
Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $1,022.40   0.52%   $2.63  
Morningstar International Moat ETF          
Actual   $1,000.00   $1,206.50   0.60%   $3.31  
Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $1,022.00   0.60%   $3.03  
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF                  
Actual   $1,000.00   $1,246.10   0.47%   $2.64  
Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $1,022.65   0.47%   $2.38  
Real Asset Allocation ETF                  
Actual   $1,000.00   $1,055.20   0.55%   $2.83  
Hypothetical**   $1,000.00   $1,022.25   0.55%   $2.78  
* Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio (for the six months ended September 30, 2020) multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by the number of days in the fiscal year (to reflect the one-half year period).
   
** Assumes annual return of 5% before expenses
11

VANECK VECTORS LONG/FLAT TREND ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number            
of Shares         Value  
EXCHANGE TRADED FUND: 99.9% (a)
(Cost: $28,400,480)
 
       102,427     Vanguard S&P 500 ETF   $ 31,511,667  
Total Investments: 99.9%
(Cost: $28,400,480)
    31,511,667  
Other assets less liabilities: 0.1%     37,131  
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 31,548,798  


 

 

Footnotes:

(a) The underlying fund’s shareholder reports and registration documents are available free of charge on the SEC’s website at https://www.sec.gov

 

Summary of Investments by Sector   % of Investments   Value  
Exchange Traded Fund               100.0 %   $ 31,511,667  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

        Level 2   Level 3      
    Level 1   Significant   Significant      
    Quoted   Observable   Unobservable      
    Prices   Inputs   Inputs   Value  
Exchange Traded Fund   $ 31,511,667     $    —       $     $ 31,511,667  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

12

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR DURABLE DIVIDEND ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number            
of Shares         Value  
                      
COMMON STOCKS: 99.4%        
         
Capital Goods: 11.7%        
  7,867     3M Co.   $ 1,260,136  
  4,379     Eaton Corp. Plc     446,789  
  5,890     Honeywell International, Inc.     969,553  
  540     Hubbell, Inc.     73,894  
  475     Lincoln Electric Holdings, Inc.     43,719  
  2,381     Lockheed Martin Corp.     912,590  
  817     MSC Industrial Direct Co.     51,700  
  604     Snap-on, Inc.     88,867  
              3,847,248  
Consumer Services: 4.6%        
  652     Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc.     53,405  
  6,669     McDonald’s Corp.     1,463,779  
              1,517,184  
Diversified Financials: 5.2%        
  1,476     BlackRock, Inc.     831,800  
  222     Cohen & Steers, Inc.     12,374  
  1,721     Eaton Vance Corp.     65,656  
  593     Evercore, Inc.     38,818  
  1,738     Federated Investors, Inc.     37,384  
  5,633     Franklin Resources, Inc.     114,632  
  4,336     Janus Henderson Group Plc     94,178  
  3,359     TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.     131,505  
  10,770     The Bank of New York Mellon Corp.     369,842  
              1,696,189  
Energy: 0.2%        
  3,325     Cabot Oil & Gas Corp.     57,722  
Food, Beverage & Tobacco: 20.7%        
  35,755     Altria Group, Inc.     1,381,573  
  2,011     Campbell Soup Co.     97,272  
  3,324     Kellogg Co.     214,697  
  11,356     PepsiCo, Inc.     1,573,942  
  19,592     Philip Morris International, Inc.     1,469,204  
  31,199     The Coca-Cola Co.     1,540,295  
  1,352     The J.M. Smucker Co.     156,183  
  12,208     The Kraft Heinz Co.     365,630  
              6,798,796  
Insurance: 3.3%        
  4,326     Chubb Ltd.     502,335  
  2,787     The Allstate Corp.     262,368  
  2,849     Travelers Cos, Inc.     308,233  
              1,072,936  
Materials: 0.4%      
  1,016     International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc.     124,409  
  456     Sensient Technologies Corp.     26,329  
              150,738  
Pharmaceuticals / Biotechnology: 27.7%        
  17,299     AbbVie, Inc.     1,515,219  
  26,105     Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.     1,573,870  
  19,746     Gilead Sciences, Inc.     1,247,750  
  10,743     Johnson & Johnson     1,599,418  
  18,417     Merck & Co., Inc.     1,527,690  
  43,874     Pfizer, Inc.     1,610,176  
              9,074,123  
Number            
of Shares         Value  
             
Semiconductor: 0.6%      
       2,965     Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.   $ 200,464  
Software & Services: 1.4%        
  4,042     Paychex, Inc.     322,430  
  5,955     The Western Union Co.     127,616  
              450,046  
Technology Hardware & Equipment: 1.0%        
  4,363     Juniper Networks, Inc.     93,805  
  2,454     TE Connectivity Ltd.     239,854  
              333,659  
Telecommunication Services: 9.9%        
  56,306     AT&T, Inc.     1,605,284  
  663     Cogent Communications Group, Inc.     39,813  
  26,756     Verizon Communications, Inc.     1,591,714  
              3,236,811  
Utilities: 12.7%        
  2,393     Ameren Corp.     189,238  
  1,125     Atmos Energy Corp.     107,539  
  15,172     Dominion Energy, Inc.     1,197,526  
  2,484     DTE Energy Co.     285,759  
  13,093     Duke Energy Corp.     1,159,516  
  1,643     Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc.     54,613  
  3,869     OGE Energy Corp.     116,031  
  19,499     Southern Co.     1,057,236  
              4,167,458  
Total Common Stocks: 99.4%
(Cost: $32,279,610)
    32,603,374  
Other assets less liabilities: 0.6%     198,020  
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 32,801,394  


 

See Notes to Financial Statements

13

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR DURABLE DIVIDEND ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

(continued)

 

Summary of Investments by Sector   % of Investments   Value  
Communication Services               9.9 %   $ 3,236,811  
Consumer Discretionary     4.7       1,517,184  
Consumer Staples     20.8       6,798,796  
Energy     0.2       57,722  
Financials     8.5       2,769,125  
Health Care     27.8       9,074,123  
Industrials     11.8       3,847,248  
Information Technology     3.0       984,169  
Materials     0.5       150,738  
Utilities     12.8       4,167,458  
      100.0 %   $ 32,603,374  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

        Level 2   Level 3      
    Level 1   Significant   Significant      
    Quoted   Observable   Unobservable      
    Prices   Inputs   Inputs   Value  
Common Stocks*   $ 32,603,374     $        $     $ 32,603,374  

 

* See Schedule of Investments for industry sector breakouts.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

14

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR GLOBAL WIDE MOAT ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number            
of Shares         Value  
             
COMMON STOCKS: 100.2%      
Australia: 1.0%      
       12,969     Brambles Ltd. #   $ 98,543  
Canada: 3.8%        
  6,024     Enbridge, Inc.     175,432  
  1,325     Royal Bank of Canada     92,738  
  2,029     Toronto-Dominion Bank     93,646  
              361,816  
China / Hong Kong: 7.5%        
  3,400     Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. (ADR) * #     124,819  
  1,575     Baidu, Inc. (ADR) *     199,379  
  3,100     Tencent Holdings Ltd. #     209,386  
  3,622     Yum China Holdings, Inc. (USD) *     191,785  
              725,369  
Denmark: 1.0%        
  1,345     Novo Nordisk AS #     93,219  
France: 1.9%        
  1,798     Sanofi SA #     180,212  
Germany: 2.7%        
  1,180     Bayer AG #     72,811  
  5,422     GEA Group AG #     190,009  
              262,820  
Ireland: 2.0%        
  1,888     Medtronic Plc (USD)     196,201  
Japan: 6.4%        
  1,300     Hoshizaki Corp. #     103,671  
  2,500     Kao Corp. #     187,561  
  6,000     Nabtesco Corp. #     217,704  
  2,700     Yaskawa Electric Corp. #     105,567  
              614,503  
Switzerland: 3.8%        
  4,316     Julius Baer Group Ltd. #     183,770  
  524     Roche Holding AG #     179,941  
              363,711  
United Kingdom: 6.7%        
  14,815     BAE Systems Plc #     92,183  
  5,115     British American Tobacco Plc #     183,830  
  9,342     Consumers Packaging, Inc. #     175,472  
  1,006     Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc #     98,277  
  1,591     Unilever Plc #     98,276  
              648,038  
Number            
of Shares         Value  
                      
United States: 63.4%        
  128     Alphabet, Inc. *   $ 187,597  
  2,240     Altria Group, Inc.     86,554  
  33     Amazon.com, Inc. *     103,908  
  382     Amgen, Inc.     97,089  
  3,311     Applied Materials, Inc.     196,839  
  958     Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. *     203,996  
  698     Biogen, Inc. *     198,009  
  175     BlackRock, Inc.     98,621  
  3,289     Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.     198,294  
  708     Caterpillar, Inc.     105,598  
  2,611     Cerner Corp.     188,749  
  2,330     Comcast Corp.     107,786  
  3,638     Compass Minerals International, Inc.     215,915  
  505     Constellation Brands, Inc.     95,703  
  6,780     Corteva, Inc.     195,332  
  1,115     Dominion Energy, Inc.     88,007  
  2,904     Emerson Electric Co.     190,415  
  358     Facebook, Inc. *     93,760  
  592     General Dynamics Corp.     81,951  
  2,711     Gilead Sciences, Inc.     171,308  
  1,735     Guidewire Software, Inc. *     180,908  
  3,510     Intel Corp.     181,748  
  2,839     Kellogg Co.     183,371  
  326     Lam Research Corp.     108,150  
  455     McDonald’s Corp.     99,868  
  2,325     Merck & Co., Inc.     192,859  
  967     Microchip Technology, Inc.     99,369  
  920     Microsoft Corp.     193,504  
  950     NIKE, Inc.     119,263  
  715     PepsiCo, Inc.     99,099  
  5,467     Pfizer, Inc.     200,639  
  2,481     Philip Morris International, Inc.     186,050  
  1,422     Raytheon Technologies Corp.     81,822  
  870     Salesforce.com, Inc. *     218,648  
  438     ServiceNow, Inc. *     212,430  
  2,000     The Coca-Cola Co.     98,740  
  736     The Walt Disney Co. *     91,323  
  8,600     The Western Union Co.     184,298  
  820     Tiffany & Co.     94,997  
  275     Tyler Technologies, Inc. *     95,854  
  362     Veeva Systems, Inc. *     101,791  
  1,424     Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.     193,863  
              6,124,025  
Total Common Stocks: 100.2%
(Cost: $8,318,147)
    9,668,457  
Liabilities in excess of other assets: (0.2)%     (16,122 )
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 9,652,335  


 

See Notes to Financial Statements

15

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR GLOBAL WIDE MOAT ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

(continued)

 

Definitions:

ADR American Depositary Receipt
USD United States Dollar

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
# Security has been valued in good faith pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of Trustees. The aggregate value of fair valued securities is $2,595,251 which represents 26.9% of net assets.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector   % of Investments   Value  
Communication Services               9.2 %   $ 889,231  
Consumer Discretionary     7.6       734,640  
Consumer Staples     13.6       1,317,461  
Energy     1.8       175,432  
Financials     7.0       672,771  
Health Care     25.2       2,440,457  
Industrials     13.1       1,267,463  
Information Technology     17.3       1,671,748  
Materials     4.3       411,247  
Utilities     0.9       88,007  
      100.0 %   $ 9,668,457  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:  

 

          Level 2     Level 3      
    Level 1     Significant     Significant      
    Quoted     Observable     Unobservable      
    Prices     Inputs     Inputs   Value  
Common Stocks                                    
Australia   $           $ 98,543        $     $ 98,543  
Canada     361,816                       361,816  
China / Hong Kong     391,164         334,205               725,369  
Denmark             93,219               93,219  
France             180,212               180,212  
Germany             262,820               262,820  
Ireland     196,201                       196,201  
Japan             614,503               614,503  
Switzerland             363,711               363,711  
United Kingdom             648,038               648,038  
United States     6,124,025                       6,124,025  
Total   $ 7,073,206       $ 2,595,251       $     $ 9,668,457  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

16

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR INTERNATIONAL MOAT ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number            
of Shares         Value  
                      
COMMON STOCKS: 98.8%        
                 
Australia: 7.0%        
  59,220     Computershare Ltd. #   $ 524,268  
  79,388     Crown Resorts Ltd. † #     504,660  
  189,627     Link Administration Holdings Ltd. #     512,439  
  136,305     Pendal Group Ltd. #     539,864  
  25,837     Perpetual Ltd. #     521,850  
  492,645     Telstra Corp. Ltd. #     987,087  
              3,590,168  
Canada: 4.8%        
  7,369     Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce     549,082  
  96,522     Comeco Corp.     971,904  
  32,909     Enbridge, Inc.     958,383  
              2,479,369  
China / Hong Kong: 30.6%        
  1,605,000     Agricultural Bank of China Ltd. #     503,580  
  8,601     Baidu, Inc. (ADR) *     1,088,801  
  2,969,000     Bank of China Ltd. #     923,425  
  184,500     BOC Hong Kong Holdings Ltd. #     489,110  
  642,000     China Construction Bank Corp. #     417,156  
  140,800     China Gas Holdings Ltd. #     402,930  
  149,000     China Mobile Ltd. #     956,479  
  82,500     CK Asset Holdings Ltd. #     405,385  
  286,000     CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Ltd. #     558,289  
  120,000     Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co. Ltd. #     677,861  
  1,708,000     Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd. #     889,695  
  794,400     MGM China Holdings Ltd. † #     990,052  
  249,600     Sands China Ltd. #     967,509  
  309,300     Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co. Ltd. #     518,779  
  849,000     SJM Holdings Ltd. #     1,006,466  
  79,000     Sun Hung Kai Properties Ltd. #     1,018,042  
  197,000     Swire Properties Ltd. #     521,971  
  19,988     Trip.com Group Ltd. (ADR) *     622,426  
  15,597     Weibo Corp. (ADR) *     568,199  
  1,199,500     WH Group Ltd. Reg S 144A #     978,447  
  300,800     Wynn Macau Ltd. * #     482,728  
  317,200     Zhengzhou Yutong Bus Co. Ltd. #     737,354  
              15,724,684  
Denmark: 2.0%        
  74,964     Danske Bank A/S * #     1,014,314  
France: 0.8%        
  41,155     Orange SA #     428,725  
Germany: 8.2%        
  14,601     Bayer AG #     900,944  
  15,003     Bayerische Motoren Werke AG #     1,089,061  
  4,826     Continental AG #     523,075  
  21,658     Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA #     985,050  
  8,172     KION Group AG #     697,920  
              4,196,050  
Italy: 0.9%        
  1,164,786     Telecom Italia SpA #     466,930  
Number            
of Shares         Value  
                      
Japan: 9.8%        
  36,100     Calbee, Inc. #   $ 1,188,328  
  53,700     Japan Tobacco, Inc. #     979,087  
  8,600     Murata Manufacturing Co. Ltd. #     558,889  
  8,000     Nidec Corp. #     749,761  
  17,300     Seven & i Holdings Co. Ltd. #     537,181  
  28,500     Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. † #     1,018,046  
              5,031,292  
Mexico: 2.0%        
  1,610,000     America Movil SAB de CV     1,012,278  
Netherlands: 2.7%        
  63,903     ING Groep NV * #     456,145  
  391,544     Koninklijke KPN NV #     918,844  
              1,374,989  
Singapore: 3.9%        
  509,300     CapitaLand Ltd. #     1,018,238  
  163,362     Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp. Ltd. #     1,015,868  
              2,034,106  
South Korea: 2.2%        
  5,706     SK Telecom Co. Ltd. #     1,159,923  
Spain: 2.0%        
  35,266     Grifols SA #     1,014,252  
Sweden: 3.4%        
  53,603     Elekta AB † #     674,041  
  69,286     Swedbank AB #     1,085,423  
              1,759,464  
Switzerland: 10.9%        
  15,881     Cie Financiere Richemont SA #     1,068,965  
  97,571     Credit Suisse Group AG #     976,460  
  23,578     Julius Baer Group Ltd. #     1,003,920  
  11,484     LafargeHolcim Ltd. #     524,055  
  2,863     Roche Holding AG #     983,149  
  2,495     The Swatch Group AG #     583,004  
  43,038     UBS Group AG #     482,063  
              5,621,616  
Taiwan: 0.9%        
  4,000     Largan Precision Co. Ltd. #     468,438  
United Kingdom: 6.7%        
  27,930     British American Tobacco Plc #     1,003,787  
  219,684     ConvaTec Group PLC Reg S 144A #     507,047  
  25,942     Imperial Brands Plc #     459,096  
  59,874     Smiths Group Plc #     1,061,160  
  316,834     Vodafone Group Plc #     420,738  
              3,451,828  
Total Common Stocks
(Cost: $52,816,155)
    50,828,426  
         
PREFERRED STOCKS: 1.1%        
         
Germany: 1.1%
(Cost: $495,211)
       
  5,285     Henkel AG & Co. KGaA, 2.07% #     552,834  
Total Investments Before Collateral
for Securities Loaned: 99.9%

(Cost: $53,311,366)
    51,381,260  


 

See Notes to Financial Statements

17

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR INTERNATIONAL MOAT ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

(continued)

 

Number            
of Shares         Value  
             
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT HELD AS
COLLATERAL FOR SECURITIES ON LOAN: 0.2%

(Cost: $70,249)
     
Money Market Fund: 0.2%      
       70,249     State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio   $ 70,249  
                 
Total Investments: 100.1%
(Cost: $53,381,615)
    51,451,509  
Liabilities in excess of other assets: (0.1)%     (35,132 )
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 51,416,377  


 

 

Definitions:

ADR American Depositary Receipt

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $1,938,574.
# Security has been valued in good faith pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of Trustees. The aggregate value of fair valued securities is $45,610,187 which represents 88.7% of net assets.
Reg S Security was purchased pursuant to Regulation S under the Securities Act of 1933, which exempts from registration securities offered and sold outside of the United States. Such a security cannot be sold in the United States without either an effective registration statement filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, or pursuant to an exemption from registration.
144A Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or otherwise restricted. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, unless otherwise noted, and the value amounted to $1,485,494, or 2.9% of net assets.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector
Excluding Collateral for Securities Loaned
  % of Investments   Value  
Communication Services               15.6 %   $ 8,008,004  
Consumer Discretionary     15.3       7,837,946  
Consumer Staples     11.1       5,698,760  
Energy     3.8       1,930,287  
Financials     21.1       10,867,955  
Health Care     13.9       7,159,597  
Industrials     6.3       3,246,195  
Information Technology     5.3       2,741,895  
Materials     1.0       524,055  
Real Estate     5.8       2,963,636  
Utilities     0.8       402,930  
      100.0 %   $ 51,381,260  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

18

 

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

          Level 2     Level 3      
    Level 1     Significant     Significant      
    Quoted     Observable     Unobservable      
    Prices     Inputs     Inputs   Value  
Common Stocks                                  
Australia   $     $ 3,590,168       $     $ 3,590,168  
Canada     2,479,369                     2,479,369  
China / Hong Kong     2,279,426       13,445,258               15,724,684  
Denmark           1,014,314               1,014,314  
France           428,725               428,725  
Germany           4,196,050               4,196,050  
Italy           466,930               466,930  
Japan           5,031,292               5,031,292  
Mexico     1,012,278                     1,012,278  
Netherlands           1,374,989               1,374,989  
Singapore           2,034,106               2,034,106  
South Korea           1,159,923               1,159,923  
Spain           1,014,252               1,014,252  
Sweden           1,759,464               1,759,464  
Switzerland           5,621,616               5,621,616  
Taiwan           468,438               468,438  
United Kingdom           3,451,828               3,451,828  
Preferred Stocks*           552,834               552,834  
Money Market Fund     70,249                     70,249  
Total   $ 5,841,322     $ 45,610,187       $     $ 51,451,509  

 

* See Schedule of Investments for geographic sector breakouts.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

19

VANECK VECTORS MORNINGSTAR WIDE MOAT ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number            
of Shares         Value  
                     
COMMON STOCKS: 99.9%        
Banks: 7.0%        
  3,343,637     Bank of America Corp.   $ 80,548,215  
  2,261,322     US Bancorp     81,068,394  
  3,331,541     Wells Fargo & Co.     78,324,529  
              239,941,138  
Capital Goods: 10.9%        
  492,130     Boeing Co. *     81,329,404  
  318,668     Caterpillar, Inc.     47,529,332  
  628,206     Emerson Electric Co.     41,191,467  
  561,620     General Dynamics Corp.     77,745,057  
  112,028     Lockheed Martin Corp.     42,938,092  
  1,364,326     Raytheon Technologies Corp.     78,503,318  
              369,236,670  
Consumer Durables & Apparel: 2.4%        
  1,636,939     Harley-Davidson, Inc.     40,170,483  
  459,468     Polaris Industries, Inc.     43,346,211  
              83,516,694  
Diversified Financials: 8.9%        
  829,112     American Express Co.     83,118,478  
  426,915     Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. *     90,907,280  
  77,043     BlackRock, Inc.     43,417,583  
  2,358,748     The Charles Schwab Corp.     85,457,440  
              302,900,781  
Energy: 2.4%        
  1,736,449     Cheniere Energy, Inc. *     80,345,495  
Food, Beverage & Tobacco: 10.9%        
  1,994,939     Altria Group, Inc.     77,084,443  
  454,791     Constellation Brands, Inc.     86,187,442  
  1,263,019     Kellogg Co.     81,578,397  
  1,104,341     Philip Morris International, Inc.     82,814,532  
  900,520     The Coca-Cola Co.     44,458,672  
              372,123,486  
Health Care Equipment & Services: 7.6%        
  558,423     Cerner Corp.     40,368,399  
  840,620     Medtronic Plc     87,357,230  
  159,294     Veeva Systems, Inc. *     44,791,880  
  634,136     Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.     86,331,275  
              258,848,784  
Materials: 5.4%        
  1,620,234     Compass Minerals International, Inc. †     96,160,888  
  3,017,284     Corteva, Inc.     86,927,952  
              183,088,840  
Number            
of Shares         Value  
                     
Media & Entertainment: 3.6%        
  1,049,064     Comcast Corp.   $ 48,529,701  
  2,317,752     John Wiley & Sons, Inc.     73,495,916  
              122,025,617  
Pharmaceuticals / Biotechnology: 12.6%        
  310,420     Biogen, Inc. *     88,059,946  
  1,463,868     Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.     88,256,602  
  1,204,939     Gilead Sciences, Inc.     76,140,095  
  1,034,716     Merck & Co., Inc.     85,829,692  
  2,433,722     Pfizer, Inc.     89,317,597  
              427,603,932  
Retailing: 5.0%        
  13,207     Amazon.com, Inc. *     41,585,277  
  369,248     Tiffany & Co.     42,777,381  
  936,718     Yum! Brands, Inc.     85,522,353  
              169,885,011  
Semiconductor: 8.9%        
  1,472,300     Applied Materials, Inc.     87,528,235  
  1,560,148     Intel Corp.     80,784,463  
  143,421     Lam Research Corp.     47,579,917  
  834,752     Microchip Technology, Inc.     85,779,116  
              301,671,731  
Software & Services: 13.1%        
  750,252     Aspen Technology, Inc. *     94,974,401  
  1,443,076     Blackbaud, Inc. *     80,566,933  
  772,087     Guidewire Software, Inc. *     80,505,512  
  204,256     Microsoft Corp.     42,961,164  
  387,530     Salesforce.com, Inc. *     97,394,040  
  100,995     ServiceNow, Inc. *     48,982,575  
              445,384,625  
Utilities: 1.2%        
  501,751     Dominion Energy, Inc.     39,603,206  
Total Common Stocks: 99.9%
(Cost: $3,308,510,191)
    3,396,176,010  
Other assets less liabilities: 0.1%     1,791,136  
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 3,397,967,146  


 

See Notes to Financial Statements

20

 

 

Footnotes:

* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $3,602,367.

