As filed
with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 31, 2009
Investment Company Act File No. 811-7840; Securities Act File No. 33-65632
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, DC 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
þ
POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT No. 52
þ
and/or
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
þ
Amendment No. 55
þ
SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Floor, New York, New York 10022
(212) 641-3800
Carin F. Muhlbaum, Esq.
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Floor,
New York, New York 10022
Copies to:
Timothy W. Diggins, Esq.
Ropes & Gray LLP
One International Place
Boston, Massachusetts 02110-2624
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):
o
Immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
o
60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
o
75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
o
On (date) pursuant to paragraph (b)
þ
On March 1, 2010 pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
o
On (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485.
If appropriate, check the following box:
o
This post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.
This post-effective amendment is being filed pursuant to the annual update of the registration
statement of all existing series of the Trust. The Registrant has registered an indefinite amount
of its shares of beneficial interest under the Securities Act of 1933, pursuant to Rule 24f-2 under
the Investment Company Act of 1940. In reliance upon Rule 24f-2, no filing fee is being paid at
this time.
PROSPECTUS
March 1, 2010
Equity Funds
SCHRODER EMERGING MARKET EQUITY FUND (SEMNX)
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL ALPHA FUND (SCIEX)
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL DIVERSIFIED VALUE FUND (SIDNX)
SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND (SNAEX)
SCHRODER U.S. OPPORTUNITIES FUND* (SCUIX)
SCHRODER U.S. SMALL AND MID CAP OPPORTUNITIES FUND (SMCIX)
Fixed
Income Fund
SCHRODER TOTAL RETURN FIXED INCOME FUND (SBBIX)
Investor Shares
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*
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Closed to new investors, subject to certain exceptions described in this Prospectus.
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Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
seeks capital appreciation through investment principally in
equity securities of companies in emerging market countries in regions such as Asia, Latin America,
Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Schroder International Alpha Fund
seeks long-term capital appreciation through investment in
securities markets outside the United States.
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing
principally in a portfolio of equity securities of companies located outside the United States that
the Funds investment sub-adviser considers to offer attractive valuations.
Schroder North American Equity Fund
seeks capital growth by investing primarily in equity
securities of companies in the United States.
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
seeks capital appreciation by investing primarily in securities of
companies in the United States with market capitalizations of $3 billion or less.
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
seeks capital appreciation by investing
primarily in securities of small and mid cap companies in the United States.
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
seeks a high level of total return by investing in a
portfolio of fixed income obligations. The Fund intends to maintain a dollar-weighted average
portfolio duration of three to six years.
This Prospectus explains what you should know about the Funds before you invest. Please read it
carefully.
Neither the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission
has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this Prospectus is accurate or
complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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66
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2
SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
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Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
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None
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Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
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None
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Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
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None
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Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
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2.00
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%
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Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
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Management Fees
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1.00
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%
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Distribution (12b-1) Fees
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None
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Other Expenses
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[x.xx]%
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Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
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None
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Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
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[x.xx]%
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Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
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([x.xx])%
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Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
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1.25
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%
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(1)
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Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
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(2)
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In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Investor Shares exceed 1.25% of Investor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
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(3)
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Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.25% for Investor Shares.
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Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Investor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
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1 year
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3 years
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5 years
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10 years
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Investor Shares (whether
or not shares are
redeemed)
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$
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[ ]
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$
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[ ]
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$
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[ ]
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$
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[ ]
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Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes
3
for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in
annual fund operating expenses or in the Example, affect the Funds performance. During the most
recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover rate was [
]% of the average value of its
portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity
securities of emerging market companies. The Funds sub-adviser currently considers emerging
market companies to be issuers domiciled in or deriving a substantial portion of their revenues
from countries included in the MSCI Emerging Market Index, which covers 25 countries and over 900
stocks in regions such as Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, though
the sub-adviser may at times determine to invest in the wider emerging markets universe. The Fund
will typically seek to allocate its investments among a number of different emerging market
countries (though there is no percentage limit on investments in any one emerging market country).
The Fund invests in countries and companies that its sub-adviser believes offer the potential for
capital growth. The sub-adviser considers factors such as a companys potential for above average
earnings growth, a securitys attractive relative valuation, and whether a company has proprietary
advantages. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities, warrants
and depositary receipts of companies of any size market capitalization. The Fund may also invest in
securities issued in initial public offerings (IPOs), closed-end funds or exchange-traded funds,
and may use structured notes, swap transactions, index futures, and other derivative instruments in
pursuing its principal strategy. The Fund may hedge some of its foreign currency exposure back into
the U.S. dollar, although it does not normally expect to do so.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
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Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
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Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers, directly or through
use of depositary receipts, may be affected by currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign
withholding taxes, or adverse market or other developments affecting issuers located in
foreign countries;
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Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
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Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
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Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
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Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
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4
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IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
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Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested; and
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Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times.
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Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for
a more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a
bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the
risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by
comparing the Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past
performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
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Calendar Year Total Returns
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Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
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(for periods shown in the bar chart)
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[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
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Highest 6/01/2007 -
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9/30/2007
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15.60
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%
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Lowest 6/01/2008 -
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-27.54
%
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9/30/2008
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Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
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Since Inception
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1 Year
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(3/31/06)
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Return Before Taxes
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[
]
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%
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[
]
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%
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Return After Taxes on Distributions
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[
]
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%
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[
]
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%
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Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
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[
]
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%
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[
]
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%
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Morgan Stanley Capital International Emerging Markets
Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
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[
]
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%
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[
]
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%
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After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
5
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio
Managers
Allan Conway, Head of Emerging Market Equities, has managed the Fund since its inception in March
2006 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Robert Davy, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in March 2006.
James Gotto, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in March 2006.
Waj Hashmi, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in March 2006.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund
for Investor Shares is $250,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Investor
Shares are intended for purchase directly from the Fund, though minimums may be modified for
certain authorized brokers, fund networks or financial intermediaries that have an agreement with
SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Please consult your financial institution for
more information. You may purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment
by check or wire as described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption,
please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at
800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any questions about the
requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your Investor Shares on any day the
New York Stock Exchange is open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder
Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
6
Schroder International Alpha Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation through
investment in securities markets outside the United States.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
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Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
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Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
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Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
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Management Fees
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0.975
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%
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Distribution (12b-1) Fees
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None
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Other Expenses
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[x.xx]%
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Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
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|
None
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Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])%
|
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Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
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1.15
|
%
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(1)
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Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
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|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Investor Shares exceed 1.15% of Investor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.15% for Investor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Investor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
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|
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1 year
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3 years
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5 years
|
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10 years
|
Investor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
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$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating
7
expenses or in the Example, affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the
Funds portfolio turnover rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 65% of its total assets in
equity securities of companies located outside the United States. The Funds sub-adviser attempts to invest broadly across
regions and countries, including emerging market
countries, though the Fund may, from time to time, invest more than 25% of its net assets in any
one country or group of countries. The Fund expects typically to invest in forty to sixty companies
at any one time and will typically invest a substantial portion of its assets in countries included in the Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index.
The sub-adviser relies on a fundamental, research-driven, bottom-up
approach to identify issuers it believes offer the potential for capital growth. The sub-adviser
considers factors such as a companys potential for above average earnings growth, a securitys
attractive relative valuation, and whether a company has proprietary advantages. The Fund may
invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities and warrants of companies of any size
market capitalization. The Fund may also invest in closed-end funds or exchange-traded funds, and
may use options, futures contracts, and other derivative instruments in
an attempt to add incremental return (sometimes referred to as alpha) over the Funds
benchmark index.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers may be affected by
currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign withholding taxes, or adverse market or other
developments affecting issuers located in foreign countries;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
|
|
|
Issuer Focus Risk:
focusing on a relatively small number of issuers increases risk and
volatility;
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses; and
|
8
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for
a more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a
bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the
risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by
comparing the Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past
performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year Total Returns
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
|
|
|
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
|
|
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
[9/01/99 12/31/09 ]
|
|
[21.5 ]%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
[-23.72]%
|
|
|
[9/01/08-12/31/08 ]
|
|
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
5 Years
|
|
10 Years
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index (reflects
no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
9
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Virginie Maisonneuve, CFA, has managed the Fund since March 2005 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund
for Investor Shares is $250,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Investor
Shares are intended for purchase directly from the Fund, though minimums may be modified for
certain authorized brokers, fund networks or financial intermediaries that have an agreement with
SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Please consult your financial institution for
more information. You may purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment
by check or wire as described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption,
please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at
800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any questions about the
requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your Investor Shares on any day the
New York Stock Exchange is open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder
Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
10
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
1.00
|
%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
None
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
1.15
|
%
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Investor Shares exceed 1.15% of Investor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.15% for Investor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Investor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Investor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
11
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 65% of its total assets in a
diversified portfolio of equity securities of companies located outside of the United States that
the Funds sub-adviser considers to offer attractive valuations. The Fund will invest in a variety
of countries throughout the world including emerging market countries and may, from time to time,
invest more than 25% of its assets in any one country or group of countries. The Fund normally
invests a substantial portion of its assets in countries included in the Morgan Stanley Capital
International EAFE Index. The sub-adviser applies a proprietary quantitative investment analysis that seeks to
capture the historically high returns from value stocks and provide a dividend yield typically
above the Index but with lower risk. The sub-adviser does not consider benchmark weights when it
constructs the Funds portfolio. The sub-adviser believes that indices weighted by
market-capitalization reflect a natural bias toward expensive stocks and geographic regions, and
that, by contrast, a bottom-up approach to portfolio construction, not constrained by reference
to a specific benchmark or index, may uncover less expensive stocks offering better investment
value. The sub-adviser seeks to select stocks anywhere in the world with high dividends and strong
cash-flow; geographic and sector allocations are principally the result of this selection.
The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities and
warrants of companies of any size market capitalization. The Fund may also invest in real estate
investment trusts (REITs), closed-end funds or exchange-traded funds, and may use options, swap
transactions, futures contracts, and other derivative instruments, including over-the-counter
transactions, in pursuing its principal strategy. The Fund may, but is not required to, hedge some
of its foreign currency exposure back into the U.S. dollar.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers may be affected by
currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign withholding taxes, or adverse market or other
developments affecting issuers located in foreign countries;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
|
12
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund; and
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for
a more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a
bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the
risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by
comparing the Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past
performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year Total Returns
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
|
|
|
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through
|
|
Highest
|
|
|
12/31/2009**]
|
|
[3/01/07-6/30/07 ]
|
|
[8.36]%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
[-23.12]%
|
|
|
[9/01/08-12/31/08]
|
|
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
(8/30/06)
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
13
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Justin Abercrombie, Head of Quantitative Equity Products, has managed
the Fund since its inception in August 2006 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund
for Investor Shares is $250,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Investor
Shares are intended for purchase directly from the Fund, though minimums may be modified for
certain authorized brokers, fund networks or financial intermediaries that have an agreement with
SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Please consult your financial institution for
more information. You may purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment
by check or wire as described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption,
please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at
800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any questions about the
requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your Investor Shares on any day the
New York Stock Exchange is open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder
Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
14
Schroder North American Equity Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital growth.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
None
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
None
|
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]
|
%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]
|
%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])
|
%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
0.35
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Investor Shares exceed 0.35% of Investor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 0.35% for Investor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Investor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Investor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and
sells securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate
higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a
taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the
Example, affect the Funds performance. During the most
recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover rate was [
]% of the average value of its
portfolio.
15
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity
securities of companies organized and principally traded in, or with their principal places of
business and principally traded in, North America. The Funds portfolio may include large,
well-known companies as well as smaller, less-closely followed companies, including micro-cap
companies. The Funds sub-adviser uses a proprietary quantitative investment analysis to evaluate
market and economic sectors, companies, and stocks on the basis of long-term historical data in
order to construct a highly diversified portfolio. In addition, the sub-adviser attempts to
identify anticipated short-term deviations from longer-term historical trends and cycles, and may
adjust the portfolio to take advantage of those deviations. The Funds investment portfolio,
including the number of positions and the sector weightings, will change as the sub-advisers
evaluation of economic, market and company-specific factors change.
The Fund may invest in
common and preferred stocks, convertible securities and warrants of companies of any size market
capitalization. The Fund may also invest in real estate investment trusts (REITs), closed-end funds
or exchange-traded funds, and may use options, futures contracts, and other derivative instruments in
pursuing its principal strategy.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
|
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers may be affected by
currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign withholding taxes, or adverse market or other
developments affecting issuers located in foreign countries;
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested; and
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
16
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of two broad-based market indexes.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year Total Returns
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
|
|
|
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
[**To be updated with chart
reflecting annual performance
through 12/31/2009**]
|
|
Highest [ ]
|
|
|
[ ]%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest [ ]
|
|
|
[ ]%
|
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
5 Years
|
|
(9/17/03)
|
|
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
FTSE North American Index (reflects no deduction for fees,
expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or
taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Justin Abercrombie, Head of Quantitative Equity Products, has managed
the Fund since its inception in September 2003 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
John Marsland, CFA, Senior Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since May 2006.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund
for Investor Shares is $250,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Investor
Shares are intended for purchase directly from the Fund, though
17
minimums may be modified for certain authorized brokers, fund networks or financial intermediaries
that have an agreement with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Please consult
your financial institution for more information. You may purchase shares by completing an account
application and sending payment by check or wire as described in the application. To avoid delays
in a purchase or redemption, please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services,
Inc. (BFDS) at 800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any questions
about the requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your Investor Shares on
any day the New York Stock Exchange is open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form
to Schroder Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. Generally, purchase
and redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated
after an order is received by the Fund, BFDS or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
18
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
2.00%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
1.00%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
None
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
0.02%
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
1.27%
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Investor Shares exceed 1.27% of Investor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.27% for Investor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Investor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Investor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
19
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund
expects under current market conditions
to invest primarily in equity securities of small capitalization companies, although it may
also invest in micro-capitalization companies or larger companies. The Funds adviser currently
considers small capitalization companies to be those with market capitalizations of $3 billion or
less (or those in the bottom 30% by market capitalization of the U.S. market) at the time of investment, and
considers micro-capitalization companies to be those with market capitalizations of $200 million or less at the time of investment.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in securities of companies located in the United States.
The adviser seeks to identify securities that it believes offer the potential for capital
appreciation, based on novel, superior, or niche products or services, operating characteristics,
quality of management, an entrepreneurial management team, their having gone public in recent
years, opportunities provided by mergers, divestitures, or new management, or other factors. The
Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities, and warrants, as well as in
over-the-counter securities. The Fund may also invest in securities issued in initial public
offerings (IPOs), real estate investment trusts (REITs), closed-end funds or exchange-traded funds,
and may use options and other derivative instruments (though not for leverage) in pursuing its
principal strategy. The Fund may also invest, though not normally more than 10% of its total
assets, in fixed income securities, including but not limited to corporate bonds and convertible
bonds.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds securities
increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower investment
performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
|
|
|
IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
|
|
|
Issuer Focus Risk:
focusing on a relatively small number of issuers increases risk and
volatility;
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
|
|
|
Over-the-Counter Risk:
securities traded in over-the-counter markets may trade less
frequently and in limited volumes and thus exhibit more volatility, and the prices paid by the
Fund for such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested; and
|
20
|
|
Debt Securities Risk:
investing in fixed income securities (bonds), may expose the Fund to
Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Extension Risk, Valuation Risk, Inflation/Deflation
Risk, and High-Yield/Junk Bonds Risk, among other risks.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year Total Returns
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
|
|
|
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
[**To be updated with chart
reflecting annual performance through
|
|
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
12/31/2009**]
|
|
[1/01/00-3/31/00]
|
|
|
|
[18.14 ]
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
|
[-23.16]
|
%
|
|
|
[9/01/08-12/31/08]
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
|
5 Years
|
|
|
10 Years
|
|
|
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Russell 2000 Index
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
21
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Portfolio Managers
Jenny B. Jones, has managed the Fund since 2003 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
As described under Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund in the Funds statutory prospectus, the Fund is currently not available for purchase by
investors, with certain exceptions. Subject to those restrictions, the minimum initial investment
in the Fund for Investor Shares is $250,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is
$1,000. Investor Shares are intended for purchase directly from the Fund, though minimums may be
modified for certain authorized brokers, fund networks or financial intermediaries that have an
agreement with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Please consult your financial
institution for more information. You may purchase shares by completing an account application and
sending payment by check or wire as described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or
redemption, please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at
800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any questions about the
requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your Investor Shares on any day the
New York Stock Exchange is open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder
Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
22
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
2.00%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
1.00%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
None
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
1.05%
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Investor Shares exceed 1.05% of Investor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.05% for Investor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Investor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Investor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
23
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in
securities of companies considered by the Funds adviser at the time to be small or mid cap
companies located in the United States. The adviser currently considers a company to be a small or
mid cap company if it has a market capitalization of between $750 million and $9 billion (or is in
the bottom 40% by market capitalization of the U.S. market) at the time
of investment. The Fund may also invest in
equity securities of micro-cap companies or larger companies if the adviser believes they offer the
potential for capital appreciation. The adviser seeks to identify securities that it believes offer
the potential for capital appreciation, based on novel, superior or niche products or services,
operating characteristics, quality of management, an entrepreneurial management team, their having
gone public in recent years, opportunities provided by mergers, divestitures or new management, or
other factors. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities and
warrants, as well as in over-the-counter securities. The Fund may also invest in securities issued
in initial public offerings (IPOs), real estate investment trusts (REITs), closed-end funds or
exchange-traded funds, and may use options and other derivative instruments (though not for
leverage) in pursuing its principal strategy. The Fund may also invest, though not normally more
than 10% of its total assets, in fixed income securities, including but not limited to corporate
bonds and convertible bonds.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
|
|
|
IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
|
|
|
Over-the-Counter Risk:
securities traded in over-the-counter markets may trade less
frequently and in limited volumes and thus exhibit more volatility, and the prices paid by the
Fund for such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup;
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested; and
|
24
|
|
Debt Securities Risk:
investing in fixed income securities (bonds), may expose the Fund to
Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Extension Risk, Valuation Risk, Inflation/Deflation
Risk, and High-Yield/Junk Bonds Risk, among other risks.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year Total Returns
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
|
|
|
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
[**To be updated with chart
reflecting annual performance
through
|
|
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
12/31/2009**]
|
|
[3/01/07-6/30/07]
|
|
|
|
[7.80]
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
|
[-21.10]
|
%
|
|
|
[9/01/08-12/31/08]
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
(3/31/06)
|
|
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Russell 2500
Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
25
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Portfolio Managers
Jenny B. Jones, Lead Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since
its inception in March 2006 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund
for Investor Shares is $250,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Investor
Shares are intended for purchase directly from the Fund, though minimums may be modified for
certain authorized brokers, fund networks or financial intermediaries that have an agreement with
SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Please consult your financial institution for
more information. You may purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment
by check or wire as described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption,
please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at
800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any questions about the
requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your Investor Shares on any day the
New York Stock Exchange is open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder
Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
26
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks a high level of total return.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
None
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
None
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
0.40
|
%
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Investor Shares exceed 0.40% of Investor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 0.40% for Investor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Investor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Investor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
27
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Funds adviser seeks to invest the Funds assets in a portfolio of securities that offer high total return from current
income, increases in market value, or both. The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in fixed income obligations.
The adviser currently considers fixed income obligations to include U.S. Government securities, debt securities of domestic or
foreign (including emerging market) corporations, mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities, municipal bonds, obligations
of international agencies or supranational entities, zero-coupon securities, convertible securities, inflation-indexed bonds,
structured notes, including hybrid or indexed securities, event-linked bonds, and loan participations, delayed funding loans
and revolving credit facilities, and short-term investments, such as repurchase agreements, bank certificates of deposit, fixed
time deposits, and bankers acceptances. The Fund invests in securities that pay interest at fixed, floating or variable rates.
The Fund may invest in securities of issuers located anywhere in the world, but will normally not invest more than 20% of its
total assets in securities that are not denominated in the U.S. dollar. The adviser currently expects that a substantial portion
of the Funds assets will be invested in mortgage-backed securities (including collateralized mortgage obligations) and
asset-backed securities. The Fund will invest principally in securities that, at the time of purchase, are rated investment grade
(or considered by the adviser to be of comparable quality) although the Fund may invest up to 20% of its total assets in securities
below investment grade, which are sometimes referred to as junk bonds. The Fund intends to maintain a dollar weighted average
portfolio duration of three to six years. Duration is a measure of the expected life of a fixed income security that is used to
determine the sensitivity of the securitys price to changes in interest rates. The adviser generally relies on detailed proprietary
research, and focuses on sectors and securities it believes are undervalued relative to the market. The adviser seeks to exploit
inefficiencies in the valuation of risk and reward and looks to capitalize on rapidly shifting market risks and dynamics caused by
economic and technical factors. The adviser considers the liquidity of securities and the portfolio overall as an important factor
in portfolio construction. The adviser may trade the Funds portfolio securities more frequently than many other mutual funds.
The Fund may enter into derivatives transactions such as interest rate futures and options, interest rate swap agreements,
forward contracts, and credit default swaps for hedging purposes or to gain long or short exposure to securities or market
sectors as a substitute for cash investments (not for leverage) or pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvest of
the proceeds. The Fund may, but is not required to, enter into foreign currency exchange transactions, for hedging purposes or
to adjust the exposure of the Fund to changes in the values of various foreign currencies.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets. Frequent trading of the Funds securities increases transaction costs, may
result in taxable capital gains, and may lower investment performance. Other principal risks of
investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Interest Rate Risk:
fixed income, or debt, securities may decline in value due to changes
in interest rates, extended duration of principal payments at below-market interest rate, or
prepayment;
|
|
|
Credit/High-Yield Risk:
the ability, or perceived ability, of the issuer of a debt security to make
timely payments of interest and principal will affect the securitys value, especially for
speculative securities below investment grade (high-yield bonds or junk bonds);
|
|
|
Valuation Risk:
certain securities may be difficult to value, and to the extent the Fund
sells a security at a price lower than that used to value the security, its net asset value
will be adversely affected;
|
|
|
Inflation/Deflation Risk:
the value of the Funds investments may decline as inflation
reduces the value of money; conversely, if deflation reduces prices throughout the economy
there may be an adverse effect on the creditworthiness of issuers in whose securities the Fund
invests;
|
28
|
|
Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk:
investing in mortgage- and asset-backed
securities involves interest rate, credit, valuation, extension and liquidity risks and the
risk that payments on the underlying assets are delayed, prepaid, subordinated or defaulted
on;
|
|
|
U.S. Government Securities Risk:
securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government may
not be supported by the full faith and credit of the United States and investing in such
securities involves interest rate, extension and mortgage and asset-backed securities risks;
|
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers may be affected by
currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign withholding taxes, or adverse market or other
developments affecting issuers located in foreign countries;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times; and
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year Total Returns
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
|
|
|
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
[**To be updated with chart
reflecting annual performance
through 12/31/2009**]
|
|
Highest [9/01/08 12/31/08]
|
|
[5.15]%
|
|
|
Lowest [3/01/08 6/30/08]
|
|
[-1,77]%
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
29
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
5 Years
|
|
(12/31/04)
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Index (reflects no
deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Portfolio Managers
Chris Ames, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Ed Fitzpatrick, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2006.
David Harris, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in December 2004.
Tony Hui, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2007.
Gregg T. Moore, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in December 2004.
Wesley A. Sparks, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in December
2004.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund
for Investor Shares is $250,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Investor
Shares are intended for purchase directly from the Fund, though minimums may be modified for
certain authorized brokers, fund networks or financial intermediaries that have an agreement with
SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Please consult your financial institution for
more information. You may purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment
by check or wire as described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption,
please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at
800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any questions about the
requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your Investor Shares on any day the
New York Stock Exchange is open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder
Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the
30
broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another
investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more
information.
31
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES OF AND ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS
SCHRODER EMERGING MARKET EQUITY FUND
|
|
Investment Objective.
To seek capital appreciation.
|
|
|
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in
equity securities of companies the Funds sub-adviser considers to be emerging market issuers.
(This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees, without a vote of the
shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to shareholders.) The Fund
may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. The Fund may invest the remainder
of its assets in securities of issuers located anywhere in the world. The Fund may invest in
common and preferred stocks, securities convertible into common and preferred stocks, warrants to
purchase common and preferred stocks, and index-linked warrants. The Fund may also invest in
sponsored or unsponsored American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), Global Depositary Receipts
(GDRs), European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) or other similar securities representing
ownership of foreign securities (collectively, Depositary Receipts). The Fund may also invest
in securities of closed-end investment companies and exchange-traded funds (open-end investment
companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in transactions on major stock
exchanges) (ETFs), including securities of emerging market issuers. An investment in a domestic
closed-end fund or ETF that has a policy that it will normally invest at least 80% of its net
assets in equity securities of emerging market issuers, and has emerging market or the
equivalent in its name, or foreign funds with similar investment policies, will be treated as an
investment in equity securities of emerging market issuers for purposes of determining if the
Fund has invested at least 80% of its net assets in such securities.
|
|
|
The Fund invests in equity securities of issuers domiciled or doing business in emerging market
countries. The Funds sub-adviser currently considers emerging market issuers to be issuers
domiciled in or deriving a substantial portion of their revenues from countries included in the
MSCI Emerging Market Index, which covers 25 countries and over 900 stocks in regions such as
Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The Funds sub-adviser may at
times determine based on its own analysis that an economy not included in the Index should
nonetheless be considered an emerging market country, in which case that country would constitute
an emerging market country for purposes of the Funds investments. The Funds sub-adviser has
determined that Chinese companies listed in Hong Kong will be considered emerging market issuers
for this purpose. There is no limit on the amount of the Funds assets that may be invested in
securities of issuers domiciled in any one emerging market country, although the Fund will
typically seek to allocate its investments among a number of different emerging market countries.
|
|
|
The Fund invests in issuers and countries that its sub-adviser believes offer the potential for
capital growth. In identifying investments for the Fund, the Funds sub-adviser considers a
variety of factors, including the issuers likelihood of above average earnings growth, the
securities attractive relative valuation, and whether the issuer enjoys proprietary advantages.
The Fund may invest in securities of companies of any size, including companies with large,
medium, and small market capitalizations, including micro-cap companies. The Fund may also
purchase securities issued in initial public offerings (IPOs). In addition, the Funds
sub-adviser considers the risk of local political and/or economic instability associated with
particular countries and regions and the liquidity of local markets. The Fund generally sells
securities when the Funds sub-adviser believes they are fully priced or to take advantage of
other investments the Funds sub-adviser considers more attractive.
|
|
|
The Fund may purchase or sell structured notes, or enter into swap transactions, for hedging or
as an alternative to purchasing or selling securities. The Funds sub-adviser may hedge some of
the Funds foreign currency exposure back into the U.S. dollar, although it does not normally
expect to do so. The Fund may also purchase or sell futures on indices, including country
specific or overall emerging market indices. The Fund may use derivatives to gain long or short
exposure to securities or market sectors as a substitute for cash investments (not for leverage)
or pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvestment of the proceeds.
|
32
Additional Performance Information.
|
|
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
|
|
|
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above compares
the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Morgan Stanley Capital
International Emerging Markets Index is an unmanaged market-capitalization index of companies
representative of the market structure of emerging countries in Europe, the Middle East, Africa,
Latin America and Asia.
|
33
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL ALPHA FUND
|
|
Investment Objective.
Long-term capital appreciation through investment in securities markets
outside the United States.
|
|
|
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Schroder International Alpha Fund (formerly, Schroder
International Fund) invests principally in securities of companies located outside of the United
States, and normally invests at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies
the Funds sub-adviser considers to be located outside of the United States. The Fund will invest
in a variety of countries throughout the world. The Fund may, from time to time, invest more than
25% of its net assets in any one country or group of countries. The Fund will consider an issuer
located in a country if it is organized under the laws of that country and is principally traded
in that country, or is domiciled and has its principal place of business located in that country
and is principally traded in that country, or if the Funds sub-adviser determines that the
issuer has more than 50% of its assets in, or derives more than 50% of its revenues from, that
country. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, securities convertible into common
and preferred stocks, and warrants to purchase common and preferred stocks.
|
|
|
The Fund normally invests a substantial portion of its assets in countries included in the Morgan
Stanley Capital International EAFE Index, which is a market-weighted index of companies
representative of the market structure of certain developed market countries in Europe,
Australia, Asia, and the Far East. The Fund expects typically to invest in forty to sixty
companies located outside of the United States at any one time.
|
|
|
The Fund invests in issuers that the Funds sub-adviser believes offer the potential for capital
growth. In identifying candidates for investment, the Funds sub-adviser may consider the
issuers likelihood of above average earnings growth, the securities attractive relative
valuation, the quality of the securities, and whether the issuer has any proprietary advantages.
The Fund generally sells securities when the Funds sub-adviser believes they are fully priced or
to take advantage of other investments the Funds sub-adviser considers more attractive. The Fund
may invest in companies of any market-capitalization. The Fund may purchase or sell futures
contracts and options, in order to gain long or short exposure to particular securities or
markets, in connection with hedging transactions, or otherwise to increase total return. By
employing these techniques the Funds portfolio manager tries to add incremental return over the
Funds benchmark index, which incremental return is sometimes referred to as alpha.
|
|
|
The Fund also may do the following:
|
|
|
|
Invest in securities of issuers domiciled or doing business in emerging market
countries.
|
|
|
|
Invest in securities of closed-end investment companies and ETFs (open-end investment
companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in transactions on major stock
exchanges) that invest primarily in foreign securities.
|
|
|
Additional Performance Information.
|
|
|
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
|
|
|
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above
compares the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Morgan Stanley Capital
International EAFE Index is a market-weighted index composed of companies representative of the
market structure of certain developed market countries in Europe, Australasia, and the Far East,
and reflects dividends net of non-recoverable withholding tax.
|
|
|
The current portfolio management team primarily responsible for making investment decisions
for the Fund assumed this responsibility effective March 2005. The performance results shown in
the bar chart and table in the Summary Information section for periods prior to March 2005
were achieved by the Fund under different lead portfolio managers.
|
|
|
Effective April 1, 2006, the combined advisory and administrative fees of the Fund increased to
0.975% per annum. If the Fund had paid such higher fees during the prior periods shown, the
returns shown in the bar chart and table in the Summary Information section would have been
lower. See Management of the Funds Management Fees.
|
34
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL DIVERSIFIED VALUE FUND
|
|
Investment Objective.
Long-term capital appreciation.
|
|
|
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund invests principally in a diversified portfolio of
equity securities of companies located outside of the United States that the Funds sub-adviser
considers to offer attractive valuations. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks,
securities convertible into common and preferred stocks, and warrants to purchase common and
preferred stocks.
|
|
|
The Funds sub-adviser applies a proprietary quantitative investment analysis that seeks to
develop a portfolio designed to capture the historically high returns from value stocks but with
lower risk than the Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index over the longer term and to
provide a dividend yield typically above that Index. The sub-adviser expects that a substantial
portion of the Funds investments will normally be in countries included in the Morgan Stanley
Capital International EAFE Index, which is a market-weighted index of companies representative of
the market structure of certain developed market countries in Europe, Australia, Asia, and the
Far East, although the Fund may invest in any country in the world, including emerging market
countries.
|
|
|
The main elements of the sub-advisers portfolio construction process are the identification of
attractive value stocks within a broad universe of companies around the world and careful
management of portfolio risks. The portfolio construction process is bottom-up. The sub-adviser
seeks to select stocks anywhere in the world with high dividends and strong cash-flow. The Funds
geographic and sector allocations are principally the result of the sub-advisers selection of
individual companies that it believes offer the greatest value. (The sub-adviser may adjust
geographic or sector weights resulting from this process in order to avoid extreme outcomes.)
|
|
|
The sub-adviser does not consider benchmark weights when it constructs the Funds portfolio.
Individual stock weights are determined using a disciplined stock weighting process. The Funds
sub-adviser believes that indices weighted by market-capitalization reflect a natural bias
towards expensive stocks and geographic regions, and that, by contrast, a bottom-up approach to
portfolio construction, not constrained by reference to a specific benchmark or index, has the
potential to provide investment in less expensive stocks offering better investment value.
|
|
|
The Fund normally invests at least 65% of its net assets in equity securities of companies
located in countries outside of the United States. The Fund will invest in a variety of countries
throughout the world. The Fund may, from time to time, invest more than 25% of its assets in any
one country or group of countries. The Funds sub-adviser will consider an issuer to be located
in a country if it is organized under the laws of and its equity securities are principally
traded in that country, or it is domiciled or has its principal place of business located in and
its equity securities are principally traded in that country, or if the Funds sub-adviser
determines that the issuer has more than 50% of its assets in, or derives more than 50% of its
revenues from, that country. The Fund may invest in companies of any market-capitalization,
including large, well known companies, as well as smaller, less closely followed companies,
including micro-cap companies.
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The Fund may, but is not required to, enter into foreign currency exchange transactions, for
hedging purposes or to adjust the exposure of the Fund to changes in the values of various
foreign currencies.
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The Fund generally sells securities when the Funds sub-adviser believes they are fully priced or
to take advantage of other investments the Funds sub-adviser considers more attractive.
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The Fund may purchase or sell futures contracts and options and enter into total return swaps, in
order to gain long or short exposure to particular securities or markets in connection with
hedging transactions or otherwise to increase total return. The Fund may from time to time enter
into other transactions involving derivatives, including over-the-counter transactions, if the
sub-adviser considers it appropriate.
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The Fund may also invest in closed-end investment companies, trusts, ETFs (open-end investment
companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in transactions on major stock
exchanges), and real estate investment trusts (REITs).
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35
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Additional Performance Information.
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This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
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The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above
compares the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Morgan Stanley Capital
International EAFE Index is a market-weighted index composed of companies representative of the
market structure of certain developed market countries in Europe, Australasia and the Far East,
and reflects dividends reinvested net of non-recoverable withholding tax.
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36
SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND
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Investment Objective.
The Fund seeks long-term capital growth.
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Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund invests principally in equity securities of companies
in the United States. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, securities convertible
into common and preferred stocks, and warrants to purchase common and preferred stocks.
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The Funds sub-adviser is responsible for day-to-day portfolio management. It uses a proprietary
quantitative investment analysis that evaluates market and economic sectors, companies, and
stocks on the basis of long-term historical data. The Funds sub-adviser uses that analysis to
construct a highly diversified portfolio of stocks. In addition, the Funds sub-adviser attempts
to identify anticipated short-term deviations from longer-term historical trends and cycles, and
may adjust the Funds portfolio to take advantage of those deviations.
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The Funds investment portfolio, including the number of companies represented in the portfolio
and the sector weightings of the portfolio, will change as the Funds sub-advisers evaluation of
economic and market factors, as well as factors affecting individual companies, changes.
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The Fund will invest in a well diversified portfolio of companies of any size that its
sub-adviser judges to be attractive compared to the overall market. The Funds portfolio may
include large, well known companies, as well as smaller, less closely followed companies,
including micro-cap companies. The Fund may, but is not required to, enter into foreign currency
exchange transactions, for hedging purposes or to adjust the exposure of the Fund to changes in
the values of various foreign currencies. The Fund generally sells securities when the Funds
sub-adviser believes they are fully priced or to take advantage of other investments the Funds
sub-adviser considers more attractive.
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The Fund may purchase or sell futures contracts and options, in order to gain long or short
exposure to particular securities or markets, in connection with hedging transactions, or
otherwise to increase total return. The Fund may also invest in closed-end investment companies,
trusts, ETFs (open-end investment companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in
transactions on major stock exchanges), and REITs.
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The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of companies
organized and principally traded in, or with their principal places of business and principally
traded in, North America. (This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees,
without a vote of the shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to
shareholders). The Fund may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. An
investment in a U.S. closed-end fund or ETF that has a policy that it will normally invest at
least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of North American companies, and has North
America or the equivalent in its name, or foreign funds with similar investment policies, will
be treated as an investment in equity securities of North American companies for purposes of
determining if the Fund has invested at least 80% of its net assets in such securities. The Fund
considers North America to consist of the United States and Canada.
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Additional Performance Information.
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This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
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The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above
compares the Funds returns with those of two broad-based market indexes. The FTSE North
American Index is a market-capitalization value weighted composite index of over 700 U.S. and
Canadian companies and reflects the reinvestment of dividends. The S&P 500 Index is a
market-capitalization, value-weighted composite index of 500 large capitalization U.S. companies
and reflects the reinvestment of dividends.
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37
SCHRODER U.S. OPPORTUNITIES FUND
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The Fund is closed to new investors. Shareholders of the Fund as of April 18, 2007 may continue
to add to their Fund positions. Investors who did not own shares of the Fund prior to its closure
on April 18, 2007 generally will not be allowed to buy shares of the Fund, with the following
exceptions:
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participants in most employee benefit plans or employer-sponsored retirement plans,
if the Fund had been established as an investment option under the plan prior to April
18, 2007; and
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a Trustee of a Trust, an employee of Schroder Investment Management North America
Inc. (Schroders), or a member of the immediate family of any of these persons.
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Schroders may make additional exceptions or modify this policy at any time.
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Investment Objective.
To seek capital appreciation.
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Principal Investment Strategies.
In selecting investments for the Fund, the Funds adviser seeks
to identify securities of companies that it believes offer the potential for capital
appreciation, based on novel, superior or niche products or services, operating characteristics,
quality of management, an entrepreneurial management team, their having gone public in recent
years, opportunities provided by mergers, divestitures or new management, or other factors.
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The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, securities convertible into common and
preferred stocks, warrants to purchase common and preferred stocks, and REITs. Under current
market conditions, the Fund expects to invest primarily in equity securities of small
capitalization companies in the United States, although it may also invest in
micro-capitalization companies. The Funds adviser currently considers small capitalization
companies to be companies that have market capitalizations of $3 billion or less, measured at the
time of purchase, and micro-capitalization companies to be companies with market capitalizations
of $200 million or less, measured at the time of purchase. It is important to note that these
ranges may change over time as market conditions change, although the adviser will generally
consider a company to be a small capitalization company if it is in the bottom 30% by market
capitalization of the U.S. market at the time of purchase. However, the Fund may invest any
portion of its assets in equity securities of larger companies. The Fund may also invest in
securities of companies outside the United States, although the Fund will normally invest at
least 80% of its net assets in securities of companies the Funds adviser considers to be located
in the United States. (This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees, without
a vote of the shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to
shareholders). The Fund may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. The Fund
will consider an issuer located in the United States if it is organized under the laws of the
United States or any state of the United States and is principally traded in the United States,
or is domiciled and has its principal place of business located in the United States and is
principally traded in the United States, or if the Funds adviser determines that the issuer has
more than 50% of its assets in or derives more than 50% of its revenues from the United States.
The Fund generally sells securities when the Funds adviser believes they are fully priced or to
take advantage of other investments the Funds adviser considers more attractive. The Fund may
purchase securities on securities exchanges as well as over-the-counter, including securities
offered in IPOs, and may invest in securities of closed-end investment companies and in ETFs
(open-end investment companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in transactions on
major stock exchanges). The Fund may invest, to a limited extent, in fixed income securities,
including but not limited to corporate bonds and convertible bonds; the Funds adviser expects
that such investments will not normally exceed 10% of the Funds total assets.
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The Fund may use options (puts and calls) for hedging purposes, or to gain long or short exposure
to securities or market sectors as a substitute for cash investments (not for leverage) or
pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvestment of the proceeds. Any use of
derivatives strategies entails the risks of investing directly in the securities or instruments
underlying the derivatives strategies, as well as the risks of using derivatives generally,
described in this Prospectus and in the Funds Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
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38
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Additional Performance Information.
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This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
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The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above compares
the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Russell 2000 Index is a
market-capitalization weighted, broad-based index of 2000 small capitalization U.S. companies.
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The current portfolio manager primarily responsible for making investment decisions for the Fund
assumed this responsibility effective January 2, 2003. The performance results shown in the bar
chart and table in the Summary Section for periods prior to January 2, 2003 were achieved by
the Fund under a different portfolio manager.
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Effective May 1, 2006, the combined advisory and administrative fees of the Fund increased to
1.00% per annum. If the Fund had paid such higher fees during the prior periods shown, the
returns shown in the bar chart and in the table in the Summary Section would have been lower.
See Management of the Funds Management Fees.
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39
SCHRODER U.S. SMALL AND MID CAP OPPORTUNITIES FUND
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Investment Objective.
To seek capital appreciation.
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Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund invests primarily in companies in the United States
(determined as described below) that the Funds adviser considers to be small or mid cap
companies. In selecting investments for the Fund, the Funds adviser seeks to identify securities
of companies that it believes offer the potential for capital appreciation, based on novel,
superior, or niche products or services, operating characteristics, quality of management, an
entrepreneurial management team, their having gone public in recent years, opportunities provided
by mergers, divestitures, new management, or other factors. These factors generally apply to all
investments made by the Fund, including IPOs, although the Fund may also invest in certain IPOs
that the portfolio manager believes will be in high demand. The Fund may sell a security when the
Funds adviser believes it is fully priced or to take advantage of other investments the Funds
adviser considers more attractive.
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The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in securities of companies considered by
the Funds adviser at the time to be small or mid cap companies located in the United States.
(This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees, without a vote of the
shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to shareholders). The Fund
may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. The Funds adviser currently
considers a company to be a small or mid cap company if the company has a market capitalization
of between $750 million and $9 billion, measured at the time of purchase. It is important to note
that these ranges may change over time as market conditions change, although the adviser will
generally consider a company to be a small or mid cap company if it is in the bottom 40% by
market capitalization of the U.S. market at the time of purchase. The Fund may also invest in
equity securities of micro-cap companies or larger companies, if the Funds adviser believes they
offer the potential for capital appreciation. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks,
securities convertible into common and preferred stocks, warrants to purchase common and
preferred stocks, and REITs. The Fund may purchase securities on securities exchanges as well as
over-the-counter, including securities offered in IPOs, and may invest in securities of
closed-end investment companies and in ETFs (open-end investment companies whose shares may be
bought or sold by investors in transactions on major stock exchanges). The Fund may use options
for hedging purposes, or to gain long or short exposure to securities or market sectors as a
substitute for cash investments (not for leverage) or pending the sale of securities by the Fund
and reinvestment of the proceeds. Any use of derivatives strategies entails the risks of
investing directly in the securities or instruments underlying the derivatives strategies, as
well as the risks of using derivatives generally, described in this Prospectus and in the Funds
SAI. The Fund may invest, to a limited extent, in fixed income securities, including but not
limited to corporate bonds and convertible bonds; the Funds adviser expects that such
investments will not normally exceed 10% of the Funds total assets.
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The Funds adviser will consider an issuer located in the United States if it is organized under
the laws of the United States or any state of the United States and is principally traded in the
United States, or is domiciled or has its principal place of business located in the United
States and is principally traded in the United States, or if the Funds adviser determines that
the issuer has more than 50% of its assets in or derives more than 50% of its revenues from the
United States.
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Additional Performance Information.
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This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
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The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above compares
the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Russell 2500 Index is a
market-capitalization weighted, broad-based index measuring the performance of the 2500 smallest
companies in the Russell 3000 Index, which represents approximately 70% of the total
market-capitalization of the Russell 300 Index.
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40
SCHRODER TOTAL RETURN FIXED INCOME FUND
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Investment Objective.
To seek a high level of total return.
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Principal Investment Strategies.
The Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund (formerly, Schroder
U.S. Core Fixed Income Fund) normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in fixed income
obligations. (This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees, without a vote
of the shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to shareholders).
The Fund may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. In making investments
for the Fund, the adviser seeks to invest the Funds assets in a portfolio of securities that
offer high total return from current income, increases in market values of the Funds
investments, or both. The adviser currently considers fixed income obligations to include:
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securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities;
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debt securities of domestic or foreign corporations;
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mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities;
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taxable and tax-exempt municipal bonds;
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obligations of international agencies or supranational entities;
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debt securities convertible into equity securities;
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inflation-indexed bonds;
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structured notes, including hybrid or indexed securities, event-linked bonds, and loan participations;
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delayed funding loans and revolving credit facilities; and
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short-term investments, such as repurchase agreements, bank certificates of deposit,
fixed time deposits, and bankers acceptances.
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The Fund may invest in securities of companies located in a variety of countries outside the
United States, including obligations of non-U.S. governmental issuers or of private issuers
located in any country outside the United States, including emerging market countries. The Fund
will normally invest no more than 20% of its total assets in securities that are not denominated
in the U.S. dollar.
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The Funds adviser currently expects that a substantial portion of the Funds assets will be
invested in mortgage-backed securities (including collateralized mortgage obligations) and
asset-backed securities.
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The Fund will invest principally in securities of investment grade at the time of purchase,
meaning either that a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (for example,
Moodys, Standard & Poors, or Fitch) has rated the securities Baa3 or BBB (or the equivalent)
or better, or the adviser has determined the securities to be of comparable quality. The Fund may
invest up to 20% of the Funds total assets in securities rated below investment grade (or, if
unrated, determined by the Funds adviser to be of comparable quality), sometimes referred to as
junk bonds, although normally the Fund will not invest in securities unless a nationally
recognized statistical rating organization (for example, Moodys Standard & Poors, or Fitch) has
rated the securities CC (or the equivalent) or better, or the Funds adviser has determined the
securities to be of comparable quality. If more than one nationally recognized statistical rating
organization has rated a security, the adviser will consider the highest rating for the purposes
of determining whether the security is investment grade.
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Fixed income securities in which the Fund invests may include securities that pay interest at
fixed rates or at floating or variable rates; payments of principal or interest may be made at
fixed intervals or only at maturity or upon the occurrence of stated events or contingencies. The
Fund may also invest in zero-coupon securities.
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The Fund may enter into interest rate futures and options, interest rate swap agreements and
credit default swaps. (A derivative instrument will be considered to be a fixed income security
if it is itself a fixed income security or, in the advisers judgment, it may provide an
investment return comparable to the return that might be provided by a fixed income security.)
The Fund may use these derivatives strategies for hedging purposes. The Fund may also use
derivatives to gain long or short exposure to securities or market sectors as a substitute for
cash investments (not for leverage) or pending the sale of securities by the Fund and
reinvestment of the proceeds. For example, the Fund may enter into a so-called credit default
swap with respect to one or more fixed income securities to take advantage of increases or
decreases in the values of those securities without actually purchasing or selling the
securities. The Fund may also seek to obtain market exposure to the securities in which it may
invest by entering into forward contracts or similar arrangements to purchase those securities in
the future. Any use of derivatives strategies entails the risks of investing directly in the
securities or instruments underlying the derivatives strategies, as well as the risks of using
derivatives generally, described in this Prospectus and in the Funds SAI.
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The Fund intends to maintain a dollar weighted average portfolio duration of three to six years.
Duration is a measure of the expected life of a fixed income security that is used to determine
the sensitivity of the securitys price to changes in interest rates. Unlike the maturity of a
fixed income security, which measures only the time until final payment is due, duration takes
into account the time until all payments of interest and principal on a security are expected to
be made, including how these payments are affected by prepayments and by changes in interest
rates.
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The Fund may, but is not required to, enter into foreign currency exchange transactions, for
hedging purposes or to adjust the exposure of the Fund to changes in the values of various
foreign currencies.
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In managing the Fund, the Funds adviser generally relies on detailed proprietary research. The
adviser focuses on the sectors and securities it believes are undervalued relative to the market.
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The Funds adviser will trade the Funds portfolio securities actively, and may experience a high
portfolio turnover rate. In selecting individual securities for investment, the Funds adviser
typically:
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uses in-depth fundamental research to identify sectors and securities for investment by the Fund and to analyze risk;
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exploits inefficiencies in the valuation of risk and reward;
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looks to capitalize on rapidly shifting market risks and dynamics caused by economic and technical factors; and
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considers the liquidity of securities and the portfolio overall as an important factor in portfolio construction.
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The Fund generally sells securities in order to take advantage of investments in other securities
offering what the adviser believes is the potential for more attractive current income or capital
gain or both.
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Additional Performance Information.
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This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
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The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above compares
the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate
Index is a widely-used measure of short-term debt returns. It is not managed.
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43
PRINCIPAL RISKS OF INVESTING IN THE FUNDS
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A Fund may not achieve its objective. The following provides more detail about certain of the
Funds principal risks and the circumstances which could adversely affect the value of a Funds
shares or its investment return. Unless a strategy or policy described below is specifically
prohibited by a Funds investment restrictions as set forth in this Prospectus or under
Investment Restrictions in the Funds SAI, or by applicable law, a Fund may engage in each of
the practices described below, although only the Funds specifically indicated below use the
applicable strategy as a principal investment strategy.
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Interest Rate Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The values of bonds and other
debt instruments usually rise and fall in response to changes in interest rates. Declining
interest rates generally increase the values of existing debt instruments, and rising
interest rates generally reduce the value of existing debt instruments. Interest rate risk
is generally greater for investments with longer durations or maturities. Some investments
give the issuer the option to call or redeem an investment before its maturity date. If an
issuer calls or redeems an investment during a time of declining interest rates, a Fund
might have to reinvest the proceeds in an investment offering a lower yield, and therefore
might not benefit from any increase in value as a result of declining interest rates.
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Credit Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund,
and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The ability, or perceived ability,
of the issuer of a debt security to make timely payments of interest and principal on the
security will affect the value of the security. It is possible that the ability of an issuer
to meet its obligations will decline substantially during the period when a Fund owns
securities of that issuer, or that the issuer will default on its obligations. An actual or
perceived deterioration in the ability of an issuer to meet its obligations will likely have
an adverse effect on the value of the issuers securities.
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If a security has been rated by more than one nationally recognized statistical rating
organization a Funds adviser will consider the highest rating for the purposes of
determining whether the security is of investment grade. A Fund will not necessarily
dispose of a security held by it if its rating falls below investment grade, although the
Funds adviser will consider whether the security continues to be an appropriate investment
for the Fund. A Fund considers whether a security is of investment grade only at the time
of purchase. A Fund may invest in securities which will not be rated by a nationally
recognized statistical rating organization (such as Moodys, Standard & Poors, or Fitch),
but the credit quality will be determined by the adviser.
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Credit risk is generally greater for investments issued at less than their face values and
required to make interest payments only at maturity rather than at intervals during the life
of the investment. Credit rating agencies base their ratings largely on the issuers
historical financial condition and the rating agencies investment analysis at the time of
rating. The rating assigned to any particular investment does not necessarily reflect the
issuers current financial condition, and does not reflect an assessment of an investments
volatility or liquidity. Although investment grade investments generally have lower credit
risk than investments rated below investment grade, they may share some of the risks of
lower-rated investments, including the possibility that the issuers may be unable to make
timely payments of interest and principal and thus default.
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Changes in the financial condition of an issuer, changes in specific economic or political
conditions that affect a particular type of security or issuer, and changes in general
economic or political conditions can affect the credit quality or value of an issuers
securities.
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Extension Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
During periods of rising
interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of
slower than expected principal payments. This may lock in a below-market interest rate,
increase the securitys duration, and reduce the value of the security.
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High-Yield/Junk Bonds Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The lower
ratings of certain securities held by a Fund reflect a greater possibility that adverse
changes in the financial condition of the issuer or in general economic conditions, or both,
or an unanticipated rise in interest rates, may impair the ability of the issuer to make
payments of interest and principal. The inability (or perceived inability) of issuers to
make timely payment of interest and principal would likely make the values of securities
held by a Fund more volatile and could limit a Funds ability to sell its securities at
prices approximating the values the Fund has placed on such securities. In the absence of a
liquid trading market for securities held by them, a Fund at times may be unable to
establish the fair value of such securities. To the extent a Fund invests in securities in
the lower rating categories, the achievement of the Funds goals is more dependent on the
Fund advisers investment analysis than would be the case if the Fund was investing in
securities in the higher rating categories.
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Inflation/Deflation Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
Inflation risk
is the risk that a Funds assets or income from a Funds investments may be worth less in
the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the real value
of a Funds portfolio could decline. Deflation risk is the risk that prices throughout the
economy may decline over time the opposite of inflation. Deflation may have an adverse
effect on the creditworthiness of issuers and may make issuer default more likely, which may
result in a decline in the value of a Funds portfolio.
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Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund).
Mortgage-backed securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations and certain
stripped mortgage-backed securities represent a participation in, or are secured by,
mortgage loans. Asset-backed securities are structured like mortgage-backed securities, but
instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage loans, the underlying assets may include
such items as motor vehicle installment sales or installment loan contracts, leases of
various types of real and personal property and receivables from credit card agreements.
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Traditional debt investments typically pay a fixed rate of interest until maturity, when the
entire principal amount is due. By contrast, payments on mortgage-backed and many
asset-backed investments typically include both interest and partial payment of principal.
Principal may also be prepaid voluntarily, or as a result of refinancing or foreclosure. The
Fund may have to invest the proceeds from prepaid investments in other investments with less
attractive terms and yields. As a result, these securities may have less potential for
capital appreciation during periods of declining interest rates than other securities of
comparable maturities, although they may have a similar risk of decline in market value
during periods of rising interest rates. Because the prepayment rate generally declines as
interest rates rise, an increase in interest rates will likely increase the duration, and
thus the volatility, of mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities. In addition to interest
rate risk (as described above under Interest Rate Risk), investments in mortgage-backed
securities composed of subprime mortgages may be subject to a higher degree of credit risk,
valuation risk and liquidity risk (as described above under Credit Risk and below under
Valuation Risk and Liquidity Risk). Duration is a measure of the expected life of a fixed
income security that is used to determine the sensitivity of the securitys price to changes
in interest rates. Unlike the maturity of a fixed income security, which measures only the
time until final payment is due, duration takes into account the time until all payments of
interest and principal on a security are expected to be made, including how these payments
are affected by prepayments and by changes in interest rates.
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The types of mortgages underlying securities held by the Fund may differ and may be affected
differently by market factors. For example, the Funds investments in residential
mortgage-backed securities will likely be affected significantly by factors affecting
residential real estate markets and mortgages generally; similarly, investments in commercial
mortgage-backed securities will likely be affected significantly by factors affecting
commercial real estate markets and mortgages generally.
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The ability of an issuer of asset-backed securities to enforce its security interest in the
underlying assets may be limited. Some mortgage-backed and asset-backed investments receive
only the interest portion (IOs) or the principal portion (POs) of payments on the
underlying assets. The yields and values of these investments are extremely sensitive to
changes in interest rates and in the rate of principal payments on the underlying assets. IOs
tend to decrease in value if interest rates decline and rates of repayment (including
prepayment) on the underlying mortgages or assets increase; it is possible that the Fund may
lose the entire amount of its investment in an IO due to a decrease in interest rates.
Conversely, POs tend to decrease in value if interest rates rise and rates of repayment
decrease. Moreover, the market for IOs and POs may be volatile and limited, which may make
them difficult for the Fund to buy or sell.
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The Fund may gain investment exposure to mortgage-backed and asset-backed investments by
entering into agreements with financial institutions to buy the investments at a fixed price
at a future date. The Fund may or may not take delivery of the investments at the termination
date of such an agreement, but will nonetheless be exposed to changes in value of the
underlying investments during the term of the agreement.
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Liquidity Risk. (All Funds).
Liquidity risk exists when particular investments are
difficult to purchase or sell. A Funds investments in illiquid securities may reduce the
returns of the Fund because it may be unable to sell the illiquid securities at an
advantageous time or price. Investments in foreign securities, derivatives, or securities
with substantial market and/or credit risk tend to have the greatest exposure to liquidity
risk. Illiquid securities may be highly volatile and difficult to value.
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Derivatives Risk. (All Funds).
Derivatives are financial contracts whose value depends
on, or derives from, the value of an underlying asset, reference rate, or index. A Funds
use of derivative instruments involves risks different from, and possibly greater than, the
risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments.
Derivatives are subject to a number of risks described elsewhere in this section, such as
liquidity risk, interest rate risk, and credit risk, and the risk that a derivative
transaction may not have the effect the Funds adviser or sub-adviser anticipated.
Derivatives also involve the risk of mispricing or improper valuation and the risk that
changes in the value of the derivative may not correlate perfectly with the underlying
asset, rate, or index. Derivative transactions typically involve leverage and may be highly
volatile. Use of derivatives other than for hedging purposes may be considered speculative
and may have the effect of creating investment leverage, and when a Fund invests in a
derivative instrument it could lose more than the principal amount invested. Also, suitable
derivative transactions may not be available in all circumstances and there can be no
assurance that a Fund will engage in these transactions to reduce exposure to other risks
when that would be beneficial. Many derivative transactions are entered into over the
counter (not on an exchange or contract market); as a result, the value of such a
derivative transaction will depend on the ability and willingness of a Funds counterparty
to perform its obligations under the transaction. A Fund may be required to segregate
certain of its assets on the books of its custodian in respect of derivatives transactions
entered into by the Fund. Special tax considerations apply to a Funds investment in
derivatives. See the SAI for more information.
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Small and Mid Cap Companies Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North
American Equity Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund).
The Funds may invest in companies that are smaller and less well-known
than larger, more widely held companies. Micro, small and mid cap companies may offer
greater opportunities for capital appreciation than larger companies, but may also involve
certain special risks. They are more likely than larger companies to have limited product
lines, markets or financial resources, or to depend on a small, inexperienced management
group. Securities of smaller companies may trade less frequently and in lesser volume than
more widely held securities and their values may fluctuate more sharply than other
securities. They may also trade in the over-the-counter market or on a regional exchange, or
may otherwise have limited liquidity. These securities may therefore be more vulnerable to
adverse developments than securities of larger companies, and the Funds may have difficulty
establishing or closing out their securities positions in smaller companies at prevailing
market prices. Also, there may be less publicly available information about smaller
companies or less market interest in their securities as compared to larger companies, and
it may take longer for the prices of the securities to reflect the full value of their
issuers earnings potential or assets.
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Equity Securities Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity
Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities
Fund).
The principal risks of investing in the Funds include the risk that the value of the
equity securities in the portfolio will fall, or will not appreciate as anticipated by the
Funds adviser or sub-adviser, due to factors that adversely affect equities markets
generally or particular companies in the portfolio. Common stocks represent an equity or
ownership interest in an issuer and are subject to issuer and market risks that may cause
their prices to fluctuate over time. Preferred stocks represent an equity or ownership
interest in an issuer that typically pays dividends at a specified rate and that has
priority over common stock in the payment of dividends and in liquidation. If interest rates
rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing the price of
preferred stocks to decline. Different types of investments tend to shift into and out of
favor with investors depending on changes in market and economic conditions.
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Convertible Securities Risk. (All Funds).
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund,
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund may
invest in convertible securities, which are corporate debt securities that may be converted
at either a stated price or stated rate into underlying shares of common or preferred stock,
and so subject to the risks of investments in both debt securities and equity securities.
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund, Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund may invest in
securities that are convertible into preferred and common stocks, and so subject to the
risks of investments in both debt and equity securities. The market value of convertible
securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, tends to increase as
interest rates decline. In addition, because of the conversion feature, the market value of
convertible securities tends to vary with fluctuations in the market value of the underlying
preferred and common stocks and, therefore, also will react to variations in the general
market for equity securities.
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Warrants Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund,
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund, and
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The Funds may invest in warrants to
purchase equity securities. The price, performance and liquidity of such warrants are
typically linked to the underlying stock. These instruments have many characteristics of
convertible bonds and their prices may, to some degree, reflect the performance of the
underlying stock.
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Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The Funds
may also purchase securities of companies in IPOs, which frequently are smaller companies.
Such securities have no trading history, and information about these companies may be
available for very limited periods. The prices of securities sold in IPOs also can be highly
volatile. Under certain market conditions, very few companies, if any, may determine to make
IPOs of their securities. At any particular time or from time to time the Funds may not be
able to invest in securities issued in IPOs or invest to the extent desired, because, for
example, only a small portion (if any) of the securities being offered in an IPO may be made
available to the Funds. The investment performance of the Funds during periods when they are
unable to invest significantly or at all in IPOs may be lower than during periods when the
Funds are able to do so.
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Foreign Investment Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity
Fund, and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund).
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund,
Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, and
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund may invest in foreign securities. Schroder North
American Equity Fund may invest in securities of Canadian companies and in companies located
in other countries in North America. Investments in foreign securities entail certain risks.
There may be a possibility of nationalization or expropriation of assets, confiscatory
taxation, political or financial instability, and diplomatic developments that could affect
the value of a Funds investments in certain foreign countries. In addition, there may be
less information publicly available about a foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer, and
foreign issuers are not generally subject to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting
standards and practices comparable to those in the United States. The securities of some
foreign issuers are less liquid and at times more volatile than securities of comparable
U.S. issuers. Foreign brokerage commissions and other fees are also generally higher than in
the United States. Foreign settlement procedures and trade regulations may involve certain
risks (such as delay in payment or delivery of securities or in the recovery of a Funds
assets held abroad) and expenses not present in the settlement of domestic investments.
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Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund may invest in Chinese companies. While companies in
China may be subject to limitations on their business relationships under Chinese law, these
laws may not be consistent with certain political and security concerns of the United States.
As a result, Chinese companies may have material direct or indirect business relationships
with governments that are considered state sponsors of terrorism by the United States
government, or governments that otherwise have policies in conflict with the U.S. government.
Investments in such companies may subject the Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund to the
risk that these companies reputation and price in the market will be adversely affected.
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In addition, legal remedies available to investors in certain foreign countries may be more
limited than those available to investors in the United States or in other foreign countries.
The willingness and ability of foreign governmental entities to pay principal and interest on
government securities depends on various economic factors, including the issuers balance of
payments, overall debt level, and cash-flow considerations related to the availability of tax
or other revenues to satisfy the issuers obligations. If a foreign governmental entity
defaults on its obligations on the securities, a Fund may have limited recourse available to
it. The laws of some foreign countries may limit a Funds ability to invest in securities of
certain issuers located in those countries.
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Special tax considerations apply to a Funds investments in foreign securities. In
determining whether to invest a Funds assets in debt securities of foreign issuers, the
Funds adviser or sub-adviser considers the likely impact of foreign taxes on the net yield
available to the Fund and its shareholders. Income and/or gains received by a Fund from
sources within foreign countries may be reduced by withholding and other taxes imposed by
such countries. Tax conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or
eliminate such taxes. Any such taxes paid by a Fund will reduce its income available for
distribution to shareholders. In certain circumstances, a Fund may be able to pass through to
shareholders credits for foreign taxes paid. Certain of these risks may also apply to some
extent to investments in U.S. companies that are traded in foreign markets, or investments in
U.S. companies that have significant foreign operations.
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In addition, a Funds investments in foreign securities or foreign currencies may increase or
accelerate the Funds recognition of ordinary income and may affect the timing or character
of the Funds distributions.
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Foreign Currencies Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity
Fund, and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund).
Since foreign securities normally are
denominated and traded in foreign currencies, the value of a Funds assets may be affected
favorably or unfavorably by currency
exchange rates, currency exchange control regulations, foreign withholding taxes, and
restrictions or prohibitions on the repatriation of foreign currencies. A Fund may, but is
not required
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to, buy or sell foreign securities and options and futures contracts on foreign
securities for hedging purposes in connection with its foreign investments.
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If a Fund purchases securities denominated in foreign currencies, a change in the value of
any such currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a change in the U.S. dollar value of
the Funds assets and the Funds income available for distribution. Officials in foreign
countries may from time to time take actions in respect of their currencies which could
significantly affect the value of a Funds assets denominated in those currencies or the
liquidity of such investments. For example, a foreign government may unilaterally devalue its
currency against other currencies, which would typically have the effect of reducing the U.S.
dollar value of investments denominated in that currency. A foreign government may also limit
the convertibility or repatriation of its currency or assets denominated in its currency,
which would adversely affect the U.S. dollar value and liquidity of investments denominated
in that currency. In addition, although at times most of a Funds income may be received or
realized in these currencies, the Fund will be required to compute and distribute its income
in U.S. dollars. As a result, if the exchange rate for any such currency declines after the
Funds income has been earned and translated into U.S. dollars but before payment to
shareholders, the Fund could be required to liquidate portfolio securities to make such
distributions. Similarly, if a Fund incurs an expense in U.S. dollars and the exchange rate
declines before the expense is paid, the Fund would have to convert a greater amount of U.S.
dollars to pay for the expense at that time than it would have had to convert at the time the
Fund incurred the expense. A Fund may, but is not required to, buy or sell foreign currencies
and options and futures contracts on foreign currencies for hedging purposes in connection
with its foreign investments.
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Emerging Markets Securities Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, and Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income Fund).
Investing in emerging market securities poses risks different
from, and/or greater than, risks of investing in domestic securities or in the securities of
foreign, developed countries. These risks include: smaller market-capitalization of
securities markets, which may suffer periods of relative illiquidity; significant price
volatility; restrictions on foreign investment; and possible repatriation of investment
income and capital. In addition, foreign investors may be required to register the proceeds
of sales, and future economic or political crises could lead to price controls, forced
mergers, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure, nationalization or the creation of
government monopolies. The currencies of emerging market countries may experience
significant declines against the U.S. dollar, and devaluation may occur subsequent to
investments in these currencies by a Fund. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation
rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities
markets of certain emerging market countries. Although many of the emerging market
securities in which a Fund may invest are traded on securities exchanges, they may trade in
limited volume, and the exchanges may not provide all of the conveniences or protections
provided by securities exchanges in more developed markets.