 

Summary of Investments by Sector   % of Investments   Value  
Communication Services     3.6 %   $ 122,025,617  
Consumer Discretionary     7.4       253,401,705  
Consumer Staples     10.9       372,123,486  
Energy     2.4       80,345,495  
Financials     16.0       542,841,919  
Health Care     20.2       686,452,716  
Industrials     10.9       369,236,670  
Information Technology     22.0       747,056,356  
Materials     5.4       183,088,840  
Utilities     1.2       39,603,206  
                100.0 %   $ 3,396,176,010  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

          Level 2     Level 3      
    Level 1     Significant     Significant      
    Quoted     Observable     Unobservable      
    Prices     Inputs     Inputs   Value  
Common Stocks*   $ 3,396,176,010     $       $     $ 3,396,176,010  

 

* See Schedule of Investments for industry sector breakouts.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

21

VANECK VECTORS REAL ASSET ALLOCATION ETF

CONSOLIDATED SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number            
of Shares         Value  
             
EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS: 100.0% (a)        
      14,607     Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund   $ 437,480  
  103,036     Invesco Optimum Yield Diversified Commodity Strategy No K-1 ETF †     1,408,502  
  32,177     iShares Global Infrastructure ETF †     1,241,389  
  56,626     iShares Gold Trust *     1,018,702  
  12,277     iShares MSCI Global Metals & Mining Producers ETF     328,778  
  54,262     SPDR Gold MiniShares Trust *     1,020,126  
  9,762     VanEck Vectors Agribusiness ETF ‡ †     659,441  
  4,483     VanEck Vectors Coal ETF ‡     349,211  
  11,807     VanEck Vectors Energy Income ETF ‡     404,867  
  12,085     VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF ‡     473,870  
  3,995     VanEck Vectors Low Carbon Energy ETF ‡ *     437,983  
  2,499     VanEck Vectors Oil Services ETF ‡     244,277  
  11,053     VanEck Vectors Steel ETF ‡ †     341,239  
  4,785     VanEck Vectors Unconventional Oil & Gas ETF ‡     265,145  
  5,514     Vanguard Real Estate ETF †     435,385  
Total Exchange Traded Funds
(Cost: $8,302,206)
    9,066,395  
Number            
of Shares         Value  
                     
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT HELD AS
COLLATERAL FOR SECURITIES ON LOAN: 7.7%
(Cost: $695,909)
       
Money Market Fund: 7.7%        
  695,909     State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio   $ 695,909  
                 
Total Investments: 107.7%
(Cost: $8,998,115)
    9,762,304  
Liabilities in excess of other assets: (7.7)%     (696,373 )
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 9,065,931  


 

 

Footnotes:

(a) Each underlying fund’s shareholder reports and registration documents are available free of charge on the SEC’s website at https://www.sec.gov
Affiliated issuer – as defined under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
* Non-income producing
Security fully or partially on loan. Total market value of securities on loan is $2,310,109.

 

A summary of the Fund’s transactions in securities of affiliates for the year ended September 30, 2020 is set forth below:

 

Affiliates   Value
09/30/19
  Purchases   Sales
Proceeds
  Realized
Gain (Loss)
  Dividend
Income
  Net Change
in Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
  Value
09/30/20
VanEck Vectors Agribusiness ETF   $ 629,819     $ 3,016,848     $ (2,750,206 )   $ (287,299 )   $ 28,789          $  50,279     $ 659,441  
VanEck Vectors Coal ETF     438,018       3,422,059       (3,010,449 )     (582,832 )     103,333       82,415       349,211  
VanEck Vectors Energy Income ETF           2,463,624       (1,119,028 )     (867,133 )*     199       (38,586 )**     404,867  
VanEck Vectors Gold Miners ETF     623,358       5,850,646       (5,555,370 )     (481,446 )     9,748       36,682       473,870  
VanEck Vectors Low Carbon Energy ETF           1,828,662       (1,297,127 )     (184,542 )           90,990       437,983  
VanEck Vectors Oil Services ETF     645,333       2,196,673       (1,695,501 )     (921,563 )     25,910       19,335       244,277  
VanEck Vectors Steel ETF     658,101       1,738,728       (1,468,812 )     (630,662 )           43,884       341,239  
VanEck Vectors Unconventional Oil & Gas ETF     459,934       2,163,716       (1,531,258 )     (824,998 )     21,437       (2,249 )     265,145  
    $ 3,454,563     $ 22,680,956     $ (18,427,751 )   $ (4,780,475 )   $ 189,416       $ 282,750     $ 3,176,033  

 

*   Includes Return of Capital distribution reclassification of $26,938.
**   Includes Return of Capital distribution reclassification of $7,072.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

22

 

 

Summary of Investments by Sector
Excluding Collateral for Securities Loaned
  % of Investments   Value  
Agribusiness     7.3 %   $ 659,441  
Coal     3.9       349,211  
Diversified Commodities Futures     15.5       1,408,502  
Energy     9.3       842,347  
Global Metals and Mining     3.6       328,778  
Gold Bullion     22.5       2,038,828  
Gold Mining     5.2       473,870  
Low Carbon Energy     4.8       437,983  
Oil Services     2.7       244,277  
Steel     3.8       341,239  
Unconventional Oil & Gas     2.9       265,145  
US Real Estate Investment Trusts     4.8       435,385  
Utilities     13.7       1,241,389  
                100.0 %   $ 9,066,395  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

          Level 2     Level 3      
    Level 1     Significant     Significant      
    Quoted     Observable     Unobservable      
    Prices     Inputs     Inputs   Value  
Exchange Traded Funds   $ 9,066,395     $       $     $ 9,066,395  
Money Market Fund     695,909                     695,909  
Total   $ 9,762,304     $       $     $ 9,762,304  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

23

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

September 30, 2020

 

    Long/Flat
Trend ETF
    Morningstar
Durable
Dividend ETF
    Morningstar
Global Wide
Moat ETF
    Morningstar
International
Moat ETF
 
                                 
Assets:                                
Investments, at value (1)                                
Unaffiliated issuers (2)   $ 31,511,667     $ 32,603,374     $ 9,668,457     $ 51,381,260  
Affiliated issuers (3)                        
Short-term investments held as collateral for securities loaned (4)                       70,249  
Cash           17,976       12,510        
Cash denominated in foreign currency, at value (5)                 10       32,913  
Receivables:                                
Investment securities sold           138,588             23,667  
Shares of beneficial interest sold                        
Due from Adviser     6,236       7,744       12,910        
Dividends and interest     134,026       84,688       12,847       173,411  
Prepaid expenses     1,326       1,323       1,312       2,629  
Total assets     31,653,255       32,853,693       9,708,046       51,684,129  
                                 
Liabilities:                                
Payables:                                
Investment securities purchased                       23,688  
Collateral for securities loaned                       70,249  
Line of credit                        
Due to Adviser                       11,472  
Due to custodian     47,184                   94,967  
Deferred Trustee fees     699       90       49       1,217  
Accrued expenses     56,574       52,209       55,662       66,159  
Total liabilities     104,457       52,299       55,711       267,752  
NET ASSETS   $ 31,548,798     $ 32,801,394     $ 9,652,335     $ 51,416,377  
Shares outstanding     1,000,000       1,225,000       300,000       1,750,000  
Net asset value, redemption and offering price per share   $ 31.55     $ 26.78     $ 32.17     $ 29.38  
                                 
Net Assets consist of:                                
Aggregate paid in capital   $ 30,954,750     $ 36,166,184     $ 8,005,979     $ 63,368,901  
Total distributable earnings (loss)     594,048       (3,364,790 )     1,646,356       (11,952,524 )
NET ASSETS   $ 31,548,798     $ 32,801,394     $ 9,652,335     $ 51,416,377  
(1)   Value of securities on loan   $     $     $     $ 1,938,574  
(2)   Cost of investments—Unaffiliated issuers   $ 28,400,480     $ 32,279,610     $ 8,318,147     $ 53,311,366  
(3)   Cost of investments—Affiliated issuers   $     $     $     $  
(4)   Cost of short-term investments held as collateral for securities loaned   $     $     $     $ 70,249  
(5)   Cost of cash denominated in foreign currency   $     $     $ 10     $ 32,755  

 

 

(a) Represents Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

24

 

 

Morningstar
Wide Moat ETF
    Real Asset
Allocation ETF (a)
 
                 
                 
                 
      $ 3,396,176,010                       $ 5,890,362  
            3,176,033  
            695,909  
    68         46,246  
             
                 
            1,337,976  
    19,069,226          
            6,910  
    6,122,737         2,145  
    19,627         1,315  
    3,421,387,668         11,156,896  
                 
                 
    19,073,676         1,337,967  
            695,909  
    2,841,106          
    1,271,590          
             
    64,940         241  
    169,210         56,848  
    23,420,522         2,090,965  
  $ 3,397,967,146       $ 9,065,931  
    62,200,000         450,000  
  $ 54.63       $ 20.15  
                 
  $ 3,604,604,201       $ 17,877,691  
    (206,637,055 )       (8,811,760 )
  $ 3,397,967,146       $ 9,065,931  
  $ 3,602,367       $ 2,310,109  
  $ 3,308,510,191       $ 5,158,014  
  $       $ 3,144,192  
  $       $ 695,909  
  $       $  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

25

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

For the Year Ended September 30, 2020

 

    Long/Flat
Trend ETF
    Morningstar
Durable
Dividend ETF
    Morningstar
Global Wide
Moat ETF
    Morningstar
International
Moat ETF
 
                                 
Income:                                
Dividends—unaffiliated issuers   $ 998,263     $ 1,023,280     $ 172,136     $ 1,845,617  
Dividends—affiliated issuers                        
Interest     497       37       4       31  
Securities lending income     1,664       100       265       23,502  
Foreign taxes withheld                 (8,946 )     (156,787 )
Total income     1,000,424       1,023,417       163,459       1,712,363  
                                 
Expenses:                                
Management fees     259,201       79,598       35,682       320,356  
Professional fees     68,709       70,370       70,313       72,297  
Custody and accounting fees     28,315       26,486       31,506       52,454  
Reports to shareholders     16,087       9,512       8,840       13,922  
IOPV fees     5,904       3,366       3,366       5,643  
Trustees’ fees and expenses     1,022       650       208       1,951  
Registration fees     10,052       7,508       6,477       5,234  
Transfer agent fees     200       200       200       200  
Insurance     3,046       1,575       1,549       3,643  
Interest     34       37             12,064  
Other     1,721       1,117       3,896       1,628  
Total expenses     394,291       200,419       162,037       489,392  
Waiver of management fees     (109,661 )     (79,598 )     (35,682 )     (118,906 )
Expenses assumed by the Adviser           (41,323 )     (85,083 )      
Net expenses     284,630       79,498       41,272       370,486  
Net investment income     715,794       943,919       122,187       1,341,877  
                                 
Net realized gain (loss) on:                                
Investments—unaffiliated issuers           (3,909,819 )     207,445       (6,058,419 )
Investments—affiliated issuers                        
In-kind redemptions—unaffiliated issuers     (675,324 )     2,403,325             918,546  
In-kind redemptions—affiliated issuers                        
Foreign currency transactions and foreign denominated assets and liabilities                 257       3,485  
Net realized gain (loss)     (675,324 )     (1,506,494 )     207,702       (5,136,388 )
                                 
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:                                
Investments—unaffiliated issuers     (1,380,712 )     253,694       908,266       2,142,050  
Investments—affiliated issuers                        
Foreign currency transactions and foreign denominated assets and liabilities                 (33 )     10,069  
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)     (1,380,712 )     253,694       908,233       2,152,119  
Net Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations   $ (1,340,242 )   $ (308,881 )   $ 1,238,122     $ (1,642,392 )

 

 

(a) Represents consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

26

 

 

Morningstar
Wide Moat ETF
    Real Asset
Allocation ETF (a)
 
                         
                 
                 
      $ 70,208,847                  $ 292,785  
            189,416  
    20,905         29,489  
    82,460         34,813  
    (172,127 )        
    70,140,085         546,503  
                 
                 
    14,106,785         108,692  
    75,346         67,398  
    62,950         30,931  
    183,692         13,502  
    5,643         3,749  
    82,953         358  
    74,349         14,682  
    200         400  
    29,744         1,681  
    36,233          
    45,769         1,006  
    14,703,664         242,399  
            (108,692 )
            (14,365 )
    14,703,664         119,342  
    55,436,421         427,161  
                 
                 
    (135,560,727 )       (1,919,576 )
            (4,012,256 )
    385,772,112         (697,441 )
            (768,219 )
                 
             
    250,211,385         (7,397,492 )
                 
                 
    (32,450,558 )       (281,365 )
            282,750  
                 
             
    (32,450,558 )       1,385  
  $ 273,197,248       $ (6,968,946 )

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

27

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

 

    Long/Flat Trend ETF     Morningstar
Durable Dividend ETF
 
    Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
    Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    For the Period
October 30, 2018*
through
September 30,
2019
 
Operations:                                
Net investment income   $ 715,794     $ 869,293     $ 943,919     $ 251,795  
Net realized gain (loss)     (675,324 )     (1,822,896 )     (1,506,494 )     712,818  
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)     (1,380,712 )     2,238,147       253,694       70,071  
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations     (1,340,242 )     1,284,544       (308,881 )     1,034,684  
Distributions to shareholders:                                
From distributable earnings     (1,000,040 )     (550,200 )     (991,310 )     (130,030 )
Share transactions:**                                
Proceeds from sale of shares     18,877,077       23,560,640       33,663,334       21,719,158  
Cost of shares redeemed     (50,838,556 )     (10,687,796 )     (17,916,809 )     (4,268,752 )
Increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from share transactions     (31,961,479 )     12,872,844       15,746,525       17,450,406  
Total increase (decrease) in net assets     (34,301,761 )     13,607,188       14,446,334       18,355,060  
Net Assets, beginning of year     65,850,559       52,243,371       18,355,060        
Net Assets, end of year   $ 31,548,798     $ 65,850,559     $ 32,801,394     $ 18,355,060  
                                 
** Shares of Common Stock Issued (no par value)                                
Shares sold     650,000       900,000       1,250,000       800,000  
Shares redeemed     (2,000,000 )     (400,000 )     (675,000 )     (150,000 )
Net increase (decrease)     (1,350,000 )     500,000       575,000       650,000  

 

 

(a) Represents Consolidated Statement of Changes in Net Assets.
* Commencement of operations

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

28

 

 

Morningstar     Morningstar     Morningstar     Real Asset  
Global Wide Moat ETF     International Moat ETF     Wide Moat ETF     Allocation ETF (a)  
Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    For the Period
October 30, 2018*
through
September 30,
2019
    Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
    Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
    Year Ended
September 30,
2020
    Year Ended
September 30,
2019
 
                                                             
$ 122,187     $ 70,454     $ 1,341,877     $ 2,724,202     $ 55,436,421     $ 38,743,341     $ 427,161     $ 274,945  
  207,702       87,961       (5,136,388 )     (4,499,913 )     250,211,385       155,959,301       (7,397,492 )     (851,309 )
  908,233       442,069       2,152,119       (3,098,724 )     (32,450,558 )     7,136,244       1,385       704,784  
  1,238,122       600,484       (1,642,392 )     (4,874,435 )     273,197,248       201,838,886       (6,968,946 )     128,420  
                                                             
  (181,250 )     (11,000 )     (2,750,000 )     (2,801,050 )     (43,002,000 )     (29,003,400 )     (700,005 )     (83,400 )
                                                             
  2,802,272       5,203,707       7,963,287       21,706,439       2,395,475,138       1,740,552,075       7,646,301       30,284,674  
              (34,704,740 )     (20,939,444 )     (1,714,078,307 )     (997,112,445 )     (21,216,119 )     (15,258,996 )
  2,802,272       5,203,707       (26,741,453 )     766,995       681,396,831       743,439,630       (13,569,818 )     15,025,678  
  3,859,144       5,793,191       (31,133,845 )     (6,908,490 )     911,592,079       916,275,116       (21,238,769 )     15,070,698  
  5,793,191             82,550,222       89,458,712       2,486,375,067       1,570,099,951       30,304,700       15,234,002  
$ 9,652,335     $ 5,793,191     $ 51,416,377     $ 82,550,222     $ 3,397,967,146     $ 2,486,375,067     $ 9,065,931     $ 30,304,700  
                                                             
  100,000       200,000       250,000       700,000       45,150,000       36,700,000       300,000       1,200,000  
              (1,200,000 )     (700,000 )     (32,550,000 )     (20,700,000 )     (1,050,000 )     (600,000 )
  100,000       200,000       (950,000 )           12,600,000       16,000,000       (750,000 )     600,000  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

29

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding throughout each period:

 

    Long/Flat Trend ETF  
    For the
Year Ended
September 30,
2020
  For the
Year Ended
September 30,
2019
 

For the Period
October 4,
2017(a) through
September 30,
2018

 
Net asset value, beginning of period             $ 28.02               $ 28.24               $ 25.03    
Income from investment operations:                                
Net investment income (b)       0.40         0.39         0.42    
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments       3.56 (h)       (0.35 )       2.89    
Total from investment operations       3.96         0.04         3.31    
Less:                                
Dividends from net investment income       (0.43 )       (0.26 )       (0.10 )  
Net asset value, end of period     $ 31.55       $ 28.02       $ 28.24    
Total return (c)       14.22 %       0.29 %       13.25 %(d)  
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                
Net assets, end of period (000’s)     $31,549       $65,851       $52,243    
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets (f)       0.76 %       0.69 %       0.86 %(e)  
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets (f)       0.55 %       0.57 %       0.56 %(e)  
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense (f)       0.55 %       0.55 %       0.55 %(e)  
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets (f)       1.38 %       1.47 %       1.58 %(e)  
Portfolio turnover rate (g)       0 %       59 %       28 %(d)  
                                 
    Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF            
    For the
Year Ended
September 30,
2020
  For the Period
October 30,
2018(a) through
September 30,
2019
           
Net asset value, beginning of period     $ 28.24       $ 25.36              
Income from investment operations:                                
Net investment income (b)       0.92         0.75              
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments       (1.28 )       2.62              
Total from investment operations       (0.36 )       3.37              
Less:                                
Dividends from net investment income       (0.90 )       (0.49 )            
Distributions from net realized capital gains       (0.20 )                    
Total dividends and distributions       (1.10 )       (0.49 )            
Net asset value, end of period     $ 26.78       $ 28.24              
Total return (c)       (1.26 )%       13.41 %(d)            
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                
Net assets, end of period (000’s)     $32,801       $18,355              
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets       0.73 %       1.14 %(e)            
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets       0.29 %       0.29 %(e)            
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense       0.29 %       0.29 %(e)            
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets       3.44 %       3.00 %(e)            
Portfolio turnover rate (g)       67 %       94 %(d)            