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Additional risks of emerging market securities may include: greater social, economic and
political uncertainty and instability; more substantial governmental involvement in the
economy; less governmental supervision and regulation; unavailability of currency hedging
techniques; companies that are newly organized and small; differences in auditing and
financial reporting standards, which may result in unavailability of material information
about issuers; and less developed legal systems. In addition, emerging securities markets may
have different clearance and settlement procedures, which may be unable to keep pace with the
volume of securities transactions or otherwise make it difficult to engage in such
transactions. Settlement problems may cause a Fund to miss attractive investment
opportunities, hold a portion of its assets in cash pending investment, or be delayed in
disposing of a portfolio security. Such a delay could result in possible liability to a
purchaser of the security.
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Geographic Focus Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity
Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities
Fund).
To the extent that a Fund invests a substantial amount of its assets in one country
or group of countries, its performance may at times be worse than the performance of other
mutual funds that invest more broadly. Because the Schroder North American Equity Fund
invests principally in equity securities of North American companies, and the Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund invest principally
in equity securities of U.S. companies, their performance may at times be worse than the
performance of other mutual funds that invest more broadly.
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Issuer Focus Risk. (Schroder International Alpha Fund and Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund).
The Funds, and in particular the Schroder International Alpha Fund, may invest in a
smaller number of companies than comprise the portfolios of other similar mutual funds. When
a Fund invests in a relatively small number of issuers, changes in the value of one or more
portfolio securities may have a greater effect on the Fund than if the Fund invested more
broadly.
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Depositary Receipts Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund).
The Fund may invest in
ADRs, as well as GDRs, EDRs or other similar securities representing ownership of foreign
securities. Depositary Receipts generally evidence an ownership interest in a corresponding
foreign security on deposit with a financial institution. Investments in non-U.S. issuers
through Depositary Receipts and similar instruments may involve certain risks not applicable
to investing in U.S. issuers, including changes in currency rates, application of local tax
laws, changes in governmental administration or economic or monetary policy or changed
circumstances in dealings between nations. Costs may be incurred in connection with
conversions between various currencies. The Fund may invest in both sponsored and
unsponsored Depositary Receipts. Unsponsored Depositary Receipts are organized independently
and without the cooperation of the issuer of the underlying securities. As a result,
available information concerning the issuers may not be as current for unsponsored
Depositary Receipts and the prices of unsponsored Depositary Receipts may be more volatile
than if such instruments were sponsored by the issuer.
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Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North
American Equity Fund, and Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund).
A Fund may invest in other
investment companies or pooled vehicles, including closed-end funds, trusts, and ETFs, that
are advised by the Funds adviser, sub-adviser or its affiliates or by unaffiliated parties,
to the extent permitted by applicable law. When investing in a closed-end investment
company, a Fund may pay a premium above such investment companys net asset value per share
and when the shares are sold, the price received by the Fund may be at a discount to net
asset value. As a shareholder in an investment company or pooled vehicle, a Fund, and
indirectly that Funds shareholders would bear its ratable share of the investment companys
expenses, including advisory and administrative fees, and would at the same time continue to
pay its own fees and expenses. Where an investment company or pooled investment vehicle
offers multiple classes of shares or interests, the Fund will seek to invest in the class
with the lowest expenses to a Fund, although there is no guarantee that it will do so. ETFs
issue redeemable securities, but because these securities may only be redeemed in kind in
significant amounts investors generally buy and sell shares in transactions on securities
exchanges. Investments in other investment companies may be subject to investment
limitations such as redemption fees. See How to Sell Fund Shares Redemption Fees for
more information.
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Real Estate Investment Trust Risk. (Schroder International Diversified Value Fund,
Schroder North American Equity Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S.
Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
An investment in a REIT may be subject to risks
similar to those associated with direct ownership of real estate, including losses from
casualty or condemnation, and changes in local and general economic conditions, supply and
demand, interest rates, zoning laws, regulatory limitations on rents, property taxes and
operating expenses. In addition, an investment in a REIT is subject to additional risks,
such as poor performance by the manager of the REIT, adverse changes to the tax laws or
failure by the REIT to qualify for tax-free pass-through of income under the Code, and to
the risk of general declines in stock prices. In addition, some REITs have limited
diversification because they invest in a limited number of properties, a narrow geographic
area, or a single type of property. Also, the organizational documents of a REIT may contain
provisions that make changes in control of the REIT difficult and time-consuming. As a
shareholder in a REIT a Fund, and indirectly the Funds shareholders, would bear its ratable
share of the REITs expenses and would at the same time continue to pay its own fees and
expenses.
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Over-the-Counter Risk. (Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid
Cap Opportunities Fund).
Securities traded in over-the- counter markets may trade in smaller
volumes, and their prices may be more volatile, than securities principally traded on
securities exchanges. Such securities may be less liquid than more widely traded securities.
In addition, the prices of such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup, which a
Fund pays as part of the purchase price.
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Equity Markets Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha
Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund,
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
Although stocks may outperform other asset classes over the long term, their prices tend to
fluctuate more dramatically over the shorter term. These movements may result from factors
affecting individual companies, or from broader influences like changes in interest rates,
market conditions, investor confidence or announcements of economic, political or financial
information. While potentially offering greater opportunities for capital growth than
larger, more established companies, the stocks of smaller companies may be particularly
volatile, especially during periods of economic uncertainty. These companies may face less
certain growth prospects, or depend heavily on a limited line of products and services or
the efforts of a small number of key management personnel.
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Management Risk. (All Funds).
Because the Funds are actively managed, each Funds
investment return depends on the ability of its adviser or sub-adviser to manage its
portfolio successfully. A Funds adviser or sub-adviser and its investment team will apply
investment techniques and risk analyses in making investment decisions for the Fund, but
there can be no
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guarantee that these will produce the desired results. There is a risk that each Funds
adviser or sub-adviser may be incorrect in its analysis of economic trends, countries,
industries, companies, or other matters.
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Frequent Trading/Portfolio Turnover Risk (All Funds).
The length of time a Fund has held
a particular security is not generally a consideration in investment decisions. The
investment policies of a Fund may lead to frequent changes in the Funds investments,
particularly in periods of volatile market movements, in order to take advantage of what the
Funds adviser or sub-adviser believes to be temporary disparities in normal yield
relationships between securities. A change in the securities held by a Fund is known as
portfolio turnover. Portfolio turnover generally involves some expense to a Fund,
including bid-asked spreads, dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs on the sale of
securities and reinvestments in other securities, and may result in the realization of
taxable capital gains (including short-term gains, which are generally taxed to shareholders
at ordinary income rates). The trading costs and tax effects associated with portfolio
turnover may adversely affect a Funds performance. During periods when a Fund experiences
high portfolio turnover rates, these effects are likely to be more pronounced. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, the Funds had the following portfolio turnover rates:
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund: [ ]%; Schroder International Alpha Fund: [ ]%;
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund: [ ]%; Schroder North American Equity Fund: [
]%; Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund: [ ]%; Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities
Fund: [ ]%; and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund: [ ]%. For Schroder Total Return
Fixed Income Fund, the variation in its rate of turnover over the last two fiscal years is
due to the nature of the Funds investments and market conditions. Consult your tax advisor
regarding the effect of a Funds portfolio turnover rate on your investments.
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U.S. Government Securities Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund).
U.S.
Government securities include a variety of securities that differ in their interest rates,
maturities, and dates of issue. While securities issued or guaranteed by some agencies or
instrumentalities of the U.S. Government (such as the Government National Mortgage
Association) are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States, securities
issued or guaranteed by certain other agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government
(such as Federal Home Loan Banks) are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from
the U.S. Government, and securities issued or guaranteed by certain other agencies and
instrumentalities of the U.S. Government (such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac) are supported
only by the credit of the issuer itself. Although Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are now under
conservatorship by the Federal Housing Finance Agency, and are benefiting from a liquidity
backstop of the U.S. Treasury, no assurance can be given that these initiatives will be
successful. Investments in these securities are also subject to interest rate risk (as
described above under Interest Rate Risk), prepayment risk (as described above under
Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk), extension risk (as described above under
Extension Risk), and the risk that the value of the securities will fluctuate in response
to political, market, or economic developments.
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Valuation Risk (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
Due to the nature of some
Funds investments and the market environment, a portion of the Funds assets may be valued
by Schroders at fair value pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of Trustees. A
Funds assets may be valued using prices provided by a pricing service or, alternatively, a
broker-dealer or other market intermediary (sometimes just one broker-dealer or other market
intermediary) when other reliable pricing sources may not be available. To the extent the
Fund relies on a pricing service to value some or all of its portfolio securities, it is
possible that the pricing information provided by the service will not reflect the actual
price a Fund would receive upon sale of a security. In addition, to the extent a Fund sells
a security at a price lower than the price it has been using to value the security, its net
asset value will be adversely affected. If a Fund has overvalued securities it holds, you
may end up paying too much for the Funds shares when you buy into the Fund. If a Fund
underestimates the price of its portfolio securities, you may not receive the full market
value for your Fund shares when you sell.
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NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND TECHNIQUES
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In addition to the principal investment strategies described in the Principal Investment
Strategies section above, each Fund may at times, but is not required to, use the strategies and
techniques described below, which involve certain special risks. This Prospectus does not attempt
to disclose all of the various investment techniques and types of securities that the Funds
adviser or sub-adviser might use in managing the Funds. As in any mutual fund, investors must
rely on the professional investment judgment and skill of the Funds adviser and sub-adviser.
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Short Sales.
A Fund may sell a security short when the Funds adviser or sub-adviser
anticipates that the price of the security will decline. A Fund may make a profit or incur a
loss depending on whether the market price of the security decreases or increases between
the date of the short sale and the date on which the Fund closes the short position. A
short position will result in a loss if the market price of the security in question
increases between the date when the Fund enters into the short position and the date when
the Fund closes the short position. Such a loss could theoretically be unlimited in a case
where such Fund is unable, for whatever reason, to close out its short position. In
addition, short positions may result in a loss if a portfolio strategy of which the short
position is a part is otherwise unsuccessful.
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Securities Loans and Repurchase Agreements.
A Fund may lend portfolio securities to
broker-dealers, and may enter into repurchase agreements. These transactions must be fully
collateralized at all times, but involve some risk to a Fund if the other party should
default on its obligation and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the
collateral. A Fund may enter into securities loans and repurchase agreements as a
non-principal investment strategy, as a way to recognize additional current income on
securities that it owns.
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Temporary Defensive Strategies.
At times, the Funds adviser or sub-adviser may judge
that conditions in the securities markets make pursuing a Funds investment strategy
inconsistent with the best interests of its shareholders. At such times, the Funds adviser
or sub-adviser may, but is not required to, take temporary defensive positions that are
inconsistent with a Funds principal investment strategies in attempting to respond to
adverse market, economic, political, or other conditions. In implementing these defensive
strategies, the Fund would invest in investment grade fixed income securities, cash or money
market instruments to any extent the Funds adviser or sub-adviser considers consistent with
such defensive strategies. It is impossible to predict when, or for how long, a Fund would
use these alternate strategies. One risk of taking such temporary defensive positions is
that the Fund may not achieve its investment objective.
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Pricing.
At times market conditions might make it hard to value some investments. If a
Fund has valued securities it holds too high, you may end up paying
too much for the Funds shares when you buy into a Fund. If a Fund underestimates the price of its portfolio
securities, you may not receive the full market value for your Fund shares when you sell. To
the extent a Fund relies on a pricing service to value some or all of its portfolio
securities, it is possible that the pricing information provided by the service will not
reflect the actual price the Fund would receive upon a sale of the security.
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Other Investments.
A Fund may also invest in other types of securities and utilize a
variety of investment techniques and strategies that are not described in this Prospectus.
These securities and techniques may subject the Fund to additional risks. Please see the SAI
for additional information about the securities and investment techniques described in this
Prospectus and about additional techniques and strategies that may be used by the Funds.
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Securities in Default.
Securities that are in default are subject generally to the risks
described above under Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund High-Yield/Junk Bonds
Risk, and which offer little or no prospect for the payment of the full amount of unpaid
principal and interest.
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Percentage Investment Limitations.
Unless otherwise noted, all percentage limitations on
Fund investments will apply at the time of investment, including the requirements that:
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in
equity securities of companies the Funds sub-adviser considers to be emerging market
issuers; Schroder International Alpha Fund normally invest at least 65% of its total assets
in equity securities of companies the Funds adviser considers to be located outside of the
United States; Schroder International Diversified Value Fund normally invest at least 65% of
its net assets in equity securities of companies located in countries outside of the United
States; Schroder North American Equity Fund normally invest at least 80% of its net assets
in equity securities of companies organized and principally traded in, or with their
principal places of business and principally traded in, North America; Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in securities of companies
the Funds adviser considers
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to be located in the United States; Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund normally
invest at least 80% of its net assets in companies considered by the Funds adviser at the
time to be small or mid cap companies located in the United States; and Schroder Total Return
Fixed Income Fund normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in fixed income obligations.
An investment by a Fund would not be considered to violate a percentage limitation unless an
excess or deficiency were to occur or exist immediately after and as a result of an
investment. References in the discussion of the Funds investment policies above to 80% of a
Funds net assets refer to that percentage of the aggregate of the Funds net assets and the
amount, if any, of borrowings by a Fund for investment purposes.
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Private Placements and Restricted Securities.
A Fund may invest in securities that are
purchased in private placements. Because there may be relatively few potential purchasers
for such investments, especially under adverse market or economic conditions or in the event
of adverse changes in the financial condition of the issuer, a Fund could find it more
difficult to sell such securities when the Funds adviser or sub-adviser believes it
advisable to do so or may be able to sell such securities only at prices lower than if such
securities were more widely held. At times, it may also be more difficult to determine the
fair value of such securities for purposes of computing a Funds net asset value. A Funds
sale of such investments may also be restricted under securities laws. In the event that the
Trustees, or persons designated by the Trustees, determine that a security is readily
marketable pursuant to these procedures, and a Fund is not able to sell such security at
the price that such persons anticipate, the Funds net asset value will decrease.
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When-Issued, Delayed Delivery, and Forward Commitment Transactions.
The Funds may
purchase securities on a when-issued, delayed delivery, or forward commitment basis. These
transactions involve a commitment by a Fund to purchase a security for a predetermined price
or yield, with payments and delivery taking place more than seven days in the future, or
after a period longer than the customary settlement period for that type of security. These
transactions may increase the overall investment exposure for a Fund and involve a risk of
loss if the value of the securities declines prior to the settlement date.
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52
MANAGEMENT OF THE FUNDS
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Each Trust is governed by a Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees of each Trust has retained
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. to serve as each Funds adviser and to manage
the investments of each Fund. Subject to the control of the applicable Board of Trustees,
Schroders also manages each Funds other affairs and business.
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Schroder Investment Management North America Limited (SIMNA Ltd.), an affiliate of Schroders,
serves as sub-adviser responsible for portfolio management of Schroder Emerging Market Equity
Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, and
Schroder North American Equity Fund.
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Schroders (itself and its predecessors) has been an investment manager since 1962, and serves as
investment adviser to the Funds and as investment adviser to other mutual funds and a broad range
of institutional investors. Schroders plc, Schroders ultimate parent, is a global asset
management company with approximately $[ ] under management as of December 31, 2009. Schroders
and its affiliates have clients that are major financial institutions including banks and
insurance companies, public and private pension funds, endowments and foundations, high net worth
individuals, financial intermediaries and retail investors. Schroders plc has one of the largest
networks of offices of any dedicated asset management company and over 350 portfolio managers and
analysts covering the worlds investment markets.
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Management Fees.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, each of the following Funds
paid aggregate management fees, net of applicable expense limitations and/or fee waivers,
for investment management and administration services to Schroders at the following annual
rates (based on each Funds average daily net assets): Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund:
[0.21]%; Schroder International Alpha Fund: [0.607]%; Schroder North American Equity Fund:
[0.25]%; and Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund: [1.00]%. [Each of Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund, Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund and Schroder
Total Return Fixed Income Fund did not pay fees] during the fiscal year ended October 31,
2009 due to expense limitations and/or fee waivers in effect during that period. As
compensation for SIMNA Ltd.s services as sub-adviser, Schroders pays to SIMNA Ltd. fifty
percent of the investment advisory fees Schroders receives from each of Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified
Value Fund, and Schroder North American Equity Fund. A discussion regarding the basis for
the Trustees approval of the investment management agreements for the Funds is available in
the Funds annual report to shareholders for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009.
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Expense Limitations and Waivers.
In order to limit the expenses of the Investor Shares of
certain Funds, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February 28, 2011 for
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified
Value Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund to pay or reimburse the
applicable Fund for expenses to the extent that the Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses of
a Fund (other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses,
interest, taxes, and extraordinary expenses, which may include typically non-recurring
expenses such as, for example, organizational expenses, litigation expenses, and shareholder
meeting expenses) allocable to each Funds Investor Shares exceed the following annual rates
(based on the average daily net assets attributable to each Funds Investor Shares):
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund: [1.25]%; Schroder International Alpha Fund: [1.15]%;
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund: [1.15]%; Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund:
[1.70]%; Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund: [1.05]%; and Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income Fund: [0.40]%.
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Portfolio Management.
The following portfolio managers at Schroders and SIMNA Ltd. have
primary responsibility for making investment decisions for the respective Funds. For each of
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund and Schroder North American Equity Fund, all
investment decisions are made by a team of investment professionals at SIMNA Ltd. with the
portfolio managers listed in the table below for that Fund having primary responsibility for
making investment decisions for the Fund. Each portfolio managers recent professional
experience is also shown. The Funds SAI provides additional information about each
portfolio managers compensation, other accounts managed by the portfolio managers, and each
portfolio managers ownership of securities in the respective Fund.
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RECENT PROFESSIONAL
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FUND
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NAME
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TITLE
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SINCE
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EXPERIENCE
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Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund
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James Gotto
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Portfolio Manager
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Inception (March 31, 2006)
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Mr. Gotto is a
Portfolio Manager of
SIMNA Ltd. He has been
an employee of SIMNA
Ltd. since 1991.
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Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund
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Waj Hashmi, CFA
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Portfolio Manager
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Inception (March 31, 2006)
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Mr. Hashmi is a
Portfolio Manager of
SIMNA Ltd. He has been
an employee of SIMNA
Ltd. since 2000.
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Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund
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Robert Davy
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Portfolio Manager
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Inception (March 31, 2006)
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Mr. Davy is a
Portfolio Manager of
SIMNA Ltd. He has been
an employee of SIMNA
Ltd. since 1986.
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Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund
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Allan Conway
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Head of Emerging
Markets Equities
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Inception (March 31, 2006)
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Mr. Conway is Head of
Emerging Markets
Equities at SIMNA Ltd.
He has been an
employee of SIMNA Ltd.
since 2004. Formerly,
Head of Global
Emerging Markets, West
LB Asset Management
and Chief Executive
Officer of WestAM (UK)
Ltd.
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Schroder
International Alpha
Fund
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Virginie
Maisonneuve, CFA
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Lead Portfolio Manager
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March 2005
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Ms. Maisonneuve is
Head of Schroders
Global and Europe,
Australasia, Far East
(EAFE) Team. She has
been an employee of
SIMNA Ltd. since 2004.
Formerly, Co-Chief
Investment Officer and
Director, Clay Finlay.
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Schroder
International
Diversified Value
Fund and Schroder
North American
Equity Fund
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Justin Abercrombie
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Lead Portfolio
Manager and Head of
Quantitative Equity
Products (QEP)
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Inception (August 30,
2006) (Schroder
International Diversified
Value Fund)
Inception (September
2003) (Schroder North
American Equity Fund)
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Mr. Abercrombie is the
Lead Portfolio Manager
and Head of QEP, SIMNA
Ltd. He has been an
employee of Schroders
since 1996. Formerly,
founding member of
QEP, SIMNA Ltd.
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Schroder North
American Equity
Fund
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John Marsland, CFA
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Senior Portfolio
Manager and
Quantitative Analyst
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May 2006
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Mr. Marsland is a
Senior Portfolio
Manager and
Quantitative Analyst,
SIMNA Ltd. He has been
an employee of SIMNA
Ltd. since May 2006.
Formerly, Quantitative
Fund Manager, WMG
Advisors LLP from
January 2005 to April
2006, Head of Risk
Advisory, Commerzbank
Securities from 2000
to November 2004.
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Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund
and Schroder U.S.
Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund
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Jenny B. Jones
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Lead Portfolio Manager
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2003 (Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund)
Inception (March 31,
2006) (Schroder U.S.
Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund)
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Ms. Jones is Head of
U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Equities of Schroders.
She has been an
employee of Schroders
since 2003. Formerly,
portfolio manager and
Executive Director,
Morgan Stanley
Investment Advisors
Inc.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Wesley A. Sparks,
CFA
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Portfolio Manager
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Inception (December 2004)
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Mr. Sparks is Head of
U.S. Taxable Fixed
Income of Schroders.
He has been an
employee of Schroders
since December 2000.
Formerly, portfolio
manager at Aeltus
Investment Management.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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David Harris
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Portfolio Manager
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Inception (December 2004)
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Mr. Harris is Product
Manager U.S. Fixed
Income of Schroders.
He has been an
employee of Schroders
since November 1992.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Chris Ames
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Portfolio Manager
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2008
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Mr. Ames is an ABS
Portfolio Manager,
Fixed Income Group of
Schroders, and
specializes in
managing asset-backed
securities and
mortgage-backed
securities. Formerly,
Portfolio Manager with
Cheyne Capital from
2005-2007 and Head of
ABS and CDO Research
at BNP Paribas from
2002-2005. He has been
an employee of
Schroders since 2007.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Gregg T. Moore, CFA
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Portfolio Manager
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Inception (December 2004)
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Mr. Moore is Fund
Manager, Fixed Income
of Schroders and has
been an employee of
Schroders since June
2001. Formerly,
quantitative analyst
at Aeltus Investment
Management.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Ed Fitzpatrick
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Portfolio Manager
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2006
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Mr. Fitzpatrick is
Fund Manager, Fixed
Income of Schroders.
He has been an
employee of Schroders
since 2006. Formerly,
a Vice President of
Pershing LLC from 1999
to 2006.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Tony Hui
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Portfolio Manager
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2007
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Mr. Hui is Fund
Manager, Fixed Income
of Schroders.
Formerly, a Trader at
UBS from 2002 to 2007.
He has been an
employee of Schroders
since 2007.
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HOW THE FUNDS SHARES ARE PRICED
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Each Fund calculates the net asset value of its Investor Shares by dividing the total value of
its assets attributable to its Investor Shares, less its liabilities attributable to those shares, by the number of Investor Shares outstanding. Each Fund values its Investor Shares as of
the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the Exchange) (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern
Time) each day the Exchange is open. The Trusts expect that days, other than weekend days, when
the Exchange will not be open are New Years Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents Day,
Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
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Securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at prices which, in the
opinion of Schroders, most nearly represent the market values of such securities. Securities for
which market values are not readily available, or for which the Funds adviser believes the
market value is unreliable (including, for example, certain foreign securities, thinly-traded
securities, IPOs, or when there is a particular event that may affect the value of a security),
are valued by Schroders at their fair values pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of
Trustees, and under the ultimate supervision of the Board of Trustees. Certain securities, such
as various types of options (as described further below), are valued at fair value on the basis
of valuations furnished by broker-dealers or other market intermediaries. It is possible that
fair value prices will be used by a Fund to a significant extent. The value determined for an
investment using the Funds fair value guidelines may differ from recent market prices for the
investment. Reliable market quotations are not considered to be readily available for many bonds
(excluding U.S. Treasury securities), certain preferred stocks, tax-exempt securities and certain
foreign securities. Such securities are valued at fair value, generally on the basis of
valuations furnished by pricing services, which determine valuations for normal,
institutional-size trading units of such securities using methods based on market transactions
for comparable securities and various relationships between securities that are generally
recognized by institutional traders. Below investment grade debt instruments (high yield debt)
and emerging market debt instruments will generally be valued at prices furnished by pricing
services based on the mean of bid and asked prices supplied by brokers or dealers, although, if
the bid-asked spread exceeds five points, that security will typically be valued at the bid
price. Short-term fixed income securities with remaining maturities of 60 days or less are valued
at amortized cost, unless Schroders believes another valuation is more appropriate.
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Unlisted securities for which market quotations are readily available generally are valued at the
most recently reported sale prices on any day or, in the absence of a reported sale price, at
mid-market prices. Options and futures contracts traded on a securities exchange or board of
trade generally are valued at the last reported sales price or, in the absence of a sale, at the
closing mid-market price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Options and futures not
traded on a securities exchange or board of trade for which over-the-counter market quotations
are readily available are generally valued at the most recently reported mid-market price. Credit
default and interest rate swaps are valued at the estimate of the mid-market price, together with
other supporting information. Options on indices or ETF shares are valued at the closing
mid-market price. If such prices are not available, unlisted securities and derivatives are
valued by Schroders at their fair values based on quotations from dealers, and if such quotations
are not available, based on factors in the markets where such securities and derivatives trade,
such as security and bond prices, interest rates, and currency exchange rates.
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Certain Funds may invest in foreign securities that are primarily listed on foreign exchanges
that trade on weekends and other days when the Fund does not price its shares. As a result, the
value of the Funds portfolio securities may change on days when the price of the Funds shares
is not calculated. The price of the Funds shares will reflect any such changes when the price of
the Funds shares is next calculated, which is the next day the Exchange is open. The Funds may
use fair value pricing more frequently for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets
because, among other things, most foreign markets close well before the Fund values its
securities. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that
significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim.
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Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund, and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Funds investments may be priced
based on fair values provided by a third-party fair valuation vendor, based on certain factors
and methodologies applied by such vendor, in the event that there is movement in the U.S. market
that exceeds a specific threshold established by the Schroders Fair Value Committee pursuant to
guidelines established by the Board of Trustees, and under the ultimate supervision of the Board
of Trustees. The net asset value of a Funds Investor Shares may differ from that of its Advisor
Shares due to differences in the expenses of Investor Shares and Advisor Shares.
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HOW TO BUY SHARES
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Each Trust, through its distributor, Schroder Fund Advisors Inc. (SFA), sells Investor Shares
of its Funds at their net asset value without any sales charges or loads, so that the full amount
of your purchase payment is invested in the applicable Fund.
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You may purchase Investor Shares of each Fund by completing the Account Application that
accompanies this Prospectus, and sending payment by check or wire as described below. Acceptance
of your order will be delayed pending receipt of additional documentation, such as copies of
corporate resolutions and instruments of authority from corporations, administrators, executors,
personal representatives, directors, or custodians.
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Each Fund sells its Investor Shares at their net asset value next determined after the applicable
Fund, its transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS), or an authorized broker
or financial institution (as described below) receives your request in good order (meaning that
the request meets the requirements set out below and in the Account Application, and otherwise
meets the requirements implemented from time to time by the applicable Funds transfer agent or
the Fund). In order for you to receive a Funds next determined net asset value, the Fund, BFDS
or the authorized broker or financial institution must receive your order before the close of
trading on the Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time), and the
broker or financial institution must subsequently communicate the
order properly to the Fund. Each Trust reserves the right to
reject any order to purchase Investor Shares of any of its Funds. Each Trust generally expects to
inform any persons that their purchase has been rejected within 24 hours.
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The minimum investments for initial and additional purchases of Investor Shares of a Fund are as
follows:
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Initial Investment
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Additional Investments
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$
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250,000
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$
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1,000
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The applicable Trust may, in its sole discretion, waive these minimum initial or subsequent
investment amounts for share purchases by: an employee of Schroders, any of its affiliates or a
financial intermediary authorized to sell shares of a Fund, or such employees spouse or life
partner, or children or step-children age 21 or younger; investment advisory clients of
Schroders; and current or former Trustees. For share purchases made through certain fund networks
or other financial intermediaries, the investment minimums associated with the policies and
programs of the fund network or financial intermediary will apply.
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Investor Shares of the Funds are intended for purchase by investors making a minimum initial
investment of $250,000 and purchasing shares directly from the Fund. Advisor Shares of the Funds
are offered through another prospectus and are intended for investors making a minimum initial
investment of $2,500 and purchasing shares through a financial intermediary.
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The Funds do not issue share certificates.
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Each Trust may suspend the offering of Investor Shares of its Funds for any period of time. Each
Trust may change any investment minimum from time to time.
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Purchases by check.
You may purchase Investor Shares of a Fund by mailing a check (in U.S.
dollars) payable to the Fund. If you wish to purchase Investor Shares of two or more Funds, make
your check payable to Schroder Mutual Funds and include written instructions as to how the amount
of your check should be allocated among the Funds whose shares you are purchasing. Schroder
Mutual Funds will not accept third-party checks or starter checks. You should direct your check
and your completed Account Application as follows:
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REGULAR MAIL
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OVERNIGHT OR EXPRESS MAIL
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Schroder Mutual Funds
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Boston Financial Data Services, Inc.
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P.O. Box 8507
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Attn: Schroder Mutual Funds
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Boston, MA 02266
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30 Dan Road
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Canton, MA 02021
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For initial purchases, a completed Account Application must accompany your check.
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Purchases by bank wire.
If you make your initial investment by wire, a completed Account
Application must precede your order. Upon receipt of the Application, BFDS will assign you an
account number. BFDS will process wire orders received prior to the close of trading on the
Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time) on each day the Exchange is open for trading at the
net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. BFDS will process wire orders received
after that time at the net asset value next determined thereafter.
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Please call BFDS at (800) 464-3108 to give notice that you will send funds by wire, and obtain a
wire reference number. (From outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and ask to
speak with a Schroder Mutual Funds representative.) Please be sure to obtain a wire reference
number. Instruct your bank to wire funds with the assigned reference number as follows:
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State Street Bank and Trust Company
225 Franklin Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
ABA No.: 011000028
Attn: Schroder Mutual Funds
DDA No.: 9904-650-0
FBO: Account Registration
A/C: Mutual Fund Account Number
Name of Fund
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BFDS will not process your purchase until it receives the wired funds.
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Automatic purchases.
You can make regular investments of $100 or more per month or quarter in
Investor Shares of a Fund through automatic deductions from your bank account. Please complete
the appropriate section of the Account Application if you would like to utilize this option. For
more information, please call (800) 464-3108 ((617) 483-5000 from outside the United States).
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Brokers and other financial institutions.
You may also buy and exchange Investor Shares of the
Funds through an authorized broker or other financial institution that has an agreement with
Schroders or SFA. The purchase and exchange policies and fees charged by such brokers and other
institutions may be different than those of the Funds. For instance, banks, brokers, retirement
plans and financial advisers may charge transaction fees and may set different investment
minimums or limitations on buying or exchanging Investor Shares. Please consult a representative
of your financial institution for further information.
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Certain brokers or other financial institutions may accept purchase orders for Investor Shares on
behalf of the Funds. Such brokers or financial institutions may designate other intermediaries to
accept purchase orders on behalf of the Funds. For purposes of pricing, a Fund will be deemed to
have received a purchase order when an authorized broker or financial institution or, if
applicable, a broker or financial institutions authorized
designee, receives the order, provided that the broker or financial
institution subsequently communicates the order properly to the Fund.
Orders received in
good order prior to the close of the Exchange on any day the Exchange is open for trading will
receive the net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. Orders received after that
time will receive the next days net asset value.
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Brokers or other agents may charge investors a fee for effecting transactions in shares of a
Fund, in addition to any fees the Fund charges.
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Purchases in kind.
Investors may purchase Investor Shares of a Fund for cash or in exchange for
securities, subject to the determination by Schroders in its discretion that the securities are
acceptable. (For purposes of determining whether securities will be acceptable, Schroders will
consider, among other things, whether they are liquid securities of a type consistent with the
investment objective and policies of the Fund and have a readily ascertainable value.) If a Fund
receives securities from an investor in exchange for Investor Shares of the Fund, the Fund will
under some circumstances have the same tax basis in the securities as the investor had prior to
the exchange (and the Funds gain for tax purposes would be calculated with regard to the
investors tax basis), and in such cases the Funds holding period in those securities would
include the investors holding period. Any gain on the sale of securities received in exchange
for Investor Shares of the Fund would be subject to distribution as capital gain to all of the
Funds shareholders. (In some circumstances, receipt of securities from an investor in exchange
for Investor Shares of the Fund may be a taxable transaction to the investor, in which case the
Funds tax basis in the securities would reflect the fair market value of the securities on the
date of the exchange, and its holding period in the securities would begin on that date.) The
Funds value securities accepted by Schroders in the same manner as are the Funds portfolio
securities as of the time of the next determination of a Funds net asset value. Although the
Funds seek to determine the fair value of securities contributed to a Fund, any valuation that
does not reflect fair value may dilute the interests of the purchasing shareholder or the other
shareholders of the Funds. All rights reflected in the market price of accepted securities at the
time of valuation become the property of the Funds and must be delivered to the Funds upon
receipt by the investor. Investors may realize a taxable gain or loss upon the exchange.