 

 

(a) Commencement of operations
(b) Calculated based upon average shares outstanding
(c) Total return is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the net asset value at the beginning of period, reinvestment of any dividends and distributions at net asset value on the dividend/distributions payment date and a redemption at the net asset value on the last day of the period. The return includes adjustments in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and as such, the net asset values for financial reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset values and returns for shareholder transactions. The return does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends/distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(d) Not Annualized
(e) Annualized
(f) The ratios presented do not reflect the Fund’s proportionate share of income and expenses from the Fund’s investment in underlying funds.
(g) Portfolio turnover rates exclude securities received or delivered as a result of processing in-kind capital share transactions.
(h) The amount shown for a share outstanding does not correspond with the aggregate net gain (loss) on investments for the period due to the timing of sales and repurchaes of shares in relation to fluctuating market values of the investments of the Fund.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

30

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding throughout each period:

 

    Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF            
    For the
Year Ended
September 30,
2020
  For the Period
October 30,
2018(a) through
September 30,
2019
           
Net asset value, beginning of period             $ 28.97               $ 25.30              
Income from investment operations:                                
Net investment income (b)       0.46         0.47              
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments       3.47         3.31              
Total from investment operations       3.93         3.78              
Less:                                
Dividends from net investment income       (0.34 )       (0.11 )            
Distributions from net realized capital gains       (0.39 )                    
Total dividends and distributions       (0.73 )       (0.11 )            
Net asset value, end of period     $ 32.17       $ 28.97              
Total return (c)       13.70 %       15.01 %(d)            
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                
Net assets, end of period (000’s)     $ 9,652       $ 5,793              
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets       2.04 %       2.50 %(e)            
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets       0.52 %       0.56 %(e)            
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense       0.52 %       0.52 %(e)            
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets       1.54 %       1.86 %(e)            
Portfolio turnover rate (f)       68 %       71 %(d)            

 

    Morningstar International Moat ETF  
    For the Year Ended September 30,  
    2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
Net asset value, beginning of year   $ 30.57     $ 33.13     $ 35.49     $ 28.34     $ 26.48  
Income from investment operations:                                        
Net investment income     0.62 (b)     1.00 (b)     0.91 (b)     0.93 (b)     0.76  
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments     (0.56 )     (2.50 )     (1.27 )     6.59       1.33  
Total from investment operations     0.06       (1.50 )     (0.36 )     7.52       2.09  
Less:                                        
Dividends from net investment income     (1.25 )     (1.06 )     (0.98 )     (0.37 )     (0.23 )
Distributions from net realized capital gains                 (1.02 )            
Total dividends and distributions     (1.25 )     (1.06 )     (2.00 )     (0.37 )     (0.23 )
Net asset value, end of year   $ 29.38     $ 30.57     $ 33.13     $ 35.49     $ 28.34  
Total return (c)     (0.14 )%     (4.25 )%     (1.14 )%     26.91 %     7.91 %
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                        
Net assets, end of year (000’s) $ 51,416   $ 82,550   $ 89,459   $ 81,631     $ 12,755  
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets     0.76 %     0.69 %     0.72 %     0.84 %     1.62 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets     0.58 %     0.57 %     0.57 %     0.56 %     0.56 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense     0.56 %     0.56 %     0.56 %     0.56 %     0.56 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets     2.10 %     3.26 %     2.67 %     2.92 %     2.99 %
Portfolio turnover rate (f)     94 %     85 %     112 %     129 %     168 %

 

 

(a) Commencement of operations
(b) Calculated based upon average shares outstanding
(c) Total return is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the net asset value at the beginning of period, reinvestment of any dividends and distributions at net asset value on the dividend/distributions payment date and a redemption at the net asset value on the last day of the period. The return includes adjustments in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and as such, the net asset values for financial reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset values and returns for shareholder transactions. The return does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends/distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(d) Not Annualized
(e) Annualized
(f) Portfolio turnover rates exclude securities received or delivered as a result of processing in-kind capital share transactions.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

31

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding throughout each period:

 

    Morningstar Wide Moat ETF  
    For the Year Ended September 30,  
    2020     2019     2018     2017     2016  
Net asset value, beginning of year           $ 50.13             $ 46.73             $ 40.33             $ 34.01             $ 27.96  
Income from investment operations:                                        
Net investment income     0.92 (b)     0.89 (b)     0.73 (b)     0.53 (b)     0.48  
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments     4.30       3.25       6.13       6.20       6.19  
Total from investment operations     5.22       4.14       6.86       6.73       6.67  
Less:                                        
Dividends from net investment income     (0.72 )     (0.74 )     (0.46 )     (0.41 )     (0.62 )
Net asset value, end of year   $ 54.63     $ 50.13     $ 46.73     $ 40.33     $ 34.01  
Total return (c)     10.40 %     9.21 %     17.11 %     19.96 %     24.23 %
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                        
Net assets, end of year (000’s) $ 3,397,967     $ 2,486,375     $ 1,570,100     $ 1,286,451     $ 753,358  
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets     0.47 %     0.48 %     0.49 %     0.48 %     0.50 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets     0.47 %     0.48 %     0.49 %     0.48 %     0.49 %
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense     0.47 %     0.48 %     0.49 %     0.48 %     0.49 %
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets     1.77 %     1.90 %     1.69 %     1.42 %     1.44 %
Portfolio turnover rate (g)     48 %     58 %     56 %     53 %     178 %

 

    Real Asset Allocation ETF (h)  
    For the
Year Ended
September 30,
2020
  For the
Year Ended
September 30,
2019
  For the Period
April 9,
2018(a) through
September 30,
2018
 
Net asset value, beginning of period             $ 25.25               $ 25.39               $ 25.18    
Income from investment operations:                                
Net investment income (b)       0.45         0.31         0.10    
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments       (4.94 )       (0.31 )       0.11    
Total from investment operations       (4.49 )       0.00         0.21    
Less:                                
Dividends from net investment income       (0.61 )       (0.14 )          
Net asset value, end of period     $ 20.15       $ 25.25       $ 25.39    
Total return (c)       (18.32 )%       0.02 %       0.83 %(d)  
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                
Net assets, end of period (000’s)     $ 9,066       $ 30,305       $ 15,234    
Ratio of gross expenses to average net assets (f)       1.12 %       0.93 %       1.57 %(e)  
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets (f)       0.55 %       0.55 %       0.55 %(e)  
Ratio of net expenses to average net assets excluding interest expense (f)       0.55 %       0.55 %       0.55 %(e)  
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets(f)       1.97 %       1.23 %       0.78 %(e)  
Portfolio turnover rate (g)       195 %       449 %       130 %(d)  

 

 

(a) Commencement of operations
(b) Calculated based upon average shares outstanding
(c) Total return is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the net asset value at the beginning of period, reinvestment of any dividends and distributions at net asset value on the dividend/distributions payment date and a redemption at the net asset value on the last day of the period. The return includes adjustments in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and as such, the net asset values for financial reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset values and returns for shareholder transactions. The return does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends/distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(d) Not Annualized
(e) Annualized
(f) The ratios presented do not reflect the Fund’s proportionate share of income and expenses from the Fund’s investment in underlying funds.
(g) Portfolio turnover rates exclude securities received or delivered as a result of processing in-kind capital share transactions.
(h) Represents Consolidated Financial Highlights

 

See Notes to Financial Statements

32

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Note 1—Fund Organization—VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company. The Trust was incorporated in Delaware as a statutory trust on March 15, 2001. The Trust operates as a series fund, and offers multiple investment portfolios, each of which represents a separate series of the Trust. These financial statements relate only to the investment portfolios listed in the diversification table below (each a “Fund” and, collectively, the “Funds”).

 

Fund Diversification Classification
Long/Flat Trend ETF* Non-Diversified
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF Non-Diversified
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF Non-Diversified
Morningstar International Moat ETF Diversified
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF Diversified
Real Asset Allocation ETF Non-Diversified

 

* Formerly known as NDR CMG Long/Flat Allocation ETF

 

Each Fund, except for Real Asset Allocation ETF, was created to provide investors with the opportunity to purchase a security representing a proportionate undivided interest in a portfolio of securities consisting of substantially all of the common stocks in approximately the same weighting as their index. The Real Asset Allocation ETF seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing primarily in exchange traded products (“ETPs”) that provide exposure to real assets, which include commodities, real estate, natural resources, and infrastructure, using a proprietary, rules-based real asset allocation model.

 

Note 2—Significant Accounting Policies—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

The Funds are investment companies and follow accounting and reporting requirements of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 946 Financial Services—Investment Companies.

 

The following summarizes the Funds’ significant accounting policies.

 

A. Security Valuation—The Funds value their investments in securities and other assets and liabilities at fair value daily. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Securities traded on national exchanges are valued at the closing price on the markets in which the securities trade. Securities traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market LLC (“NASDAQ”) are valued at the NASDAQ official closing price. Over-the-counter securities not included on NASDAQ and listed securities for which no sale was reported are valued at the mean of the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded they are categorized as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy (described below). Certain foreign securities, whose values may be affected by market direction or events occurring before the Funds’ pricing time (4:00 p.m. Eastern Time) but after the last close of the securities’ primary market, are fair valued using a pricing service and are categorized as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. The pricing service, using methods approved by the Board of Trustees, considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to intraday trading in the U.S. markets, based on indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators such as prices of relevant ADR’s and futures contracts. The Funds may also fair value securities in other situations, such as, when a particular foreign market is closed but the Fund is open. Short-term obligations with sixty days or less to maturity are valued at amortized cost, which with accrued interest approximates fair value. Money market fund investments are valued at net asset value and are considered to be Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The Pricing Committee of the Van Eck Associate Corporation (“VEAC”) and Van Eck Absolute Return Advisers Corporation (“VEARA”) (VEAC and VEARA, collectively referred to as the “Adviser”) provides oversight of the Funds’ valuation policies and procedures, which are approved by the Funds’ Board of Trustees. Among other things, these procedures allow the Funds to utilize independent pricing services, quotations from securities dealers, and other market sources to determine fair value. The Pricing Committee convenes regularly to review the fair value of financial instruments or other assets. If market quotations for a security or other asset are not readily available, or if the Adviser believes they do not otherwise reflect the fair value of a security or asset, the security or asset will be fair valued by the Pricing Committee in accordance with the Funds’ valuation policies and procedures. The Pricing Committee employs various methods for calibrating the valuation approaches utilized to determine fair value,
33

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

including a regular review of key inputs and assumptions, periodic comparisons to valuations provided by other independent pricing services, transactional back-testing and disposition analysis.

 

Certain factors such as economic conditions, political events, market trends, the nature of and duration of any restrictions on disposition, trading in similar securities of the issuer or comparable issuers and other security specific information are used to determine the fair value of these securities. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these securities may be categorized either as Level 2 or Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The price which the Funds may realize upon sale of an investment may differ materially from the value presented in the Schedules of Investments.

 

The Funds utilize various methods to measure the fair value of their investments on a recurring basis, which includes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:

 

Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

Level 2 — Significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

Level 3 — Significant unobservable inputs (including each Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

A summary of the inputs and the levels used to value the Funds’ investments are located in the Schedules of Investments. Additionally, tables that reconcile the valuation of the Funds’ Level 3 investments and that present additional information about valuation methodologies and unobservable inputs, if applicable, are located in the Schedules of Investments.

 

B. Basis for Consolidation—The Real Asset Allocation ETF invests in certain ETPs through the Real Asset Allocation Subsidiary (the “Subsidiary”), a wholly-owned subsidiary organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands. The Fund’s investment in the Subsidiary may not exceed 25% of the value of the Fund’s total assets at each quarter-end of the Fund’s fiscal year. Consolidated financial statements of the Fund present the financial position and results of operations for the Fund and its wholly-owned Subsidiary. All interfund account balances and transactions between the Fund and Subsidiary have been eliminated in consolidation.
   
C. Federal Income Taxes—It is each Fund’s policy to comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of its taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no federal income tax provision is required.
   
D. Distributions to Shareholders—Dividends to shareholders from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually by each Fund (except for dividends from net investment income from Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF, which are declared and paid quarterly). Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. income tax regulations, which may differ from such amounts determined in accordance with GAAP.
   
E. Currency Translation—Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies and commitments under foreign currency contracts are translated into U.S. dollars at the closing prices of such currencies each business day as quoted by one or more sources. Purchases and sales of investments are translated at the exchange rates prevailing when such investments are acquired or sold. Foreign denominated income and expenses are translated at the exchange rates prevailing when accrued. The portion of realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that result from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed in the financial statements. Such amounts are included with the net realized and unrealized gains and losses on investment securities in the Statements of Operations. Recognized gains or losses attributable to foreign currency fluctuations on foreign currency denominated assets, other than investments, and liabilities are recorded as net realized gain (loss) and net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on foreign currency transactions and foreign denominated assets and liabilities in the Statements of Operations.
34

 

 

F. Restricted Securities—The Funds may invest in securities that are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resale. These securities generally may be resold in transactions exempt from registration or to the public if the securities are registered. Disposal of these securities may involve time-consuming negotiations and expense, and prompt sale at an acceptable price may be difficult. Information regarding restricted securities, if any, is included at the end of each Fund’s Schedule of Investments.
   
G. Offsetting Assets and Liabilities—In the ordinary course of business, the Funds enter into transactions subject to enforceable master netting or other similar agreements. Generally, the right of offset in those agreements allows the Funds to offset any exposure to a specific counterparty with any collateral received or delivered to that counterparty based on the terms of the agreements. The Funds may pledge or receive cash and or securities as collateral for derivative instruments and securities lending. For financial reporting purposes, the Funds present securities lending assets and liabilities on a gross basis in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Cash collateral received for securities lending in the form of money market fund investments, if any, at September 30, 2020 is presented in the Schedules of Investments and in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral is disclosed in Note 9 (Securities Lending).
   
I. Other—Security transactions are accounted for on trade date. Realized gains and losses are determined based on the specific identification method. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date except that certain dividends from foreign securities are recognized upon notification of the ex-dividend date. Interest income, including amortization of premiums and discounts, is accrued as earned.

 

The Funds earn interest income on uninvested cash balances held at the custodian bank. Such amounts, if any, are presented as interest income in the Statements of Operations.

 

The character of distributions received from certain investment in underlying funds may be comprised of net investment income, capital gains, and return of capital. It is the Funds’ policy to estimate the character of distributions received from these investments based on historical data provided by the underlying funds if actual amounts are not available. After each calendar year end, the underlying funds report the actual tax character of these distributions. Differences between the estimated and actual amounts are reflected in the Funds’ records in the year in which they are reported by adjusting the related cost basis of investments, capital gains and income, as necessary.

 

In the normal course of business, the Funds enter into contracts that contain a variety of general indemnifications. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Funds that have not yet occurred. However, the Adviser believes the risk of loss under these arrangements to be remote.

 

Note 3—Investment Management and Other Agreements—VEAC is the investment adviser to the Long/Flat Trend ETF, Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF, Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF, Morningstar International Moat ETF and Morningstar Wide Moat ETF. VEARA is the investment adviser to the Real Asset Allocation ETF and its Subsidiary. VEARA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of VEAC. The Adviser receives a management fee, calculated daily and payable monthly based on an annual rate of each Fund’s average daily net assets. The Adviser has agreed, until at least February 1, 2021, to waive management fees and assume expenses to prevent each Fund’s total annual operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, interest expense, trading expenses, taxes and extraordinary expenses) from exceeding expense limitations listed in the following table.

 

The current management fee rate and expense limitations for the year ended September 30, 2020, are as follows:

 

Fund  

Waiver of

Management Fees

  Expense
Limitations
Long/Flat Trend ETF         0.50 %         0.55 %
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF     0.29       0.29  
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF     0.45       0.52  
Morningstar International Moat ETF     0.50       0.56  
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF     0.45       0.49  
Real Asset Allocation ETF     0.50       0.55  

 

Refer to the Statements of Operations for amounts waived/assumed by the Adviser.

35

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

In addition, Van Eck Securities Corporation, an affiliate of the Adviser, acts as the Funds’ distributor (“Distributor”). Certain officers and a Trustee of the Trust are officers, directors or stockholders of the Adviser and Distributor.

 

The Adviser waives the management fees it charges the Funds by the amount it collects as a management fee from underlying funds managed by the Adviser. For the year ended September 30, 2020, the Adviser waived management fees of $22,397 due to such investments held in the Real Asset Allocation ETF.

 

At September 30, 2020, the Adviser owned approximately 12% of Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF.

 

Effective November 4, 2019, State Street Bank and Trust Company is the Funds’ custodian, securities lending agent and transfer agent. Prior to November 4, 2019, Bank of New York Mellon provided these services to the Funds.

 

For the year ended September 30, 2020, there were offsets to custodian fees under an expense offset agreement and these amounts are reflected in custody expense in the Statements of Operations.

 

Note 4—Capital Share Transactions—As of September 30, 2020, there were an unlimited number of capital shares of beneficial interest authorized by the Trust with no par value. Fund shares are not individually redeemable and are issued and redeemed at their net asset value per share only through certain authorized broker-dealers (“Authorized Participants”) in blocks of shares (“Creation Units”), or multiples thereof, as follows:

 

Long/Flat Trend ETF* 25,000  
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF* 25,000  
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF 50,000  
Morningstar International Moat ETF 50,000  
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF 50,000  
Real Asset Allocation ETF* 25,000  

 

* Effective September 1, 2020 Creation Units changed from 50,000 to 25,000 shares.

 

The consideration for the purchase or redemption of Creation Units of the Funds generally consists of the in-kind contribution or distribution of securities constituting the Funds’ underlying index (“Deposit Securities”) plus a balancing cash component to equate the transaction to the net asset value per share of the Fund on the transaction date. Cash may also be substituted in an amount equivalent to the value of certain Deposit Securities, generally as a result of market circumstances, or when the securities are not available in sufficient quantity for delivery, or are not eligible for trading by the Authorized Participant. The Funds may issue Creation Units in advance of receipt of Deposit Securities subject to various conditions, including, for the benefit of the Funds, a requirement to maintain cash collateral on deposit at the custodian equal to at least 115% of the daily marked to market value of the missing Deposit Securities.

 

Authorized Participants purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay transaction fees directly to the transfer agent. In addition, the Funds may impose certain variable fees for creations and redemptions with respect to transactions in Creation Units for cash, or on transactions effected outside the clearing process, which are treated as increases in capital. These variable fees, if any, are reflected in share transactions in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets.

 

Note 5—Investments—For the year ended September 30, 2020, purchases and sales of investments (excluding short-term investments and in-kind capital share transactions) and purchases and sales of investments resulting from in-kind capital share transactions (excluding short-term investments) were as follows:

 

                In-kind Capital Share Transactions
Fund     Purchases     Sales     Purchases     Sales
Long/Flat Trend ETF   $ 440,629     $     $ 18,877,017     $ 51,588,022  
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF     18,019,147       17,896,673       33,666,317       18,112,036  
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF     5,303,649       5,337,912       2,797,791        
Morningstar International Moat ETF     60,661,360       62,891,742       7,840,962       33,864,774  
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF     1,510,164,835       1,492,708,419       2,295,658,598       1,620,484,117  
Real Asset Allocation ETF*     46,323,340       41,047,967       20,340,782       25,780,505  

 

* Represents consolidated cost of investments purchased and proceeds from investments sold.
36

 

 

Note 6—Income Taxes—As of September 30, 2020, for Federal income tax purposes, the identified cost, gross unrealized appreciation, gross unrealized depreciation and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments were as follows:

 

          Gross   Gross   Net Unrealized
    Tax Cost   Unrealized   Unrealized   Appreciation
Fund   of Investments   Appreciation   (Depreciation)   (Depreciation)
Long/Flat Trend ETF   $ 28,400,480     $ 3,111,493     $ (306 )   $ 3,111,187  
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF     32,290,055       1,247,491       (934,171 )     313,320  
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF     8,322,502       1,513,003       (167,048 )     1,345,955  
Morningstar International Moat ETF     53,397,676       3,502,741       (5,448,908 )     (1,946,167 )
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF     3,309,349,200       279,096,557       (192,269,746 )     86,826,810  
Real Asset Allocation ETF     9,024,968       987,821       (232,464 )     755,357  

 

At September 30, 2020, the components of distributable earnings (loss) on a tax basis, for each Fund, were as follows:

 

          Undistributed                  
    Undistributed   Realized Gains /   Other   Net Unrealized   Total
    Ordinary   Accumulated   Temporary   Appreciation   Distributable
Fund   Income   Capital (Losses)   Differences   (Depreciation)   Earnings (Loss)
Long/Flat Trend ETF   $ 389,266     $ (2,905,706 )   $ (699 )   $ 3,111,187     $ 594,048  
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF     221,205       (3,899,226 )     (91 )     313,320       (3,364,792 )
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF     188,324       112,134       (49 )     1,345,947       1,646,356  
Morningstar International Moat ETF     980,710       (10,992,693 )     (1,217 )     (1,939,324 )     (11,952,524 )
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF     41,856,807       (335,255,731 )     (64,940 )     86,826,810       (206,637,054 )
Real Asset Allocation ETF     798,908       (8,944,908 )     (1,429,948 )     764,188       (8,811,760 )

 

The tax character of dividends paid to shareholders during the years ended September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019 were as follows:

 

    2020   2019
    Dividends   Dividends
    Ordinary   Ordinary
Fund   Income*   Income*
Long/Flat Trend ETF   $ 1,000,040     $ 550,200  
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF     991,310       130,030  
Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF     181,250       11,000  
Morningstar International Moat ETF     2,750,000       2,801,050  
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF     43,002,000       29,003,400  
Real Asset Allocation ETF     700,005       83,400  

 

* Includes short-term capital gains (if any)

 

At September 30, 2020, the Funds had capital loss carryforwards available to offset future capital gains, as follows:

 

    Short-Term   Long-Term      
    Capital Losses   Capital Losses      
Fund   with No Expiration   with No Expiration   Total
Long/Flat Trend ETF   $ (2,821,262 )   $ (84,444 )   $ (2,905,706 )
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF     (3,054,484 )     (844,742 )     (3,899,226 )
Morningstar International Moat ETF     (3,614,090 )     (7,378,603 )     (10,992,693 )
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF     (233,935,842 )     (101,319,889 )     (335,255,731 )
Real Asset Allocation ETF     (8,944,908 )           (8,944,908 )

 

During the year ended September 30, 2020, as a result of permanent book to tax differences primarily due to the tax treatment of in-kind redemptions and the accumulated earnings applicable to the redemption of shares, the Funds incurred differences that affected distributable earnings / (loss) and aggregate paid in capital by the amounts in the table below. Net assets were not affected by these reclassifications.