Investors interested in purchases through exchange should telephone BFDS at (800) 464-3108 ((617)
483-5000 from outside the United States), their Schroders client representative, or other
financial intermediary.
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57
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Certain payments by Schroders or its affiliates.
SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates may, at
their own expense and out of their own assets, provide compensation to financial intermediaries
in connection with sales of Fund shares or shareholder servicing. In some instances, they may
make this compensation available only to certain intermediaries who have sold or are expected to
sell significant amounts of shares of a Fund. See Payments to Financial Intermediaries. If you
purchase or sell shares through an intermediary, the intermediary may charge a separate fee for
its services. Consult your intermediary for information. In addition, employees of Schroders who are registered representatives of SFA may be more favorably
compensated in respect of sales of some Funds than others; the identity of those Funds may change
from time to time in Schroders discretion. Those employees would have a financial incentive to
promote the sales of those Funds for which they are more highly compensated.
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HOW TO SELL SHARES
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When you may redeem.
You may sell your Investor Shares back to a Fund on any day the Exchange is
open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual Funds, or by
calling BFDS at (800) 464-3108 ((617) 483-5000 from outside the United States). Redemption
requests received in good order by Schroder Mutual Funds, BFDS, or an authorized broker or
financial institution (as described below) prior to the close of the Exchange on any day the
Exchange is open for trading (and subsequently communicated properly
to the Fund by the broker or financial institution) will be priced at the net asset value next determined as of the end
of that day. Orders received after that time will receive the next days net asset value. A
redemption request is in good order if it includes the exact name in which the shares are
registered, the investors account number, and the number of
shares or the dollar amount of shares to be redeemed, and, for written requests, if it is signed in accordance with the account
registration, although in certain circumstances you may need to submit additional documentation
to redeem your shares. A bank, broker-dealer, or certain other financial institutions must
guarantee the signature(s) of all account holders for any redemption request in excess of
$50,000. The Stamp 2000 Medallion Guarantee is the only acceptable form of guarantee. An investor
can obtain this signature guarantee from a commercial bank, savings bank, credit union, or
broker-dealer that participates in one of the Medallion signature guarantee programs. You may
redeem your shares by telephone only if you elected the telephone redemption privilege option on
your Account Application or otherwise in writing. Telephone redemption proceeds will be sent only
to you at an address on record with a Fund for at least 30 days. Unless otherwise agreed, you may
only exercise the telephone redemption privilege to redeem shares worth not more than $50,000. In
certain circumstances, you may need to submit additional documentation to redeem your shares.
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Each Fund will meet redemption requests as promptly as possible and in any event within seven
days after the request for redemption is received in good order. Each Fund generally sends
payment for shares on the business day after a request is received, although it may not always do
so. In case of emergencies, each Fund may suspend redemptions or postpone payment for more than
seven days, as permitted by law. If you paid for your Investor Shares by check, each Fund will
not send you your redemption proceeds until the check you used to pay for the shares has cleared,
which may take up to 15 calendar days from the purchase date.
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Brokers and other financial institutions.
You may also redeem and exchange Investor Shares of
the Funds through an authorized broker or other financial institution that has an agreement with
Schroders or SFA. The redemption and exchange policies and fees charged by such brokers and other
institutions may be different than those of the Funds. For instance, banks, brokers, retirement
plans and financial advisers may charge transaction fees and may set different investment
minimums or limitations on exchanging or redeeming Investor Shares. Please consult a
representative of your financial institution for further information.
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Certain brokers or other financial institutions may accept redemption orders for Investor Shares
on behalf of the Funds. Such brokers or financial institutions may designate other intermediaries
to accept redemption orders on behalf of the Funds. For purposes of pricing, a Fund will be
deemed to have received a redemption order when an authorized broker or financial institution or,
if applicable, a broker or financial institutions authorized
designee, receives the order, provided that the broker or financial
institution subsequently communicates the order properly to the Fund. Orders received in
good order prior to the close of the Exchange on any day the Exchange is open for trading will
receive the net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. Orders received after that
time will receive the next days net asset value.
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Brokers or other agents may charge investors a fee for effecting transactions in shares of a
Fund, in addition to any fees a Fund charges.
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Involuntary redemptions.
If, because of your redemptions, your account balance for any of the
Funds falls below a minimum amount set by the Trustees (presently $2,000), a Trust may choose to
redeem your Investor Shares in the Funds and pay you for them. You will receive at least 30 days
written notice before the Trust redeems your Investor Shares, and you may purchase additional
Investor Shares at any time to avoid a redemption. Each Trust may also redeem Investor Shares if
you own shares of the Funds above a maximum amount set by the Trustees. There is currently no
maximum, but the Trustees may establish one at any time, which could apply to both present and
future shareholders.
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Suspension.
Each Trust may suspend the right of redemption of a Fund or postpone payment by a
Fund during any period when: (1) trading on the Exchange is restricted, as determined by the
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), or the Exchange is closed; (2) the SEC has by order
permitted such suspension; or (3) an emergency (as defined by rules of the SEC) exists, making
disposal of portfolio investments or determination of a Funds net asset value not reasonably
practicable.
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Redemptions in kind.
The Trusts may redeem Investor Shares in kind, but do not expect to do so
under normal circumstances. If a Trust redeems your Investor Shares in kind, you should expect to
incur brokerage expenses and other transaction costs upon the disposition of the securities you
receive from the Fund. In addition, the price of those securities may change between the time
when you receive the securities and the time when you are able to dispose of them. Schroder
Capital Funds (Delaware) has agreed to redeem Investor Shares of Schroder International Alpha
Fund and Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund solely in cash up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of
the Funds net assets attributable to Investor Shares during any 90-day period for any one
shareholder. In consideration of the best interests of the remaining shareholders, Schroder
Capital Funds (Delaware) may pay any redemption proceeds exceeding this amount for any of these
Funds in whole or in part by a distribution in kind of securities held by the applicable Fund in
lieu of cash. Schroder Global Series Trust and Schroder Series Trust may pay redemption proceeds
in any amount with respect to Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund, Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund, or Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund in whole or in part by a
distribution in kind of securities held by the applicable Fund in lieu of cash.
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General.
In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent redemption requests by telephone,
BFDS will follow reasonable procedures to confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. BFDS
and the Trusts generally will not be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent
purchase or redemption requests, but the applicable party or parties may be liable if they do not
follow these procedures. In certain circumstances, you may need to submit additional
documentation to redeem your shares.
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Redemption fee.
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund,
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder
U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund each imposes a 2.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed
(including in connection with an exchange) two months or less from their date of purchase. The
fee is not a sales charge (load); it is paid directly to the Fund. The purpose of the redemption
fee is principally to discourage market timing, and also to help defray costs incurred by a Fund
in connection with short-term trading by investors in its shares.
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To the extent that the redemption fee applies, the price you
will receive when you redeem your shares of a Fund is the net asset value next determined after receipt of your redemption request
in good order, minus the redemption fee. The Funds permit exceptions to the redemption fee policy
for the following transactions:
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to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the intermediary
agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected clients, redemptions
or exchanges by discretionary asset allocation or wrap programs (wrap programs) that are
initiated by the sponsor of the program as part of a periodic rebalancing, provided that
such rebalancing occurs no more frequently than quarterly, or, if more frequent, was the
result of an extraordinary change in the management or operation of the wrap program leading
to a revised investment model that is applied across all applicable accounts in the wrap
program;
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to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the intermediary
agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected clients, redemptions
or exchanges by a wrap program that are made as a result of a full withdrawal from the wrap
program or as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
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to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the intermediary
agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected clients, the following
transactions in participant-directed retirement plans:
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where the shares being redeemed were purchased with new contributions to the plan
(
e.g.
, payroll contributions, employer contributions, and loan repayments);
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redemptions made in connection with taking out a loan from the plan;
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redemptions in connection with death, disability, hardship withdrawals, or Qualified Domestic Relations Orders;
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redemptions made as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
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redemptions made by a defined contribution plan in connection with a termination or restructuring of the plan;
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59
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redemptions made in connection with a participants termination of employment; and
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redemptions made as part of a periodic rebalancing under an asset allocation model.
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involuntary redemptions, such as those resulting from a shareholders failure to maintain
a minimum investment in a Fund;
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redemptions of shares acquired through the reinvestment of dividends or distributions
paid by a Fund;
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redemptions and exchanges effected by other mutual funds (
e.g.
, funds of funds) that are
sponsored by Schroders or its affiliates;
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to the extent a Fund is used as a qualified default investment alternative under the
Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 for certain 401(k) plans; and
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otherwise as the officers of Schroders or the applicable Trust may determine is
appropriate after consideration of the purpose of the transaction and the potential impact
to the Funds.
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The application of the redemption fee and exceptions may vary among intermediaries, and certain
intermediaries may not apply the exceptions listed above. If you purchase or sell fund shares
through an intermediary, you should contact your intermediary for more information on whether the
redemption fee will be applied to redemptions of your shares.
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For purposes of computing the redemption fee, redemptions by a shareholder to which the fee
applies will be deemed to have been made on a first-purchased, first-redeemed basis.
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EXCHANGES
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You can exchange your Investor Shares of a Fund for Investor Shares of other funds in the
Schroder family of funds offered in this Prospectus at any time at their respective net asset
values. An exchange of shares of Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund may be subject to a redemption fee of 2.00% as
described above under Redemption Fee (such that the exchange would be made at net asset value
minus any redemption fee). The Trusts would treat the exchange as a sale of your Investor Shares,
and any gain on the exchange will generally be subject to tax. For a listing of the Schroder
funds available for exchange and to exchange Investor Shares, please call (800) 464-3108. (From
outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and ask to speak with a representative of
the Schroder Mutual Funds.) In order to exchange shares by telephone, you must complete the
appropriate section of the Account Application. The Trusts and Schroders reserve the right to
change or suspend the exchange privilege at any time. Schroders would notify shareholders of any
such change or suspension.
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DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
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Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund declares dividends from net investment income daily and
distributes these dividends monthly. Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund,
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund each
declare dividends from net investment income and distribute these dividends annually. All Funds
distribute any net realized capital gain at least annually. All Funds make distributions from net
capital gain after applying any available capital loss carryovers.
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Shares begin to earn dividends on the first business day following the day of purchase. Shares
earn dividends through the date of redemption.
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60
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You can choose from four distribution options:
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Reinvest all distributions in additional Investor Shares of your Fund;
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Receive distributions from net investment income in cash while reinvesting capital gains
distributions in additional Investor Shares of your Fund;
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For each Fund except Schroder North American Equity Fund, receive distributions from net
investment income in additional Investor Shares of your Fund while receiving capital gain
distributions in cash; or
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Receive all distributions in cash.
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You can change your distribution option by notifying BFDS in writing. If you do not select an
option when you open your account, all distributions by a Fund will be reinvested in Investor
Shares of that Fund. You will receive a statement confirming reinvestment of distributions in
additional Fund shares promptly following the period in which the reinvestment occurs.
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If correspondence to a shareholders address of record is returned, then, unless BFDS determines
the shareholders new address, BFDS will reinvest dividends and other distributions returned to
it in the applicable Fund(s), and if the correspondence included checks, the checks will be
canceled and re-deposited to the shareholders account at then-current net asset value.
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FREQUENT PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS OF FUND SHARES
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Excessive trading can hurt Fund performance, operations, and shareholders. The Board of Trustees
of each of the Funds has adopted policies and procedures with respect to frequent purchases and
redemptions of Fund shares by Fund shareholders. Each Fund discourages, and does not accommodate,
frequent purchases and redemptions of the Funds shares to the extent Schroders believes that
such trading is harmful to a Funds shareholders, although a Fund will not necessarily prevent
all frequent trading in its shares. Each Fund reserves the right, in its discretion, to reject
any purchase, in whole or in part (including, without limitation, purchases by persons whose
trading activity Schroders believes could be harmful to the Fund). Each Trust or Schroders may
also limit the amount or number of exchanges or reject any purchase by exchange if the Trust or
Schroders believes that the investor in question is engaged in market timing activities or
similar activities that may be harmful to a Fund or its shareholders, although the Trusts and
Schroders have not established any maximum amount or number of such exchanges that may occur in
any period. Each Trust generally expects to inform any persons that their purchase has been
rejected within 24 hours. In addition, the Boards of Trustees of Schroder Emerging Market Equity
Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder
U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund have established
a 2.00% redemption fee for shares of these Funds held for two months or less from their date of
purchase. See How to Sell Shares Redemption Fee for further information. The ability of
Schroders to monitor trades that are placed through omnibus or other nominee accounts is limited
in those instances in which the broker, retirement plan administrator, or fee-based program
sponsor does not provide complete information to Schroders regarding underlying beneficial owners
of Fund shares. Each Trust or its distributor may enter into written agreements with financial
intermediaries who hold omnibus accounts that require the intermediaries to provide certain
information to the Trust regarding shareholders who hold shares through such accounts and to
restrict or prohibit trading in Fund shares by shareholders identified by the Trust as having
engaged in trades that violate the Trusts market timing policies. Each Trust or Schroders may
take any steps they consider appropriate in respect of frequent trading in omnibus accounts,
including seeking additional information from the holder of the omnibus account or potentially
closing the omnibus account (although there can be no assurance that the Trust or Schroders would
do so). Please see the applicable SAI for additional information on frequent purchases and
redemptions of Fund shares. There can be no assurance that the Funds or Schroders will identify
all harmful purchase or redemption activity, or market timing or similar activities, affecting
the Funds, or that the Funds or Schroders will be successful in limiting or eliminating such
activities.
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PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
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SFA, the Funds distributor, Schroders, or any of their affiliates, may, from time to time, make
payments to financial intermediaries for sub-administration, sub-transfer agency, or other
shareholder services or distribution, out of their own resources and without additional cost to a
Fund or its shareholders. Financial intermediaries are firms that, for compensation, sell shares
of mutual funds, including the Funds, and/or provide certain administrative and account
maintenance services to mutual fund shareholders. These financial intermediaries may include,
among others, brokers, financial planners or advisers, banks (including bank trust departments),
retirement plan and qualified tuition program administrators, third-party administrators, and
insurance companies.
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61
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In some cases, a financial intermediary may hold its clients shares of the Funds in nominee or
street name. Financial intermediaries may provide shareholder services, which may include, among
other things: processing and mailing trade confirmations, periodic statements, prospectuses,
annual and semiannual reports, shareholder notices, and other SEC-required communications;
processing tax data; issuing and mailing dividend checks to shareholders who have selected cash
distributions; preparing record date shareholder lists for proxy solicitations; collecting and
posting distributions to shareholder accounts; and establishing and maintaining systematic
withdrawals and automated investment plans and shareholder account registrations.
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The compensation paid by SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates to an intermediary is typically paid
continually over time, during the period when the intermediarys clients hold investments in the
Funds. The amount of continuing compensation paid by SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates to
different financial intermediaries for distribution and/or shareholder services varies. In most
cases, the compensation is paid at an annual rate ranging up to 0.45% (0.00% to 0.45%) of the
value of the financial intermediarys clients investments in the Funds. In addition, SFA,
Schroders, or their affiliates may also pay financial intermediaries one-time charges for setting
up access for the Funds on particular platforms, as well as transaction fees, or per position
fees.
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SFA or its affiliates, at their own expense and out of their own assets, also may provide other
compensation to financial intermediaries in connection with conferences, sales, or training
programs for employees, seminars for the public, advertising or sales campaigns, or other
financial intermediary-sponsored special events. In some instances, the compensation may be made
available only to certain financial intermediaries whose representatives have sold or are
expected to sell significant amounts of shares. Intermediaries that are registered broker-dealers
may not use sales of Fund shares to qualify for this compensation to the extent prohibited by the
laws or rules of any state or any self-regulatory agency, such as the Financial Industry
Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
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If payments to financial intermediaries by the distributor or adviser for a particular mutual
fund complex exceed payments by other mutual fund complexes, your financial adviser and the
financial intermediary employing him or her may have an incentive to recommend that fund complex
over others. A financial intermediary could also have an incentive to recommend a particular Fund
or share class. Please speak with your financial intermediary to learn more about the total
amounts paid to your financial intermediary and his or her firm by SFA and its affiliates, and by
sponsors of other mutual funds he or she may recommend to you. You should also consult
disclosures made by your financial intermediary at the time of purchase.
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TAXES
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Taxes on dividends and distributions.
For federal income tax purposes, distributions of
investment income are taxed as ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are
determined by how long a Fund owned the investments that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares. Distributions of net capital gains from the sale of investments
that a Fund has held for more than one year and that are properly designated by the Fund as
capital gain dividends will be taxable as long-term capital gains. Distributions of gains from
the sale of investments that a Fund owned for one year or less and gains on the sale of bonds
characterized as a market discount sale will be taxable as ordinary income. For taxable years
beginning before January 1, 2011, distributions of investment income designated by a Fund as
derived from qualified dividend income will be taxed in the hands of individuals at rates
applicable to long-term capital gains, provided holding period and other requirements are met at
both the shareholder and Fund level. Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund does not expect a
significant portion of its distributions to be derived from qualified dividend income.
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Distributions are taxable to shareholders even if they are paid from income or gains earned by a
Fund before a shareholders investment (and thus were included in the price the shareholder
paid). Distributions are taxable whether shareholders receive them in cash or reinvest them in
additional shares.
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Distributions by a Fund to retirement plans that qualify for tax-exempt treatment under federal
income tax laws will not be taxable. Special tax rules apply to investments through such plans.
You should consult your tax advisor to determine the suitability of a Fund as an investment
through such a plan and the tax treatment of distributions (including distributions of amounts
attributable to an investment in a Fund) from such a plan.
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A Funds investment in certain debt obligations and derivative contracts may cause the Fund to
recognize taxable income in excess of the cash generated by such obligations or contracts. Thus,
a Fund could be required at times to liquidate other investments, including at times when it may
not be advantageous to do so, in order to satisfy its distribution requirements.
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In general, dividends (other than capital gain dividends) paid to a shareholder that is not a
U.S. person within the meaning of the Code (a foreign person), are subject to withholding of
U.S. federal income tax at a rate of 30% (or lower applicable treaty rate). However, effective
for taxable years of the Funds beginning before January 1, 2010, the Funds generally will not be
required to withhold any amounts with respect to distributions of (i) U.S.-source interest income
that, in general, would not be subject to U.S. federal income tax if earned directly by an
individual foreign person, and (ii) net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term
capital losses, in each case to the extent such distributions are properly designated by the
Funds.
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Long-term capital gain rates applicable to individuals have been temporarily reduced in
general, to 15% with lower rates applying to taxpayers in the 10% and 15% rate brackets for
taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011.
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Taxes when you sell, redeem or exchange your shares.
Any gain resulting from a redemption, sale
or exchange (including an exchange for shares of another fund) of your shares in a Fund will also
generally be subject to federal income tax at either short-term or long-term capital gain rates
depending on how long you have owned your shares.
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Foreign taxes.
A Funds investments in foreign securities may be subject to foreign withholding
or other taxes. In that case, the Funds return on those securities would be decreased.
Shareholders of Schroders Funds that invest more than 50% of their assets in foreign securities
may be entitled to claim a credit or deduction with respect to foreign taxes. Shareholders of
other Schroders funds generally will not be entitled to claim a credit or deduction with respect
to foreign taxes. In addition, investments in foreign securities may increase or accelerate a
Funds recognition of ordinary income and may affect the timing or amount of a Funds
distributions.
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Derivatives.
A Funds use of derivatives may affect the amount, timing, and character of
distributions to shareholders and, therefore, may increase the amount of taxes payable by
shareholders.
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Consult your tax advisor about other possible tax consequences.
This is a summary of certain U.S.
federal income tax consequences of investing in the Funds. You should consult your tax advisor
for more information on your own tax situation, including possible other federal, state, local
and foreign tax consequences of investing in the Funds.
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DISCLOSURES OF FUND PORTFOLIO INFORMATION
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|
Please see the Funds SAI for a description of the Funds policies and procedures regarding the
persons to whom the Funds or Schroders may disclose a Funds portfolio securities positions, and
under which circumstances.
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FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
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|
The financial highlights below are intended to help you understand the financial performance of
each of the Funds for the past five years or, if more recent, since their inception. Certain
information reflects financial results for a single Fund share. The total returns represent the
total return for an investment in Investor Shares of a Fund, assuming reinvestment of all
dividends and distributions.
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For all periods through the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, the financial highlights have
been audited by [ ], independent registered public accountant to the Funds. The audited
financial statements for the Funds and the related independent registered public accountants
report are contained in the Funds combined Annual Report and are incorporated by reference into
the Funds SAI. Copies of the Annual Report may be obtained without charge by writing the Funds
at P.O. Box 8507, Boston, Massachusetts 02266, or by calling (800) 464-3108. The Funds Annual
Report is also available on the following website: www.schroderfunds.com.
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63
Financial Highlights
Selected Per Share Data and Ratios for a Share Outstanding
Through the Period Ended October 31
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Net Asset
|
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Dividends
|
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|
Value,
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Net Realized
|
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Total From
|
|
From Net
|
|
Distributions
|
|
|
Beginning
|
|
Net Investment
|
|
and Unrealized
|
|
Investment
|
|
Investment
|
|
From Net
|
|
|
of Period
|
|
Income (Loss)
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Gains (Losses)
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Operations
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Income
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Realized Gain
|
Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
|
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2009
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|
$
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|
|
$
|
|
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|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
17.91
|
|
|
|
0.11
|
|
|
|
(8.94
|
)
|
|
|
(8.83
|
)
|
|
|
(0.14
|
)
|
|
|
(1.95
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)
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2007
|
|
|
10.55
|
|
|
|
0.04
|
|
|
|
7.37
|
|
|
|
7.41
|
|
|
|
(0.05
|
)
|
|
|
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|
2006(b)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.04
|
|
|
|
0.51
|
|
|
|
0.55
|
|
|
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International Alpha Fund
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
13.44
|
|
|
|
0.14
|
(1)
|
|
|
(6.61
|
)
|
|
|
(6.47
|
)
|
|
|
(0.24
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
2007
|
|
|
10.64
|
|
|
|
0.11
|
(1)
|
|
|
2.78
|
|
|
|
2.89
|
|
|
|
(0.09
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
2006
|
|
|
8.35
|
|
|
|
0.12
|
|
|
|
2.34
|
|
|
|
2.46
|
|
|
|
(0.17
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
2005
|
|
|
7.08
|
|
|
|
0.14
|
|
|
|
1.22
|
|
|
|
1.36
|
|
|
|
(0.09
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
International Diversified Value Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
13.65
|
|
|
|
0.37
|
(1)
|
|
|
(6.34
|
)
|
|
|
(5.97
|
)
|
|
|
(0.59
|
)
|
|
|
(1.48
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
10.54
|
|
|
|
0.48
|
|
|
|
2.80
|
|
|
|
3.28
|
|
|
|
(0.11
|
)
|
|
|
(0.06
|
)
|
2006(c)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.04
|
|
|
|
0.50
|
|
|
|
0.54
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
North American Equity Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
13.52
|
|
|
|
0.22
|
|
|
|
(4.37
|
)
|
|
|
(4.15
|
)
|
|
|
(0.28
|
)
|
|
|
(1.51
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
12.63
|
|
|
|
0.31
|
|
|
|
1.49
|
|
|
|
1.80
|
|
|
|
(0.28
|
)
|
|
|
(0.63
|
)
|
2006
|
|
|
11.15
|
|
|
|
0.23
|
|
|
|
1.53
|
|
|
|
1.76
|
|
|
|
(0.10
|
)
|
|
|
(0.18
|
)
|
2005(d)
|
|
|
11.00
|
|
|
|
0.06
|
|
|
|
0.63
|
|
|
|
0.69
|
|
|
|
(0.05
|
)
|
|
|
(0.49
|
)
|
2005(e)
|
|
|
10.88
|
|
|
|
0.22
|
|
|
|
0.62
|
|
|
|
0.84
|
|
|
|
(0.20
|
)
|
|
|
(0.52
|
)
|
U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
25.40
|
|
|
|
(0.06
|
)(1)
|
|
|
(7.22
|
)
|
|
|
(7.28
|
)
|
|
|
(0.03
|
)
|
|
|
(2.30
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
23.06
|
|
|
|
0.02
|
(1)
|
|
|
4.30
|
|
|
|
4.32
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.98
|
)
|
2006
|
|
|
19.66
|
|
|
|
|
(g)
|
|
|
4.15
|
|
|
|
4.15
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.75
|
)
|
2005
|
|
|
19.58
|
|
|
|
|
(g)
|
|
|
2.11
|
|
|
|
2.11
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2.03
|
)
|
U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
12.56
|
|
|
|
(0.04
|
)(1)
|
|
|
(3.81
|
)
|
|
|
(3.85
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.75
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
10.25
|
|
|
|
(0.03
|
)(1)
|
|
|
2.35
|
|
|
|
2.32
|
|
|
|
(0.01
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
2006(b)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
|
(g)
|
|
|
0.25
|
|
|
|
0.25
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Return Fixed Income Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
9.79
|
|
|
|
0.41
|
|
|
|
(0.22
|
)
|
|
|
0.19
|
|
|
|
(0.40
|
)
|
|
|
(0.01
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
9.81
|
|
|
|
0.50
|
|
|
|
(0.03
|
)
|
|
|
0.47
|
|
|
|
(0.49
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
2006
|
|
|
9.85
|
|
|
|
0.48
|
|
|
|
(0.01
|
)
|
|
|
0.47
|
|
|
|
(0.49
|
)
|
|
|
(0.02
|
)
|
2005(f)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.30
|
|
|
|
(0.15
|
)
|
|
|
0.15
|
|
|
|
(0.30
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ratio of
|
|
Ratio of
|
|
Ratio of Net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Expenses to
|
|
Expenses to
|
|
Investment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Net
|
|
Average Net
|
|
Income (Loss) to
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets
|
|
Assets
|
|
Average Net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Including Waivers
|
|
(Excluding
|
|
Assets (Including
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Asset
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Assets,
|
|
and Reimbursements,
|
|
Waivers,
|
|
Waivers,
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Value, End
|
|
Total
|
|
End of Period
|
|
Excluding
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Portfolio
|
|
|
Total Distributions
|
|
of Period
|
|
Return(a)
|
|
(000)
|
|
Offsets)
|
|
and Offsets)
|
|
and Offsets)
|
|
Turnover Rate
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(2.09
|
)
|
|
|
6.99
|
|
|
|
(55.18
|
)
|
|
|
16,312
|
|
|
|
1.72
|
|
|
|
2.51
|
|
|
|
0.53
|
|
|
|
123
|
|
|
|
|
(0.05
|
)
|
|
|
17.91
|
|
|
|
70.50
|
|
|
|
27,774
|
|
|
|
1.75
|
|
|
|
2.68
|
|
|
|
0.37
|
|
|
|
107
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.55
|
|
|
|
5.50
|
|
|
|
12,767
|
|
|
|
1.87
|
*
|
|
|
4.88
|
|
|
|
0.88
|
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
(0.24
|
)
|
|
|
6.73
|
|
|
|
(48.95
|
)
|
|
|
15,876
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
1.61
|
|
|
|
1.26
|
|
|
|
88
|
|
|
|
|
(0.09
|
)
|
|
|
13.44
|
|
|
|
27.38
|
|
|
|
28,483
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
1.54
|
|
|
|
0.92
|
|
|
|
112
|
|
|
|
|
(0.17
|
)
|
|
|
10.64
|
|
|
|
29.86
|
|
|
|
22,962
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
2.45
|
|
|
|
1.68
|
|
|
|
76
|
|
|
|
|
(0.09
|
)
|
|
|
8.35
|
|
|
|
19.45
|
|
|
|
6,545
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
3.88
|
|
|
|
1.85
|
|
|
|
126
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
(2.07
|
)
|
|
|
5.61
|
|
|
|
(50.61
|
)
|
|
|
7,274
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
3.65
|
|
|
|
3.92
|
|
|
|
50
|
|
|
|
|
(0.17
|
)
|
|
|
13.65
|
|
|
|
31.56
|
|
|
|
12,479
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
3.85
|
|
|
|
2.97
|
|
|
|
58
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.54
|
|
|
|
5.40
|
|
|
|
9,484
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
8.61
|
|
|
|
2.30
|
|
|
|
7
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(1.79
|
)
|
|
|
7.58
|
|
|
|
(34.81
|
)
|
|
|
486,931
|
|
|
|
0.35
|
|
|
|
0.35
|
|
|
|
1.94
|
|
|
|
131
|
|
|
|
|
(0.91
|
)
|
|
|
13.52
|
|
|
|
15.08
|
|
|
|
809,998
|
|
|
|
0.33
|
|
|
|
0.33
|
|
|
|
1.82
|
|
|
|
38
|
|
|
|
|
(0.28
|
)
|
|
|
12.63
|
|
|
|
16.04
|
|
|
|
1,261,983
|
|
|
|
0.33
|
|
|
|
0.33
|
|
|
|
1.66
|
|
|
|
51
|
|
|
|
|
(0.54
|
)
|
|
|
11.15
|
|
|
|
6.35
|
|
|
|
1,303,276
|
|
|
|
0.35
|
|
|
|
0.35
|
|
|
|
1.39
|
|
|
|
30
|
|
|
|
|
(0.72
|
)
|
|
|
11.00
|
|
|
|
7.59
|
|
|
|
883,146
|
|
|
|
0.33
|
|
|
|
0.33
|
|
|
|
1.79
|
|
|
|
89
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(2.33
|
)
|
|
|
15.79
|
|
|
|
(31.08
|
)
|
|
|
178,772
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
(0.29
|
)
|
|
|
74
|
|
|
|
|
(1.98
|
)
|
|
|
25.40
|
|
|
|
20.02
|
|
|
|
302,351
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
|
|
|
0.10
|
|
|
|
77
|
|
|
|
|
(0.75
|
)
|
|
|
23.06
|
|
|
|
21.67
|
|
|
|
231,009
|
|
|
|
1.21
|
|
|
|
1.21
|
|
|
|
(0.11
|
)
|
|
|
101
|
|
|
|
|
(2.03
|
)
|
|
|
19.66
|
|
|
|
11.26
|
|
|
|
140,467
|
|
|
|
1.13
|
|
|
|
1.13
|
|
|
|
(0.29
|
)
|
|
|
107
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(0.75
|
)
|
|
|
7.96
|
|
|
|
(32.31
|
)
|
|
|
11,999
|
|
|
|
1.37
|
|
|
|
2.74
|
|
|
|
(0.38
|
)
|
|
|
92
|
|
|
|
|
(0.01
|
)
|
|
|
12.56
|
|
|
|
22.60
|
|
|
|
10,197
|
|
|
|
1.40
|
|
|
|
3.13
|
|
|
|
(0.23
|
)
|
|
|
93
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.25
|
|
|
|
2.50
|
|
|
|
6,952
|
|
|
|
1.55
|
**
|
|
|
6.14
|
|
|
|
(0.05
|
)
|
|
|
46
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(0.41
|
)
|
|
|
9.57
|
|
|
|
1.93
|
|
|
|
72,310
|
|
|
|
0.40
|
|
|
|
0.70
|
|
|
|
4.03
|
|
|
|
555
|
|
|
|
|
(0.49
|
)
|
|
|
9.79
|
|
|
|
4.90
|
|
|
|
71,259
|
|
|
|
0.40
|
|
|
|
0.96
|
|
|
|
4.97
|
|
|
|
464
|
|
|
|
|
(0.51
|
)
|
|
|
9.81
|
|
|
|
4.90
|
|
|
|
21,795
|
|
|
|
0.40
|
|
|
|
2.05
|
|
|
|
4.86
|
|
|
|
295
|
|
|
|
|
(0.30
|
)
|
|
|
9.85
|
|
|
|
1.51
|
|
|
|
9,138
|
|
|
|
0.40
|
|
|
|
3.05
|
|
|
|
3.61
|
|
|
|
571
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
Had custody offsets been included the ratio would have been 1.75%.
|
|
**
|
|
Had custody offsets been included the ratio would have been 1.40%.
|
|
|
|
Includes redemption fees. Amount less than $0.01 per share.
|
|
(1)
|
|
Per share net investment income (loss) calculated using average shares.
|
|
(a)
|
|
Total returns would have been lower had certain Fund expenses not been waived or reimbursed
during the periods shown. Total return calculations for a period of less than one year are not
annualized.
|
|
(b)
|
|
Commenced operations on March 31, 2006. All ratios for the period have been annualized,
except for the Total Return and the Portfolio Turnover Rate.
|
|
(c)
|
|
Commenced operations on August 30, 2006. All ratios for the period have been annualized,
except for the Total Return and the Portfolio Turnover Rate.
|
|
(d)
|
|
For the six months ended October 31, 2005. The North American Equity Funds fiscal year end
changed from April 30 to October 31. All ratios for the period have been annualized, except
for the Total Return and the Portfolio Turnover Rate.
|
65
|
|
|
(e)
|
|
For the year or period ended April 30.
|
|
(f)
|
|
Commenced operations on December 31, 2004. All ratios for the period have been annualized,
except for the Total Return and the Portfolio Turnover Rate.
|
|
(g)
|
|
Amount was less than $0.01 per share.
|
USA PATRIOT ACT
|
|
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal
law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies
each person who opens an account. What this means to you: When you open an account directly with
a Fund, you will be asked your name, address, date of birth, and other information that will
allow you to be identified. You may also be asked for other identifying documentation. If a Trust
is unable to verify the information shortly after your account is opened, your account may be
closed and your shares redeemed at their net asset values at the time of the redemption.
|
66
INVESTMENT
ADVISER
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISER
SCHRODER EMERGING MARKET EQUITY FUND, SCHRODER
INTERNATIONAL ALPHA FUND, SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL DIVERSIFIED VALUE FUND,
AND SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND
Schroder Investment Management North America Limited
31 Gresham Street
London EC2V 7QA
ADMINISTRATOR
SCHRODER EMERGING MARKET EQUITY FUND, SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL
DIVERSIFIED VALUE FUND, SCHRODER U.S. SMALL AND MID CAP OPPORTUNITIES FUND,
AND SCHRODER TOTAL RETURN FIXED INCOME FUND
SEI Investments Global Funds Services
1 Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
ADMINISTRATOR
SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND
Schroder Fund Advisors, Inc.