37

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

Fund   Increase (Decrease)
in Distributable
Earnings
  Increase (Decrease)
in Aggregate
Paid in Capital
Long/Flat Trend ETF   $ 675,324     $ (675,324 )
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF     (2,403,156 )     2,403,156  
Morningstar International Moat ETF     (914,178 )     914,178  
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF     (381,666,649 )     381,666,649  
Real Asset Allocation ETF     (466,006 )     466,006  

 

The Funds recognize the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained assuming examination by applicable tax authorities. Management has analyzed the Funds’ tax positions, and has concluded that no liability for unrecognized tax benefits should be recorded related to uncertain tax positions taken on return filings for all open tax years. The Funds do not have exposure for additional years that might still be open in certain foreign jurisdictions. Therefore, no provision for income tax is required in the Funds’ financial statements. However, the Funds are subject to foreign taxes on the appreciation in value of certain investments. The Funds provide for such taxes on both realized and unrealized appreciation.

 

The Funds recognize interest and penalties, if any, related to uncertain tax positions as income tax expense in the Statements of Operations. During the year ended September 30, 2020, the Funds did not incur any interest or penalties.

 

Note 7—Principal Risks—Non-diversified funds generally hold securities of fewer issuers than diversified funds (See Note 1) and may be more susceptible to the risks associated with these particular issuers, or to a single economic, political or regulatory occurrence affecting these issuers. The Funds may purchase securities on foreign exchanges. Securities of foreign issuers involve special risks and considerations not typically associated with investing in U.S. issuers. These risks include devaluation of currencies, currency controls, less reliable information about issuers, different securities transaction clearance and settlement practices, future adverse political and economic developments and local/regional conflicts or natural or other disasters, such as the recent coronavirus outbreak. These risks are heightened for investments in emerging market countries. Moreover, securities of many foreign issuers and their markets may be less liquid and their prices more volatile than those of comparable U.S. issuers.

 

Long/Flat Trend ETF may invest in shares of other funds, including ETFs that track the S&P 500 Index. As a result, the Fund will indirectly be exposed to the risks of an investment in the underlying funds. Shares of other funds have many of the same risks as direct investments in common stocks or bonds. In addition, the market value of the Fund’s shares is expected to rise and fall as the value of the underlying index or bond rises and falls. The market value of such funds’ shares may differ from the net asset value of the particular fund.

 

Real Asset Allocation ETF may concentrate its investments in ETPs that invest directly in, or have exposure to, equity and debt securities, as well as real asset categories such as commodities, real estate, natural resources and infrastructure. Such investments may subject the ETPs to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. The Fund is dependent on the performance of underlying funds and is subject to the risks of those funds. Changes in laws or government regulations by the United States and/or the Cayman Islands could adversely affect the operations of the Fund.

 

A recent outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus, which was first detected in China in December 2019, has subsequently spread internationally and has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. The coronavirus has resulted in closing borders, quarantines, disruptions to supply chains and customer activity, loss of life, as well as general concern and uncertainty. The coronavirus has already negatively impacted the economies of many nations, individual companies, and the market. This pandemic is expected to have a continued impact in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen presently.

 

A more complete description of risks is included in each Fund’s Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information.

 

Note 8—Trustee Deferred Compensation Plan—The Trust has a Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Plan”) for Trustees under which the Trustees can elect to defer receipt of their trustee fees until retirement, disability or termination from the Board of Trustees. The fees otherwise payable to the participating Trustees are deemed invested in shares of the Funds as directed by the Trustees.

 

The expense for the Plan is included in “Trustees’ fees and expenses” in the Statements of Operations. The liability for the Plan is shown as “Deferred Trustee fees” in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

 

38

 

 

Note 9—Securities Lending—To generate additional income, each of the Funds may lend its securities pursuant to a securities lending agreement with the securities lending agent. Each Fund may lend up to 33% of its investments requiring that the loan be continuously collateralized by cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities, or any combination of cash and such securities at all times equal to at least 102% (105% for foreign securities) of the market value on the securities loaned. Daily market fluctuations could cause the value of loaned securities to be more or less than the value of the collateral received. When this occurs, the collateral is adjusted and settled on the next business day. During the term of the loan, the Funds will continue to receive any dividends, interest or amounts equivalent thereto, on the securities loaned while receiving a fee from the borrower and or earning interest on the investment of the cash collateral. Such fees and interest are shared with the securities lending agent under the terms of the securities lending agreement. Securities lending income is disclosed as such in the Statements of Operations. Cash collateral is maintained on the Funds’ behalf by the lending agent and is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio. Non-cash collateral consists of U.S. Treasuries and U.S. Government Agency securities, and is not disclosed in the Funds’ Schedules of Investments or Statements of Assets and Liabilities as it is held by the agent on behalf of the Funds, and the Funds do not have the ability to re-hypothecate those securities. Loans are subject to termination at the option of the borrower or the Funds. Upon termination of the loan, the borrower will return to the Fund securities identical to the securities loaned. The Funds bear the risk of delay in recovery of, or even loss of rights in, the securities loaned should the borrower of the securities fail financially. The value of loaned securities and related collateral, if any, at September 30, 2020 are presented on a gross basis in the Schedules of Investments and Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The following is a summary of the Funds’ securities on loan and related collateral as of September 30, 2020:

 

Fund   Market Value
of Securities
on Loan
  Cash
Collateral
  Non-Cash
Collateral
  Total
Collateral
Morningstar International Moat ETF   $ 1,938,574     $ 70,249     $ 1,987,827     $ 2,058,076  
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF     3,602,367             3,648,200       3,648,200  
Real Asset Allocation ETF     2,310,109       695,909       1,643,436       2,339,345  

 

The following table presents money market fund investments held as collateral by type of security on loan as of September 30, 2020:

 

    Gross Amount of Recognized
Liabilities for Securities Lending
Transactions* in the Statements
of Assets and Liabilities
Fund   Equity Securities
Morningstar International Moat ETF      $ 70,249  
Real Asset Allocation ETF     695,909  

 

* Remaining contractual maturity: overnight and continuous

 

Note 10—Bank Line of Credit—The Funds may participate in a $200 million committed credit facility (the “Facility”) to be utilized for temporary financing for the settlement of sales or purchases of portfolio securities, the repurchase or redemption of shares of the Funds at the request of the shareholders and other temporary or emergency purposes. The Funds have agreed to pay commitment fees, pro rata, based on the unused but available balance. Interest is charged to the Funds based on prevailing market rates in effect at the time of borrowings. During the year ended September 30, 2020, the following Funds borrowed under this Facility:

 

Fund   Days
Outstanding
  Average Daily
Loan Balance
  Average
Interest Rate
Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF*        21        $ 124,860           1.42 %   
Morningstar International Moat ETF     225       431,577       2.13  
Morningstar Wide Moat ETF     172       3,641,941       2.10  
Real Asset Allocation ETF*     18       521,169       2.92  

 

* The custodian voluntarily waived interest expense for this borrowing activity in the amount of $104 for Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF and $749 for Real Asset Allocation ETF.

 

Outstanding loan balances as of September 30, 2020, if any, are reflected in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

39

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

Note 12—Recent Accounting Pronouncements—The Funds adopted all provisions of the Accounting Standards Update No. 2018-13, Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”) that eliminate and modify certain disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. Based on management’s evaluation, the adoption of the ASU 2018-13 had no material impact on the financial statements and related disclosures.

 

Note 13—Subsequent Event Review—The Funds have evaluated subsequent events and transactions for potential recognition or disclosure through the date the financial statements were issued.

40

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Shareholders of VanEck Vectors Long/Flat Trend ETF, VanEck Vectors Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF, VanEck Vectors Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF, VanEck Vectors Morningstar International Moat ETF, VanEck Vectors Morningstar Wide Moat ETF and VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF and the Board of Trustees of VanEck Vectors ETF Trust

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities (consolidated as it relates to VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF) of VanEck Vectors Long/Flat Trend ETF, VanEck Vectors Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF, VanEck Vectors Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF, VanEck Vectors Morningstar International Moat ETF, VanEck Vectors Morningstar Wide Moat ETF and VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF (collectively referred to as the “Funds”) (six of the series constituting VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (the “Trust”)), including the schedules of investments (consolidated as it relates to VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF), as of September 30, 2020, and the related statements of operations, changes in net assets, and the financial highlights (consolidated as it relates to VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF) for each of the periods indicated in the table below and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position (consolidated as it relates to VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF) of each of the Funds (six of the series constituting VanEck Vectors ETF Trust) at September 30, 2020, and the results of their operations, changes in net assets and financial highlights (consolidated as it relates to VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF) for each of the periods indicated in the table below, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

  Individual fund constituting
the VanEck Vectors ETF Trust
  Statement of
  operations  
  Statements of
changes in net assets
  Financial highlights
               
  VanEck Vectors Long/Flat Trend ETF   For the year ended September 30, 2020   For each of the two years in the period ended September 30, 2020   For each of the two years in the period ended September 30, 2020 and the period from October 4, 2017 (commencement of operations) through September 30, 2018
  VanEck Vectors Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF   For the year ended September 30, 2020   For the year ended September 30, 2020 and the period from October 30, 2018 (commencement of   For the year ended September 30, 2020 and the period from October 30, 2018 (commencement of
  VanEck Vectors Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF       operations) through September 30, 2019   operations) through September 30, 2019
  VanEck Vectors Morningstar International Moat ETF   For the year ended September 30, 2020   For each of the two years in the period ended September 30, 2020   For each of the five years in the period ended September 30, 2020
               
  VanEck Vectors Morningstar Wide Moat ETF            
  VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF   For the year ended September 30, 2020   For each of the two years in the period ended September 30, 2020   For each of the two years in the period ended September 30, 2020 and the period from April 9, 2018 (commencement of operations) through September 30, 2018

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Trust’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on each of the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Trust in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an

41

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of September 30, 2020, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from broker were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more of the VanEck investment companies since 1999.

 

New York, New York

November 23, 2020

42

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

TAX INFORMATION

(unaudited)

 

The information set forth below relates to distributions paid during each Fund’s current fiscal year as required by federal laws. Shareholders, however, must report dividends on a calendar year basis for income tax purposes, which may include dividends for portions of two fiscal years of a Fund.

 

Accordingly, the information needed by shareholders for calendar year 2020 income tax purposes will be sent to them in early 2021.

 

Please consult your tax advisor for proper treatment of this information.

 

The following information is provided with respect to the distributions paid during the taxable year ended September 30, 2020:

 

        Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF         Morningstar
Global Wide
Moat ETF
 
Record Date     10/02/2019       12/31/2019       04/02/2020       07/02/2020     12/24/2019  
Ex Date     10/01/2019       12/30/2019       04/01/2020       07/01/2020     12/23/2019  
Payable Date     10/07/2019       01/06/2020       04/07/2020       07/08/2020     12/30/2019  
Ordinary Income Amount Paid Per Share       $ 0.202900         $ 0.386700         $ 0.200400           $0.307500           $0.725000  
Ordinary Income:                                                            
Qualified Dividend Income for Individuals         67.62 %       78.21 %       100.00 %       100.00 %     61.58 %
Dividends Qualifying for the Dividends Received Deduction for Corporations         66.26 %       75.33 %       100.00 %       100.00 %     27.21 %
Qualified Short-Term Capital Gains ****       $         $ 0.195700         $         $           $0.385000  
                                                             
      Morningstar
International
Moat ETF
      Morningstar
Wide Moat
ETF
      Long/Flat
Trend ETF
      Real Asset
Allocation
ETF
             
Record Date     12/24/2019       12/24/2019     12/24/2019     12/24/2019              
Ex Date     12/23/2019       12/23/2019     12/23/2019     12/23/2019              
Payable Date     12/30/2019       12/30/2019     12/30/2019     12/30/2019              
Ordinary Income Amount Paid Per Share            $ 1.250000             $ 0.716700         $ 0.434800           $0.608700              
Ordinary Income:                                                            
Qualified Dividend Income for Individuals         80.19 %*         100.00 %        100.00 %       28.79 %        
Dividends Qualifying for the Dividends Received Deduction for Corporations         0.70 %*       99.63 %       100.00 %         15.59 %          
Qualified Business Income Deduction                                       8.20 %          
Foreign Source Income         98.52 %*                                        
Foreign Taxes Paid Per Share         0.114391 **                                        
Federal Obligation Interest                             17.34 %***          12.35 %***          

 

* Expressed as a percentage of the cash distribution grossed up for foreign taxes.
** The foreign taxes paid represent taxes incurred by the Fund on income received by the Fund from foreign sources. Foreign taxes paid may be included in taxable income with an offsetting deduction from gross income or may be taken as a credit for taxes paid to foreign governments.
*** Certain states may exempt the portion of dividends derived from assets backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government.
**** These amounts represent Qualified Short-Term Capital Gains which may be exempt from United States withholding tax when distributed to non-U.S. shareholders with proper documentation.
43

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Name, Address1
and Year of Birth
  Position(s)
Held with
the Trust
  Term of
Office2 and
Length of
Time Served
  Principal Occupation(s)
During Past Five Years
  Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex3
Overseen
  Other Directorships Held Outside the
Fund Complex3 During Past Five Years
Independent Trustees                
David H. Chow,
1957*†
  Chairman Trustee   Since 2008 Since 2006   Founder and CEO, DanCourt Management LLC (financial/ strategy consulting firm and Registered Investment Adviser), March 1999 to present.   55   Director, Forward Management LLC and Audit Committee Chairman, May 2008 to June 2015; Trustee, Berea College of Kentucky, May 2009 to present and currently Chairman of the Investment Committee; Member of the Governing Council of the Independent Directors Council, October 2012 to present; President, July 2013 to June 2015, and Board Member of the CFA Society of Stamford, July 2009 to present; Trustee, MainStay Fund Complex4, January 2016 to present and currently Chairman of the Risk and Compliance Committee.
                     
Laurie A. Hesslein,
1959*†
  Trustee   Since 2019   Citigroup, Managing Director, and Business Head, Local Consumer Lending North America, and CEO and President, CitiFinancial Servicing LLC (2013 - 2017).   55   Trustee, Eagle Growth and Income Opportunities Fund; Trustee, THL Credit Senior Loan Fund.
                     
R. Alastair Short,
1953*†
  Trustee   Since 2006   President, Apex Capital Corporation (personal investment vehicle).   66   Chairman and Independent Director, EULAV Asset Management; Trustee, Kenyon Review; Trustee, Children’s Village. Formerly, Independent Director, Tremont offshore funds.
                     
Peter J. Sidebottom,
1962*†
  Trustee   Since 2012   Lead Partner, North America Banking and Capital Markets Strategy, Accenture, May 2017 to present; Partner, PWC/Strategy & Financial Services Advisory, February 2015 to March 2017; Founder and Board Member, AspenWoods Risk Solutions, September 2013 to February 2016; Independent consultant, June 2013 to February 2015; Partner, Bain & Company (management consulting firm), April 2012 to December 2013; Executive Vice President and Senior Operating Committee Member, TD Ameritrade (on-line brokerage firm), February 2009 to January 2012.   55   Board Member, Special Olympics, New Jersey, November 2011 to September 2013; Director, The Charlotte Research Institute, December 2000 to 2009; Board Member, Social Capital Institute, University of North Carolina Charlotte, November 2004 to January 2012; Board Member, NJ-CAN, July 2014 to 2016.
                     
Richard D. Stamberger,
1959*†
  Trustee   Since 2006   President and CEO, SmartBrief, LLC (business media company).   66   Director, Food and Friends, Inc.
                     
Interested Trustee                    
Jan F. van Eck,
19635
  Trustee, Chief Executive Officer and President   Trustee (Since 2006); Chief Executive Officer and President (Since 2009)   Director, President and Chief Executive Officer of Van Eck Associates Corporation (VEAC), Van Eck Absolute Return Advisers Corporation (VEARA) and Van Eck Securities Corporation (VESC); Officer and/or Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC and/or the Trust   66   Director, National Committee on US-China Relations.

 

 

1 The address for each Trustee and officer is 666 Third Avenue, 9th Floor, New York, New York 10017.
2 Each Trustee serves until resignation, death, retirement or removal. Officers are elected yearly by the Trustees.
3 The Fund Complex consists of the VanEck Funds, VanEck VIP Trust and the Trust.
4 The MainStay Fund Complex consists of MainStay Funds, MainStay Funds Trust, MainStay VP Funds Trust and MainStay MacKay Defined Term Municipal Opportunities Fund.
5 “Interested person” of the Trust within the meaning of the 1940 Act. Mr. van Eck is an officer of VEAC, VEARA and VESC.
* Member of the Audit Committee.
Member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.
44

 

 

Officer’s Name,
Address1 and
Year of Birth
  Position(s)
Held with
the Trust
  Term of Office2
and Length of
Time Served
  Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years
Officer Information            
Matthew A. Babinsky,
1983
  Assistant Vice President and Assistant Secretary   Since 2016   Assistant Vice President, Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Secretary of VEAC, VEARA and VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Associate, Clifford Chance US LLP.
             
Russell G. Brennan,
1964
  Assistant Vice President and Assistant Treasurer   Since 2008   Assistant Vice President of VEAC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA.
             
Charles T. Cameron,
1960
  Vice President   Since 2006   Portfolio Manager of VEAC; Officer and/or Portfolio Manager of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Director of Trading of VEAC.
             
John J. Crimmins,
1957
  Vice President, Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer   Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer (Since 2012); Treasurer (Since 2009)   Vice President of VEAC and VEARA; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Vice President of VESC.
             
Eduardo Escario,
1975
  Vice President   Since 2012   Regional Director, Business Development/Sales for Southern Europe and South America of VEAC.
             
Henry Glynn,
1983
  Assistant Vice President   Since 2018   Head of ETF Capital Markets Europe of Van Eck Switzerland AG. Formerly, Member of the Capital Markets team at Vanguard Group.
             
F. Michael Gozzillo,
1965
  Chief Compliance Officer   Since 2018   Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of VEAC and VEARA; Chief Compliance Officer of VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Chief Compliance Officer of City National Rochdale, LLC and City National Rochdale Funds.
             
Laura Hamilton,
1977
  Vice President   Since 2019   Assistant Vice President of VEAC and VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Operations Manager of Royce & Associates.
             
Nicholas Jackson,
1974
  Assistant Vice President   Since 2018   Vice President, Business Development of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd.
             
Laura I. Martínez,
1980
  Vice President and Assistant Secretary   Vice President (Since 2016); Assistant Secretary (Since 2008)   Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Assistant Secretary of VEAC, VEARA and VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Assistant Vice President of VEAC, VEARA and VESC.
             
Matthew McKinnon,
1970
  Assistant Vice President   Since 2018   Head of Business Development of Asia Pacific of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd. Formerly, Director, Intermediaries and Institutions of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd.
             
Arian Neiron,
1979
  Vice President   Since 2018   Managing Director and Head of Asia Pacific of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd.; Officer and/or Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC and/or the Trust.
             
James Parker,
1969
  Assistant Treasurer   Since 2014   Assistant Vice President of VEAC; Manager, Portfolio Administration of VEAC and VEARA. Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA.
             
Adam Phillips,
1970
  Vice President   Since 2018   ETF Chief Operating Officer of VEAC; Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC.
             
Philipp Schlegel,
1974
  Vice President   Since 2016   Managing Director of Van Eck Switzerland AG.
             
Jonathan R. Simon,
1974
  Senior Vice President, Secretary and Chief Legal Officer   Senior Vice President (Since 2016); Secretary and Chief Legal Officer (Since 2014)   Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of VEAC, VEARA and VESC; Officer and/or Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC and/or the Trust. Formerly, Vice President of VEAC, VEARA and VESC.