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
SUB-ADMINISTRATOR
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL ALPHA FUND, SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND,
AND SCHRODER U.S. OPPORTUNITIES FUND
SEI Investments Global Funds Services
1 Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
CUSTODIAN
J.P. Morgan Chase Bank
270 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10017
DISTRIBUTOR
Schroder Fund Advisors Inc.
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
TRANSFER AND DIVIDEND DISBURSING AGENT
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc.
Two Heritage Drive
North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
COUNSEL
Ropes & Gray LLP
One International Place
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
[ ]
[ ]
67
SCHRODER CAPITAL FUNDS (DELAWARE)
Schroder International Alpha Fund
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
SCHRODER GLOBAL SERIES TRUST
Schroder North American Equity Fund
The Funds have a Statement of Additional Information (SAI) and annual and semi-annual reports to
shareholders which contain additional information about the Funds. In the Funds annual report, you
will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly
affected the Funds performance during their last fiscal year. The SAI and the financial statements
included in the Funds most recent annual reports to shareholders are incorporated by reference
into this Prospectus, which means they are part of this Prospectus for legal purposes. You may get
free copies of these materials, request other information about the Funds, or make shareholder
inquiries by calling (800) 464-3108. From outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and
ask to speak with a representative of the Schroder Mutual Funds. The Funds SAI and annual report
are also available on the following website:
www.schroderfunds.com
.
You may review and copy information about each Fund, including its SAI, at the Securities and
Exchange Commissions public reference room in Washington, D.C. You may call the Commission at
1-800-551-8090 for information about the operation of the public reference room. You may also
access reports and other information about each Fund on the Commissions Internet site at
www.sec.gov
. You may get copies of this information, with payment of a duplication fee, by
electronic request to the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public
Reference Section of the Commission, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You may need to refer to the
Trusts file number under the Investment Company Act, which are: Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware):
811-1911; Schroder Series Trust: 811-7840; and Schroder Global Series Trust: 811-21364.
SCHRODER CAPITAL FUNDS (DELAWARE)
SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
SCHRODER GLOBAL SERIES TRUST
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
(800) 464-3108
File No. 811-1911 Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware)
File No. 811-7840 Schroder Series Trust
File No. 811-21364 Schroder Global Series Trust
PRO-INVESTOR
[ ]
68
PROSPECTUS
March 1, 2010
Equity Funds
SCHRODER EMERGING MARKET EQUITY FUND (SEMVX)
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL ALPHA FUND (SCVEX)
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL DIVERSIFIED VALUE FUND (SIDVX)
SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND (SNAVX)
SCHRODER U.S. OPPORTUNITIES FUND* (SCUVX)
SCHRODER U.S. SMALL AND MID CAP OPPORTUNITIES FUND (SMDVX)
Fixed Income Fund
SCHRODER TOTAL RETURN FIXED INCOME FUND (SBBVX)
Advisor Shares
|
|
|
*
|
|
Closed to new investors, subject to certain exceptions described in this Prospectus.
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
seeks capital appreciation through investment principally in
equity securities of companies in emerging market countries in regions such as Asia, Latin
America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Schroder International Alpha Fund
seeks long-term capital appreciation through investment in
securities markets outside the United States.
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
seeks long-term capital appreciation by investing
principally in a portfolio of equity securities of companies located outside the United States
that the Funds investment sub-adviser considers to offer attractive valuations.
Schroder North American Equity Fund
seeks capital growth by investing primarily in equity
securities of companies in the United States.
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
seeks capital appreciation by investing primarily in securities
of companies in the United States with market capitalizations of $3 billion or less.
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
seeks capital appreciation by investing
primarily in securities of small and mid cap companies in the United States.
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
seeks a high level of total return by investing in a
portfolio of fixed income obligations. The Fund intends to maintain a dollar-weighted average
portfolio duration of three to six years.
This Prospectus explains what you should know about the Funds before you invest. Please read it
carefully.
Neither the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission
has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this Prospectus is accurate or
complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Page
|
|
|
|
3
|
|
|
|
|
3
|
|
|
|
|
7
|
|
|
|
|
11
|
|
|
|
|
16
|
|
|
|
|
20
|
|
|
|
|
24
|
|
|
|
|
28
|
|
|
|
|
33
|
|
|
|
|
33
|
|
|
|
|
34
|
|
|
|
|
35
|
|
|
|
|
37
|
|
|
|
|
38
|
|
|
|
|
40
|
|
|
|
|
41
|
|
|
|
|
43
|
|
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
|
|
51
|
|
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
|
|
54
|
|
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
|
|
59
|
|
|
|
|
59
|
|
|
|
|
59
|
|
|
|
|
60
|
|
|
|
|
60
|
|
|
|
|
61
|
|
|
|
|
62
|
|
|
|
|
62
|
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
2
SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
1.00
|
%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]
|
%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx]
|
)%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
1.50
|
%
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Advisor Shares exceed 1.50% of Advisor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.50% for Advisor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Advisor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Advisor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes
3
for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in
annual fund operating expenses or in the Example, affect the Funds performance. During the most
recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover rate was [
]% of the average value of its
portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity
securities of emerging market companies. The Funds sub-adviser currently considers emerging
market companies to be issuers domiciled in or deriving a substantial portion of their revenues
from countries included in the MSCI Emerging Market Index, which covers 25 countries and over 900
stocks in regions such as Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa, though
the sub-adviser may at times determine to invest in the wider emerging markets universe. The Fund
will typically seek to allocate its investments among a number of different emerging market
countries (though there is no percentage limit on investments in any one emerging market country).
The Fund invests in countries and companies that its sub-adviser believes offer the potential for
capital growth. The sub-adviser considers factors such as a companys potential for above average
earnings growth, a securitys attractive relative valuation, and whether a company has proprietary
advantages. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities, warrants
and depositary receipts of companies of any size market capitalization. The Fund may also invest in
securities issued in initial public offerings (IPOs), closed-end funds or exchange-traded funds,
and may use structured notes, swap transactions, index futures, and other derivative instruments in
pursuing its principal strategy. The Fund may hedge some of its foreign currency exposure back into
the U.S. dollar, although it does not normally expect to do so.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers, directly or through
use of depositary receipts, may be affected by currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign
withholding taxes, or adverse market or other developments affecting issuers located in
foreign countries;
|
|
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
|
4
|
|
IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
|
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested; and
|
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for
a more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a
bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the
risks of investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by
comparing the Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past
performance (before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
Calendar Year Total Returns
[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
Highest 6/01/2007 -
|
|
|
|
|
9/30/2007
|
|
|
15.48
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest 6/01/2008 -
|
|
|
|
|
9/30/2008
|
|
|
-27.60
|
%
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
|
(3/31/06)
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Morgan Stanley Capital International Emerging Markets Index
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
5
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Allan Conway, Head of Emerging Market Equities, has managed the Fund
since its inception in March
2006 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Robert Davy, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in March 2006.
James Gotto, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in March 2006.
Waj Hashmi, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in March 2006.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for
Advisor Shares is $2,500 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Advisor Shares are
intended for purchase through a regular account or a traditional or Roth IRA account that you hold
through an investment intermediary or service organization (Organization) that has an agreement
with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Minimums may be modified, and service
fees may be charged, by your Organization, which you should consult for more information. You may
also purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment by check or wire as
described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption, please call the Funds
transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at 800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from
outside the United States) with any questions about the requirements before submitting a request.
You may sell (redeem) your Advisor Shares on any day the New York Stock Exchange is open through
your Organization, or by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual
Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. If your shares are held in the name of
an Organization, they may only be sold through that Organization. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS, your Organization or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you as
ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement, such
as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are
determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how long
you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
6
Schroder International Alpha Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation through
investment in securities markets outside the United States.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
0.975
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
|
|
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx]
|
)%
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
1.40
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Advisor Shares exceed 1.40% of Advisor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.40% for Advisor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Advisor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Advisor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes
7
for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in
annual fund operating expenses or in the Example, affect the Funds performance. During the most
recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover rate was [
]% of the average value of its
portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund
normally invests at least 65% of its total assets in
equity securities of companies located outside the United States. The Funds sub-adviser attempts to invest broadly
across regions and countries, including emerging market
countries, though the Fund may, from time to time, invest more than 25% of its net assets in any
one country or group of countries. The Fund expects typically to invest in forty to sixty companies
at any one time and will typically invest a substantial portion of its assets in countries included in the
Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index. The sub-adviser relies on a fundamental, research-driven, bottom-up
approach to identify issuers it believes offer the potential for capital growth. The sub-adviser
considers factors such as a companys potential for above average earnings growth, a securitys
attractive relative valuation, and whether a company has proprietary advantages. The Fund may
invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities and warrants of companies of any size
market capitalization. The Fund may also invest in closed-end funds or exchange-traded funds, and
may use options, futures contracts, and other derivative instruments in an attempt
to add incremental return (sometimes referred to as alpha) over the Funds
benchmark index.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers may be affected by
currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign withholding taxes, or adverse market or other
developments affecting issuers located in foreign countries;
|
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
|
|
|
|
Issuer Focus Risk:
focusing on a relatively small number of issuers increases risk and
volatility;
|
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses; and
|
8
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
Calendar Year Total Returns
[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
[9/01/99 - 12/31/09 ]
|
|
|
[21.5 ]
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
|
|
|
[9/01/08-12/31/08 ]
|
|
|
[-23.72]
|
%
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
9
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
|
5 Years
|
|
|
10 Years
|
|
|
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index (reflects
no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Virginie Maisonneuve, CFA, has managed the Fund since March 2005 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for
Advisor Shares is $2,500 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Advisor Shares are
intended for purchase through a regular account or a traditional or Roth IRA account that you hold
through an investment intermediary or service organization (Organization) that has an agreement
with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Minimums may be modified, and service
fees may be charged, by your Organization, which you should consult for more information. You may
also purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment by check or wire as
described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption, please call the Funds
transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at 800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from
outside the United States) with any questions about the requirements before submitting a request.
You may sell (redeem) your Advisor Shares on any day the New York Stock Exchange is open through
your Organization, or by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual
Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. If your shares are held in the name of
an Organization, they may only be sold through that Organization. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS, your Organization or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you as
ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement, such
as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are
determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how long
you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
10
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
1.00
|
%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx
|
])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
1.40
|
%
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Advisor Shares exceed 1.40% of Advisor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.40% for Advisor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Advisor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Advisor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating
11
expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 65% of its total assets in a
diversified portfolio of equity securities of companies located outside of the United States that
the Funds sub-adviser considers to offer attractive valuations. The Fund will invest in a variety
of countries throughout the world including emerging market countries and may, from time to time,
invest more than 25% of its assets in any one country or group of countries. The Fund normally
invests a substantial portion of its assets in countries included in the Morgan Stanley Capital
International EAFE Index. The sub-adviser applies a proprietary quantitative investment analysis that seeks to
capture the historically high returns from value stocks and provide a dividend yield typically
above the Index but with lower risk. The sub-adviser does not consider benchmark weights when it
constructs the Funds portfolio. The sub-adviser believes that indices weighted by
market-capitalization reflect a natural bias toward expensive stocks and geographic regions, and
that, by contrast, a bottom-up approach to portfolio construction, not constrained by reference
to a specific benchmark or index, may uncover less expensive stocks offering better investment
value. The sub-adviser seeks to select stocks anywhere in the world with high dividends and strong
cash-flow; geographic and sector allocations are principally the result of this selection.
The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities and
warrants of companies of any size market capitalization. The Fund may also invest in real estate
investment trusts (REITs), closed-end funds or exchange-traded funds, and may use options, swap
transactions, futures contracts, and other derivative instruments, including over-the-counter
transactions, in pursuing its principal strategy. The Fund may, but is not required to, hedge some
of its foreign currency exposure back into the U.S. dollar.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers may be affected by
currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign withholding taxes, or adverse market or other
developments affecting issuers located in foreign countries;
|
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
12
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
|
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
|
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund; and
|
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
Calendar Year Total Returns
[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
[3/01/07-6/30/07 ]
|
|
|
[8.36]
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
|
|
|
[9/01/08-12/31/08]
|
|
|
[-23.12]
|
%
|
13
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
(8/30/06)
|
|
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Justin Abercrombie, Head of Quantitative Equity Products, has managed the Fund since its inception
in August 2006 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for
Advisor Shares is $2,500 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Advisor Shares are
intended for purchase through a regular account or a traditional or Roth IRA account that you hold
through an investment intermediary or service organization (Organization) that has an agreement
with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Minimums may be modified, and service
fees may be charged, by your Organization, which you should consult for more information. You may
also purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment by check or wire as
described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption, please call the Funds
transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at 800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from
outside the United States) with any questions about the requirements before submitting a request.
You may sell (redeem) your Advisor Shares on any day the New York Stock Exchange is open through
your Organization, or by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual
Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. If your shares are held in the name of
an Organization, they may only be sold through that Organization. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS, your Organization or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you as
ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement, such
as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account.
14
Taxes on distributions of capital gains are
determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how long
you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
15
Schroder North American Equity Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital growth.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
None
|
Annual
Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
0.25%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
0.25%
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
0.60%
|
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Advisor Shares exceed 0.60% of Advisor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 0.60% for Advisor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Advisor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
|
Advisor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating
16
expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity
securities of companies organized and principally traded in, or with their principal places of
business and principally traded in, North America. The Funds portfolio may include large,
well-known companies as well as smaller, less-closely followed companies, including micro-cap
companies. The Funds sub-adviser uses a proprietary quantitative investment analysis to evaluate
market and economic sectors, companies, and stocks on the basis of long-term historical data in
order to construct a highly diversified portfolio. In addition, the sub-adviser attempts to
identify anticipated short-term deviations from longer-term historical trends and cycles, and may
adjust the portfolio to take advantage of those deviations. The Funds investment portfolio,
including the number of positions and the sector weightings, will change as the sub-advisers
evaluation of economic, market and company-specific factors change. The Fund may invest in
common and preferred stocks, convertible securities and warrants of companies of any size market
capitalization. The Fund may also invest in real estate investment trusts (REITs), closed-end funds
or exchange-traded funds, and may use options, futures contracts, and other derivative instruments in
pursuing its principal strategy.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
|
|
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers may be affected by
currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign withholding taxes, or adverse market or other
developments affecting issuers located in foreign countries;
|
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
|
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested; and
|
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses.
|
17
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of two broad-based market indexes.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
Calendar Year Total Returns
[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
|
Highest [ ]
|
|
|
[ ]
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest [ ]
|
|
|
[ ]
|
%
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
5 Years
|
|
(9/17/03)
|
|
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
FTSE North American Index (reflects no deduction for fees,
expenses or taxes)
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or
taxes)
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
[__]%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
18
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Justin Abercrombie, Head of Quantitative Equity Products, has managed the Fund since its inception
in September 2003 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
John Marsland, CFA, Senior Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since May 2006.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for
Advisor Shares is $2,500 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Advisor Shares are
intended for purchase through a regular account or a
traditional or Roth IRA account that you hold through an investment intermediary or service
organization (Organization) that has an agreement with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to
sell shares. Minimums may be modified, and service fees may be charged, by your Organization,
which you should consult for more information. You may also purchase shares by completing an
account application and sending payment by check or wire as described in the application. To avoid
delays in a purchase or redemption, please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data
Services, Inc. (BFDS) at 800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any
questions about the requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your Advisor
Shares on any day the New York Stock Exchange is open through your Organization, or by sending a
letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA
02266) or by calling BFDS. If your shares are held in the name of an Organization, they may only be
sold through that Organization. Generally, purchase and redemption orders for Fund shares are
processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after an order is received by the Fund,
BFDS, your Organization or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you as
ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement, such
as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are
determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how long
you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
19
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
1.00
|
%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
|
0.02
|
%
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx
|
])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
1.52
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Advisor Shares exceed 1.52% of Advisor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.52% for Advisor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Advisor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Advisor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating
20
expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund
expects under current market conditions to invest primarily in equity securities of small capitalization companies, although it may
also invest in micro-capitalization companies or larger companies. The Funds adviser currently
considers small capitalization companies to be those with market capitalizations of $3 billion or
less (or those in the bottom 30% by market capitalization of the U.S. market) at the time of investment, and
considers micro-capitalization companies to be those with market capitalizations of $200 million or less at the time of investment.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in securities of companies located in the United States.
The adviser seeks to identify securities that it believes offer the potential for capital
appreciation, based on novel, superior or niche products or services, operating characteristics,
quality of management, an entrepreneurial management team, their having gone public in recent
years, opportunities provided by mergers, divestitures, or new management, or other factors. The
Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities, and warrants, as well as in
over-the-counter securities. The Fund may also invest in securities issued in initial public
offerings (IPOs), real estate investment trusts (REITs), closed-end funds or exchange-traded funds,
and may use options and other derivative instruments (though not for leverage) in pursuing its
principal strategy. The Fund may also invest, though not normally more than 10% of its total
assets, in fixed income securities, including but not limited to corporate bonds and convertible
bonds.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds securities
increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower investment
performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
|
|
|
|
IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
|
|
|
|
Issuer Focus Risk:
focusing on a relatively small number of issuers increases risk and
volatility;
|
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
|
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
|
|
|
|
Over-the-Counter Risk:
securities traded in over-the-counter markets may trade less
frequently and in limited volumes and thus exhibit more volatility, and the prices paid by the
Fund for such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup;
|
21
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested; and
|
|
|
|
Debt Securities Risk:
investing in fixed income securities (bonds), may expose the Fund to
Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Extension Risk, Valuation Risk, Inflation/Deflation
Risk, and High-Yield/Junk Bonds Risk, among other risks.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
Calendar Year Total Returns
[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
[1/01/00-3/31/00 ]
|
|
|
[18.14]
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
|
|
|
[9/01/08-12/31/08]
|
|
|
[-23.16]
|
%
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
5 Years
|
|
10 Years
|
|
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
22
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
5 Years
|
|
10 Years
|
|
|
|
Russell 2000 Index
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Portfolio
Managers
Jenny B. Jones, has managed the Fund since 2003 and is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for
Advisor Shares is $2,500 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Advisor Shares are
intended for purchase through a regular account or a traditional or Roth IRA account that you hold
through an investment intermediary or service organization (Organization) that has an agreement
with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Minimums may be modified, and service
fees may be charged, by your Organization, which you should consult for more information. You may
also purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment by check or wire as
described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption, please call the Funds
transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at 800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from
outside the United States) with any questions about the requirements before submitting a request.
You may sell (redeem) your Advisor Shares on any day the New York Stock Exchange is open through
your Organization, or by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual
Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. If your shares are held in the name of
an Organization, they may only be sold through that Organization. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS, your Organization or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
23
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
1.00
|
%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx
|
])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
1.30
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Advisor Shares exceed 1.30% of Advisor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 1.30% for Advisor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Advisor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Advisor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating
24
expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in
securities of companies considered by the Funds adviser at the time to be small or mid cap
companies located in the United States. The adviser currently considers a company to be a small or
mid cap company if it has a market capitalization of between $750 million and $9 billion (or is in
the bottom 40% by market capitalization of the U.S. market) at the time
of investment. The Fund may also invest in
equity securities of micro-cap companies or larger companies if the adviser believes they offer the
potential for capital appreciation. The adviser seeks to identify securities that it believes offer
the potential for capital appreciation, based on novel, superior or niche products or services,
operating characteristics, quality of management, an entrepreneurial management team, their having
gone public in recent years, opportunities provided by mergers, divestitures or new management, or
other factors. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, convertible securities and
warrants, as well as in over-the-counter securities. The Fund may also invest in securities issued
in initial public offerings (IPOs), real estate investment trusts (REITs), closed-end funds or
exchange-traded funds, and may use options and other derivative instruments (though not for
leverage) in pursuing its principal strategy. The Fund may also invest, though not normally more
than 10% of its total assets, in fixed income securities, including but not limited to corporate
bonds and convertible bonds.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
|
|
|
|
IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
|
|
|
|
Over-the-Counter Risk:
securities traded in over-the-counter markets may trade less
frequently and in limited volumes and thus exhibit more volatility, and the prices paid by the
Fund for such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup;
|
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
|
25
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested; and
|
|
|
|
Debt Securities Risk:
investing in fixed income securities (bonds), may expose the Fund to
Credit Risk, Interest Rate Risk, Extension Risk, Valuation Risk, Inflation/Deflation
Risk, and High-Yield/Junk Bonds Risk, among other risks.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
Calendar Year Total Returns
[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
[3/01/07-6/30/07 ]
|
|
|
[7.80
|
]%
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
|
|
|
[9/01/08 -
12/31/08]
|
|
|
[-21.10
|
]%
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
|
(3/31/06)
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
26
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
(3/31/06)
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Russell 2500 Index
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Portfolio Managers
Jenny B. Jones, Lead Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in March 2006 and
is the Lead Portfolio Manager.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for
Advisor Shares is $2,500 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Advisor Shares are
intended for purchase through a regular account or a traditional or Roth IRA account that you hold
through an investment intermediary or service organization (Organization) that has an agreement
with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Minimums may be modified, and service
fees may be charged, by your Organization, which you should consult for more information. You may
also purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment by check or wire as
described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption, please call the Funds
transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at 800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from
outside the United States) with any questions about the requirements before submitting a request.
You may sell (redeem) your Advisor Shares on any day the New York Stock Exchange is open through
your Organization, or by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual
Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. If your shares are held in the name of
an Organization, they may only be sold through that Organization. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS, your Organization or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
27
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks a high level of total return.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
None
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
None
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx
|
]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx
|
])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
0.65
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
In order to limit the expenses, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February
28, 2011 to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Advisor Shares exceed 0.65% of Advisor
Shares average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be
terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be 0.65% for Advisor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Advisor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Advisor Shares (whether or
not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating
28
expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Funds adviser seeks to invest the Funds assets in a portfolio of securities that offer high total return from current
income, increases in market value, or both. The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in fixed income obligations.
The adviser currently considers fixed income obligations to include U.S. Government securities, debt securities of domestic or
foreign (including emerging market) corporations, mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities, municipal bonds, obligations
of international agencies or supranational entities, zero-coupon securities, convertible securities, inflation-indexed bonds,
structured notes, including hybrid or indexed securities, event-linked bonds, and loan participations, delayed funding loans
and revolving credit facilities, and short-term investments, such as repurchase agreements, bank certificates of deposit, fixed
time deposits, and bankers acceptances. The Fund invests in securities that pay interest at fixed, floating or variable rates.
The Fund may invest in securities of issuers located anywhere in the world, but will normally not invest more than 20% of its
total assets in securities that are not denominated in the U.S. dollar. The adviser currently expects that a substantial portion
of the Funds assets will be invested in mortgage-backed securities (including collateralized mortgage obligations) and
asset-backed securities. The Fund will invest principally in securities that, at the time of purchase, are rated investment grade
(or considered by the adviser to be of comparable quality) although the Fund may invest up to 20% of its total assets in securities
below investment grade, which are sometimes referred to as junk bonds. The Fund intends to maintain a dollar weighted average
portfolio duration of three to six years. Duration is a measure of the expected life of a fixed income security that is used to
determine the sensitivity of the securitys price to changes in interest rates. The adviser generally relies on detailed proprietary
research, and focuses on sectors and securities it believes are undervalued relative to the market. The adviser seeks to exploit
inefficiencies in the valuation of risk and reward and looks to capitalize on rapidly shifting market risks and dynamics caused by
economic and technical factors. The adviser considers the liquidity of securities and the portfolio overall as an important factor
in portfolio construction. The adviser may trade the Funds portfolio securities more frequently than many other mutual funds.
The Fund may enter into derivatives transactions such as interest rate futures and options, interest rate swap agreements,
forward contracts, and credit default swaps for hedging purposes or to gain long or short exposure to securities or market
sectors as a substitute for cash investments (not for leverage) or pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvest of
the proceeds. The Fund may, but is not required to, enter into foreign currency exchange transactions, for hedging purposes or
to adjust the exposure of the Fund to changes in the values of various foreign currencies.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets. Frequent trading of the Funds securities increases transaction costs, may
result in taxable capital gains, and may lower investment performance. Other principal risks of
investing in the Fund include:
|
|
Interest Rate Risk:
fixed income, or debt, securities may decline in value due to changes
in interest rates, extended duration of principal payments at below-market interest rate, or
prepayment;
|
|
|
Credit/High-Yield Risk:
the ability, or perceived ability, of the issuer of a debt security to make
timely payments of interest and principal will affect the securitys value, especially for
speculative securities below investment grade (high-yield bonds or junk bonds);
|
|
|
Valuation Risk:
certain securities may be difficult to value, and to the extent the Fund
sells a security at a price lower than that used to value the security, its net asset value
will be adversely affected;
|
29
|
|
Inflation/Deflation Risk:
the value of the Funds investments may decline as inflation
reduces the value of money; conversely, if deflation reduces prices throughout the economy
there may be an adverse effect on the creditworthiness of issuers in whose securities the Fund
invests;
|
|
|
Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk:
investing in mortgage- and asset-backed
securities involves interest rate, credit, valuation, extension and liquidity risks and the
risk that payments on the underlying assets are delayed, prepaid, subordinated or defaulted
on;
|
|
|
U.S. Government Securities Risk:
securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government may
not be supported by the full faith and credit of the United States and investing in such
securities involves interest rate, extension and mortgage and asset-backed securities risks;
|
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers may be affected by
currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign withholding taxes, or adverse market or other
developments affecting issuers located in foreign countries;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times; and
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities.
|
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Funds in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index.
Past performance
(before and after taxes) is not necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit
www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx] for more current performance information.
Calendar Year Total Returns
[**To be updated with chart reflecting annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
|
Highest
[9/01/08 - 12/31/08]
|
|
|
[5.15]
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
3/01/08 - 6/30/08
|
|
|
[-1.77]
|
%
|
30
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
5 Years
|
|
(12/31/04)
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Portfolio Managers
Chris Ames, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Ed Fitzpatrick, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2006.
David Harris, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in December 2004.
Tony Hui, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2007.
Gregg T. Moore, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in December 2004.
Wesley A. Sparks, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since its inception in December
2004.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for
Advisor Shares is $2,500 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Advisor Shares are
intended for purchase through a regular account or a traditional or Roth IRA account that you hold
through an investment intermediary or service organization (Organization) that has an agreement
with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Minimums may be modified, and service
fees may be charged, by your Organization, which you should consult for more information. You may
also purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment by check or wire as
described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption, please call the Funds
transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at 800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from
outside the United States) with any questions about the requirements before submitting a request.
You may sell (redeem) your Advisor Shares on any day the New York Stock Exchange is open through
your Organization, or by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual
31
Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. If your shares are held in the name of
an Organization, they may only be sold through that Organization. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS, your Organization or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
32
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES OF AND ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND
SCHRODER EMERGING MARKET EQUITY FUND
Investment Objective.
To seek capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in
equity securities of companies the Funds sub-adviser considers to be emerging market issuers.
(This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees, without a vote of the
shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to shareholders.) The Fund
may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. The Fund may invest the remainder
of its assets in securities of issuers located anywhere in the world. The Fund may invest in
common and preferred stocks, securities convertible into common and preferred stocks, warrants to
purchase common and preferred stocks, and index-linked warrants. The Fund may also invest in
sponsored or unsponsored American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), Global Depositary Receipts
(GDRs), European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) or other similar securities representing
ownership of foreign securities (collectively, Depositary Receipts). The Fund may also invest
in securities of closed-end investment companies and exchange-traded funds (open-end investment
companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in transactions on major stock
exchanges) (ETFs), including securities of emerging market issuers. An investment in a domestic
closed-end fund or ETF that has a policy that it will normally invest at least 80% of its net
assets in equity securities of emerging market issuers, and has emerging market or the
equivalent in its name, or foreign funds with similar investment policies, will be treated as an
investment in equity securities of emerging market issuers for purposes of determining if the
Fund has invested at least 80% of its net assets in such securities.
The Fund invests in equity securities of issuers domiciled or doing business in emerging market
countries. The Funds sub-adviser currently considers emerging market issuers to be issuers
domiciled in or deriving a substantial portion of their revenues from countries included at the
time of investment in the MSCI Emerging Market Index, which covers 25 countries and over 900
stocks in regions such as Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The
Funds sub-adviser may at times determine based on its own analysis that an economy not included
in the Index should nonetheless be considered an emerging market country, in which case that
country would constitute an emerging market country for purposes of the Funds investments. The
Funds sub-adviser has determined that Chinese companies listed in Hong Kong will be considered
emerging market issuers for this purpose. There is no limit on the amount of the Funds assets
that may be invested in securities of issuers domiciled in any one emerging market country,
although the Fund will typically seek to allocate its investments among a number of different
emerging market countries.
The Fund invests in issuers and countries that its sub-adviser believes offer the potential for
capital growth. In identifying investments for the Fund, the Funds sub-adviser considers a
variety of factors, including the issuers likelihood of above average earnings growth, the
securities attractive relative valuation, and whether the issuer enjoys proprietary advantages.
The Fund may invest in securities of companies of any size, including companies with large,
medium, and small market capitalizations, including micro-cap companies. The Fund may also
purchase securities issued in initial public offerings (IPOs). In addition, the Funds
sub-adviser considers the risk of local political and/or economic instability associated with
particular countries and regions and the liquidity of local markets. The Fund generally sells
securities when the Funds sub-adviser believes they are fully priced or to take advantage of
other investments the Funds sub-adviser considers more attractive.
The Fund may purchase or sell structured notes, or enter into swap transactions, for hedging or
as an alternative to purchasing or selling securities. The Funds sub-adviser may hedge some of
the Funds foreign currency exposure back into the U.S. dollar, although it does not normally
expect to do so. The Fund may also purchase or sell futures on indices, including country
specific or overall emerging market indices. The Fund may use derivatives to gain long or short
exposure to securities or market sectors as a substitute for cash investments (not for leverage)
or pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvestment of the proceeds.
Additional Performance Information.
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above compares
the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Morgan Stanley Capital
International Emerging Markets Index is an unmanaged market-capitalization index of companies
representative of the market structure of emerging countries in Europe, the Middle East, Africa,
Latin America and Asia.
33
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL ALPHA FUND
Investment Objective.
Long-term capital appreciation through investment in securities markets
outside the United States.