 

 

1 The address for each Officer is 666 Third Avenue, 9th Floor, New York, New York 10017.
2 Officers are elected yearly by the Trustees.
45

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

At a meeting held on June 11, 2020 (the “Renewal Meeting”), the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of VanEck Vectors® ETF Trust (the “Trust”), including all of the Trustees that are not interested persons of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”), approved the continuation of the investment management agreements between the Trust and Van Eck Associates Corporation (the “Adviser”) (the “Investment Management Agreements”) with respect to the VanEck Vectors Biotech ETF, Environmental Services ETF, Gaming ETF, Long/Flat Trend ETF (formerly NDR CMG Long/Flat Allocation ETF), Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF, Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF, Morningstar International Moat ETF, Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, Pharmaceutical ETF, Retail ETF, Semiconductor ETF, and Video Gaming and eSports ETF (each, a “Fund” and together, the “Funds”).

 

The Board’s approval of the Investment Management Agreements was based on a comprehensive consideration of all of the information available to the Trustees and was not the result of any single factor. Some of the factors that figured particularly in the Trustees’ deliberations and how the Trustees considered those factors are described below, although individual Trustees may have evaluated the information presented differently, giving different weights to various factors.

 

In preparation for the Renewal Meeting, the Trustees held a meeting on May 7, 2020. At that meeting, the Trustees discussed the information the Adviser and Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent third party data provider, had provided to them in advance. The information provided to the Trustees included, among other things, information about the performance and expenses of the Funds and the Funds’ peer funds (certain other index-based exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”)), information about the advisory services provided to the Funds and the personnel providing those services, and the profitability and other benefits enjoyed by the Adviser and its affiliates as a result of the Adviser’s relationship with the Funds. In reviewing performance information for the Funds against their peer groups, the Trustees considered that each Fund seeks to track a different index than the funds in its designated peer group and, therefore, each Fund’s performance will differ from its peers. In addition, as noted below, the Trustees reviewed certain performance information for each Fund which was not provided by Broadridge and which did not compare each Fund’s performance to the performance of its peer group. For these and other reasons, the Trustees noted that the peer group performance information did not necessarily provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Funds.

 

The Independent Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Management Agreements was based, in part, on their review of information obtained through discussions with the Adviser at the Renewal Meeting and with the Adviser at the May 7, 2020 meeting regarding the management of the Funds and information obtained at other meetings of the Trustees and/or based on their review of the materials provided by the Adviser, including the background and experience of the portfolio managers and others involved in the management and administration of the Funds. The Trustees also considered the terms of, and scope of services that the Adviser provides under, the Investment Management Agreements, including, where applicable, the Adviser’s commitment to waive certain fees and/or pay expenses of each of the Funds to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of each of the Funds from exceeding agreed upon limits for a period of time.

 

The Trustees concluded that the Adviser and its personnel have the requisite expertise and skill to manage the Funds’ portfolios. In evaluating the performance of each Fund, the Trustees reviewed various performance metrics but relied principally on a comparison of the “gross” performance of each Fund (i.e., measured without regard to the impact of fees and expenses) to the performance of its benchmark index, in each case incorporating any systematic fair value adjustments to the underlying securities. Based on the foregoing, the Trustees concluded that the investment performance of the Funds was satisfactory.

 

The Trustees also considered information relating to the financial condition of the Adviser and the current status, as they understood it, of the Adviser’s compliance environment.

 

As noted above, the Trustees were also provided various data from Broadridge comparing the Funds’ expenses and performance to that of certain other ETFs. The Trustees noted that the information provided showed that each Fund had management fees (after the effect of any applicable fee waiver) below the average and median of its respective peer group of funds, except for each of VanEck Vectors Morningstar International Moat ETF and Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, which had management fees (after the effect of any applicable fee waiver) greater than the average and median of its respective peer group of funds. The Trustees also noted that the information provided showed that each Fund had a total expense ratio (after the effect of any applicable expense limitation) below the average and median of its respective peer group of funds, except for each of VanEck Vectors Gaming ETF, Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF, Morningstar International Moat ETF, Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, Long/Flat Trend ETF and Video Gaming and eSports

46

 

 

ETF, which had a total expense ratio (after the effect of any applicable expense limitation) greater than the average and/or median of its respective peer group of funds. With respect to these Funds, the Trustees reviewed the amount by which these Funds’ management fees and/or total expense ratios (after the effect of any applicable expense limitation) exceeded the average and/or median of their respective peer groups and information provided by the Adviser providing context for these comparisons. The Trustees concluded, in light of this information and the other information available to them, that the fees paid by the Funds were reasonable in light of the performance of the Funds and the quality of services received.

 

The Trustees also considered the benefits, other than the fees under the Investment Management Agreements, received by the Adviser from serving as adviser to the Funds.

 

The Trustees also considered information provided by the Adviser about the overall profitability of the Adviser and its profitability or loss in respect of each Fund. The Trustees reviewed each Fund’s asset size, expense ratio and expense cap and noted that the Investment Management Agreements do not include breakpoints in the advisory fee rates as asset levels in a Fund increase. The Trustees considered the volatility of the asset classes in which certain of the Funds invest, potential variability in the net assets of these Funds and the sustainability of any potential economies of scale which may exist given where fees are currently set. The Trustees also evaluated the extent to which management fees for the Funds effectively incorporate the benefits of economies of scale. The Trustees noted that the Adviser has capped expenses on each Fund since its inception, although the cap was not necessarily exceeded each year. Based on the foregoing and the other information available to them, the Trustees determined that the advisory fee rate for each Fund is reasonable and appropriate in relation to the current asset size of each Fund and the other factors discussed above and that the advisory fee rate for each Fund currently reflects an appropriate sharing with shareholders of any economies of scale which may exist. The Trustees also determined that the profits earned by the Adviser with respect to the Funds that were profitable to the Adviser were reasonable in light of the nature and quality of the services received by such Funds.

 

The Independent Trustees were advised by and met in executive session with their independent counsel at the Renewal Meeting and at their May 7, 2020 meeting as part of their consideration of the Agreements.

 

In voting to approve the continuation of the Investment Management Agreements, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the terms of each Investment Management Agreement are reasonable and fair in light of the services to be performed, expenses to be incurred and such other matters as the Trustees considered relevant in the exercise of their reasonable judgment. The Trustees further concluded that each Investment Management Agreement is in the best interest of each Fund and such Fund’s shareholders.

 

VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF

 

At a meeting held on June 11, 2020 (the “Renewal Meeting”), the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of VanEck Vectors® ETF Trust (the “Trust”), including all of the Trustees that are not interested persons of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”), approved the continuation of the investment management agreement between the Trust and Van Eck Absolute Return Advisers Corporation (the “Adviser”) (the “Investment Management Agreement”) with respect to the VanEck Vectors Real Asset Allocation ETF (the “Fund”).

 

The Board’s approval of the Investment Management Agreement was based on a comprehensive consideration of all of the information available to the Trustees and was not the result of any single factor. Some of the factors that figured particularly in the Trustees’ deliberations and how the Trustees considered those factors are described below, although individual Trustees may have evaluated the information presented differently, giving different weights to various factors.

 

In preparation for the Renewal Meeting, the Trustees held a meeting on May 7, 2020. At that meeting, the Trustees discussed the information the Adviser and Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent third party data provider, had provided to them in advance. The information provided to the Trustees included, among other things, information about the performance and expenses of the Fund and the Fund’s peer funds (certain other exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”)), information about the advisory services provided to the Fund and the personnel providing those services, and the profitability and other benefits enjoyed by the Adviser and its affiliates as a result of the Adviser’s relationship with the Fund. In addition, as noted below, the Trustees reviewed certain performance information for the Fund which was not provided by Broadridge and which did not compare the Fund’s performance

47

VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AGREEMENTS

September 30, 2020 (unaudited) (continued)

 

to the performance of its peer group. For these and other reasons, the Trustees noted that the peer group performance information did not necessarily provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund.

 

The Independent Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Management Agreement was based, in part, on their review of information obtained through discussions with the Adviser at the Renewal Meeting and with the Adviser at the May 7, 2020 meeting regarding the management of the Fund and information obtained at other meetings of the Trustees and/or based on their review of the materials provided by the Adviser, including the background and experience of the portfolio managers and others involved in the management and administration of the Fund. The Trustees also considered the terms of, and scope of services that the Adviser provides under, the Investment Management Agreement, including the Adviser’s commitment to waive certain fees and/or pay expenses of the Fund to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund from exceeding an agreed upon limit for a period of time.

 

In evaluating the performance of the Fund, the Trustees reviewed various performance metrics, including various data from Broadridge comparing the Fund’s performance to that of certain other ETFs. The Trustees also considered information from the Adviser regarding the performance of the Fund against its benchmark and the Adviser’s statement that the Fund’s performance against its benchmark is more relevant than performance against its peer group, given the small number of funds with directly competing strategies. Information provided by the Adviser showed that the Fund had outperformed its benchmark since its inception on April 10, 2018 through May 27, 2020, and although the Fund underperformed its benchmark during 2019, the Fund’s risk profile was lower than that of its benchmark. Based on the foregoing, the Trustees concluded that the Adviser and its personnel have the requisite expertise and skill to manage the Fund’s portfolio.

 

The Trustees also considered information relating to the financial condition of the Adviser and the current status, as they understood it, of the Adviser’s compliance environment.

 

As noted above, the Trustees were also provided various data from Broadridge comparing the Fund’s expenses and performance to that of certain other ETFs. The Trustees noted that the information provided showed that the Fund had management fees below the average and equal to the median of its peer group of funds. The Trustees also noted that the information provided showed that the Fund had a total expense ratio greater than the average and median of its peer group of funds. The Trustees reviewed the amount by which the Fund’s total expense ratio exceeded the average and median of its peer group and information provided by the Adviser providing context for these comparisons. The Trustees concluded, in light of this information and the other information available to them, that the fees paid by the Fund were reasonable in light of the performance of the Fund and the quality of services received.

 

The Trustees also considered the benefits, other than the fees under the Investment Management Agreement, received by the Adviser from serving as adviser to the Fund.

 

The Trustees also considered information provided by the Adviser about the overall profitability of the Adviser and the fact that the Adviser did not earn any profits from managing the Fund. The Trustees reviewed the Fund’s asset size, expense ratio and expense cap and noted that the Investment Management Agreement does not include breakpoints in the advisory fee rates as asset levels in the Fund increase. The Trustees considered the volatility of the asset classes in which the Fund invests, potential variability in the net assets of the Fund and the sustainability of any potential economies of scale which may exist given where fees are currently set. The Trustees also evaluated the extent to which management fees for the Fund effectively incorporate the benefits of economies of scale. The Trustees noted that the Adviser has capped expenses on the Fund since its inception. Based on the foregoing and the other information available to them, the Trustees determined that the advisory fee rate for the Fund is reasonable and appropriate in relation to the current asset size of the Fund and the other factors discussed above and that the advisory fee rate for the Fund currently reflects an appropriate sharing with shareholders of any economies of scale which may exist.

 

The Independent Trustees were advised by and met in executive session with their independent counsel at the Renewal Meeting and at their May 7, 2020 meeting as part of their consideration of the Investment Management Agreement.

 

In voting to approve the continuation of the Investment Management Agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the terms of the Investment Management Agreement are reasonable and fair in light of the services to be performed, expenses to be incurred and such other matters as the Trustees considered relevant in the exercise of their reasonable judgment. The Trustees further concluded that the Investment Management Agreement is in the best interest of the Fund and the Fund’s shareholders.

48

 

 

VanEck Vectors Innovation ETF

 

At a meeting held on June 11, 2020 (the “Renewal Meeting”), the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of VanEck Vectors® ETF Trust (the “Trust”), including all of the Trustees that are not interested persons of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”), approved the continuation of the investment management agreement between the Trust and Van Eck Associates Corporation (the “Adviser”) (the “Investment Management Agreement”) with respect to the VanEck Vectors Innovation ETF (the “Fund”).

 

The Board’s approval of the Investment Management Agreement was based on a comprehensive consideration of all of the information available to the Trustees and was not the result of any single factor. Some of the factors that figured particularly in the Trustees’ deliberations and how the Trustees considered those factors are described below, although individual Trustees may have evaluated the information presented differently, giving different weights to various factors.

 

In preparation for the Renewal Meeting, the Trustees held a meeting on May 7, 2020. At that meeting, the Trustees received materials from the Adviser. The Independent Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Management Agreement was based, in part, on information obtained through discussions with the Adviser at the Renewal Meeting and with the Adviser at the May 7, 2020 meeting regarding the proposed management of the Fund and information obtained at other meetings of the Trustees and/or based on their review of the materials provided by the Adviser, including the background and experience of the portfolio managers and others proposed to be involved in the management and administration of the Fund. In evaluating the terms of the Investment Management Agreement at the Renewal Meeting and the May 7, 2020 meeting, the Trustees considered the terms and scope of services that the Adviser would provide under the Investment Management Agreement, including the Adviser’s commitment to waive certain fees and/or pay expenses of the Fund to the extent necessary to prevent the operating expenses of the Fund from exceeding an agreed upon limit for a period of at least one year following the effective date of the Fund’s registration statement. The Trustees concluded that the Adviser and its personnel have the requisite expertise and skill to manage the Fund’s portfolio.

 

The Trustees did not consider historical information about the cost of the services provided by the Adviser or the profitability of the Fund to the Adviser because the Fund has not yet commenced operations. The Trustees could not consider the historical performance or actual management fees or operating expenses of, or the quality of services previously provided to, the Fund by the Adviser, although they concluded that the nature, quality, and extent of the services to be provided by the Adviser were appropriate based on the Trustees’ knowledge of the Adviser and its personnel and the operations of the other series of the Trust.

 

The Independent Trustees were advised by and met in executive session with their independent counsel at the Renewal Meeting and at their May 7, 2020 meeting as part of their consideration of the Investment Management Agreement.

 

In voting to approve the continuation of the Investment Management Agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the terms of the Investment Management Agreement are reasonable and fair in light of the services to be performed, expenses to be incurred and such other matters as the Trustees considered relevant in the exercise of their reasonable judgment. The Trustees further concluded that the Investment Management Agreement is in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders.

49

 

This report is intended for the Funds’ shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by the respective Fund’s prospectus and summary prospectus, which includes more complete information. Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. An investor should consider the investment objective, risks, charges and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus and summary prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 800.826.2333 or visit vaneck.com. Please read the prospectus and summary prospectus carefully before investing.

 

Additional information about the VanEck Vectors ETF Trust’s (the “Trust”) Board of Trustees/Officers and a description of the policies and procedures the Trust uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities are provided in the Statement of Additional Information. The Statement of Additional Information and information regarding how the Trust voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve month period ending June 30 is available, without charge, by calling 800.826.2333, or by visiting vaneck.com, or on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at https://www.sec.gov.

 

The Trust files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-PORT. The Trust’s Form N-PORT filings are available on the Commission’s website at https://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 202.942.8090. The Fund’s complete schedule of portfolio holdings is also available by calling 800.826.2333 or by visiting vaneck.com.

 

 

 

 

Investment Adviser: Van Eck Associates Corporation  
Distributor: Van Eck Securities Corporation  
  666 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017  
  vaneck.com  
Account Assistance: 800.826.2333 STRATAR

 

ANNUAL REPORT
September 30, 2020

 

VANECK VECTORS®  
   
Energy Income ETF EINC®

 

     
  800.826.2333 vaneck.com
 

 

 

 

President’s Letter 1
Management Discussion 2
Performance Comparison 3
Explanation of Expenses 5
Schedule of Investments 6
Statement of Assets and Liabilities 7
Statement of Operations 8
Statement of Changes in Net Assets 9
Financial Highlights 10
Notes to Financial Statements 11
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 18
Tax Information 19
Board of Trustees and Officers 20
Approval of Investment Management Agreement 22

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Certain information contained in this shareholder letter represents the opinion of the investment adviser which may change at any time. This information is not intended to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results or investment advice. Current market conditions may not continue. Also, unless otherwise specifically noted, any discussion of the Funds’ holdings, the Funds’ performance, and the views of the investment adviser are as of September 30, 2020.

 

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Dear Fellow Shareholders:

 

The level of stimulus from the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) this year has been almost unprecedented and has had investment consequences. Financial markets have benefited from the Fed stimulus and the case for gold investing has become more solid.

 

Perhaps the surprise from this summer’s data is that the global economy is doing quite well, supporting the markets, despite the social distancing that we all feel in our personal lives. Important commodities like copper have regained pre-COVID-19 highs. In addition, China’s industrial recovery is pointing to all-time highs in activity, even though consumer activity is lagging a little.

 

One beneficiary is high yield bonds, particularly “fallen angels”—bonds that have been downgraded from investment grade. In a recessionary environment, some bonds are going to default or be downgraded. Fixed income markets this year generally started recovering after the Fed announced plans to intervene. We have already seen a record amount of new fallen angel bond volume—over $140B as of July 31, 20201—and expect more through the remainder of the calendar year.

 

Similar to 2016, when crude oil also swooned, we have seen a lot of energy companies become fallen angels, and the fallen angel strategy is buying those downgraded bonds. As reviewed in a recent blog, New Fallen Angel Bonds Drive Performance, these new energy fallen angels are among the top contributors to performance of the fallen angel strategy so far this year. As long as the Fed remains supportive, we believe this strategy should continue to do well.

 

We do, however, see two particular risks to this scenario: 1) an unforeseen rise in interest rates in the U.S. triggered by higher global growth or other factors; and 2) a bump in the return to full employment. An incredible number of people have been laid off in the U.S. and, regardless of GDP numbers, people are unlikely to quickly return to work at the same levels as the start of the year. Concern may be high enough for policy makers to take additional steps (any of which, however, remain, as yet, uncertain) that may impact the financial recovery.

 

The investing outlook sometimes does change suddenly, as it certainly has at times this year. To get our quarterly investment outlooks, please subscribe to “Investment Outlook” on vaneck.com. Should you have any questions regarding fund performance, please contact us at 800.826.2333 or visit our website.

 

We sincerely thank you for investing in VanEck’s investment strategies. On the following pages, you will find a performance discussion and financial statements for the Fund for the ten month period ended September, 2020. As always, we value your continued confidence in us and look forward to helping you meet your investment goals in the future.

 

 

Jan F. van Eck
CEO and President
VanEck Vectors ETF Trust

 

October 19, 2020

 

Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. An investor should consider the investment objective, risks, charges and expenses of the Funds carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus and summary prospectus, which contain this and other information, call 800.826.2333 or visit vaneck.com. Please read the prospectus and summary prospectus carefully before investing.

 

 

1 Source: FactSet, ICE Data Indices, LLC and Morningstar.
1

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

The global pandemic has certainly impacted energy commodity prices and, in turn, midstream energy companies, including MLPs (master limited partnerships) during the period under review—particularly through the market turmoil of the spring of 2020.

 

Crude oil prices declined with global equity markets as they began their COVID-19-induced slide in February 2020. Fears of weakening demand and excess supply became heightened into April. WTI (West Texas Intermediate) crude oil futures prices, for the first time ever, closed with a negative value on April 20, 2020, as a confluence of factors, including weakening demand, steady North American production and sparse storage capacity caused short-term confusion in the markets. Crude prices subsequently recovered slightly, but finished the period well below levels from December 2019. The outlook for energy infrastructure remains somewhat unknown as demand has declined in the U.S. for gasoline, diesel and, most starkly, jet oil.

 

Energy Income

 

The Fund changed its fiscal year-end from November 30 to September 30. For the 10 months ended September 30, 2020, the VanEck Vectors Energy Income ETF lost 29.74% on a total return basis.*

 

For the period under review, the Fund suffered the vast majority of its losses as a result of its exposure to MLPs involved in oil, gas and consumable fuels. While a number of MLPs did provide positive returns, these were minimal and failed signally to counterbalance the aggregate negative performance of other MLPs.

 

* Returns based on NAV.

 

NB: During the period under review, the Fund implemented several changes affecting its composition effective December 2, 2019. Of relevance, the Fund began seeking to track a new benchmark index, MVIS North America Energy Infrastructure Index which is intended to track the overall performance of North American companies involved in the midstream energy segment, which includes MLPs and corporations involved in oil and gas storage and transportation.

2

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

PERFORMANCE COMPARISON

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Average Annual Total Returns
  Share Price NAV MVEINCTG1 SPTR2
One Year (33.79)% (33.85)% (34.66)% 15.15%
Five Year (11.97)% (11.98)% (13.06)% 14.15%
Life* (14.72)% (14.69)% (14.58)% 13.38%

 

* Commencement of Fund: 3/12/12; First Day of Secondary Market Trading: 3/13/12.
   
1 MVIS North America Energy Infrastructure Index (MVEINCTG) is a rules-based, modified capitalization weighted, float adjusted index intended to give investors a means to track the overall performance of North American companies involved in the midstream energy segment, which includes MLPs and corporations involved in oil and gas storage and transportation.
   
  Index data prior to December 2, 2019 reflects that of the Solactive High Income MLP Index (the “MLP Index” or “YMLPTR”), a rules-based index designed to provide investors a means of tracking the performance of selected MLPs which are publicly traded on a U.S. securities exchange. All Index history reflects a blend of the performance of the aforementioned Indexes.
   
2 The S&P 500 Index (SPTR) is a market-value weighted index consisting of 500 stocks chosen for market size, liquidity, and industry group representation, with each stock’s weight in the index proportionate to its market value.
   
  VanEck Vectors Energy Income ETF (the “Fund”) is the successor to the Yorkville High Income MLP ETF pursuant to a reorganization that took place on February 22, 2016. Prior to that date, the Fund had no investment operations. Accordingly, for periods prior to that date, the Fund performance information is that of the Yorkville High Income MLP ETF.

 

    Hypothetical Growth of $10,000 (Since Inception)
     
This chart shows the value of a hypothetical $10,000 investment in the Fund at NAV and at Share Price since inception. The result is compared with the Fund’s benchmark and a broad based index.  

 

Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or on the redemption or sale of fund shares.

 

See “About Fund Performance” on page 4 for more information.

3

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

ABOUT FUND PERFORMANCE

(unaudited)

 

The price used to calculate market return (Share Price) is determined by using the closing price listed on its primary listing exchange. Since the shares of the Fund did not trade in the secondary market until after the Fund’s commencement, for the period from commencement to the first day of secondary market trading in shares of the Fund, the NAV of the Fund is used as a proxy for the secondary market trading price to calculate market returns.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and value of the shares of the funds will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. These returns do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends and distributions or the sale of Fund shares.

 

Investment return and value of the shares of the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Performance may be lower or higher than performance data quoted. Fund returns reflect reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions. Performance current to the most recent month-end is available by calling 800.826.2333 or by visiting vaneck.com.

 

Energy Income Index is published by MV Index Solutions GmbH (MVIS®), which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Adviser, Van Eck Associates Corporation.

 

MVIS and Solactive are referred to herein as the “Index Providers.”

 

The Index Providers do not sponsor, endorse, or promote the Funds and bear no liability with respect to the Funds or any security. Index returns assume the reinvestment of all income and do not reflect any management fees, interest expense, brokerage expenses or income tax benefit/(expense) associated with Fund returns. Investors cannot invest directly in the Index. Returns for actual Fund investors may differ from what is shown because of differences in timing, the amount invested and fees and expenses.

4

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

EXPLANATION OF EXPENSES

(unaudited)

 

Hypothetical $1,000 investment at beginning of period

As a shareholder of a Fund, you incur operating expenses, including management fees and other Fund expenses. This disclosure is intended to help you understand the ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in your Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

The disclosure is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period, April 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020.

 

Actual Expenses

The first line in the table below provides information about account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During the Period.”

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line in the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in your Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of other funds.

 

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as brokerage commissions paid on purchases and sales. Therefore, the second line of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

  Beginning
Account
Value

April 1, 2020
Ending
Account
Value
September 30, 2020
Annualized
Expense
Ratio
During Period
Expenses Paid
During the Period*
April 1, 2020 –
September 30, 2020
Energy Income ETF        
Actual $1,000.00 $1,287.70 0.45% $2.58
Hypothetical** $1,000.00 $1,022.74 0.45% $2.28

 

* Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio (for the six months ended September 30, 2020 multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half year divided by the number of days in the fiscal year (to reflect the one-half year period).
   
** Assumes annual return of 5% before expenses.
5

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Number            
of Shares         Value  
             
COMMON STOCKS: 75.1%  
   
Energy: 72.4%      
  89,503     Antero Midstream Corp.   $ 480,631  
  24,200     Cheniere Energy, Inc. *     1,119,734  
  54,725     Enbridge, Inc.     1,597,970  
  65,922     EnLink Midstream LLC     154,917  
  99,463     Equitrans Midstream Corp.     841,457  
  41,979     Gibson Energy, Inc. (CAD)     680,340  
  92,572     Inter Pipeline Ltd. (CAD)     908,652  
  55,921     Keyera Corp. (CAD)     844,138  
  114,929     Kinder Morgan, Inc.     1,417,075  
  7,173     New Fortress Energy, Inc.     315,684  
  40,984     ONEOK, Inc.     1,064,764  
  53,004     Pembina Pipeline Corp.     1,125,275  
  50,926     Plains GP Holdings LP     310,139  
  63,342     Targa Resources Corp.     888,688  
  37,512     TC Energy Corp.     1,576,254  
  67,119     Williams Cos, Inc.     1,318,888  
              14,644,606  
Transportation: 2.7%        
  20,351     Macquarie Infrastructure Corp.     547,238  
Total Common Stocks
(Cost: $21,289,259)
    15,191,844  
Number            
of Shares         Value  
             
MASTER LIMITED PARTNERSHIPS: 23.4%  
   
Energy: 23.4%        
  6,447     Cheniere Energy Partners LP   $ 214,427  
  6,024     Crestwood Equity Partners LP     75,059  
  8,073     DCP Midstream LP     90,176  
  161,177     Energy Transfer LP     873,579  
  56,134     Enterprise Products Partners LP     886,356  
  24,527     Magellan Midstream Partners LP     838,824  
  47,436     MPLX LP     746,643  
  8,463     NuStar Energy LP     89,877  
  7,189     Phillips 66 Partners LP     165,635  
  52,900     Plains All American Pipeline LP     316,342  
  14,764     Shell Midstream Partners LP     139,668  
  4,835     TC PipeLines LP     123,679  
  21,506     Western Midstream Partners LP     172,048  
Total Master Limited Partnerships
(Cost: $7,516,107)
    4,732,313  
Total Investments: 98.5%
(Cost: $28,805,366)
    19,924,157  
Other assets less liabilities: 1.5%     297,619  
NET ASSETS: 100.0%   $ 20,221,776  


 

 

Definitions:

CAD—Canadian Dollar

 

Footnotes:

*   Non-income producing

 

Summary of Investments by Sector   % of Investments   Value  
Energy     97.3 %   $ 19,376,919  
Transportation     2.7       547,238  
                100.0 %   $ 19,924,157  

 

The summary of inputs used to value the Fund’s investments as of September 30, 2020 is as follows:

 

          Level 2     Level 3      
    Level 1     Significant     Significant      
    Quoted     Observable     Unobservable      
    Prices     Inputs     Inputs   Value  
Common Stocks*   $ 15,191,844     $        $     $ 15,191,844  
Master Limited Partnerships     4,732,313                     4,732,313  
Total   $ 19,924,157     $       $     $ 19,924,157  

 

* See Schedule of Investments for industry sector breakouts.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

6

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

September 30, 2020

 

Assets:        
Investments, at value (1)   $ 19,924,157  
Cash.     189,997  
Receivables:        
Dividends     43,689  
Federal and State income taxes     72,091  
Total assets     20,229,934  
         
Liabilities:        
Payables:        
Due to Adviser.     8,158  
Total liabilities     8,158  
NET ASSETS   $ 20,221,776  
Shares outstanding     589,720  
Net asset value, redemption and offering price per share   $ 34.29  
         
Net Assets consist of:        
Aggregate paid in capital   $ 140,663,021  
Total distributable earnings (loss)     (120,441,245 )
NET ASSETS   $ 20,221,776  
(1) Cost of investments   $ 28,805,366  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

7

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

September 30, 2020

 

    For the Period   For the
    Ended   Year Ended
    September 30,   November 30,
    2020 (a)   2019
Income:                    
Dividends        $ 1,076,375         $ 1,052,233  
Distributions from master limited partnerships       515,852         3,107,036  
Interest       1,636          
Securities lending income       12,846          
Foreign taxes withheld       (73,942 )        
Less: return of capital distributions       (945,524 )       (3,867,690 )
Total income       587,243         291,579  
                     
Expenses:                    
Management fees       100,109         327,476  
Interest       1,228         1,091  
Total expenses       101,337         328,567  
Net investment income (loss), before taxes       485,906         (36,988 )
Income tax benefit/(expense), net of change in valuation allowance       (199,600 )       (235,000 )
Reimbursement from Adviser for income tax expense (See Note 6)       199,600          
Net investment income (loss)       485,906         (271,988 )
                     
Net realized gain (loss) on:                    
Investments       (1,671,968 )       1,226,721  
In-kind redemptions       (107,246 )        
Foreign currency transactions and foreign denominated assets and liabilities       (4,646 )        
Net realized gain (loss)       (1,783,860 )       1,226,721  
                     
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:                    
Investments       (8,835,179 )       (2,149,500 )
Foreign currency transactions and foreign denominated assets and liabilities       97          
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)       (8,835,082 )       (2,149,500 )
Net Decrease in Net Assets Resulting from Operations     $ (10,133,036 )     $ (1,194,767 )
 
(a) The Fund changed its fiscal year-end from November 30 to September 30.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

8

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

 

    Period Ended     Year Ended     Year Ended  
    September 30,     November 30,     November 30,  
    2020 (a)     2019     2018  
Operations:                              
Net investment income (loss)         $ 485,906           $ (271,988 )         $ 76,603  
Net realized gain (loss)       (1,783,860 )       1,226,721         (2,130,647 )
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)       (8,835,082 )       (2,149,500 )       (1,285,104 )
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations       (10,133,036 )       (1,194,767 )       (3,339,148 )
                               
Distributions to shareholders:                              
From distributable earnings               (1,204,891 )        
Return of capital       (1,350,025 )       (2,453,758 )       (4,890,172 )
Total distributions       (1,350,025 )       (3,658,649 )       (4,890,172 )
                               
Share transactions:**                              
Proceeds from sale of shares       3,706,837         18,778,764         2,236,285  
Cost of shares redeemed       (23,530,656 )       (7,487,335 )       (13,281,849 )
Increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from share transactions       (19,823,819 )       11,291,429         (11,045,564 )
Total increase (decrease) in net assets       (31,306,880 )       6,438,013         (19,274,884 )
Net Assets, beginning of period       51,528,656         45,090,643         64,365,527  
Net Assets, end of period     $ 20,221,776       $ 51,528,656       $ 45,090,643  
                               
** Shares of Common Stock Issued (no par value) (b)                              
Shares sold       83,333         366,667         33,333  
Shares redeemed       (500,000 )       (133,333 )       (200,000 )
Net increase (decrease)       (416,667 )       233,334         (166,667 )
 
(a) The Fund changed its fiscal year-end from November 30 to September 30.
(b) Share activity has been adjusted to reflect the 1 for 3 reverse share split which took place on April 15, 2020 (See Note 10).

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

9

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

For a share outstanding throughout each period:

 

    For the                      
    Period                      
    Ended                      
    September 30,     Year Ended November 30,  
    2020 (1) (2)     2019       2018       2017       2016 (3)       2015  
Net asset value, beginning of period   $51.20       $58.32       $68.49       $76.29     $93.90       $222.15  
Income from investment operations:                                                
Net investment income (loss) (a)     0.76       (0.39 )     0.09       0.42       (0.06 )     0.30  
Net realized and unrealized loss on investments     (15.58 )     (1.42 )     (4.44 )     (2.25 )     (9.93 )     (108.45 )
Total from investment operations     (14.82 )     (1.81 )     (4.35 )     (1.83 )     (9.99 )     (108.15 )
Less:                                                
Dividends from net investment income           (1.77 )                        
Return of capital     (2.09 )     (3.54 )     (5.82 )     (5.97 )     (7.62 )     (20.10 )
Total dividends     (2.09 )     (5.31 )     (5.82 )     (5.97 )     (7.62 )     (20.10 )
Net asset value, end of period     $34.29       $51.20       $58.32       $68.49       $76.29       $93.90  
Total return (b)     (29.74 )%(c)     (3.66 )%     (7.16 )%     (2.67 )%     (8.40 )%     (51.42 )%
Ratios/Supplemental Data                                                
Net assets, end of period (000’s)   $ 20,222     $ 51,529     $ 45,091     $ 64,366     $ 94,563     $ 124,034  
Ratio of total expenses to average net assets     0.45 %(d)(e)     1.41 %(g)     0.73 %(h)     0.86 %(i)     0.88 %     0.56 %(j)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets     2.17 %(d)(f)     (0.68 )%(g)     0.13 %(h)     0.55 %(i)     (0.34 )%     0.19 %(j)
Portfolio turnover rate (k)     24 %(c)     106 %     34 %     40 %     46 %     62 %

 

 

The financial highlights include the financial information of the Predecessor Fund through February 21, 2016 (See Note 1).

(1) The Fund changed is fiscal year-end from November 30 to September 30.
(2) On April 15, 2020, the Fund effected a 1 for 3 reverse share split (See Note 10). Per share data prior to April 15, 2020 has been adjusted to reflect the share split.
(3) On June 29, 2016, the Fund effected a 1 for 5 reverse share split (See Note 10). Per share data prior to June 29, 2016 has been adjusted to reflect the share split.
(a) Calculated based upon average shares outstanding
(b) Total return is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the net asset value at the beginning of period, reinvestment of any dividends and distributions at net asset value on the dividend/distributions payment date and a redemption at the net asset value on the last day of the period. The return includes adjustments in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and as such, the net asset values for financial reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset values and returns for shareholder transactions. The return does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund dividends/distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.
(c) Not Annualized
(d) Annualized
(e) Includes income tax expense of 1.56% and adviser reimbursement of (1.56%). If the adviser had not reimbursed the Fund, the ratio would have been higher. (See Note 6).
(f) Includes income tax expense of 1.56% and adviser reimbursement of (1.56%). If the adviser had not reimbursed the Fund, the ratio would have been lower. (See Note 6).
(g) Includes income tax expense of 0.59% related to the Fund’s tax status as a C-Corporation prior to its reorganization as a regulated investment company.
(h) Includes income tax benefit of 0.11% related to the Fund’s tax status as a C-Corporation prior to its reorganization as a regulated investment company.
(i) Includes income tax expense of 0.04% related to the Fund’s tax status as a C-Corporation prior to its reorganization as a regulated investment company.
(j) Includes income tax benefit of 0.29% related to the Fund’s tax status as a C-Corporation prior to its reorganization as a regulated investment company.
(k) Portfolio turnover rates exclude securities received or delivered as a result of processing in-kind capital share transactions.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

10

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

September 30, 2020

 

Note 1—Fund Organization—VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (the “Trust”) is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company. The Trust was incorporated in Delaware as a statutory trust on March 15, 2001. The Trust operates as a series fund, and offers multiple investment portfolios, each of which represents a separate series of the Trust.

 

The financial statements relate only to the Energy Income ETF (the “Fund”). The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the performance, before fees and expenses, of the MVIS® North America Energy Infrastructure Index (the “Index”). The Fund is classified as “non-diversified”. This means that the Fund may invest more of its assets in securities of a single issuer than that of a diversified fund. Van Eck Associates Corporation (the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser for the Fund and is subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees (the “Board”).

 

Effective February 22, 2016, the shareholders of the Yorkville High Income MLP ETF (the “Predecessor Fund”) approved a proposed agreement and plan of reorganization (the “Reorganization”) that provided for the transfer of all the assets and assumption of certain of the liabilities of the Predecessor Fund, the issuance of shares of the Fund to the shareholders of the Predecessor Fund and the liquidation and termination of the Predecessor Fund. The Predecessor Fund had substantially similar investment objectives, investment strategies, policies and restrictions as those of the Fund. The financial statements and financial highlights include the financial information of the Predecessor Fund through February 21, 2016.

 

Effective December 2, 2019, the Fund’s underlying benchmark index changed from the Solactive High Income MLP Index to the MVIS North American Energy Infrastructure Index, the Fund’s federal tax status changed from a taxable C-corporation into a regulated investment company (“RIC”) and the unitary management fee rate changed from 0.82% to 0.45%.

 

In September 2020, the Board approved changing the Fund’s fiscal year-end from November 30 to September 30.

 

Note 2—Significant Accounting Policies—The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting requirements of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 946 Financial Services—Investment Companies.

 

The following summarizes the Fund’s significant accounting policies.

 

A. Return of Capital Estimates—Distributions received by the Fund generally are comprised of income and return of capital. The Fund records investment income and return of capital based on estimates made at the time such distributions are received. Such estimates are based on historical information available to the Fund and other industry sources. These estimates may subsequently be revised based on information received from Master Limited Partnerships (“MLPs’’) after the MLP’s tax reporting periods are concluded.
   
B. Master Limited Partnerships—Entities commonly referred to as “MLPs” are generally organized under state law as limited partnerships or limited liability companies. The Fund invests a portion of its total assets in MLPs receiving partnership taxation treatment under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”), and whose interests or “units” are traded on securities exchanges like shares of corporate stock. To be treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes, an MLP must receive at least 90% of its income from qualifying sources such as interest, dividends, real estate rents, gain from the sale or disposition of real property, income and gain from mineral or natural resources activities, income and gain from the transportation or storage of certain fuels, and, in certain circumstances, income and gain from commodities or futures, forwards and options with respect to commodities. The MLPs themselves generally do not pay U.S. federal income taxes (although some states do impose a net income tax on partnerships). Thus, unlike investors in corporate securities, direct MLP investors are generally not subject to double taxation (i.e., corporate level tax and tax on corporate dividends). The Fund invests the remainder of its assets in MLPs that are treated as C corporations for tax purposes.
   
C. Security Valuation—The Fund values its investments in securities and other assets and liabilities at fair value daily. Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. Securities traded on national exchanges are valued at the closing price on the markets in which the securities trade. Securities traded on the NASDAQ Stock Market LLC
11

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

(“NASDAQ”) are valued at the NASDAQ official closing price. Over-the-counter securities not included on NASDAQ and listed securities for which no sale was reported are valued at the mean of the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded they are categorized as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy (described below). Short-term obligations with sixty days or less to maturity are valued at amortized cost, which with accrued interest approximates fair value. Money market fund investments are valued at net asset value and are categorized as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy. The Pricing Committee of the Adviser provides oversight of the Fund’s valuation policies and procedures, which are approved by the Board. Among other things, these procedures allow the Fund to utilize independent pricing services, quotations from securities dealers, and other market sources to determine fair value. The Pricing Committee convenes regularly to review the fair value of financial instruments or other assets. If market quotations for a security or other asset are not readily available, or if the Adviser believes they do not otherwise reflect the fair value of a security or asset, the security or asset will be fair valued by the Pricing Committee in accordance with the Fund’s valuation policies and procedures. The Pricing Committee employs various methods for calibrating the valuation approaches utilized to determine fair value, including a regular review of key inputs and assumptions, periodic comparisons to valuations provided by other independent pricing services, transactional back-testing and disposition analysis.

 

Certain factors such as economic conditions, political events, market trends, the nature of and duration of any restrictions on disposition, trading in similar securities of the issuer or comparable issuers and other security specific information are used to determine the fair value of these securities. Depending on the relative significance of valuation inputs, these securities may be categorized either as Level 2 or Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The price which the Fund may realize upon sale of an investment may differ materially from the value presented in the Schedule of Investments.

 

The Fund utilizes various methods to measure the fair value of its investments on a recurring basis, which includes a hierarchy that prioritizes inputs to valuation methods used to measure fair value. The fair value hierarchy gives highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities (Level 1 measurements) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3 measurements). The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:

 

Level 1 — Quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

Level 2 — Significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

Level 3 — Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

A summary of the inputs and the levels used to value the Fund’s investments are located in the Schedule of Investments. Additionally, tables that reconcile the valuation of the Fund’s Level 3 investments and that present additional information about the valuation methodologies and unobservable inputs, if applicable, are located in the Schedule of Investments.

 

D. Federal and Other Income Taxes—Effective December 2, 2019, the Fund changed its investment objective such that it is now the Fund’s policy to comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to a RIC for current and future tax years. The Fund intends to distribute all of its taxable income to its shareholders.
   
E. Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders—On a quarterly basis, the Fund distributes substantially all of its dividends and distributions received less Fund expenses. All distributions are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The estimated characterization of the distributions paid will be either an ordinary income, capital gain or return of capital. The Fund anticipates that a portion of current year distributions will be treated as return of capital. The actual tax characterization of the distributions made during the current year will not be determined until after the end of the fiscal year when the Fund can determine its earnings and profits and, therefore, may differ from the preliminary estimates.
   
F. Currency Translation—Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies and commitments under foreign currency contracts are translated into U.S. dollars at the closing prices of such currencies each business day as quoted by one or more sources. Purchases and sales of investments are translated at the exchange rates prevailing
12

 

 

  when such investments are acquired or sold. Foreign denominated income and expenses are translated at the exchange rates prevailing when accrued. The portion of realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that result from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed in the financial statements. Such amounts are included with the net realized and unrealized gains and losses on investment securities in the Statement of Operations. Recognized gains or losses attributable to foreign currency fluctuations on foreign currency denominated assets, other than investments, and liabilities are recorded as net realized gain (loss) on foreign currency transactions and foreign denominated assets and liabilities in the Statement of Operations.
   
G. Offsetting Assets and Liabilities—In the ordinary course of business, the Fund enters into transactions subject to enforceable master netting or other similar agreements. Generally, the right of offset in those agreements allows the Fund to offset any exposure to a specific counterparty with any collateral received or delivered to that counterparty based on the terms of the agreements. The Fund may pledge or receive cash and/or securities as collateral for securities lending. For financial reporting purposes, the Fund presents securities lending assets and liabilities on a gross basis in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Cash collateral held in the form of money market fund investments, if any, at September 30, 2020 is presented in the Schedule of Investments and in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Non-cash collateral is disclosed in Note 9 (Securities Lending).
   
H. Other—Security transactions are accounted for on trade date. Realized gains and losses are determined based on the identified cost basis. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Interest income, including amortization of premiums and discounts, is accrued as earned.
   
  The Fund earns interest income on uninvested cash balances held at the custodian bank. Such amounts, if any, are presented as interest income in the Statements of Operations.
   
  In the normal course of business, the Fund enters into contracts that contain a variety of general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. However, the Adviser believes the risk of loss under these arrangements to be remote.