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Schroder International Alpha Fund (formerly, Schroder
International Fund) invests principally in securities of companies located outside of the United
States, and normally invests at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of companies
the Funds sub-adviser considers to be located outside of the United States. The Fund will invest
in a variety of countries throughout the world. The Fund may, from time to time, invest more than
25% of its net assets in any one country or group of countries. The Fund will consider an issuer
located in a country if it is organized under the laws of that country and is principally traded
in that country, or is domiciled and has its principal place of business located in that country
and is principally traded in that country, or if the Funds sub-adviser determines that the
issuer has more than 50% of its assets in, or derives more than 50% of its revenues from, that
country. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, securities convertible into common
and preferred stocks, and warrants to purchase common and preferred stocks.
The Fund normally invests a substantial portion of its assets in countries included in the Morgan
Stanley Capital International EAFE Index, which is a market-weighted index of companies
representative of the market structure of certain developed market countries in Europe,
Australia, Asia, and the Far East. The Fund expects typically to invest in forty to sixty
companies located outside of the United States at any one time.
The Fund invests in issuers that the Funds sub-adviser believes offer the potential for capital
growth. In identifying candidates for investment, the Funds sub-adviser may consider the
issuers likelihood of above average earnings growth, the securities attractive relative
valuation, the quality of the securities, and whether the issuer has any proprietary advantages.
The Fund generally sells securities when the Funds sub-adviser believes they are fully priced or
to take advantage of other investments the Funds sub-adviser considers more attractive. The Fund
may invest in companies of any market-capitalization. The Fund may purchase or sell futures
contracts and options, in order to gain long or short exposure to particular securities or
markets, in connection with hedging transactions, or otherwise to increase total return. By
employing these techniques the Funds portfolio manager tries to add incremental return over the
Funds benchmark index, which incremental return is sometimes referred to as alpha.
The Fund also may do the following:
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Invest in securities of issuers domiciled or doing business in emerging market
countries.
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Invest in securities of closed-end investment companies and ETFs (open-end investment
companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in transactions on major stock
exchanges) that invest primarily in foreign securities.
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Additional Performance Information.
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above
compares the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Morgan Stanley Capital
International EAFE Index is a market-weighted index composed of companies representative of the
market structure of certain developed market countries in Europe, Australasia, and the Far East,
and reflects dividends net of non-recoverable withholding tax.
The current portfolio management team primarily responsible for making investment decisions
for the Fund assumed this responsibility effective March 2005. The performance results shown in
the bar chart and table in the Summary Information section for periods prior to March 2005
were achieved by the Fund under different lead portfolio managers.
Advisor Shares of the Fund were offered commencing May 15, 2006. The performance
information provided in the bar chart and table in the Summary Information section for periods
prior to May 15, 2006 reflects the performance of the Investor Shares of the Fund, offered
through a separate prospectus, adjusted to reflect the 12b-1 fees that would have been paid by
Advisor Shares.
Effective April 1, 2006, the combined advisory and administrative fees of the Fund increased to
0.975% per annum. If the Fund had paid such higher fees during the prior periods shown, the
returns shown in the bar chart and table in the Summary Information section would have been
lower. See Management of the Funds Management Fees
34
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL DIVERSIFIED VALUE FUND
Investment Objective.
Long-term capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund invests principally in a diversified portfolio of
equity securities of companies located outside of the United States that the Funds sub-adviser
considers to offer attractive valuations. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks,
securities convertible into common and preferred stocks, and warrants to purchase common and
preferred stocks.
The Funds sub-adviser applies a proprietary quantitative investment analysis that seeks to
develop a portfolio designed to capture the historically high returns from value stocks but with
lower risk than the Morgan Stanley Capital International EAFE Index over the longer term and to
provide a dividend yield typically above that Index. The sub-adviser expects that a substantial
portion of the Funds investments will normally be in countries included in the Morgan Stanley
Capital International EAFE Index, which is a market-weighted index of companies representative of
the market structure of certain developed market countries in Europe, Australia, Asia, and the
Far East, although the Fund may invest in any country in the world, including emerging market
countries.
The main elements of the sub-advisers portfolio construction process are the identification of
attractive value stocks within a broad universe of companies around the world and careful
management of portfolio risks. The portfolio construction process is bottom-up. The sub-adviser
seeks to select stocks anywhere in the world with high dividends and strong cash-flow. The Funds
geographic and sector allocations are principally the result of the sub-advisers selection of
individual companies that it believes offer the greatest value. (The sub-adviser may adjust
geographic or sector weights resulting from this process in order to avoid extreme outcomes.)
The sub-adviser does not consider benchmark weights when it constructs the Funds portfolio.
Individual stock weights are determined using a disciplined stock weighting process. The Funds
sub-adviser believes that indices weighted by market-capitalization reflect a natural bias
towards expensive stocks and geographic regions, and that, by contrast, a bottom-up approach to
portfolio construction, not constrained by reference to a specific benchmark or index, has the
potential to provide investment in less expensive stocks offering better investment value.
The Fund normally invests at least 65% of its net assets in equity securities of companies
located in countries outside of the United States. The Fund will invest in a variety of countries
throughout the world. The Fund may, from time to time, invest more than 25% of its assets in any
one country or group of countries. The Funds sub-adviser will consider an issuer to be located
in a country if it is organized under the laws of and its equity securities are principally
traded in that country, or it is domiciled or has its principal place of business located in and
its equity securities are principally traded in that country, or if the Funds sub-adviser
determines that the issuer has more than 50% of its assets in, or derives more than 50% of its
revenues from, that country. The Fund may invest in companies of any market-capitalization,
including large, well known companies, as well as smaller, less closely followed companies,
including micro-cap companies.
The Fund may, but is not required to, enter into foreign currency exchange transactions, for
hedging purposes or to adjust the exposure of the Fund to changes in the values of various
foreign currencies.
The Fund generally sells securities when the Funds sub-adviser believes they are fully priced or
to take advantage of other investments the Funds sub-adviser considers more attractive.
The Fund may purchase or sell futures contracts and options and enter into total return swaps, in
order to gain long or short exposure to particular securities or markets in connection with
hedging transactions or otherwise to increase total return. The Fund may from time to time enter
into other transactions involving derivatives, including over-the-counter transactions, if the
sub-adviser considers it appropriate.
The Fund may also invest in closed-end investment companies, trusts, ETFs (open-end investment
companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in transactions on major stock
exchanges), and real estate investment trusts (REITs).
35
Additional Performance Information.
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above
compares the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Morgan Stanley Capital
International EAFE Index is a market-weighted index composed of companies representative of the
market structure of certain developed market countries in Europe, Australasia and the Far East,
and reflects dividends reinvested net of non-recoverable withholding tax.
36
SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND
Investment Objective.
The Fund seeks long-term capital growth.
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund invests principally in equity securities of companies
in the United States. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, securities convertible
into common and preferred stocks, and warrants to purchase common and preferred stocks.
The Funds sub-adviser is responsible for day-to-day portfolio management. It uses a proprietary
quantitative investment analysis that evaluates market and economic sectors, companies, and
stocks on the basis of long-term historical data. The Funds sub-adviser uses that analysis to
construct a highly diversified portfolio of stocks. In addition, the Funds sub-adviser attempts
to identify anticipated short-term deviations from longer-term historical trends and cycles, and
may adjust the Funds portfolio to take advantage of those deviations.
The Funds investment portfolio, including the number of companies represented in the portfolio
and the sector weightings of the portfolio, will change as the Funds sub-advisers evaluation of
economic and market factors, as well as factors affecting individual companies, changes.
The Fund will invest in a well diversified portfolio of companies of any size that its
sub-adviser judges to be attractive compared to the overall market. The Funds portfolio may
include large, well known companies, as well as smaller, less closely followed companies,
including micro-cap companies. The Fund generally sells securities when the Funds sub-adviser
believes they are fully priced or to take advantage of other investments the Funds sub-adviser
considers more attractive.
The Fund may purchase or sell futures contracts and options, in order to gain long or short
exposure to particular securities or markets, in connection with hedging transactions, or
otherwise to increase total return. The Fund may, but is not required to, enter into foreign
currency exchange transactions, for hedging purposes or to adjust the exposure of the Fund to
changes in the values of various foreign currencies. The Fund may also invest in closed-end
investment companies, trusts, ETFs (open-end investment companies whose shares may be bought or
sold by investors in transactions on major stock exchanges), and REITs.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of companies
organized and principally traded in, or with their principal places of business and principally
traded in, North America. (This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees,
without a vote of the shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to
shareholders). The Fund may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. An
investment in a U.S. closed-end fund or ETF that has a policy that it will normally invest at
least 80% of its net assets in equity securities of North American companies, and has North
America or the equivalent in its name, or foreign funds with similar investment policies, will
be treated as an investment in equity securities of North American companies for purposes of
determining if the Fund has invested at least 80% of its net assets in such securities. The Fund
considers North America to consist of the United States and Canada.
Additional Performance Information.
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above
compares the Funds returns with those of two broad-based market indexes. The FTSE North
American Index is a market-capitalization value weighted composite index of over 700 U.S. and
Canadian companies and reflects the reinvestment of dividends. The S&P 500 Index is a
market-capitalization, value-weighted composite index of 500 large capitalization U.S. companies
and reflects the reinvestment of dividends.
Advisor Shares of the Fund were offered commencing March 31, 2006. The performance information
provided in the bar chart and table in the Summary Information section for periods prior to
March 31, 2006 reflects the performance of the Investor Shares of the Fund, offered through a
separate prospectus, adjusted to reflect the 12b-1 fees that would have been paid by Advisor
Shares.
37
SCHRODER U.S. OPPORTUNITIES FUND
The Fund is closed to new investors. Shareholders of the Fund as of April 18, 2007 may continue
to add to their Fund positions. Investors who did not own shares of the Fund prior to its closure
on April 18, 2007 generally will not be allowed to buy shares of the Fund, with the following
exceptions:
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participants in most employee benefit plans or employer-sponsored retirement plans,
if the Fund had been established as an investment option under the plan prior to April
18, 2007; and
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a Trustee of a Trust, an employee of Schroder Investment Management North America
Inc. (Schroders), or a member of the immediate family of any of these persons.
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Schroders may make additional exceptions or modify this policy at any time.
Investment Objective.
To seek capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies.
In selecting investments for the Fund, the Funds adviser seeks
to identify securities of companies that it believes offer the potential for capital
appreciation, based on novel, superior or niche products or services, operating characteristics,
quality of management, an entrepreneurial management team, their having gone public in recent
years, opportunities provided by mergers, divestitures or new management, or other factors.
The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks, securities convertible into common and
preferred stocks, warrants to purchase common and preferred stocks, and REITs. Under current
market conditions, the Fund expects to invest primarily in equity securities of small
capitalization companies in the United States, although it may also invest in
micro-capitalization companies. The Funds adviser currently considers small capitalization
companies to be companies that have market capitalizations of $3 billion or less, measured at the
time of purchase, and micro-capitalization companies to be companies with market capitalizations
of $200 million or less, measured at the time of purchase. It is important to note that these
ranges may change over time as market conditions change, although the adviser will generally
consider a company to be a small capitalization company if it is in the bottom 30% by market
capitalization of the U.S. market at the time of purchase. However, the Fund may invest any
portion of its assets in equity securities of larger companies. The Fund may also invest in
securities of companies outside the United States, although the Fund will normally invest at
least 80% of its net assets in securities of companies the Funds adviser considers to be located
in the United States. (This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees, without
a vote of the shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to
shareholders). The Fund may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. The Fund
will consider an issuer located in the United States if it is organized under the laws of the
United States or any state of the United States and is principally traded in the United States,
or is domiciled and has its principal place of business located in the United States and is
principally traded in the United States, or if the Funds adviser determines that the issuer has
more than 50% of its assets in or derives more than 50% of its revenues from the United States.
The Fund generally sells securities when the Funds adviser believes they are fully priced or to
take advantage of other investments the Funds adviser considers more attractive. The Fund may
purchase securities on securities exchanges as well as over-the-counter, including securities
offered in IPOs, and may invest in securities of closed-end investment companies and in ETFs
(open-end investment companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in transactions on
major stock exchanges). The Fund may invest, to a limited extent, in fixed income securities,
including but not limited to corporate bonds and convertible bonds; the Funds adviser expects
that such investments will not normally exceed 10% of the Funds total assets.
The Fund may use options (puts and calls) for hedging purposes, or to gain long or short exposure
to securities or market sectors as a substitute for cash investments (not for leverage) or
pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvestment of the proceeds. Any use of
derivatives strategies entails the risks of investing directly in the securities or instruments
underlying the derivatives strategies, as well as the risks of using derivatives generally,
described in this Prospectus and in the Funds Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
Additional Performance Information.
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above compares
the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Russell 2000 Index is a
market-capitalization weighted, broad-based index of 2000 small capitalization U.S. companies.
38
The current portfolio manager primarily responsible for making investment decisions for the Fund
assumed this responsibility effective January 2, 2003. The performance results shown in the bar
chart and table in the Summary Section for periods prior to January 2, 2003 were achieved by
the Fund under a different portfolio manager.
Advisor Shares of the Fund were offered commencing May 15, 2006. The performance information
provided in the bar chart and table in the Summary Section for periods prior to May 15, 2006
reflects the performance of the Investor Shares of the Fund, offered through a separate
prospectus, adjusted to reflect the 12b-1 fees that would have been paid by Advisor Shares.
Effective May 1, 2006, the combined advisory and administrative fees of the Fund increased to
1.00% per annum. If the Fund had paid such higher fees during the prior periods shown, the
returns shown in the bar chart and in the table in the Summary Section would have been lower.
See Management of the Funds Management Fees.
39
SCHRODER U.S. SMALL AND MID CAP OPPORTUNITIES FUND
Investment Objective.
To seek capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund invests primarily in companies in the United States
(determined as described below) that the Funds adviser considers to be small or mid cap
companies. In selecting investments for the Fund, the Funds adviser seeks to identify securities
of companies that it believes offer the potential for capital appreciation, based on novel,
superior, or niche products or services, operating characteristics, quality of management, an
entrepreneurial management team, their having gone public in recent years, opportunities provided
by mergers, divestitures, new management, or other factors. These factors generally apply to all
investments made by the Fund, including IPOs, although the Fund may also invest in certain IPOs
that the portfolio manager believes will be in high demand. The Fund may sell a security when the
Funds adviser believes it is fully priced or to take advantage of other investments the Funds
adviser considers more attractive.
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in securities of companies considered by
the Funds adviser at the time to be small or mid cap companies located in the United States.
(This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees, without a vote of the
shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to shareholders). The Fund
may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. The Funds adviser currently
considers a company to be a small or mid cap company if the company has a market capitalization
of between $750 million and $9 billion, measured at the time of purchase. It is important to note
that these ranges may change over time as market conditions change, although the adviser will
generally consider a company to be a small or mid cap company if it is in the bottom 40% by
market capitalization of the U.S. market at the time of purchase. The Fund may also invest in
equity securities of micro-cap companies or larger companies, if the Funds adviser believes they
offer the potential for capital appreciation. The Fund may invest in common and preferred stocks,
securities convertible into common and preferred stocks, warrants to purchase common and
preferred stocks, and REITs. The Fund may purchase securities on securities exchanges as well as
over-the-counter, including securities offered in IPOs, and may invest in securities of
closed-end investment companies and in ETFs (open-end investment companies whose shares may be
bought or sold by investors in transactions on major stock exchanges). The Fund may use options
for hedging purposes, or to gain long or short exposure to securities or market sectors as a
substitute for cash investments (not for leverage) or pending the sale of securities by the Fund
and reinvestment of the proceeds. Any use of derivatives strategies entails the risks of
investing directly in the securities or instruments underlying the derivatives strategies, as
well as the risks of using derivatives generally, described in this Prospectus and in the Funds
SAI. The Fund may invest, to a limited extent, in fixed income securities, including but not
limited to corporate bonds and convertible bonds; the Funds adviser expects that such
investments will not normally exceed 10% of the Funds total assets.
The Funds adviser will consider an issuer located in the United States if it is organized under
the laws of the United States or any state of the United States and is principally traded in the
United States, or is domiciled or has its principal place of business located in the United
States and is principally traded in the United States, or if the Funds adviser determines that
the issuer has more than 50% of its assets in or derives more than 50% of its revenues from the
United States.
Additional Performance Information.
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above compares
the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Russell 2500 Index is a
market-capitalization weighted, broad-based index measuring the performance of the 2500 smallest
companies in the Russell 3000 Index, which represents approximately 70% of the total
market-capitalization of the Russell 300 Index.
40
SCHRODER TOTAL RETURN FIXED INCOME FUND
Investment Objective.
To seek a high level of total return.
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund (formerly, Schroder
U.S. Core Fixed Income Fund) normally invests at least 80% of its net assets in fixed income
obligations. (This policy is non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees, without a vote
of the shareholders of the Fund, upon at least 60 days prior written notice to shareholders).
The Fund may use derivatives for purposes of complying with this policy. In making investments
for the Fund, the adviser seeks to invest the Funds assets in a portfolio of securities that
offer high total return from current income, increases in market values of the Funds
investments, or both. The adviser currently considers fixed income obligations to include:
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securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities;
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debt securities of domestic or foreign corporations;
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mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities;
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taxable and tax-exempt municipal bonds;
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obligations of international agencies or supranational entities;
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debt securities convertible into equity securities;
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inflation-indexed bonds;
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structured notes, including hybrid or indexed securities, event-linked bonds, and loan participations;
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delayed funding loans and revolving credit facilities; and
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short-term investments, such as repurchase agreements, bank certificates of deposit,
fixed time deposits, and bankers acceptances.
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The Fund may invest in securities of companies located in a variety of countries outside the
United States, including obligations of non-U.S. governmental issuers or of private issuers
located in any country outside the United States, including emerging market countries. The Fund
will normally invest no more than 20% of its total assets in securities that are not denominated
in the U.S. dollar.
The Funds adviser currently expects that a substantial portion of the Funds assets will be
invested in mortgage-backed securities (including collateralized mortgage obligations) and
asset-backed securities.
The Fund will invest principally in securities of investment grade at the time of purchase,
meaning either that a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (for example,
Moodys, Standard & Poors, or Fitch) has rated the securities Baa3 or BBB (or the equivalent)
or better, or the adviser has determined the securities to be of comparable quality. The Fund may
invest up to 20% of the Funds total assets in securities rated below investment grade (or, if
unrated, determined by the Funds adviser to be of comparable quality), sometimes referred to as
junk bonds, although normally the Fund will not invest in securities unless a nationally
recognized statistical rating organization (for example, Moodys Standard & Poors, or Fitch) has
rated the securities CC (or the equivalent) or better, or the Funds adviser has determined the
securities to be of comparable quality. If more than one nationally recognized statistical rating
organization has rated a security, the adviser will consider the highest rating for the purposes
of determining whether the security is investment grade.
Fixed income securities in which the Fund invests may include securities that pay interest at
fixed rates or at floating or variable rates; payments of principal or interest may be made at
fixed intervals or only at maturity or upon the occurrence of stated events or contingencies. The
Fund may also invest in zero-coupon securities.
The Fund may enter into interest rate futures and options, interest rate swap agreements and
credit default swaps. (A derivative instrument will be considered to be a fixed income security
if it is itself a fixed income security or, in the advisers judgment, it may provide an
investment return comparable to the return that might be provided by a fixed income security.)
The Fund may use
41
these derivatives strategies for hedging purposes. The Fund may also use derivatives to gain
long or short exposure to securities or market sectors as a substitute for cash investments (not
for leverage) or pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvestment of the proceeds. For
example, the Fund may enter into a so-called credit default swap with respect to one or more
fixed income securities to take advantage of increases or decreases in the values of those
securities without actually purchasing or selling the securities. The Fund may also seek to
obtain market exposure to the securities in which it may invest by entering into forward
contracts or similar arrangements to purchase those securities in the future. Any use of
derivatives strategies entails the risks of investing directly in the securities or instruments
underlying the derivatives strategies, as well as the risks of using derivatives generally,
described in this Prospectus and in the Funds SAI.
The Fund intends to maintain a dollar weighted average portfolio duration of three to six years.
Duration is a measure of the expected life of a fixed income security that is used to determine
the sensitivity of the securitys price to changes in interest rates. Unlike the maturity of a
fixed income security, which measures only the time until final payment is due, duration takes
into account the time until all payments of interest and principal on a security are expected to
be made, including how these payments are affected by prepayments and by changes in interest
rates.
The Fund may, but is not required to, enter into foreign currency exchange transactions, for
hedging purposes or to adjust the exposure of the Fund to changes in the values of various
foreign currencies.
In managing the Fund, the Funds adviser generally relies on detailed proprietary research. The
adviser focuses on the sectors and securities it believes are undervalued relative to the market.
The Funds adviser will trade the Funds portfolio securities actively, and may experience a high
portfolio turnover rate. In selecting individual securities for investment, the Funds adviser
typically:
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uses in-depth fundamental research to identify sectors and securities for investment by the Fund and to analyze risk;
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exploits inefficiencies in the valuation of risk and reward;
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looks to capitalize on rapidly shifting market risks and dynamics caused by economic and technical factors; and
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considers the liquidity of securities and the portfolio overall as an important factor in portfolio construction.
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The Fund generally sells securities in order to take advantage of investments in other securities
offering what the adviser believes is the potential for more attractive current income or capital
gain or both.
Additional Performance Information.
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the
presentation of such performance.
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above compares
the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index. The Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate
Index is a widely-used measure of short-term debt returns. It is not managed.
42
PRINCIPAL RISKS OF INVESTING IN THE FUNDS
A Fund may not achieve its objective. The following provides more detail about certain of the
Funds principal risks and the circumstances which could
adversely affect the value of a Funds shares or its investment return. Unless a strategy or policy described below is specifically
prohibited by a Funds investment restrictions as set forth in this Prospectus or under
Investment Restrictions in the Funds SAI, or by applicable law, a Fund may engage in each of
the practices described below, although only the Funds specifically indicated below use the
applicable strategy as a principal investment strategy.
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Interest Rate Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The values of bonds and other
debt instruments usually rise and fall in response to changes in interest rates. Declining
interest rates generally increase the values of existing debt instruments, and rising
interest rates generally reduce the value of existing debt instruments. Interest rate risk
is generally greater for investments with longer durations or maturities. Some investments
give the issuer the option to call or redeem an investment before its maturity date. If an
issuer calls or redeems an investment during a time of declining interest rates, a Fund
might have to reinvest the proceeds in an investment offering a lower yield, and therefore
might not benefit from any increase in value as a result of declining interest rates.
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Credit Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund,
and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The ability, or perceived ability,
of the issuer of a debt security to make timely payments of interest and principal on the
security will affect the value of the security. It is possible that the ability of an issuer
to meet its obligations will decline substantially during the period when a Fund owns
securities of that issuer, or that the issuer will default on its obligations. An actual or
perceived deterioration in the ability of an issuer to meet its obligations will likely have
an adverse effect on the value of the issuers securities.
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If a security has been rated by more than one nationally recognized statistical rating
organization a Funds adviser will consider the highest rating for the purposes of
determining whether the security is of investment grade. A Fund will not necessarily
dispose of a security held by it if its rating falls below investment grade, although the
Funds adviser will consider whether the security continues to be an appropriate investment
for the Fund. A Fund considers whether a security is of investment grade only at the time
of purchase. A Fund may invest in securities which will not be rated by a nationally
recognized statistical rating organization (such as Moodys, Standard & Poors, or Fitch),
but the credit quality will be determined by the adviser.
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Credit risk is generally greater for investments issued at less than their face values and
required to make interest payments only at maturity rather than at intervals during the life
of the investment. Credit rating agencies base their ratings largely on the issuers
historical financial condition and the rating agencies investment analysis at the time of
rating. The rating assigned to any particular investment does not necessarily reflect the
issuers current financial condition, and does not reflect an assessment of an investments
volatility or liquidity. Although investment grade investments generally have lower credit
risk than investments rated below investment grade, they may share some of the risks of
lower-rated investments, including the possibility that the issuers may be unable to make
timely payments of interest and principal and thus default.
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Changes in the financial condition of an issuer, changes in specific economic or political
conditions that affect a particular type of security or issuer, and changes in general
economic or political conditions can affect the credit quality or value of an issuers
securities.
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Extension Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
During periods of rising
interest rates, the average life of certain types of securities may be extended because of
slower than expected principal payments. This may lock in a below-market interest rate,
increase the securitys duration, and reduce the value of the security.
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High-Yield/Junk Bonds Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The lower
ratings of certain securities held by a Fund reflect a greater possibility that adverse
changes in the financial condition of the issuer or in general economic conditions, or both,
or an unanticipated rise in interest rates, may impair the ability of the issuer to make
payments of interest and principal. The inability (or perceived inability) of issuers to
make timely payment of interest and principal would likely make the values of securities
held by a Fund more volatile and could limit a Funds ability to sell its securities at
prices approximating the values the Fund has placed on such securities. In the absence of a
liquid trading market for securities held by them, a Fund at times may be unable to
establish the fair value of such securities. To the extent a Fund invests in securities in
the lower rating categories, the achievement of the Funds goals is more dependent on the
Fund advisers investment analysis than would be the case if the Fund was investing in
securities in the higher rating categories.
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Inflation/Deflation Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
Inflation risk
is the risk that a Funds assets or income from a Funds investments may be worth less in
the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the real value
of a Funds portfolio could decline. Deflation risk is the risk that prices throughout the
economy may decline over
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time the opposite of inflation. Deflation may have an adverse effect on the creditworthiness of
issuers and may make issuer default more likely, which may result in a decline in the value
of a Funds portfolio.
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Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund).
Mortgage-backed securities, including collateralized mortgage obligations and certain
stripped mortgage-backed securities represent a participation in, or are secured by,
mortgage loans. Asset-backed securities are structured like mortgage-backed securities, but
instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage loans, the underlying assets may include
such items as motor vehicle installment sales or installment loan contracts, leases of
various types of real and personal property and receivables from credit card agreements.
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Traditional debt investments typically pay a fixed rate of interest until maturity, when the
entire principal amount is due. By contrast, payments on mortgage-backed and many
asset-backed investments typically include both interest and partial payment of principal.
Principal may also be prepaid voluntarily, or as a result of refinancing or foreclosure. The
Fund may have to invest the proceeds from prepaid investments in other investments with less
attractive terms and yields. As a result, these securities may have less potential for
capital appreciation during periods of declining interest rates than other securities of
comparable maturities, although they may have a similar risk of decline in market value
during periods of rising interest rates. Because the prepayment rate generally declines as
interest rates rise, an increase in interest rates will likely increase the duration, and
thus the volatility, of mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities. In addition to interest
rate risk (as described above under Interest Rate Risk), investments in mortgage-backed
securities composed of subprime mortgages may be subject to a higher degree of credit risk,
valuation risk and liquidity risk (as described above under Credit Risk and below under
Valuation Risk and Liquidity Risk). Duration is a measure of the expected life of a fixed
income security that is used to determine the sensitivity of the securitys price to changes
in interest rates. Unlike the maturity of a fixed income security, which measures only the
time until final payment is due, duration takes into account the time until all payments of
interest and principal on a security are expected to be made, including how these payments
are affected by prepayments and by changes in interest rates.
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The types of mortgages underlying securities held by the Fund may differ and may be affected
differently by market factors. For example, the Funds investments in residential
mortgage-backed securities will likely be affected significantly by factors affecting
residential real estate markets and mortgages generally; similarly, investments in commercial
mortgage-backed securities will likely be affected significantly by factors affecting
commercial real estate markets and mortgages generally.
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The ability of an issuer of asset-backed securities to enforce its security interest in the
underlying assets may be limited. Some mortgage-backed and asset-backed investments receive
only the interest portion (IOs) or the principal portion (POs) of payments on the
underlying assets. The yields and values of these investments are extremely sensitive to
changes in interest rates and in the rate of principal payments on the underlying assets. IOs
tend to decrease in value if interest rates decline and rates of repayment (including
prepayment) on the underlying mortgages or assets increase; it is possible that the Fund may
lose the entire amount of its investment in an IO due to a decrease in interest rates.
Conversely, POs tend to decrease in value if interest rates rise and rates of repayment
decrease. Moreover, the market for IOs and POs may be volatile and limited, which may make
them difficult for the Fund to buy or sell.
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The Fund may gain investment exposure to mortgage-backed and asset-backed investments by
entering into agreements with financial institutions to buy the investments at a fixed price
at a future date. The Fund may or may not take delivery of the investments at the termination
date of such an agreement, but will nonetheless be exposed to changes in value of the
underlying investments during the term of the agreement.
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Liquidity Risk. (All Funds).
Liquidity risk exists when particular investments are
difficult to purchase or sell. A Funds investments in illiquid securities may reduce the
returns of the Fund because it may be unable to sell the illiquid securities at an
advantageous time or price. Investments in foreign securities, derivatives, or securities
with substantial market and/or credit risk tend to have the greatest exposure to liquidity
risk. Illiquid securities may be highly volatile and difficult to value.
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Derivatives Risk. (All Funds).
Derivatives are financial contracts whose value depends
on, or derives from, the value of an underlying asset, reference rate, or index. A Funds
use of derivative instruments involves risks different from, and possibly greater than, the
risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments.
Derivatives are subject to a number of risks described elsewhere in this section, such as
liquidity risk, interest rate risk, and credit risk, and the risk that a derivative
transaction may not have the effect the Funds adviser or sub-adviser anticipated.
Derivatives also involve the risk of mispricing or improper valuation and the risk that
changes in the value of the derivative may not correlate perfectly with the underlying
asset, rate, or index. Derivative transactions typically involve leverage and may be highly
volatile. Use of derivatives other than for hedging purposes may be considered speculative
and may have the effect of creating investment leverage, and when a Fund invests in a
derivative instrument it could lose more than the principal amount invested. Also, suitable
derivative transactions may not be available in all circumstances and there can be no
assurance that a Fund will engage in these transactions to reduce exposure to other risks
when that would be beneficial. Many derivative transactions are entered into over the
counter (not on an exchange or contract market); as a result, the value of such a
derivative transaction will depend on the ability and willingness of a Funds counterparty
to perform its obligations under the transaction. A Fund may be required to segregate
certain of its assets on the books of its custodian in respect of derivatives transactions
entered into by the Fund. Special tax considerations apply to a Funds investment in
derivatives. See the SAI for more information.
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Small and Mid Cap Companies Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North
American Equity Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund).
The Funds may invest in companies that are smaller and less well-known
than larger, more widely held companies. Micro, small and mid cap companies may offer
greater opportunities for capital appreciation than larger companies, but may also involve
certain special risks. They are more likely than larger companies to have limited product
lines, markets or financial resources, or to depend on a small, inexperienced management
group. Securities of smaller companies may trade less frequently and in lesser volume than
more widely held securities and their values may fluctuate more sharply than other
securities. They may also trade in the over-the-counter market or on a regional exchange, or
may otherwise have limited liquidity. These securities may therefore be more vulnerable to
adverse developments than securities of larger companies, and the Funds may have difficulty
establishing or closing out their securities positions in smaller companies at prevailing
market prices. Also, there may be less publicly available information about smaller
companies or less market interest in their securities as compared to larger companies, and
it may take longer for the prices of the securities to reflect the full value of their
issuers earnings potential or assets.
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Equity Securities Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity
Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities
Fund).
The principal risks of investing in the Funds include the risk that the value of the
equity securities in the portfolio will fall, or will not appreciate as anticipated by the
Funds adviser or sub-adviser, due to factors that adversely affect equities markets
generally or particular companies in the portfolio. Common stocks represent an equity or
ownership interest in an issuer and are subject to issuer and market risks that may cause
their prices to fluctuate over time. Preferred stocks represent an equity or ownership
interest in an issuer that typically pays dividends at a specified rate and that has
priority over common stock in the payment of dividends and in liquidation. If interest rates
rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing the price of
preferred stocks to decline. Different types of investments tend to shift into and out of
favor with investors depending on changes in market and economic conditions.
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Convertible Securities Risk. (All Funds).
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund,
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund may
invest in convertible securities, which are corporate debt securities that may be converted
at either a stated price or stated rate into underlying shares of common or preferred stock,
and so subject to the risks of investments in both debt securities and equity securities.
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund, Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund may invest in
securities that are convertible into preferred and common stocks, and so subject to the
risks of investments in both debt and equity securities. The market value of convertible
securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, tends to increase as
interest rates decline. In addition, because of the conversion feature, the market value of
convertible securities tends to vary with fluctuations in the market value of the underlying
preferred and common stocks and, therefore, also will react to variations in the general
market for equity securities.