 

Note 3—Investment Management and Other Agreements—The Adviser is the investment adviser to the Fund. The Adviser receives a management fee, calculated daily and payable monthly based on an annual rate of 0.45% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Prior to December 2, 2019, the Adviser received a management fee, calculated daily and payable monthly based on an annual rate of 0.82% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. The Adviser has agreed to pay all expenses incurred by the Fund except for the advisory fee, interest, taxes, brokerage commissions and other expenses incurred in placing orders for the purchase and sale of securities and other investment instruments, acquired fund fees and expenses, accrued deferred tax liability and extraordinary expenses.

 

The Adviser voluntarily agreed to reimburse the Fund for any differences between the estimated and actual taxes remaining from its prior treatment as a C corporation (See Note 6). These amounts are reflected in the Statement of Operations and in the Financial Highlights.

 

Van Eck Securities Corporation, an affiliate of the Adviser, acts as the Fund’s distributor (the “Distributor”). Certain officers and a Trustee of the Trust are officers, directors or stockholders of the Adviser and Distributor.

 

Effective November 4, 2019, State Street Bank and Trust Company is the Fund’s custodian, securities lending agent and transfer agent. Prior to November 4, 2019, Bank of New York Mellon provided these services to the Fund.

 

Note 4—Capital Share Transactions—As of September 30, 2020, there were an unlimited number of capital shares of beneficial interest authorized by the Trust with no par value. Fund shares are not individually redeemable and are issued and redeemed at their net asset value per share only through certain authorized broker-dealers (“Authorized Participants”) in blocks of shares (“Creation Units”), consisting of 25,000 shares, or multiples thereof. Prior to September 1, 2020, Creation Units consisted of 50,000 shares.

 

The consideration for the purchase or redemption of Creation Units of the Fund generally consists of the in-kind contribution or distribution of securities constituting the Fund’s underlying index (“Deposit Securities”) plus a balancing cash component to equate the transaction to the net asset value per share of the Fund on the transaction date. Cash may also be substituted in an amount equivalent to the value of certain Deposit Securities, generally as a result of market circumstances, or when the securities are not available in sufficient quantity for delivery, or are not eligible for trading by the Authorized Participant. The Fund may issue Creation Units in advance of receipt of Deposit Securities

13

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

subject to various conditions, including, for the benefit of the Fund, a requirement to maintain cash collateral on deposit at the custodian equal to at least 115% of the daily marked to market value of the missing Deposit Securities.

 

Authorized Participants purchasing and redeeming Creation Units may pay transaction fees directly to the transfer agent. In addition, the Fund may impose certain variable fees for creations and redemptions with respect to transactions in Creation Units for cash, or on transactions effected outside the clearing process, which are treated as increases in capital. These variable fees, if any, are reflected in share transactions in the Statement of Changes in Net Assets.

 

Note 5—Investments—For the period ended September 30, 2020, purchases and sales of investments (excluding short-term investments and in-kind capital share transactions) and the purchases and sales of investments resulting from in-kind capital share transactions (excluding short-term investments) were as follows:

 

        In-kind Capital Share Transactions
Purchases   Sales   Purchases   Sales
$8,480,382   $6,609,765   $3,812,901   $22,965,456

 

Note 6—Income Taxes—Beginning December 2, 2019, the Fund changed its investment objective such that it is now the Fund’s policy to comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies (“RIC”) for current and future tax years. As a result, the Fund generally will no longer pay corporate level taxes on its income and capital gains that are distributed to shareholders.

 

The Fund was required, however, to pay corporate tax for the year ended November 30, 2019 and is also required to pay corporate tax on any net built-in-gains as of that date that are recognized within a five year period. The Fund estimated its tax expense / liability for these amounts as of November 30, 2019 based on the best information available from the MLPs at that time. The Adviser agreed to make the Fund whole for any differences between the estimated and actual taxes.

 

For the period ended September 30, 2020, the Fund has revised its prior year tax estimate and recorded an additional tax expense and reimbursement of tax expense from the Adviser as follows:

 

Current tax expense   $ 231,183  
Deferred tax expense / (benefit)     45,897,419  
Change in valuation allowance     (45,929,002 )
Total tax benefit/(expense) before Adviser reimbursement   $ (199,600 )
Reimbursement of tax expense by Adviser     199,600  
Net tax expense to the Fund   $  

 

These estimates may be further adjusted as additional information becomes available from the MLPs and the Fund’s tax returns are filed.

 

As of September 30, 2020, for Federal income tax purposes, the identified cost, gross unrealized appreciation, gross unrealized depreciation and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments were as follows:

 

    Gross   Gross   Net Unrealized
Tax Cost   Unrealized   Unrealized   Appreciation
of Investments   Appreciation   Depreciation   (Depreciation)
$28,256,303   $589,994   $(8,922,140)   $(8,332,146)
14

 

 

At September 30, 2020, the components of distributable earnings (loss) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Undistributed   Accumulated   Other   Net Unrealized   Total
Ordinary   Capital   Temporary   Appreciation   Distributable
Income   (Losses)   Differences   (Depreciation)   Earnings (Loss)
$—   $(111,781,735)   $(327,461)   $(8,332,049)   $(120,441,245)

 

The tax character of dividends paid to shareholders were as follows:

 

    Period Ended   Year Ended
    September 30, 2020   November 30, 2019
Ordinary income     $       $ 1,204,891  
Return of capital       1,350,025         2,453,758  
Total     $ 1,350,025       $ 3,658,649  

 

 

At September 30, 2020, the Fund had the following capital loss carryforwards available to offset future capital gains:

 

Year of   Short-Term
Expiration   Capital Losses
9/30/2021     $ (89,478,335 )
9/30/2022       (12,847,636 )
9/30/2023       (6,679,603 )
9/30/2024       (1,612,600 )
No expiration       (1,163,561 )
Total     $ (111,781,735 )

 

During the period ended September 30, 2020, $81,997,394 of the Fund’s capital loss carryover available from prior years expired un-utilized.

 

During the period ended September 30, 2020, as a result of permanent book to tax differences primarily due to the expiration of a capital loss carryover, treatment of tax gains / losses on in-kind redemptions, and book/tax differences from the Fund’s conversion to a RIC, the Fund incurred differences that affected distributable earnings / (loss) and aggregate paid in capital by the amounts in the table below. Net assets were not affected by these reclassifications.

 

Increase (Decrease)
in Distributable
Earnings / (Loss)
  Increase (Decrease)
in Aggregate
Paid in Capital
$(109,001,962)   $(109,001,962)

 

The Fund recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more-likely-than-not” to be sustained assuming examination by applicable tax authorities. Management has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions, and has concluded that no liability for unrecognized tax benefits should be recorded related to uncertain tax positions taken on return filings for all open tax years. The Fund does not have exposure for additional years that might still be open in certain foreign jurisdictions. Therefore, no provision for income tax is required in the Fund’s financial statements.

 

The Fund recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to uncertain tax positions as income tax expense in the Statements of Operations. During the period ended September 30, 2020, the Fund did not incur any interest or penalties.

 

Note 7—Principal Risks—The Fund’s assets are concentrated in a limited number of sectors or industries. By concentrating the Fund’s assets, the Fund is subject to the risk that economic, political or other conditions that have a negative effect on that sector or industry will negatively impact the Fund to a greater extent than if the Fund’s net assets were invested in a wider variety of sectors or industries.

 

Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests in securities of MLPs, which are subject to certain risks, such as supply and demand risk, depletion and exploration risk, and the risk associated with the hazards inherent in midstream energy industry activities. A portion of the cash flow received by the Fund is derived from investment in equity securities of MLPs. The amount of cash that an MLP has available for distributions and the tax character of such distributions are dependent upon the amount of cash generated by the MLP’s operations.

15

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(continued)

 

A recent outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus, which was first detected in China in December 2019, has subsequently spread internationally and has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization. The coronavirus has resulted in closing borders, quarantines, disruptions to supply chains and customer activity, loss of life, as well as general concern and uncertainty. The coronavirus has already negatively impacted the economies of many nations, individual companies and the market. This pandemic is expected to have a continued impact in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen presently.

 

A more complete description of risks is included in the Fund’s Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information.

 

Note 8—Trustee Deferred Compensation Plan—The Trust has a Deferred Compensation Plan (the “Plan”) for Trustees under which the Trustees can elect to defer receipt of trustee fees until retirement, disability or termination from the Board of Trustees. The fees otherwise payable to the participating Trustees are deemed invested in shares of the Fund as directed by the Trustees. The Fund has adopted a unitary management fee where the Adviser is responsible for all expenses of the Fund. Therefore, the expense for the Plan for this Fund is included in “Management fees.”

 

Note 9—Securities Lending—To generate additional income, the Fund may lend its securities pursuant to a securities lending agreement with the securities lending agent. The Fund may lend up to 33% of its investments requiring that the loan be continuously collateralized by cash, cash equivalents, U.S. government securities, or any combination of cash and such securities at all times equal to at least 102% (105% for foreign securities) of the market value plus accrued interest on the securities loaned. Daily market fluctuations could cause the value of loaned securities to be more or less than the value of the collateral received. When this occurs, the collateral is adjusted and settled on the next business day. During the term of the loan, the Fund will continue to receive any dividends, interest or amounts equivalent thereto, on the securities loaned while receiving a fee from the borrower and or earning interest on the investment of the cash collateral. Such fees and interest are shared with the securities lending agent under the terms of the securities lending agreement. Securities lending income is disclosed as such in the Statement of Operations. Cash collateral is maintained on the Fund’s behalf by the lending agent and is invested in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio. Non-cash collateral consists of U.S. Treasuries and U.S. Government Agency securities, and is not disclosed in the Fund’s Schedule of Investments or Statement of Assets and Liabilities as it is held by the agent on behalf of the Fund, and the Fund does not have the ability to re-hypothecate those securities. Loans are subject to termination at the option of the borrower or the Fund. Upon termination of the loan, the borrower will return to the Fund securities identical to the securities loaned. The Fund bears the risk of delay in recovery of, or even loss of rights in, the securities loaned should the borrower of the securities fail financially. The value of loaned securities and related cash collateral, if any, at September 30, 2020 are presented on a gross basis in the Schedule of Investments and Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The Fund had no securities on loan as of September 30, 2020.

 

Note 10—Share Split—The Fund executed a one-for-five reverse share split for shareholders of record before the open of markets on June 29, 2016. The fund executed a one-for-three reverse share split for shareholders of record before the open of markets on April 15, 2020.

 

Note 11—Bank Line of Credit—The Fund, along with other funds of the Trust, may participate in a $200 million committed credit facility (the “Facility”) to be utilized for temporary financing for the settlement of sales or purchases of portfolio securities, the repurchase or redemption of shares of the Funds at the request of the shareholders and other temporary or emergency purposes. The Funds have agreed to pay commitment fees, pro rata, based on the unused but available balance. Interest is charged to the Funds based on prevailing market rates in effect at the time of borrowings. During the period ended September 30, 2020, the Fund borrowed under this Facility:

 

            Outstanding Loan
Days   Average Daily   Average   Balance as of
Outstanding   Loan Balance   Interest Rate   September 30, 2020
71   $212,469   2.87%   $—

 

Outstanding loan balances as of September 30, 2020, if any, are reflected in the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

16

 

 

Note 12—Recent Accounting Pronouncements—The Funds adopted all provisions of the Accounting Standards Update No. 2018-13, Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”) that eliminate and modify certain disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. Based on management’s evaluation, the adoption of the ASU 2018-13 had no material impact on the financial statements and related disclosures.

 

Note 13—Subsequent Events—The Fund has evaluated the need for additional disclosures and/or adjustments resulting from subsequent events through the date the financial statements were issued.

17

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Shareholders of VanEck Vectors Energy Income ETF and the Board of Trustees of VanEck Vectors ETF Trust

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of VanEck Vectors Energy Income ETF (the “Fund”) (one of the series constituting VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (the “Trust”)), including the schedule of investments, as of September 30, 2020, and the related statements of operations for the period December 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020 and the year ended November 30, 2019, the statements of changes in net assets for the period December 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020 and each of the two years in the period ended November 30, 2019, the financial highlights for the period December 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020 and each of the four years in the period ended November 30, 2019 and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund (one of the series constituting the Trust) at September 30, 2020, and the results of its operations for the period December 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020 and the year ended November 30, 2019, the changes in its net assets for the period December 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020 and each of the two years in the period ended November 30, 2019 and its financial highlights for the period December 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020 and each of the four years in the period ended November 30, 2019, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The financial highlights for year ended November 30, 2015 were audited by another independent registered public accounting firm whose report, dated January 29, 2016, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial highlights.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Trust’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audit. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Trust in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audit we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

 

Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of September 30, 2020, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from broker were not received. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more of the VanEck investment companies since 1999.

 

New York, New York

November 23, 2020

18

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

TAX INFORMATION

(unaudited)

 

During the period ended September 30, 2020, all of the distributions paid by the Fund were considered to be a return of capital. The Fund will inform shareholders of the final tax character of the distributions on IRS Form 1099-DIV in February 2021.

 

A return of capital is not considered taxable income to shareholders. Pursuant to IRC Section 301(c), the portion of a distribution which is a dividend (as defined under IRC Section 316) is includable in gross income while the portion of the distribution which is not a dividend shall be applied against and reduces the adjusted basis of the stock. Accordingly, shareholders who received these distributions should not include these amounts in taxable income, but instead pursuant to Internal Revenue Code Sections 301(c)(2) and 1016(a)(4), should treat them as a reduction of the cost basis of the applicable shares upon which these distributions were paid. In order to compute the required adjustment to cost basis, a shareholder should multiply the per share amount of each of the respective distributions by the number of shares held at each of the respective record dates.

 

Please consult your tax advisor for proper treatment of this information.

 

            Return    
            of Capital   Total
Ticker   Payable   Income   (Non Dividend)   Distribution
Symbol   Date   Dividends   Distribution   Per Share
EINC   02/14/2020     $     $ 0.284500 (a)   $ 0.284500 (a)
EINC   05/15/2020           0.574500       0.574500  
EINC   08/14/2020             0.660100       0.660100  
          $     $ 1.519100     $ 1.519100  

 

(a) This amount has not been adjusted for the 1 for 3 reverse stock split that occurred as of the market open on April 15, 2020.
19

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

BOARD OF TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS

September 20, 2020 (unaudited)

 

Name, Address1
and Year of Birth
  Position(s)
Held with
the Trust
  Term of
Office2 and
Length of
Time Served
  Principal Occupation(s)
During Past Five Years
  Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex3
Overseen
  Other Directorships Held Outside the
Fund Complex3 During Past Five Years
Independent Trustees                
David H. Chow,
1957*†
  Chairman Trustee   Since 2008
Since 2006
  Founder and CEO, DanCourt Management LLC (financial/ strategy consulting firm and Registered Investment Adviser), March 1999 to present.   55   Director, Forward Management LLC and Audit Committee Chairman, May 2008 to June 2015; Trustee, Berea College of Kentucky, May 2009 to present and currently Chairman of the Investment Committee; Member of the Governing Council of the Independent Directors Council, October 2012 to present; President, July 2013 to June 2015, and Board Member of the CFA Society of Stamford, July 2009 to present; Trustee, MainStay Fund Complex4, January 2016 to present and currently Chairman of the Risk and Compliance Committee.
                     
Laurie A. Hesslein,
1959*†
  Trustee   Since 2019   Citigroup, Managing Director, and Business Head, Local Consumer Lending North America, and CEO and President, CitiFinancial Servicing LLC (2013 - 2017).   55   Trustee, Eagle Growth and Income Opportunities Fund; Trustee, THL Credit Senior Loan Fund.
                     
R. Alastair Short,
1953*†
  Trustee   Since 2006   President, Apex Capital Corporation (personal investment vehicle).   66   Chairman and Independent Director, EULAV Asset Management; Trustee, Kenyon Review; Trustee, Children’s Village. Formerly, Independent Director, Tremont offshore funds.
                     
Peter J.
Sidebottom,
1962*†
  Trustee   Since 2012   Lead Partner, North America Banking and Capital Markets Strategy, Accenture, May 2017 to present; Partner, PWC/Strategy & Financial Services Advisory, February 2015 to March 2017; Founder and Board Member, AspenWoods Risk Solutions, September 2013 to February 2016; Independent consultant, June 2013 to February 2015; Partner, Bain & Company (management consulting firm), April 2012 to December 2013; Executive Vice President and Senior Operating Committee Member, TD Ameritrade (on-line brokerage firm), February 2009 to January 2012.   55   Board Member, Special Olympics, New Jersey, November 2011 to September 2013; Director, The Charlotte Research Institute, December 2000 to 2009; Board Member, Social Capital Institute, University of North Carolina Charlotte, November 2004 to January 2012; Board Member, NJ-CAN, July 2014 to 2016.
                     
Richard D. Stamberger,
1959*†
  Trustee   Since 2006   President and CEO, SmartBrief, LLC (business media company).   66   Director, Food and Friends, Inc.
                     
Interested Trustee            
Jan F. van Eck, 19635   Trustee, Chief Executive Officer and President   Trustee (Since 2006); Chief Executive Officer and President (Since 2009)   Director, President and Chief Executive Officer of Van Eck Associates Corporation (VEAC), Van Eck Absolute Return Advisers Corporation (VEARA) and Van Eck Securities Corporation (VESC); Officer and/or Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC and/or the Trust   66   Director, National Committee on US-China Relations.

 

 
1 The address for each Trustee and officer is 666 Third Avenue, 9th Floor, New York, New York 10017.
2 Each Trustee serves until resignation, death, retirement or removal. Officers are elected yearly by the Trustees.
3 The Fund Complex consists of the VanEck Funds, VanEck VIP Trust and the Trust.
4 The MainStay Fund Complex consists of MainStay Funds, MainStay Funds Trust, MainStay VP Funds Trust and MainStay MacKay Defined Term Municipal Opportunities Fund.
5 “Interested person” of the Trust within the meaning of the 1940 Act. Mr. van Eck is an officer of VEAC, VEARA and VESC.
* Member of the Audit Committee.
Member of the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.
20

 

 

Officer’s Name,
Address1 and
Year of Birth
  Position(s)
Held with
the Trust
  Term of Office2
and Length of
Time Served
  Principal Occupation(s) During Past Five Years
Officer Information        
Matthew A. Babinsky,
1983
  Assistant Vice President and Assistant Secretary   Since 2016   Assistant Vice President, Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Secretary of VEAC, VEARA and VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Associate, Clifford Chance US LLP.
             
Russell G. Brennan, 1964   Assistant Vice President and Assistant Treasurer   Since 2008   Assistant Vice President of VEAC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA.
             
Charles T. Cameron, 1960   Vice President   Since 2006   Portfolio Manager of VEAC; Officer and/or Portfolio Manager of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Director of Trading of VEAC.
             
John J. Crimmins, 1957   Vice President, Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer   Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer (Since 2012); Treasurer (Since 2009)   Vice President of VEAC and VEARA; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Vice President of VESC.
             
Eduardo Escario, 1975   Vice President   Since 2012   Regional Director, Business Development/Sales for Southern Europe and South America of VEAC.
             
Henry Glynn, 1983   Assistant Vice President   Since 2018   Head of ETF Capital Markets Europe of Van Eck Switzerland AG. Formerly, Member of the Capital Markets team at Vanguard Group.
             
F. Michael Gozzillo,
1965
  Chief Compliance Officer   Since 2018   Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of VEAC and VEARA; Chief Compliance Officer of VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Chief Compliance Officer of City National Rochdale, LLC and City National Rochdale Funds.
             
Laura Hamilton, 1977   Vice President   Since 2019   Assistant Vice President of VEAC and VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Operations Manager of Royce & Associates.
             
Nicholas Jackson, 1974   Assistant Vice President   Since 2018   Vice President, Business Development of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd.
             
Laura I. Martínez, 1980   Vice President and Assistant Secretary   Vice President (Since 2016); Assistant Secretary (Since 2008)   Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Assistant Secretary of VEAC, VEARA and VESC; Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA. Formerly, Assistant Vice President of VEAC, VEARA and VESC.
             
Matthew McKinnon,
1970
  Assistant Vice President   Since 2018   Head of Business Development of Asia Pacific of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd. Formerly, Director, Intermediaries and Institutions of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd.
             
Arian Neiron, 1979   Vice President   Since 2018   Managing Director and Head of Asia Pacific of VanEck Australia Pty Ltd.; Officer and/or Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC and/or the Trust.
             
James Parker,
1969
  Assistant Treasurer   Since 2014   Assistant Vice President of VEAC; Manager, Portfolio Administration of VEAC and VEARA. Officer of other investment companies advised by VEAC and VEARA.
             
Adam Phillips,
1970
  Vice President   Since 2018   ETF Chief Operating Officer of VEAC; Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC.
             
Philipp Schlegel,
1974
  Vice President   Since 2016   Managing Director of Van Eck Switzerland AG.
             
Jonathan R. Simon,
1974
  Senior Vice President, Secretary and Chief Legal Officer   Senior Vice President (Since 2016); Secretary and Chief Legal Officer (Since 2014)   Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of VEAC, VEARA and VESC; Officer and/or Director of other companies affiliated with VEAC and/or the Trust. Formerly, Vice President of VEAC, VEARA and VESC.