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Warrants Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund,
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund, and
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The Funds may invest in warrants to
purchase equity securities. The price, performance and liquidity of such warrants are
typically linked to the underlying stock. These instruments have many characteristics of
convertible bonds and their prices may, to some degree, reflect the performance of the
underlying stock.
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Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
The Funds
may also purchase securities of companies in IPOs, which frequently are smaller companies.
Such securities have no trading history, and information about these companies may be
available for very limited periods. The prices of securities sold in IPOs also can be highly
volatile. Under certain market conditions, very few companies, if any, may determine to make
IPOs of their securities. At any particular time or from time to time the Funds may not be
able to invest in securities issued in IPOs or invest to the extent desired, because, for
example, only a small portion (if any) of the securities being offered in an IPO may be made
available to the Funds. The investment performance of the Funds during periods when they are
unable to invest significantly or at all in IPOs may be lower than during periods when the
Funds are able to do so.
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Foreign Investment Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity
Fund, and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund).
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund,
Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, and
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund may invest in foreign securities. Schroder North
American Equity Fund may invest in securities of Canadian companies and in companies located
in other countries in North America. Investments in foreign securities entail certain risks.
There may be a possibility of nationalization or expropriation of assets, confiscatory
taxation, political or financial instability, and diplomatic developments that could affect
the value of a Funds investments in certain foreign countries. In addition, there may be
less information publicly available about a foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer, and
foreign issuers are not generally subject to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting
standards and practices comparable to those in the United States. The securities of some
foreign issuers are less liquid and at times more volatile than securities of comparable
U.S. issuers. Foreign brokerage commissions and other fees are also generally higher than in
the United States. Foreign settlement procedures and trade regulations may involve certain
risks (such as delay in payment or delivery of securities or in the recovery of a Funds
assets held abroad) and expenses not present in the settlement of domestic investments.
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Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund may invest in Chinese companies. While companies in
China may be subject to limitations on their business relationships under Chinese law, these
laws may not be consistent with certain political and security concerns of the United States.
As a result, Chinese companies may have material direct or indirect business relationships
with governments that are considered state sponsors of terrorism by the United States
government, or governments that otherwise have policies in conflict with the U.S. government.
Investments in such companies may subject the Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund to the
risk that these companies reputation and price in the market will be adversely affected.
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In addition, legal remedies available to investors in certain foreign countries may be more
limited than those available to investors in the United States or in other foreign countries.
The willingness and ability of foreign governmental entities to pay principal and interest on
government securities depends on various economic factors, including the issuers balance of
payments, overall debt level, and cash-flow considerations related to the availability of tax
or other revenues to satisfy the issuers obligations. If a foreign governmental entity
defaults on its obligations on the securities, a Fund may have limited recourse available to
it. The laws of some foreign countries may limit a Funds ability to invest in securities of
certain issuers located in those countries.
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Special tax considerations apply to a Funds investments in foreign securities. In
determining whether to invest a Funds assets in debt securities of foreign issuers, the
Funds adviser or sub-adviser considers the likely impact of foreign taxes on the net yield
available to the Fund and its shareholders. Income and/or gains received by a Fund from
sources within foreign countries may be reduced by withholding and other taxes imposed by
such countries. Tax conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or
eliminate such taxes. Any such taxes paid by a Fund will reduce its income available for
distribution to shareholders. In certain circumstances, a Fund may be able to pass through to
shareholders credits for foreign taxes paid. Certain of these risks may also apply to some
extent to investments in U.S. companies that are traded in foreign markets, or investments in
U.S. companies that have significant foreign operations.
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In addition, a Funds investments in foreign securities or foreign currencies may increase or
accelerate the Funds recognition of ordinary income and may affect the timing or character
of the Funds distributions.
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Foreign Currencies Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity
Fund, and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund).
Since foreign securities normally are
denominated and traded in foreign currencies, the value of a Funds assets may be affected
favorably or unfavorably by currency exchange rates, currency exchange control regulations,
foreign withholding taxes, and restrictions or prohibitions on the repatriation of foreign
currencies. A Fund may, but is not required to, buy or sell foreign securities and options
and futures contracts on foreign securities for hedging purposes in connection with its
foreign investments.
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If a Fund purchases securities denominated in foreign currencies, a change in the value of
any such currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a change in the U.S. dollar value of
the Funds assets and the Funds income available for distribution. Officials in foreign
countries may from time to time take actions in respect of their currencies which could
significantly affect the value of a Funds assets denominated in those currencies or the
liquidity of such investments. For example, a foreign government may unilaterally devalue its
currency against other currencies, which would typically have the effect of reducing the U.S.
dollar value of investments denominated in that currency. A foreign government may also limit
the convertibility or repatriation of its currency or assets denominated in its currency,
which would adversely affect the U.S. dollar value and liquidity of investments denominated
in that currency. In addition, although at times most of a Funds income may be received or
realized in these currencies, the Fund will be required to compute and distribute its income
in U.S. dollars. As a result, if the exchange rate for any such currency declines after the
Funds income has been earned and translated into U.S. dollars but before payment to
shareholders, the Fund could be required to liquidate portfolio securities to make such
distributions. Similarly, if a Fund incurs an expense in U.S. dollars and the exchange rate
declines before the expense is paid, the Fund would have to convert a greater amount of U.S.
dollars to pay for the expense at that time than it would have had to convert at the time the
Fund incurred the expense. A Fund may, but is not required to, buy or sell foreign currencies
and options and futures contracts on foreign currencies for hedging purposes in connection
with its foreign investments.
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Emerging Markets Securities Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, and Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income Fund).
Investing in emerging market securities poses risks different
from, and/or greater than, risks of investing in domestic securities or in the securities of
foreign, developed countries. These risks include: smaller market-capitalization of
securities markets, which may suffer periods of relative illiquidity; significant price
volatility; restrictions on foreign investment; and possible repatriation of investment
income and capital. In addition, foreign investors may be required to register the proceeds
of sales, and future economic or political crises could lead to price controls, forced
mergers, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure, nationalization or the creation of
government monopolies. The currencies of emerging market countries may experience
significant declines against the U.S. dollar, and devaluation may occur subsequent to
investments in these currencies by a Fund. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation
rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities
markets of certain emerging market countries. Although many of the emerging market
securities in which a Fund may invest are traded on securities exchanges, they may trade in
limited volume, and the exchanges may not provide all of the conveniences or protections
provided by securities exchanges in more developed markets.
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Additional risks of emerging market securities may include: greater social, economic and
political uncertainty and instability; more substantial governmental involvement in the
economy; less governmental supervision and regulation; unavailability of currency hedging
techniques; companies that are newly organized and small; differences in auditing and
financial reporting standards, which may result in unavailability of material information
about issuers; and less developed legal systems. In addition, emerging securities markets may
have different clearance and settlement procedures, which may be unable to keep pace with the
volume of securities transactions or otherwise make it difficult to engage in such
transactions. Settlement problems may cause a Fund to miss attractive investment
opportunities, hold a portion of its assets in cash pending investment, or be delayed in
disposing of a portfolio security. Such a delay could result in possible liability to a
purchaser of the security.
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Geographic Focus Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity
Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities
Fund).
To the extent that a Fund invests a substantial amount of its assets in one country
or group of countries, its performance may at times be worse than the performance of other
mutual funds that invest more broadly. Because the Schroder North American Equity Fund
invests principally in equity securities of North American companies, and the Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund invest principally
in equity securities of U.S. companies, their performance may at times be worse than the
performance of other mutual funds that invest more broadly.
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Issuer Focus Risk. (Schroder International Alpha Fund and Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund).
The Funds, and in particular the Schroder International Alpha Fund, may invest in a
smaller number of companies than comprise the portfolios of other similar mutual funds. When
a Fund invests in a relatively small number of issuers, changes in the value of one or more
portfolio securities may have a greater effect on the Fund than if the Fund invested more
broadly.
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Depositary Receipts Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund).
The Fund may invest in
ADRs, as well as GDRs, EDRs or other similar securities representing ownership of foreign
securities. Depositary Receipts generally evidence an ownership interest in a corresponding
foreign security on deposit with a financial institution. Investments in non-U.S. issuers
through Depositary Receipts and similar instruments may involve certain risks not applicable
to investing in U.S. issuers, including changes in currency rates, application of local tax
laws, changes in governmental administration or economic or monetary policy or changed
circumstances in dealings between nations. Costs may be incurred in connection with
conversions between various currencies. The Fund may invest in both sponsored and
unsponsored Depositary Receipts. Unsponsored Depositary Receipts are organized independently
and without the cooperation of the issuer of the underlying securities. As a result,
available information concerning the issuers may not be as current for unsponsored
Depositary Receipts and the prices of unsponsored Depositary Receipts may be more volatile
than if such instruments were sponsored by the issuer.
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Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North
American Equity Fund, and Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund).
A Fund may invest in other
investment companies or pooled vehicles, including closed-end funds, trusts, and ETFs, that
are advised by the Funds adviser, sub-adviser or its affiliates or by unaffiliated parties,
to the extent permitted by applicable law. When investing in a closed-end investment
company, a Fund may pay a premium above such investment companys net asset value per share
and when the shares are sold, the price received by the Fund may be at a discount to net
asset value. As a shareholder in an investment company or pooled vehicle, a Fund, and
indirectly that Funds shareholders, would bear its ratable share of the investment
companys expenses, including advisory and administrative fees, and would at the same time
continue to pay its own fees and expenses. Where an investment company or pooled investment
vehicle offers multiple classes of shares or interests, the Fund will seek to invest in the
class with the lowest expenses to a Fund, although there is no guarantee that it will do so.
ETFs issue redeemable securities, but because these securities may only be redeemed in kind
in significant amounts investors generally buy and sell shares in transactions on securities
exchanges. Investments in other investment companies may be subject to investment
limitations such as redemption fees. See How to Sell Fund Shares Redemption Fees for
more information.
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Real Estate Investment Trust Risk. (Schroder International Diversified Value Fund,
Schroder North American Equity Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S.
Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
An investment in a REIT may be subject to risks
similar to those associated with direct ownership of real estate, including losses from
casualty or condemnation, and changes in local and general economic conditions, supply and
demand, interest rates, zoning laws, regulatory limitations on rents, property taxes and
operating expenses. In addition, an investment in a REIT is subject to additional risks,
such as poor performance by the manager of the REIT, adverse changes to the tax laws or
failure by the REIT to qualify for tax-free pass-through of income under the Code, and to
the risk of general declines in stock prices. In addition, some REITs have limited
diversification because they invest in a limited number of properties, a narrow geographic
area, or a single type of property. Also, the organizational documents of a REIT may contain
provisions that make changes in control of the REIT difficult and time-consuming. As a
shareholder in a REIT a Fund, and indirectly the Funds shareholders, would bear its ratable
share of the REITs expenses and would at the same time continue to pay its own fees and
expenses.
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Over-the-Counter Risk. (Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid
Cap Opportunities Fund).
Securities traded in over-the- counter markets may trade in smaller
volumes, and their prices may be more volatile, than securities principally traded on
securities exchanges. Such securities may be less liquid than more widely traded securities.
In addition, the prices of such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup, which a
Fund pays as part of the purchase price.
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Equity Markets Risk. (Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha
Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund,
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
Although stocks may outperform other asset classes over the long term, their prices tend to
fluctuate more dramatically over the shorter term. These movements may result from factors
affecting individual companies, or from broader influences like changes in interest rates,
market conditions, investor confidence or announcements of economic, political or financial
information. While potentially offering greater opportunities for capital growth than
larger, more established companies, the stocks of smaller companies may be particularly
volatile, especially during periods of economic uncertainty. These companies may face less
certain growth prospects, or depend heavily on a limited line of products and services or
the efforts of a small number of key management personnel.
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Management Risk. (All Funds).
Because the Funds are actively managed, each Funds
investment return depends on the ability of its adviser or sub-adviser to manage its
portfolio successfully. A Funds adviser or sub-adviser and its investment team will apply
investment techniques and risk analyses in making investment decisions for the Fund, but
there can be no guarantee that these will produce the desired results. There is a risk that
each Funds adviser or sub-adviser may be incorrect in its analysis of economic trends,
countries, industries, companies, or other matters.
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Frequent Trading/Portfolio Turnover Risk (All Funds).
The length of time a Fund has held
a particular security is not generally a consideration in investment decisions. The
investment policies of a Fund may lead to frequent changes in the Funds investments,
particularly in periods of volatile market movements, in order to take advantage of what the
Funds adviser or sub-adviser believes to be temporary disparities in normal yield
relationships between securities. A change in the securities held by a Fund is known as
portfolio turnover. Portfolio turnover generally involves some expense to a Fund,
including bid-asked spreads, dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs on the sale of
securities and reinvestments in other securities, and may result in the realization of
taxable capital gains (including short-term gains, which are generally taxed to shareholders
at ordinary income rates). The trading costs and tax effects associated with portfolio
turnover may adversely affect a Funds performance. During periods when a Fund experiences
high portfolio turnover rates, these effects are likely to be more pronounced. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, the Funds had the following portfolio turnover rates:
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund: [ ]%; Schroder International Alpha Fund: [ ]%;
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund: [ ]%; Schroder North American Equity Fund: [
]%; Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund: [ ]%; Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities
Fund: [ ]%; and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund: [ ]%. For Schroder Total Return
Fixed Income Fund, the variation in its rate of turnover over the last two fiscal years is
due to the nature of the Funds investments and market conditions. Consult your tax advisor
regarding the effect of a Funds portfolio turnover rate on your investments.
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U.S. Government Securities Risk. (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund).
U.S.
Government securities include a variety of securities that differ in their interest rates,
maturities, and dates of issue. While securities issued or guaranteed by some agencies or
instrumentalities of the U.S. Government (such as the Government National Mortgage
Association) are supported by the full faith and credit of the United States, securities
issued or guaranteed by certain other agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government
(such as Federal Home Loan Banks) are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from
the U.S. Government, and securities issued or guaranteed by certain other agencies and
instrumentalities of the U.S. Government (such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac) are supported
only by the credit of the issuer itself. Although Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac are now under
conservatorship by the Federal Housing Finance Agency, and are benefiting from a liquidity
backstop of the U.S. Treasury, no assurance can be given that these initiatives will be
successful. Investments in these securities are also subject to interest rate risk (as
described above under Interest Rate Risk), prepayment risk (as described above under
Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk), extension risk (as described above under
Extension Risk), and the risk that the value of the securities will fluctuate in response
to political, market, or economic developments.
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Valuation Risk (Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund).
Due to the nature of some
Funds investments and the market environment, a portion of the Funds assets may be valued
by Schroders at fair value pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of Trustees. A
Funds assets may be valued using prices provided by a pricing service or, alternatively, a
broker-dealer or other market intermediary (sometimes just one broker-dealer or other market
intermediary) when other reliable pricing sources may not be available. To the extent the
Fund relies on a pricing service to value some or all of its portfolio securities, it is
possible that the pricing information provided by the service will not reflect the actual
price a Fund would receive upon sale of a security. In addition, to the extent a Fund sells
a security at a price lower than the price it has been using to value the security, its net
asset value will be adversely affected. If a Fund has overvalued securities it holds, you
may end up paying too much for the Funds shares when you buy into the Fund. If a Fund
underestimates the price of its portfolio securities, you may not receive the full market
value for your Fund shares when you sell.
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NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND TECHNIQUES
In addition to the principal investment strategies described in the Principal Investment
Strategies section above, each Fund may at times, but is not required to, use the strategies and
techniques described below, which involve certain special risks. This Prospectus does not attempt
to disclose all of the various investment techniques and types of securities that the Funds
adviser or sub-adviser might use in managing the Funds. As in any mutual fund, investors must
rely on the professional investment judgment and skill of the Funds adviser and sub-adviser.
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Short Sales.
A Fund may sell a security short when the Funds adviser or sub-adviser
anticipates that the price of the security will decline. A Fund may make a profit or incur a
loss depending on whether the market price of the security decreases or increases between
the date of the short sale and the date on which the Fund closes the short position. A
short position will result in a loss if the market price of the security in question
increases between the date when the Fund enters into the short position and the date when
the Fund closes the short position. Such a loss could theoretically be unlimited in a case
where such Fund is unable, for whatever reason, to close out its short position. In
addition, short positions may result in a loss if a portfolio strategy of which the short
position is a part is otherwise unsuccessful.
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Securities Loans and Repurchase Agreements.
A Fund may lend portfolio securities to
broker-dealers, and may enter into repurchase agreements. These transactions must be fully
collateralized at all times, but involve some risk to a Fund if the other party should
default on its obligation and the Fund is delayed or prevented from recovering the
collateral. A Fund may enter into securities loans and repurchase agreements as a
non-principal investment strategy, as a way to recognize additional current income on
securities that it owns.
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Temporary Defensive Strategies.
At times, the Funds adviser or sub-adviser may judge
that conditions in the securities markets make pursuing a Funds investment strategy
inconsistent with the best interests of its shareholders. At such times, the Funds adviser
or sub-adviser may, but is not required to, take temporary defensive positions that are
inconsistent with a Funds principal investment strategies in attempting to respond to
adverse market, economic, political, or other conditions. In implementing these defensive
strategies, the Fund would invest in investment grade fixed income securities, cash or money
market instruments to any extent the Funds adviser or sub-adviser considers consistent with
such defensive strategies. It is impossible to predict when, or for how long, a Fund would
use these alternate strategies. One risk of taking such temporary defensive positions is
that the Fund may not achieve its investment objective.
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Pricing.
At times market conditions might make it hard to value some investments. If a
Fund has valued securities it holds too high, you may end up paying
too much for the Funds shares when you buy into a Fund. If a Fund underestimates the price of its portfolio
securities, you may not receive the full market value for your Fund shares when you sell. To
the extent a Fund relies on a pricing service to value some or all of its portfolio
securities, it is possible that the pricing information provided by the service will not
reflect the actual price the Fund would receive upon a sale of the security.
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Other Investments.
A Fund may also invest in other types of securities and utilize a
variety of investment techniques and strategies that are not described in this Prospectus.
These securities and techniques may subject the Fund to additional risks. Please see the SAI
for additional information about the securities and investment techniques described in this
Prospectus and about additional techniques and strategies that may be used by the Funds.
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Securities in Default.
Securities that are in default are subject generally to the risks
described above under Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund High-Yield/Junk Bonds
Risk, and which offer little or no prospect for the payment of the full amount of unpaid
principal and interest.
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Percentage Investment Limitations.
Unless otherwise noted, all percentage limitations on
Fund investments will apply at the time of investment, including the requirements that:
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in
equity securities of companies the Funds sub-adviser considers to be emerging market
issuers; Schroder International Alpha Fund normally invest at least 65% of its total assets
in equity securities of companies the Funds adviser considers to be located outside of the
United States; Schroder International Diversified Value Fund normally invest at least 65% of
its net assets in equity securities of companies located in countries outside of the United
States; Schroder North American Equity Fund normally invest at least 80% of its net assets
in equity securities of companies organized and principally traded in, or with their
principal places of business and principally traded in, North America; Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in securities of companies
the Funds adviser considers to be located in the United States; Schroder U.S. Small and Mid
Cap Opportunities Fund normally invest at least 80% of its net assets in companies
considered by the Funds adviser at the time to be small or mid cap companies located in the
United States; and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund normally invest at least 80% of
its net assets in fixed income obligations. An investment by a Fund would not be considered
to violate a percentage limitation unless an excess or deficiency were to occur or exist
immediately after and as a result of an investment. References in the discussion of the
Funds investment policies above to 80% of a Funds net assets refer to that percentage of
the aggregate of the Funds net assets and the amount, if any, of borrowings by a Fund for
investment purposes.
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Private Placements and Restricted Securities.
A Fund may invest in securities that are
purchased in private placements. Because there may be relatively few potential purchasers
for such investments, especially under adverse market or economic conditions or in the event
of adverse changes in the financial condition of the issuer, a Fund could find it more
difficult to sell such securities when the Funds adviser or sub-adviser believes it
advisable to do so or may be able to sell such securities only at prices lower than if such
securities were more widely held. At times, it may also be more difficult to determine the
fair value of such securities for purposes of computing a Funds net asset value. A Funds
sale of such investments may also be restricted under securities laws. In the event that the
Trustees, or persons designated by the Trustees, determine that a security is readily
marketable pursuant to these procedures, and a Fund is not able to sell such security at
the price that such persons anticipate, the Funds net asset value will decrease.
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When-Issued, Delayed Delivery, and Forward Commitment Transactions.
The Funds may
purchase securities on a when-issued, delayed delivery, or forward commitment basis. These
transactions involve a commitment by a Fund to purchase a security for a predetermined price
or yield, with payments and delivery taking place more than seven days in the future, or
after a period longer than the customary settlement period for that type of security. These
transactions may increase the overall investment exposure for a Fund and involve a risk of
loss if the value of the securities declines prior to the settlement date.
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MANAGEMENT OF THE FUNDS
Each Trust is governed by a Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees of each Trust has retained
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. to serve as each Funds adviser and to manage
the investments of each Fund. Subject to the control of the applicable Board of Trustees,
Schroders also manages each Funds other affairs and business.
Schroder Investment Management North America Limited (SIMNA Ltd.), an affiliate of Schroders,
serves as sub-adviser responsible for portfolio management of Schroder Emerging Market Equity
Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, and
Schroder North American Equity Fund.
Schroders (itself and its predecessors) has been an investment manager since 1962, and serves as
investment adviser to the Funds and as investment adviser to other mutual funds and a broad range
of institutional investors. Schroders plc, Schroders ultimate parent, is a global asset
management company with approximately $[ ] under management as of December 31, 2009. Schroders
and its affiliates have clients that are major financial institutions including banks and
insurance companies, public and private pension funds, endowments and foundations, high net worth
individuals, financial intermediaries and retail investors. Schroders plc has one of the largest
networks of offices of any dedicated asset management company and over 350 portfolio managers and
analysts covering the worlds investment markets.
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Management Fees.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, each of the following Funds
paid aggregate management fees, net of applicable expense limitations and/or fee waivers,
for investment management and administration services to Schroders at the following annual
rates (based on each Funds average daily net assets): Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund:
[0.25]%; Schroder International Alpha Fund: [0.607]%; Schroder North American Equity Fund:
[0.25]%; and Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund: [1.00]%. [Each of Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund, Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund, and Schroder
Total Return Fixed Income Fund did not pay fees] during the fiscal year ended October 31,
2009 due to expense limitations and/or fee waivers in effect during that period. As
compensation for SIMNA Ltd.s services as sub-adviser, Schroders pays to SIMNA Ltd. fifty
percent of the investment advisory fees Schroders receives from each of Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified
Value Fund, and Schroder North American Equity Fund. A discussion regarding the basis for
the Trustees approval of the investment management agreements for the Funds is available in
the Funds annual report to shareholders for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009.
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Expense Limitations and Waivers.
In order to limit the expenses of the Advisor Shares of
certain Funds, the Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February 28, 2011 for
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified
Value Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund to pay or reimburse the
applicable Fund for expenses to the extent that the Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses of
a Fund (other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses,
interest, taxes, and extraordinary expenses, which may include typically non-recurring
expenses such as, for example, organizational expenses, litigation expenses, and shareholder
meeting expenses) allocable to each Funds Advisor Shares exceed the following annual rates
(based on the average daily net assets attributable to each Funds Advisor Shares): Schroder
Emerging Market Equity Fund: [1.50]%; Schroder International Alpha Fund: [1.40]%; Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund: [1.40]%; Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund: [1.95]%;
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund: [1.30]%; and Schroder Total Return Fixed
Income Fund: [0.65]%.
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Portfolio Management.
The following portfolio managers at Schroders and SIMNA Ltd. have
primary responsibility for making investment decisions for the respective Funds. For each of
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund and Schroder North American Equity Fund, all
investment decisions are made by a team of investment professionals at SIMNA Ltd. with the
portfolio managers listed in the table below for that Fund having primary responsibility for
making investment decisions for the Fund. Each portfolio managers recent professional
experience is also shown. The Funds SAI provides additional information about each
portfolio managers compensation, other accounts managed by the portfolio managers, and each
portfolio managers ownership of securities in the respective Fund.
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FUND
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NAME
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TITLE
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SINCE
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RECENT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
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Schroder
Emerging Market
Equity Fund
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James Gotto
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Portfolio
Manager
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Inception
(March 31, 2006)
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Mr. Gotto is a Portfolio
Manager of SIMNA Ltd. He has
been an employee of SIMNA
Ltd. since 1991.
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Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund
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Waj Hashmi, CFA
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Portfolio
Manager
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Inception
(March 31, 2006)
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Mr. Hashmi is a Portfolio
Manager of SIMNA Ltd. He has
been an employee of SIMNA
Ltd. since 2000.
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Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund
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Robert Davy
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Portfolio
Manager
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Inception
(March 31, 2006)
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Mr. Davy is a Portfolio
Manager of SIMNA Ltd. He has
been an employee of SIMNA
Ltd. since 1986.
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Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund
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Allan Conway
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Head of Emerging
Markets Equities
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Inception
(March 31, 2006)
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Mr. Conway is Head of
Emerging Markets Equities at
SIMNA Ltd. He has been an
employee of SIMNA Ltd. since
2004. Formerly, Head of
Global Emerging Markets, West
LB Asset Management and Chief
Executive Officer of WestAM
(UK) Ltd.
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Schroder
International Alpha
Fund
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Virginie
Maisonneuve, CFA
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Lead Portfolio
Manager
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March 2005
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Ms. Maisonneuve is Head of
Schroders Global and Europe,
Australasia, Far East(EAFE)
Team. She has been an
employee of SIMNA Ltd. since
2004. Formerly, Co-Chief
Investment Officer and
Director, Clay Finlay.
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Schroder
International
Diversified Value
Fund and Schroder
North American
Equity Fund
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Justin Abercrombie
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Lead Portfolio
Manager and Head of
Quantitative Equity
Products (QEP)
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Inception
(August 30, 2006)
(Schroder
International
Diversified Value
Fund)
Inception
(September 2003)
(Schroder North
American Equity
Fund)
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Mr. Abercrombie is the Lead
Portfolio Manager and Head of
QEP, SIMNA Ltd. He has been
an employee of Schroders
since 1996. Formerly,
founding member of QEP, SIMNA
Ltd.
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Schroder North
American Equity
Fund
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John Marsland, CFA
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Senior Portfolio
Manager and
Quantitative
Analyst
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May 2006
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Mr. Marsland is a Senior
Portfolio Manager and
Quantitative Analyst, SIMNA
Ltd. He has been an employee
of SIMNA Ltd. since May 2006.
Formerly, Quantitative Fund
Manager, WMG Advisors LLP
from January 2005 to April
2006, Head of Risk Advisory,
Commerzbank Securities from
2000 to November 2004.
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Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund
and Schroder U.S.
Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund
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Jenny B. Jones
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Lead Portfolio
Manager
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2003
(Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund)
Inception
(March 31, 2006)
(Schroder U.S.
Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund)
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Ms. Jones is Head of U.S.
Small and Mid Cap Equities of
Schroders. She has been an
employee of Schroders since
2003. Formerly, portfolio
manager and Executive
Director, Morgan Stanley
Investment Advisors Inc.
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FUND
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NAME
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TITLE
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SINCE
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RECENT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Wesley A. Sparks,
CFA
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Portfolio
Manager
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Inception
(December 2004)
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Mr. Sparks is Head of U.S.
Taxable Fixed Income of
Schroders. He has been an
employee of Schroders since
December 2000. Formerly,
portfolio manager at Aeltus
Investment Management.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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David Harris
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Portfolio
Manager
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Inception
(December 2004)
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Mr. Harris is Product
Manager U.S. Fixed Income
of Schroders. He has been an
employee of Schroders since
November 1992.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Chris Ames
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Portfolio
Manager
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2008
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Mr. Ames is an ABS Portfolio
Manager, Fixed Income Group
of Schroders, and specializes
in managing asset-backed
securities and
mortgage-backed securities.
Formerly, Portfolio Manager
with Cheyne Capital from
2005-2007 and Head of ABS and
CDO Research at BNP Paribas
from 2002-2005. He has been
an employee of Schroders
since 2007.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Gregg T. Moore, CFA
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Portfolio
Manager
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Inception
(December 2004)
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Mr. Moore is Fund Manager,
Fixed Income of Schroders and
has been an employee of
Schroders since June 2001.
Formerly, quantitative
analyst at Aeltus Investment
Management.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Ed Fitzpatrick
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Portfolio
Manager
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2006
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Mr. Fitzpatrick is Fund
Manager, Fixed Income of
Schroders. He has been an
employee of Schroders since
2006. Formerly, a Vice
President of Pershing LLC
from 1999 to 2006.
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Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
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Tony Hui
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Portfolio
Manager
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2007
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Mr. Hui is Fund Manager,
Fixed Income of Schroders.
Formerly, a Trader at UBS
from 2002 to 2007. He has
been an employee of Schroders
since 2007.
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HOW THE FUNDS SHARES ARE PRICED
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Each Fund calculates the net asset value of its Advisor Shares by dividing the total value of its
assets attributable to its Advisor Shares, less its liabilities attributable to those shares, by
the number of Advisor Shares outstanding. Each Fund values its Advisor Shares as of the close of
trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the Exchange) (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time) each
day the Exchange is open. The Trusts expect that days, other than weekend days, when the Exchange
will not be open are New Years Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Good Friday,
Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
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Securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at prices which, in the
opinion of Schroders, most nearly represent the market values of such securities. Securities for
which market values are not readily available, or for which the Funds adviser believes the
market value is unreliable (including, for example, certain foreign securities, thinly-traded
securities, IPOs, or when there is a particular event that may affect the value of a security),
are valued by Schroders at their fair values pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of
Trustees, and under the ultimate supervision of the Board of Trustees. Certain securities, such
as various types of options (as described further below), are valued at fair value on the basis
of valuations furnished by broker-dealers or other market intermediaries. It is possible that
fair value prices will be used by a Fund to a significant extent. The value determined for an
investment using the Funds fair value guidelines may differ from recent market prices for the
investment. Reliable market quotations are not considered to be readily available for many bonds
(excluding U.S. Treasury securities), certain preferred stocks, tax-exempt securities and certain
foreign securities. Such securities are valued at fair value, generally on the basis of
valuations furnished by pricing services, which determine valuations for normal,
institutional-size trading units of such securities using methods based on market transactions
for comparable securities and various relationships between securities that are generally
recognized by institutional traders. Below investment grade debt instruments (high yield debt)
and emerging market debt instruments will generally be valued at prices furnished by pricing
services based on the mean of bid and asked prices supplied by brokers or dealers, although, if
the bid-asked spread exceeds five points, that security will typically be valued at the bid
price. Short-term fixed income securities with remaining maturities of 60 days or less are valued
at amortized cost, unless Schroders believes another valuation is more appropriate.
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Unlisted securities for which market quotations are readily available generally are valued at the
most recently reported sale prices on any day or, in the absence of a reported sale price, at
mid-market prices. Options and futures contracts traded on a securities exchange or board of
trade generally are valued at the last reported sales price or, in the absence of a sale, at the
closing mid-
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market price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Options and futures not traded on a
securities exchange or board of trade for which over-the-counter market quotations are readily
available are generally valued at the most recently reported mid-market price. Credit default and
interest rate swaps are valued at the estimate of the mid-market price, together with other
supporting information. Options on indices or ETF shares are valued at the closing mid-market
price. If such prices are not available, unlisted securities and derivatives are valued by
Schroders at their fair values based on quotations from dealers, and if such quotations are not
available, based on factors in the markets where such securities and derivatives trade, such as
security and bond prices, interest rates, and currency exchange rates.
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Certain Funds may invest in foreign securities that are primarily listed on foreign exchanges
that trade on weekends and other days when the Fund does not price its shares. As a result, the
value of the Funds portfolio securities may change on days when the price of the Funds shares
is not calculated. The price of the Funds shares will reflect any such changes when the price of
the Funds shares is next calculated, which is the next day the Exchange is open. The Funds may
use fair value pricing more frequently for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets
because, among other things, most foreign markets close well before the Fund values its
securities. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that
significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim.
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Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund, and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Funds investments may be priced
based on fair values provided by a third-party fair valuation vendor, based on certain factors
and methodologies applied by such vendor, in the event that there is movement in the U.S. market
that exceeds a specific threshold established by the Schroders Fair Value Committee pursuant to
guidelines established by the Board of Trustees, and under the ultimate supervision of the Board
of Trustees. The net asset value of a Funds Investor Shares may differ from that of its Advisor
Shares due to differences in the expenses of Investor Shares and Advisor Shares.