 

 
1 The address for each Officer is 666 Third Avenue, 9th Floor, New York, New York 10017.
2 Officers are elected yearly by the Trustees.
21

VANECK VECTORS ENERGY INCOME ETF

APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT

September 30, 2020 (unaudited)

 

At a meeting held on June 11, 2020 (the “Renewal Meeting”), the Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of VanEck Vectors® ETF Trust (the “Trust”), including all of the Trustees that are not interested persons of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”), approved the continuation of the investment management agreement between the Trust and Van Eck Associates Corporation (the “Adviser”) (the “Investment Management Agreement”) with respect to the VanEck Vectors Energy Income ETF (formerly VanEck Vectors High Income MLP ETF) (the “Fund”).

 

The Board’s approval of the Investment Management Agreement was based on a comprehensive consideration of all of the information available to the Trustees and was not the result of any single factor. Some of the factors that figured particularly in the Trustees’ deliberations and how the Trustees considered those factors are described below, although individual Trustees may have evaluated the information presented differently, giving different weights to various factors.

 

In preparation for the Renewal Meeting, the Trustees held a meeting on May 7, 2020. At that meeting, the Trustees discussed the information the Adviser and Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (“Broadridge”), an independent third party data provider, had provided to them in advance. The information provided to the Trustees included, among other things, information about the performance and expenses of the Fund and the Fund’s peer funds (certain other index-based exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”)), information about the advisory services provided to the Fund and the personnel providing those services, and the profitability and other benefits enjoyed by the Adviser and its affiliates as a result of the Adviser’s relationship with the Fund. In reviewing performance information for the Fund against its peer group, the Trustees considered that the Fund seeks to track a different index than the funds in its designated peer group and, therefore, the Fund’s performance will differ from its peers. In addition, as noted below, the Trustees reviewed certain performance information for the Fund which was not provided by Broadridge and which did not compare the Fund’s performance to the performance of its peer group. For these and other reasons, the Trustees noted that the peer group performance information did not necessarily provide meaningful direct comparisons to the Fund.

 

The Independent Trustees’ consideration of the Investment Management Agreement was based, in part, on their review of information obtained through discussions with the Adviser at the Renewal Meeting and the May 7, 2020 meeting regarding the management of the Fund and information obtained at other meetings of the Trustees and/or based on their review of the materials provided by the Adviser, including the background and experience of the portfolio managers and others involved in the management and administration of the Fund. The Trustees also considered the terms of, and scope of services that the Adviser provides, under the Investment Management Agreement, including the Adviser’s agreement to pay all of the direct expenses of the Fund (excluding the fee payment under the Investment Management Agreement, acquired fund fees and expenses, interest expense, offering costs, trading expenses, taxes and extraordinary expenses).

 

The Trustees concluded that the Adviser and its personnel have the requisite expertise and skill to manage the Fund’s portfolio. In evaluating the performance of the Fund, the Trustees reviewed various performance metrics but relied principally on a comparison of the “gross” performance of the Fund (i.e., measured without regard to the impact of fees and expenses) to the performance of its benchmark index. Based on the foregoing, the Trustees concluded that the investment performance of the Fund was satisfactory.

 

The Trustees also considered information relating to the financial condition of the Adviser and the current status, as they understood it, of the Adviser’s compliance environment.

 

As noted above, the Trustees were also provided various data from Broadridge comparing the Fund’s expenses and performance to that of certain other ETFs. The Trustees noted that the information provided showed that the Fund had management fees below the average and equal to the median of its peer group of funds. The Trustees also noted that the information provided showed that the Fund had a total expense ratio below the average and equal to the median of its peer group of funds. The Trustees concluded, in light of this information and the other information available to them, that the fees paid by the Fund were reasonable in light of the performance of the Fund and the quality of services received.

 

The Trustees also considered the benefits, other than fees under the Investment Management Agreement, received by the Adviser from serving as adviser to the Fund.

 

The Trustees also considered information provided by the Adviser about the overall profitability of the Adviser and the fact that the Adviser did not earn any profits from managing the Fund. The Trustees reviewed the Fund’s asset size and expense ratio and noted that the Investment Management Agreement does not include breakpoints in the advisory fee rates as asset levels in the Fund increase. The Trustees considered the volatility of the asset class in which the Fund

22

 

 

invests, potential variability in the net assets of the Fund and the sustainability of any potential economies of scale which may exist given where fees are currently set. The Trustees also evaluated the extent to which management fees for the Fund effectively incorporate the benefits of economies of scale. The Trustees also considered the risks being assumed by the Adviser under the unitary fee structure arrangement and the potential expense stability that may inure to the benefit of shareholders. Based on the foregoing and the other information available to them, the Trustees determined that the advisory fee rate for the Fund is reasonable and appropriate in relation to the current asset size of the Fund and the other factors discussed above and that the advisory fee rate for the Fund currently reflects an appropriate sharing with shareholders of any economies of scale which may exist.

 

The Independent Trustees were advised by and met in executive session with their independent counsel at the Renewal Meeting and at their May 7, 2020 meeting as part of their consideration of the Investment Management Agreement.

 

In voting to approve the continuation of the Investment Management Agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that the terms of the Investment Management Agreement are reasonable and fair in light of the services to be performed, expenses to be incurred and such other matters as the Trustees considered relevant in the exercise of their reasonable judgment. The Trustees further concluded that the Investment Management Agreement is in the best interest of the Fund and the Fund’s shareholders.

23

 

This report is intended for the Fund’s shareholders. It may not be distributed to prospective investors unless it is preceded or accompanied by a VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (the “Trust”) prospectus and summary prospectus, which includes more complete information. Investing involves substantial risk and high volatility, including possible loss of principal. An investor should consider the investment objective, risks, charges and expenses of the Fund carefully before investing. To obtain a prospectus and summary prospectus, which contains this and other information, call 800.826.2333 or visit vaneck.com. Please read the prospectus and summary prospectus carefully before investing.

 

Additional information about the Trust’s Board of Trustees/Officers and a description of the policies and procedures the Trust uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities are provided in the Statement of Additional Information. The Statement of Additional Information and information regarding how the Trust voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve month period ending June 30 is available, without charge, by calling 800.826.2333, or by visiting vaneck.com, or on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

The Trust files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-PORT. The Trust’s Form N-PORT is available on the Commission’s website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 202.942.8090. The Funds’ complete schedules of portfolio holdings are also available by calling 800.826.2333 or by visiting vaneck.com.

 

 

Investment Adviser: Van Eck Associates Corporation  
Distributor: Van Eck Securities Corporation  
  666 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10017  
  vaneck.com  
Account Assistance: 800.826.2333 EINCAR
 
Item 2. CODE OF ETHICS.

 

(a) The Registrant has adopted a code of ethics (the “Code of Ethics”) that applies to the principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions.

 

(b) The Registrant’s code of ethics is reasonably described in this Form N-CSR.

 

(c) The Registrant has not amended its Code of Ethics during the period covered by the shareholder report presented in Item 1 hereto.

 

(d) The Registrant has not granted a waiver or an implicit waiver from a provision of its Code of Ethics during the period covered by the shareholder report presented in Item 1 hereto.

 

(e) Not applicable.

 

(f) The Registrant’s Code of Ethics is attached as an Exhibit hereto.

 

Item 3. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.

 

The Registrant’s Board of Trustees has determined that David Chow, Laurie A. Hesslein, R. Alastair Short, Peter Sidebottom and Richard Stamberger, members of the Audit and Governance Committees, are “audit committee financial experts” and “independent” as such terms are defined in the instructions to Form N-CSR Item 3(a)(2).

 

Item 4. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

 

The principal accountant fees disclosed in Item 4(a), 4(b), 4(c), 4(d) and 4(g) are for the Funds of the Registrant for which the fiscal year end is September 30.

 

(a) Audit Fees. The aggregate Audit Fees of Ernst & Young for professional services billed for the audits of the financial statements, or services that are normally provided in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019, were $390,306 and $326,740 respectively.

 

(b) Audit-Related Fees. Not applicable.

 

(c) Tax Fees. The aggregate Tax Fees of Ernst & Young for professional services billed for the review of Federal, state and excise tax returns and other tax compliance consultations for the fiscal years ended September 30, 2020 and September 30, 2019 were $220,039 and $306,528 respectively.

 

(d) All Other Fees

 

None.

 

(e) The Audit Committee will pre-approve all audit and non-audit services, to be provided to the Fund, by the independent accountants as required by Section 10A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Audit Committee has authorized the Chairman of the Audit Committee to approve, between meeting dates, appropriate non-audit services.

 

The Audit Committee after considering all factors, including a review of independence issues, will recommend to the Board of Trustees the independent auditors to be selected to audit the financial statements of the Funds.
 
(f) Not applicable.

 

(g) Not applicable.

 

(h) Not applicable.

 

Item 5. AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS.

 

The Registrant’s Board has an Audit Committee established in accordance with Section 3(a)(58)(A) of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 78c(a)(58)(A)) consisting of five Independent Trustees. Messrs. Chow, Hesslein, Short, Sidebottom and Stamberger currently serve as members of the Audit Committee. Mr. Short is the Chairman of the Audit Committee.

 

Item 6. SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS.

 

Information included in Item 1.

 

Item 7. DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 8. PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 9. PURCHASE OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 10. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.

 

None.

 

Item 11. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

 

(a) The registrant’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, have concluded that the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) (17 CFR 270.30a-3 (c)) are effective, as of a date within 90 days of the filing date of the report that includes the disclosure required by this paragraph, based on their evaluation of these controls and procedures required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(b)) and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (17 CFR 240.13a-15(b) or 240.15d-15 (b)).

 

(b) There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the 1940 Act (17 CFR 270.30a(d)) that occurred during the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Item 12. DISCLOSURE OF SECURITIES LENDING ACTIVITIES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT COMPANIES.

 

Not applicable.

 

Item 13. EXHIBITS.

 

(a)(1) The code of ethics is attached as EX-99.CODE ETH

 

(a)(2) A separate certification for each principal executive officer and principal financial officer of the registrant as required by Rule 30a-2 under the Act (17 CFR 270.30a-2) is attached as Exhibit 99.CERT.

 

(b) Certification pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 is furnished as Exhibit 99.906CERT.
 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

(Registrant) VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST

 

By (Signature and Title) /s/ John J. Crimmins, Treasurer and CFO  
       
Date December 8, 2020  

 

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

 

By (Signature and Title) /s/ Jan F. van Eck, CEO  
       
Date December 8, 2020  
     
By (Signature and Title) /s/ John J. Crimmins, Treasurer and CFO  
       
Date December 8, 2020  
 

EX-99.CODE ETH

 

VANECK VIP TRUST
VANECK FUNDS
VANECK VECTORS ETF TRUST
CODE OF ETHICS FOR PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE AND
SENIOR FINANCIAL OFFICERS

 

I. COVERED OFFICERS/PURPOSE OF THE CODE

 

VanEck’s Code of Ethics (this “Code”) for the investment companies within the complex (collectively, “Funds” and each, “Company”) applies to the Company’s Principal Executive Officer, Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer (the “Covered Officers” each of whom are set forth in Exhibit A) for the purpose of promoting:

 

o honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships;

 

o full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that a registrant files with, or submits to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and in other public communications made by the Company;

 

o compliance with applicable laws and governmental rules and regulations;

 

o the prompt internal reporting of violations of the Code to an appropriate person or persons identified in the Code; and

 

o accountability for adherence to the Code.

 

Each Covered Officer should adhere to a high standard of business ethics and should be sensitive to situations that may give rise to actual as well as apparent conflicts of interest.

 

II. COVERED OFFICERS SHOULD HANDLE ETHICALLY ACTUAL AND APPARENT CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

 

OVERVIEW. A “conflict of interest” occurs when a Covered Officer’s private interest interferes with the interests of, or his service to, the Company. For example, a conflict of interest would arise if a Covered Officer, or a member of his family, receives improper personal benefits as a result of his position with the Company.

 

Certain conflicts of interest arise out of the relationships between Covered Officers and the Company and already are subject to conflict of interest provisions in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“Investment Company Act”) and the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (“Investment Advisers Act”). For example, Covered Officers may not individually engage in certain transactions (such as the purchase or sale of securities or other property) with the Company because of their status as “affiliated persons” of the Company. The Company’s and the investment adviser’s compliance programs and procedures are designed to prevent, or identify and correct, violations of these provisions. This Code does not, and is not intended to, repeat or replace these programs and procedures, and such conflicts fall outside of the parameters of this Code.

 

Although typically not presenting an opportunity for improper personal benefit, conflicts arise from, or as a result of, the contractual relationship between the Company and the investment adviser of which the Covered Officers are also officers or employees. As a result, this Code recognizes that the Covered Officers will, in the normal course of their duties (whether formally for the Company or for the adviser, or for both), be involved in establishing policies and implementing decisions that will have different effects on the adviser and the Company. The participation of the Covered Officers in such activities is inherent in the contractual relationship between the Company and the adviser and is consistent with the performance by the Covered Officers of their duties as officers of the Company. Thus, if performed in conformity with the provisions of the Investment Company Act and the Investment Advisers Act, such activities will be deemed to have been handled ethically. In addition, it is recognized by the Funds’ Boards of Directors (“Boards”) that the Covered Officers may also be officers or employees of one or more other investment companies covered by this or other codes.

 

Other conflicts of interest are covered by the Code, even if such conflicts of interest are not subject to provisions in the Investment Company Act and the Investment Advisers Act. The following list provides examples of conflicts of interest under the Code, but Covered Officers should keep in mind that these examples are not exhaustive. The overarching principle is that the personal interest of a Covered Officer should not be placed improperly before the interest of the Company.

 

Each Covered Officer must:

 

o not use his personal influence or personal relationships improperly to influence investment decisions or financial reporting by the Company whereby the Covered Officer would benefit personally to the detriment of the Company;

 

o not cause the Company to take action, or fail to take action, for the individual personal benefit of the Covered Officer rather than the benefit the Company;

 

o not use material non-public knowledge of portfolio transactions made or contemplated for the Company to trade personally or cause others to trade personally in contemplation of the market effect of such transactions;

 

There are some conflict of interest situations that should always be discussed with the Compliance Officer if material. Examples of these include:

 

o service as a director on the board of any public or private company;

 

o the receipt of any non-nominal gifts;

 

o the receipt of any entertainment from any company with which the Company has current or prospective business dealings unless such entertainment is business related, reasonable in cost, appropriate as to time and place, and not so frequent as to raise any question of impropriety.

 

o any ownership interest in, or any consulting or employment relationship with, any of the Company’s service providers, other than its investment adviser, principal underwriter, administrator or any affiliated person thereof,
 
o a direct or indirect financial interest in commissions, transaction charges or spreads paid by the Company for effecting portfolio transactions or for selling or redeeming shares other than an interest arising from the Covered Officer’s employment, such as compensation or equity ownership.

 

III. DISCLOSURE AND COMPLIANCE

 

o Each Covered Officer should familiarize himself with the disclosure requirements generally applicable to the Company;

 

o Each Covered Officer should not knowingly misrepresent, or cause others to misrepresent, facts about the Company to others, whether within or outside the Company, including to the Company’s directors and auditors, and to governmental regulators and self-regulatory organizations;

 

o Each Covered Officer should, to the extent appropriate within his area of responsibility, consult with other officers and employees of the Funds and the adviser with the goal of promoting full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in the reports and documents the Funds file with, or submit to, the SEC and in other public communications made by the Funds; and

 

o It is the responsibility of each Covered Officer to promote compliance with the standards and restrictions imposed by applicable laws, rules and regulations.

 

IV. REPORTING AND ACCOUNTABILITY

 

Each Covered Officer must:

 

o report at least annually all affiliations or other relationships related to conflicts of interest that the Company’s Directors and Officers Questionnaire covers;

 

o upon adoption of the Code (or thereafter as applicable, upon becoming a Covered Officer), affirm in writing to the Board that he has received, read, and understands the Code;

 

o annually thereafter affirm to the Board that he has complied with the requirements of the Code;

 

o not retaliate against any other Covered Officer or any employee of the Funds or their affiliated persons for reports of potential violations that are made in good faith, and

 

o notify the Compliance Officer promptly if he knows of any violation of this Code. Failure to do so is itself a violation of this Code.

 

The Compliance Officer or other designated senior legal officer of the Funds’ investment adviser is responsible for applying this Code to specific situations in which questions are presented under it and has the authority to interpret this Code in any particular situation. However, any approvals or waivers sought by the Principal Executive Officer will be considered by the Governance Committee.

 

The Company will follow these procedures in investigating and enforcing this Code:

 

o the Compliance Officer or other designated senior legal officer will take all appropriate action to investigate any potential violations reported to him;

 

o if, after such investigation, the Compliance Officer believes that no violation has occurred, the Compliance Officer is not required to take any further action;

 

o any matter that the Compliance Officer believes is a violation will be reported to the Committee;

 

o if the Committee concurs that a violation has occurred, it will inform the Board, which will consider appropriate action, which may include review of, and appropriate modifications to, applicable policies and procedures; notification to appropriate personnel of the investment adviser or its board; or a recommendation to dismiss the Covered Officer;

 

o the Committee will be responsible for granting waivers, as appropriate; and any changes to or waivers of this Code will, to the extent required, be disclosed as provided by SEC rules.

 

V. OTHER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

 

This Code shall be the sole code of ethics adopted by the Funds for purposes of Section 406 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and the rules and forms applicable to registered investment companies thereunder. Insofar as other policies or procedures of the Funds, the Funds’ adviser, principal underwriter, or other service providers govern or purport to govern the behavior or activities of the Covered Officers who are subject to this Code, they are superseded by this Code to the extent that they overlap or conflict with the provisions of this Code. The Funds’ and their investment adviser’s and principal underwriter’s codes of ethics under Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act and the adviser’s more detailed policies and procedures set forth in the Van Eck Employee Manual are separate requirements applying to the Covered Officers and others, and are not part of this Code.

 

VI. AMENDMENTS

 

Any amendments to this Code, other than amendments to Exhibit A, must be approved or ratified by a majority vote of the Board.

 

VII. CONFIDENTIALITY

 

All reports and records prepared or maintained pursuant to this Code will be considered confidential and shall be maintained and protected accordingly. Except as otherwise required by law or this Code, such matters shall not be disclosed to anyone other than the appropriate Board and its counsel.

 
VIII. INTERNAL USE

 

The Code is intended solely for the internal use by the Funds and does not constitute an admission, by or on behalf of any Company, as to any fact, circumstance, or legal conclusion.

 

EXHIBIT A

 

COVERED OFFICERS

 

Jan F. van Eck, Chief Executive Officer, VanEck Funds, VanEck VIP Trust and VanEck Vectors ETF Trust

 

John J. Crimmins, Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer, VanEck Funds, VanEck VIP Trust and VanEck Vectors ETF Trust

 

Exhibit 99.CERT

 

CERTIFICATIONS

 

I, Jan F. van Eck, Chief Executive Officer, certify that:

 

1.     I have reviewed this report on Form N-CSR of VanEck Vectors ETF Trust;

 

2.     Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

3.     Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations, and changes in net assets, of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

4.     The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) and internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) for the registrant and have:

 

(a)     Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

(b)     Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

(c)     Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this report based on such evaluation; and

 

(d)     Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5.     The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s Board of Trustees (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

(a)     All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial information; and

 

(b)     Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date:  December 8, 2020  
     
  /s/ Jan F. van Eck  
  Jan F. van Eck  
  Chief Executive Officer  
 

I, John J. Crimmins, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, certify that:

 

1.     I have reviewed this report on Form N-CSR of VanEck Vectors ETF Trust;

 

2.     Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

 

3.     Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations, and changes in net assets, of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

 

4.     The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) and internal controls over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Investment Company Act of 1940) for the registrant and have:

 

(a)     Designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

 

(b)     Designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

 

(c)     Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this report based on such evaluation; and

 

(d)     Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

 

5.     The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of the registrant’s Board of Trustees (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

 

(a)     All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize, and report financial information; and

 

(b)     Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

Date:  December 8, 2020  
     
  /s/ John J. Crimmins  
  John J. Crimmins  
  Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer
 

EX99-906CERT

 

CERTIFICATION

 

Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (subsections (a) and (b) of section 1350, chapter 63 of title 18, United States Code), each of the undersigned officers of VanEck Vectors ETF Trust (comprising of Biotech ETF, Energy Income ETF, Environmental Services ETF, Gaming ETF, Morningstar Durable Dividend ETF, Long/Flat Trend ETF, Morningstar Global Wide Moat ETF, Morningstar International Moat ETF, Morningstar Wide Moat ETF, Pharmaceutical ETF, Real Asset Allocation ETF, Retail ETF, Semiconductor ETF and Video Gaming and eSports ETF), do hereby certify, to such officer’s knowledge, that:

 

The annual report on Form N-CSR of VanEck Vectors ETF Trust for the period ending September 30, 2020 (the “Form N-CSR”) fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and information contained in the Form N-CSR fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of VanEck Vectors ETF Trust.

 

Dated:  December 8, 2020 /s/ Jan F. van Eck
  Jan F. van Eck
  Chief Executive Officer
  VanEck Vectors ETF Trust
   
Dated:  December 8, 2020 /s/ John J. Crimmins
  John J. Crimmins
  Treasurer & Chief Financial Officer
  VanEck Vectors ETF Trust

 

This certification is being furnished solely pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss. 1350 and is not being filed as part of the Report or as a separate disclosure document.