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HOW TO BUY SHARES
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You may purchase Advisor Shares of each Fund directly from the applicable Trust (through Schroder
Fund Advisors Inc. (SFA), the distributor of the Trusts shares) or through the Funds transfer
agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS), or through a service organization such as a
bank, trust company, broker-dealer, or other financial organization (a Service Organization)
having an arrangement with SFA. If you do not have a Service Organization, SFA can provide you
with a list of available firms. Your Service Organization is responsible for forwarding all of
the necessary documentation to the applicable Trust, and may charge you separately for its
services.
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The purchase, redemption and exchange policies and fees charged by such Service Organizations may
be different than those of the Funds. For instance, banks, brokers, retirement plans and
financial advisers may charge transaction fees in addition to any fees charged by the Fund, and
may set different minimums or limitations on buying, exchanging, or redeeming Advisor Shares.
Please consult a representative of your Service Organization for further information.
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If the Advisor Shares you purchase will be held in your own name (rather than the name of your
Service Organization), your payment for the shares must be accompanied by a completed Account
Application and payment by check or wire as described below. Account Applications for Advisor
Shares may be obtained from BFDS, at the address provided below under Purchases by Check, from
your Service Organization, or by calling the Schroder Mutual Funds at (800) 464-3108 (from
outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and ask to speak with a Schroder Mutual
Funds representative). Acceptance of your order will be delayed pending receipt of additional
documentation, such as copies of corporate resolutions and instruments of authority, from
corporations, administrators, executors, personal representatives, directors, or custodians.
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Each Fund sells its Advisor Shares at their net asset value next determined after the applicable
Fund, its transfer agent, BFDS, or another authorized broker or financial institution (as
described below) receives your request in good order (meaning that the request meets the
requirements set out below and in the Account Application, and otherwise meets the requirements
implemented from time to time by the Funds transfer agent or the Fund). In order for you to
receive a Funds next determined net asset value, the Fund, BFDS, the Service Organization, or
the authorized broker or financial institution must receive your order before the close of
trading on the Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time), and the
broker or financial institution must subsequently communicate the
order properly to the Fund. Each Trust reserves the right to
reject any order to purchase Advisor Shares of any of its Funds. Each Trust generally expects to
inform any persons that their purchase has been rejected within 24 hours.
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Certain brokers or other financial institutions may accept purchase orders for Advisor Shares on
behalf of the Funds. Such brokers or financial institutions may designate other intermediaries to
accept purchase orders on behalf of the Funds. For purposes of pricing, a Fund will be deemed to
have received a purchase order when an authorized broker or financial institution or, if
applicable, a broker or financial institutions authorized
designee, receives the order, provided that the broker or financial
institution subsequently communicates the order properly to the Fund. Orders received in
good order prior to the close of the Exchange on any day the Exchange is open for trading will
receive the net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. Orders received after that
time will receive the next days net asset value.
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The minimum investments for initial and additional purchases of Advisor Shares of a Fund are as
follows:
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Initial Investment
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Additional Investments
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$2,500
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$1,000
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The applicable Trust may, in its sole discretion, waive these minimum initial or subsequent
investment amounts for share purchases by: an employee of Schroders, any of its affiliates or a
financial intermediary authorized to sell shares of a Fund, or such employees spouse or life
partner, or children or step-children age 21 or younger; investment advisory clients of
Schroders; and current or former Trustees. For share purchases made through certain fund networks
or other financial intermediaries, the investment minimums associated with the policies and
programs of the fund network or financial intermediary will apply.
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Advisor Shares of the Funds are intended for purchase by investors making a minimum initial
investment of $2,500 through a regular account or a traditional or Roth IRA account and
purchasing through an investment intermediary. Investor Shares of the Funds, which have lower
expenses, are offered through another prospectus and are intended for investors making a minimum
initial investment of $250,000 and purchasing directly from the Fund. If you are making an
investment of at least $250,000, you may want to discuss with your investment intermediary
whether Investor Shares, rather than Advisor Shares, are appropriate for you.
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The Funds do not issue share certificates.
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Each Trust may suspend the offering of Advisor Shares of its Funds for any period of time. Each
Trust may change any investment minimum from time to time.
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Purchases by check.
You may purchase Advisor Shares of a Fund by mailing a check (in
U.S. dollars) payable to the Fund. If you wish to purchase Advisor Shares of two or more Funds,
make your check payable to Schroder Mutual Funds and include written instructions as to how the
amount of your check should be allocated among the Funds whose shares you are purchasing.
Schroder Mutual Funds will not accept third-party checks or starter checks. You should direct
your check and your completed Account Application as follows:
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REGULAR MAIL
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OVERNIGHT OR EXPRESS MAIL
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Schroder Mutual Funds
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Boston Financial Data Services, Inc.
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P.O. Box 8507
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Attn: Schroder Mutual Funds
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Boston, MA 02266
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30 Dan Road
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Canton, MA 02021
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For initial purchases, a completed Account Application must accompany your check.
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Purchases by bank wire.
If you make your initial investment by wire, a completed Account
Application must precede your order. Upon receipt of the Application, BFDS will assign you an
account number. BFDS will process wire orders received prior to the close of trading on the
Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time) on each day the Exchange is open for trading at the
net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. BFDS will process wire orders received
after that time at the net asset value next determined thereafter.
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Once you have an account number, you may purchase Advisor Shares through your Service
Organization or directly from the Fund by calling BFDS at (800) 464-3108 to give notice that you
will send funds by wire, and obtain a wire reference number. (From outside the United States,
please call (617) 483-5000 and ask to speak with a Schroder Mutual Funds representative.) Please
be sure to obtain a wire reference number. Instruct your bank to wire funds with the assigned
reference number as follows:
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State Street Bank and Trust Company
225 Franklin Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
ABA No.: 011000028
Attn: Schroder Mutual Funds
DDA No.: 9904-650-0
FBO: Account Registration
A/C: Mutual Fund Account Number
Name of Fund
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BFDS will not process your purchase until it receives the wired funds.
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Automatic Purchases.
If you purchase Advisor Shares directly from the Trust and the shares are
held in your own name, you can make regular investments of $100 or more per month or quarter in
Advisor Shares of a Fund through automatic deductions from your bank account. Please complete the
appropriate section of the Account Application if you would like to utilize this option. For more
information, please call (800) 464-3108 ((617) 483-5000 from outside the United States). If you
purchase Advisor Shares through a Service Organization, your firm may also provide automatic
purchase options. Please contact your Service Organization for details.
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Purchases in kind.
Investors may purchase Advisor Shares of a Fund for cash or in exchange for
securities, subject to the determination by Schroders in its discretion that the securities are
acceptable. (For purposes of determining whether securities will be acceptable, Schroders will
consider, among other things, whether they are liquid securities of a type consistent with the
investment objective and policies of the Fund and have a readily ascertainable value.) If a Fund
receives securities from an investor in exchange for Advisor Shares of the Fund, the Fund will
under some circumstances have the same tax basis in the securities as the investor had prior to
the exchange (and the Funds gain for tax purposes would be calculated with regard to the
investors tax basis), and in such cases the Funds holding period in those securities would
include the investors holding period. Any gain on the sale of securities received in exchange
for Advisor Shares of the Fund would be subject to distribution as capital gain to all of the
Funds shareholders. (In some circumstances, receipt of securities from an investor in exchange
for Advisor Shares of the Fund may be a taxable transaction to the investor, in which case the
Funds tax basis in the securities would reflect the fair market value of the securities on the
date of the exchange, and its holding period in the securities would begin on that date.) The
Funds value securities accepted by Schroders in the same manner as are the Funds portfolio
securities as of the time of the next determination of a Funds net asset value. Although the
Funds seek to determine the fair value of securities contributed to a Fund, any valuation that
does not reflect fair value may dilute the interests of the purchasing shareholder or the other
shareholders of the Funds. All rights reflected in the market price of accepted securities at the
time of valuation become the property of the Funds and must be delivered to the Funds upon
receipt by the investor. Investors may realize a taxable gain or loss upon the exchange.
Investors interested in purchases through exchange should telephone BFDS at (800) 464-3108 ((617)
483-5000 from outside the United States), their Schroders client representative, or other
financial intermediary.
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Certain payments by Schroders or its affiliates.
SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates may, at
their own expense and out of their own assets, provide compensation to financial intermediaries
in connection with sales of Fund shares or shareholder servicing. In some instances, they may
make this compensation available only to certain intermediaries who have sold or are expected to
sell significant amounts of shares of a Fund. See Payments to Financial Intermediaries. If you
purchase or sell shares through an intermediary, the intermediary may charge a separate fee for
its services. Consult your intermediary for information. In addition, employees of Schroders who are registered representatives of SFA may be more favorably
compensated in respect of sales of some Funds than others; the identity of those Funds may change
from time to time in Schroders discretion. Those employees would have a financial incentive to
promote the sales of those Funds for which they are more highly compensated.
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HOW TO SELL SHARES
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When you may redeem.
You may sell your Advisor Shares back to a Fund on any day the Exchange is
open either through your Service Organization or directly to the Fund. If your shares are held in
the name of a Service Organization, you may only sell the shares through that Service
Organization. The Service Organization may charge you a fee for its services. If you choose to
sell your shares directly to the Fund, you may do so by sending a letter of instruction or stock
power form to Schroder Mutual Funds, or by calling BFDS at (800) 464-3108 ((617) 483-5000 from
outside the United States). Redemption requests received in good order by Schroder Mutual Funds,
BFDS, your Service Organization or another authorized broker or financial institution (as
described below) prior to the close of the Exchange on any day the
Exchange is open for trading (and subsequently communicated properly
to the Fund by the brokers or financial institution) will be priced at the net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. Orders received
after that time will receive the next days net asset value. A redemption request is in good
order if it includes the exact name in which the shares are registered, the investors account
number, and the number of shares or the dollar amount of shares to be redeemed, and, for written
requests, if it is signed in accordance with the account registration, although in certain
circumstances you may need to submit additional documentation to redeem your shares. A bank,
broker-dealer, or certain other financial institutions must guarantee the signature(s) of all
account holders for any redemption request in excess of $50,000. The Stamp 2000 Medallion
Guarantee is the only acceptable form of guarantee. An investor can obtain this signature
guarantee from a commercial bank, savings bank, credit union, or broker-dealer that participates
in one of the Medallion signature guarantee programs. You may redeem your shares by telephone
only if you elected the telephone redemption privilege option on your Account Application or
otherwise in writing. Telephone redemption proceeds will be sent only to you at an address on
record with the Fund for at least 30 days. Unless otherwise agreed, you may only exercise the
telephone redemption privilege to redeem shares worth not more than $50,000. In certain
circumstances, you may need to submit additional documentation to redeem your shares.
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If you redeem shares through your Service Organization, your Service Organization is responsible
for ensuring that BFDS receives your redemption request in proper form. If your Service
Organization receives Federal Reserve wires, you may instruct that your redemption proceeds be
forwarded by wire to your account with your Service Organization; you may also instruct that your
redemption proceeds be forwarded to you by a wire transfer. Please indicate your Service
Organizations or your own complete wiring instructions. Your Service Organization may charge you
separately for this service.
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Certain brokers or other financial institutions may accept redemption orders for Advisor Shares
on behalf of the Funds. Such brokers or financial institutions may designate other intermediaries
to accept redemption orders on behalf of the Funds. For purposes of pricing, a Fund will be
deemed to have received a redemption order when an authorized broker or financial institution or,
if applicable, a broker or financial institutions authorized
designee, receives the order, provided that the broker or financial
institution subsequently communicates the order properly to the fund. Orders received in
good order prior to the close of the Exchange on any day the Exchange is open for trading will
receive the net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. Orders received after that
time will receive the next days net asset value.
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Each Fund will meet redemption requests as promptly as possible and in any event within seven
days after the request for redemption is received in good order. Each Fund generally sends
payment for shares on the business day after a request is received, although it may not always do
so. In case of emergencies, each Fund may suspend redemptions or postpone payment for more than
seven days, as permitted by law. If you paid for your Advisor Shares by check, the Fund will not
send you your redemption proceeds until the check you used to pay for the shares has cleared,
which may take up to 15 calendar days from the purchase date.
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Brokers or other agents may charge investors a fee for effecting transactions in shares of a
Fund, in addition to any fees a Fund charges.
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Involuntary redemptions.
If, because of your redemptions, your account balance for any of the
Funds falls below a minimum amount set by the Trustees (presently $2,000), a Trust may choose to
redeem your Advisor Shares in the Funds and pay you for them. You will receive at least 30 days
written notice before the Trust redeems your Advisor Shares, and you may purchase additional
Advisor Shares at any time to avoid a redemption. Each Trust may also redeem Advisor Shares if
you own shares of the Funds above a maximum amount set by the Trustees. There is currently no
maximum, but the Trustees may establish one at any time, which could apply to both present and
future shareholders.
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Suspension.
Each Trust may suspend the right of redemption of a Fund or postpone payment by a
Fund during any period when: (1) trading on the Exchange is restricted, as determined by the
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), or the Exchange is closed; (2) the SEC has by order
permitted such suspension; or (3) an emergency (as defined by rules of the SEC) exists, making
disposal of portfolio investments or determination of a Funds net asset value not reasonably
practicable.
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Redemptions in kind.
The Trusts may redeem Advisor Shares in kind, but do not expect to do so
under normal circumstances. If a Trust redeems your Advisor Shares in kind, you should expect to
incur brokerage expenses and other transaction costs upon the disposition of the securities you
receive from the Fund. In addition, the price of those securities may change between the time
when you receive the securities and the time when you are able to dispose of them. Schroder
Capital Funds (Delaware) has agreed to redeem Advisor Shares of Schroder International Alpha Fund
and Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund solely in cash up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the
Funds net assets attributable to Advisor Shares during any 90-day period for any one
shareholder. In consideration of the best interests of the remaining shareholders, Schroder
Capital Funds (Delaware) may pay any redemption proceeds exceeding this amount for any of these
Funds in whole or in part by a distribution in kind of securities held by the applicable Fund in
lieu of cash. Schroder Global Series Trust and Schroder Series Trust may pay redemption proceeds
in any amount with respect to Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund, Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund, or Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund in whole or in part by a
distribution in kind of securities held by the applicable Fund in lieu of cash.
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General.
In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent redemption requests by telephone,
BFDS will follow reasonable procedures to confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. BFDS
and the Trusts generally will not be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent
purchase or redemption requests, but the applicable party or parties may be liable if they do not
follow these procedures. In certain circumstances, you may need to submit additional
documentation to redeem your shares.
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Redemption fee.
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund,
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder
U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund each imposes a 2.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed
(including in connection with an exchange) two months or less from their date of purchase. The
fee is not a sales charge (load); it is paid directly to the Fund. The purpose of the redemption
fee is principally to discourage market timing, and also to help defray costs incurred by a Fund
in connection with short-term trading by investors in its shares.
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To the extent that the redemption fee applies, the price you will receive when you redeem your
shares of a Fund is the net asset value next determined after receipt of your redemption request
in good order, minus the redemption fee. The Funds permit exceptions to the redemption fee policy
for the following transactions:
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to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the intermediary
agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected clients, redemptions
or exchanges by discretionary asset allocation or wrap programs (wrap programs) that are
initiated by the sponsor of the program as part of a periodic rebalancing, provided that
such rebalancing occurs no more frequently than quarterly, or, if more frequent, was the
result of an extraordinary change in the management or operation of the wrap program leading
to a revised investment model that is applied across all applicable accounts in the wrap
program;
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to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the intermediary
agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected clients, redemptions
or exchanges by a wrap program that are made as a result of a full withdrawal from the wrap
program or as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
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to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the intermediary
agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected clients, the following
transactions in participant-directed retirement plans:
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where the shares being redeemed were purchased with new contributions to the
plan (e.g., payroll contributions, employer contributions, and loan repayments);
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redemptions made in connection with taking out a loan from the plan;
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redemptions in connection with death, disability, hardship withdrawals, or Qualified Domestic Relations Orders;
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redemptions made as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
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redemptions made by a defined contribution plan in connection with a termination or restructuring of the plan;
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redemptions made in connection with a participants termination of employment; and
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redemptions made as part of a periodic rebalancing under an asset allocation model.
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involuntary redemptions, such as those resulting from a shareholders failure to maintain
a minimum investment in a Fund;
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redemptions of shares acquired through the reinvestment of dividends or distributions
paid by a Fund;
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redemptions and exchanges effected by other mutual funds (e.g., funds of funds) that are
sponsored by Schroders or its affiliates;
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to the extent a Fund is used as a qualified default investment alternative under the
Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 for certain 401(k) plans; and
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otherwise as the officers of Schroders or the applicable Trust may determine is
appropriate after consideration of the purpose of the transaction and the potential impact
to the Funds.
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The application of the redemption fee and exceptions may vary among intermediaries, and certain
intermediaries may not apply the exceptions listed above. If you purchase or sell fund shares
through an intermediary, you should contact your intermediary for more information on whether the
redemption fee will be applied to redemptions of your shares.
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For purposes of computing the redemption fee, redemptions by a shareholder to which the fee
applies will be deemed to have been made on a first-purchased, first-redeemed basis.
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EXCHANGES
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You can exchange your Advisor Shares of a Fund for Advisor Shares of other funds in the Schroder
family of funds offered in this Prospectus at any time at their respective net asset values. An
exchange of shares of Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund,
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder
U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund may be subject to a redemption fee of 2.00% as
described above under Redemption Fee (such that the exchange would be made at net asset value
minus any redemption fee). The Trusts would treat the exchange as a sale of your Advisor Shares,
and any gain on the exchange will generally be subject to tax. For a listing of the Schroder
funds available for exchange and to exchange Advisor Shares, please call (800) 464-3108. (From
outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and ask to speak with a representative of
the Schroder Mutual Funds.) In order to exchange shares by telephone, you must complete the
appropriate section of the Account Application. The Trusts and Schroders reserve the right to
change or suspend the exchange privilege at any time. Schroders would notify shareholders of any
such change or suspension.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT ADVISOR SHARES; DISTRIBUTION PLANS
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Each Trust sells Advisor Shares of the Fund at their net asset value without any sales charges or
loads, so that the full amount of your purchase payment is invested in the applicable Fund. You
also receive the full value of your Advisor Shares when you sell them back to the Fund, without
any deferred sales charge.
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Distribution plans.
Each Fund has adopted a Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that allows the Fund to pay distribution and other
fees with respect to its Advisor Shares. Under the Distribution Plan, a Fund may make payments at
an annual rate of up to 0.25% (0.35% for Schroder North American Equity Fund) of the average
daily net assets attributable to its Advisor Shares to compensate the distributor for
distribution services and certain shareholder services with respect to the Funds Advisor Shares.
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Because the fees are paid out of a Funds assets on an ongoing basis, over time these fees will
increase the cost of an investment in Advisor Shares of a Fund and may cost you more than paying
other types of sales charges.
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DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
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Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund declares dividends from net investment income daily and
distributes these dividends monthly. Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International
Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder North American Equity Fund,
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund each
declare dividends from net investment income and distribute these dividends annually. All Funds
distribute any net realized capital gain at least annually. All Funds make distributions from net
capital gain after applying any available capital loss carryovers.
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Shares begin to earn dividends on the first business day following the day of purchase. Shares
earn dividends through the date of redemption.
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You can choose from four distribution options:
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Reinvest all distributions in additional Advisor Shares of your Fund;
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Receive distributions from net investment income in cash while reinvesting capital gains
distributions in additional Advisor Shares of your Fund;
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For each Fund except Schroder North American Equity Fund, receive distributions from net
investment income in additional Advisor Shares of your Fund while receiving capital gain
distributions in cash; or
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Receive all distributions in cash.
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You can change your distribution option by notifying BFDS in writing. If you do not select an
option when you open your account, all distributions by a Fund will be reinvested in Advisor
Shares of that Fund. You will receive a statement confirming reinvestment of distributions in
additional Fund shares promptly following the period in which the reinvestment occurs.
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If correspondence to a shareholders address of record is returned, then, unless BFDS determines
the shareholders new address, BFDS will reinvest dividends and other distributions returned to
it in the applicable Fund(s), and if the correspondence included checks, the checks will be
canceled and re-deposited to the shareholders account at then-current net asset value.
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FREQUENT PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS OF FUND SHARES
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Excessive trading can hurt Fund performance, operations, and shareholders. The Board of Trustees
of each of the Funds has adopted policies and procedures with respect to frequent purchases and
redemptions of Fund shares by Fund shareholders. Each Fund discourages, and does not accommodate,
frequent purchases and redemptions of the Funds shares to the extent Schroders believes that
such trading is harmful to a Funds shareholders, although a Fund will not necessarily prevent
all frequent trading in its shares. Each Fund reserves the right, in its discretion, to reject
any purchase, in whole or in part (including, without limitation, purchases by persons whose
trading activity Schroders believes could be harmful to the Fund). Each Trust or Schroders may
also limit the amount or number of exchanges or reject any purchase by exchange if the Trust or
Schroders believes that the investor in question is engaged in market timing activities or
similar activities that may be harmful to a Fund or its shareholders, although the Trusts and
Schroders have not established any maximum amount or number of such exchanges that may occur in
any period. Each Trust generally expects to inform any persons that their purchase has been
rejected within 24 hours. In addition, the Boards of Trustees of Schroder Emerging Market Equity
Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder
U.S. Opportunities Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund have established
a 2.00% redemption fee for shares of these Funds held for two months or less from their date of
purchase. See How to Sell Shares Redemption Fee for further information. The ability of
Schroders to monitor trades that are placed through omnibus or other nominee accounts is limited
in those instances in which the broker, retirement plan administrator, or fee-based program
sponsor does not provide complete information to Schroders regarding underlying beneficial owners
of Fund shares. Each Trust or its distributor may enter into written agreements with financial
intermediaries who hold omnibus accounts that require the intermediaries to provide certain
information to the Trust regarding shareholders who hold shares through such accounts and to
restrict or prohibit trading in Fund shares by shareholders identified by the Trust as having
engaged in trades that violate the Trusts market timing policies. Each Trust or Schroders may
take any steps they consider appropriate in respect of frequent trading in omnibus accounts,
including seeking additional information from the holder of the omnibus account or potentially
closing the omnibus account (although there can be no assurance that the Trust or Schroders would
do so). Please see the applicable SAI for additional information on frequent purchases and
redemptions of Fund shares. There can be no assurance that the Funds or Schroders will identify
all harmful purchase or redemption activity, or market timing or similar activities, affecting
the Funds, or that the Funds or Schroders will be successful in limiting or eliminating such
activities.
|
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
|
|
SFA, the Funds distributor, Schroders, or any of their affiliates, may, from time to time, make
payments to financial intermediaries for sub-administration, sub-transfer agency, or other
shareholder services or distribution, out of their own resources and without additional cost to a
Fund or its shareholders. For Advisor Shares, these payments may be in addition to payments made
with 12b-1 fees or sales loads. Financial intermediaries are firms that, for compensation, sell
shares of mutual funds, including the Funds, and/or provide certain administrative and account
maintenance services to mutual fund shareholders. These financial intermediaries may include,
among others, brokers, financial planners or advisers, banks (including bank trust departments),
retirement plan and qualified tuition program administrators, third-party administrators, and
insurance companies.
|
|
|
In some cases, a financial intermediary may hold its clients shares of the Funds in nominee or
street name. Financial intermediaries may provide shareholder services, which may include, among
other things: processing and mailing trade confirmations, periodic statements, prospectuses,
annual and semiannual reports, shareholder notices, and other SEC-required communications;
processing tax data; issuing and mailing dividend checks to shareholders who have selected cash
distributions; preparing record date shareholder lists for proxy solicitations; collecting and
posting distributions to shareholder accounts; and establishing and maintaining systematic
withdrawals and automated investment plans and shareholder account registrations.
|
60
|
|
The compensation paid by SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates to an intermediary is typically paid
continually over time, during the period when the intermediarys clients hold investments in the
Funds. The amount of continuing compensation paid by SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates to
different financial intermediaries for distribution and/or shareholder services varies. In most
cases, the compensation is paid at an annual rate ranging up to 0.45% (0.00% to 0.45%) of the
value of the financial intermediarys clients investments in the Funds. In addition, SFA,
Schroders, or their affiliates may also pay financial intermediaries one-time charges for setting
up access for the Funds on particular platforms, as well as transaction fees, or per position
fees.
|
|
|
SFA or its affiliates, at their own expense and out of their own assets, also may provide other
compensation to financial intermediaries in connection with conferences, sales, or training
programs for employees, seminars for the public, advertising or sales campaigns, or other
financial intermediary-sponsored special events. In some instances, the compensation may be made
available only to certain financial intermediaries whose representatives have sold or are
expected to sell significant amounts of shares. Intermediaries that are registered broker-dealers
may not use sales of Fund shares to qualify for this compensation to the extent prohibited by the
laws or rules of any state or any self-regulatory agency, such as the Financial Industry
Regulatory Authority (FINRA).
|
|
|
If payments to financial intermediaries by the distributor or adviser for a particular mutual
fund complex exceed payments by other mutual fund complexes, your financial adviser and the
financial intermediary employing him or her may have an incentive to recommend that fund complex
over others. A financial intermediary could also have an incentive to recommend a particular Fund
or share class. Please speak with your financial intermediary to learn more about the total
amounts paid to your financial intermediary and his or her firm by SFA and its affiliates, and by
sponsors of other mutual funds he or she may recommend to you. You should also consult
disclosures made by your financial intermediary at the time of purchase.
|
TAXES
|
|
Taxes on dividends and distributions.
For federal income tax purposes, distributions of
investment income are taxed as ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are
determined by how long a Fund owned the investments that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares. Distributions of net capital gains from the sale of investments
that a Fund has held for more than one year and that are properly designated by the Fund as
capital gain dividends will be taxable as long-term capital gains. Distributions of gains from
the sale of investments that a Fund owned for one year or less and gains on the sale of bonds
characterized as a market discount sale will be taxable as ordinary income. For taxable years
beginning before January 1, 2011, distributions of investment income designated by a Fund as
derived from qualified dividend income will be taxed in the hands of individuals at rates
applicable to long-term capital gains, provided holding period and other requirements are met at
both the shareholder and Fund level. Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund does not expect a
significant portion of its distributions to be derived from qualified dividend income.
|
|
|
Distributions are taxable to shareholders even if they are paid from income or gains earned by a
Fund before a shareholders investment (and thus were included in the price the shareholder
paid). Distributions are taxable whether shareholders receive them in cash or reinvest them in
additional shares.
|
|
|
Distributions by a Fund to retirement plans that qualify for tax-exempt treatment under federal
income tax laws will not be taxable. Special tax rules apply to investments through such plans.
You should consult your tax advisor to determine the suitability of a Fund as an investment
through such a plan and the tax treatment of distributions (including distributions of amounts
attributable to an investment in a Fund) from such a plan.
|
|
|
A Funds investment in certain debt obligations and derivative contracts may cause the Fund to
recognize taxable income in excess of the cash generated by such obligations or contracts. Thus,
a Fund could be required at times to liquidate other investments, including at times when it may
not be advantageous to do so, in order to satisfy its distribution requirements.
|
|
|
In general, dividends (other than capital gain dividends) paid to a shareholder that is not a
U.S. person within the meaning of the Code (a foreign person), are subject to withholding of
U.S. federal income tax at a rate of 30% (or lower applicable treaty rate). However, effective
for taxable years of the Funds beginning before January 1, 2010, the Funds generally will not be
required to withhold any amounts with respect to distributions of (i) U.S.-source interest income
that, in general, would not be subject to U.S. federal income tax if earned directly by an
individual foreign person, and (ii) net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term
capital losses, in each case to the extent such distributions are properly designated by the
Funds.
|
61
|
|
Long-term capital gain rates applicable to individuals have been temporarily reduced in
general, to 15% with lower rates applying to taxpayers in the 10% and 15% rate brackets for
taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011.
|
|
|
Taxes when you sell, redeem or exchange your shares.
Any gain resulting from a redemption, sale
or exchange (including an exchange for shares of another fund) of your shares in a Fund will also
generally be subject to federal income tax at either short-term or long-term capital gain rates
depending on how long you have owned your shares.
|
|
|
Foreign taxes.
A Funds investments in foreign securities may be subject to foreign withholding
or other taxes. In that case, the Funds return on those securities would be decreased.
Shareholders of Schroders Funds that invest more than 50% of their assets in foreign securities
may be entitled to claim a credit or deduction with respect to foreign taxes. Shareholders of
other Schroders funds generally will not be entitled to claim a credit or deduction with respect
to foreign taxes. In addition, investments in foreign securities may increase or accelerate a
Funds recognition of ordinary income and may affect the timing or amount of a Funds
distributions.
|
|
|
Derivatives.
A Funds use of derivatives may affect the amount, timing, and character of
distributions to shareholders and, therefore, may increase the amount of taxes payable by
shareholders.
|
|
|
Consult your tax advisor about other possible tax consequences.
This is a summary of certain
U.S. federal income tax consequences of investing in the Funds. You should consult your tax
advisor for more information on your own tax situation, including possible other federal, state,
local and foreign tax consequences of investing in the Funds.
|
DISCLOSURES OF FUND PORTFOLIO INFORMATION
|
|
Please see the Funds SAI for a description of the Funds policies and procedures regarding the
persons to whom the Funds or Schroders may disclose a Funds portfolio securities positions, and
under which circumstances.
|
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
|
|
The financial highlights below are intended to help you understand the financial performance of
each of the Funds for the past five years or, if more recent, since their inception. Certain
information reflects financial results for a single Fund share. The total returns represent the
total return for an investment in Advisor Shares of a Fund, assuming reinvestment of all
dividends and distributions.
|
|
|
For all periods through the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, the financial highlights have
been audited by [ ], independent registered public accountant to the Funds. The audited
financial statements for the Funds and the related independent registered public accountants
report are contained in the Funds combined Annual Report and are incorporated by reference into
the Funds SAI. Copies of the Annual Report may be obtained without charge by writing the Funds
at P.O. Box 8507, Boston, Massachusetts 02266, or by calling (800) 464-3108. The Funds Annual
Report is also available on the following website: www.schroderfunds.com.
|
62
Financial Highlights
Selected Per Share Data and Ratios for a Share Outstanding
Through the Period Ended October 31
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Asset
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Dividends
|
|
|
|
|
Value,
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Realized
|
|
Total From
|
|
From Net
|
|
Distributions
|
|
|
Beginning
|
|
Net Investment
|
|
and Unrealized
|
|
Investment
|
|
Investment
|
|
From Net
|
|
|
of Period
|
|
Income (Loss)
|
|
Gains (Losses)
|
|
Operations
|
|
Income
|
|
Realized Gain
|
Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
17.86
|
|
|
|
0.08
|
|
|
|
(8.91
|
)
|
|
|
(8.83
|
)
|
|
|
(0.11
|
)
|
|
|
(1.95
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
10.53
|
|
|
|
0.02
|
|
|
|
7.34
|
|
|
|
7.36
|
|
|
|
(0.03
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
2006(b)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.04
|
|
|
|
0.49
|
|
|
|
0.53
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
International Alpha Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
13.40
|
|
|
|
0.11
|
(1)
|
|
|
(6.59
|
)
|
|
|
(6.48
|
)
|
|
|
(0.21
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
2007
|
|
|
10.64
|
|
|
|
0.07
|
(1)
|
|
|
2.77
|
|
|
|
2.84
|
|
|
|
(0.08
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
2006(c)
|
|
|
10.23
|
|
|
|
|
(f)
|
|
|
0.41
|
|
|
|
0.41
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
International Diversified Value Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
13.62
|
|
|
|
0.34
|
(1)
|
|
|
(6.33
|
)
|
|
|
(5.99
|
)
|
|
|
(0.56
|
)
|
|
|
(1.48
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
10.53
|
|
|
|
0.43
|
|
|
|
2.83
|
|
|
|
3.26
|
|
|
|
(0.11
|
)
|
|
|
(0.06
|
)
|
2006(d)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.04
|
|
|
|
0.49
|
|
|
|
0.53
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
North American Equity Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
13.48
|
|
|
|
0.22
|
|
|
|
(4.40
|
)
|
|
|
(4.18
|
)
|
|
|
(0.24
|
)
|
|
|
(1.51
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
12.61
|
|
|
|
0.19
|
|
|
|
1.56
|
|
|
|
1.75
|
|
|
|
(0.25
|
)
|
|
|
(0.63
|
)
|
2006(b)
|
|
|
11.84
|
|
|
|
0.22
|
|
|
|
0.55
|
|
|
|
0.77
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
25.32
|
|
|
|
(0.11
|
)(1)
|
|
|
(7.20
|
)
|
|
|
(7.31
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(2.30
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
23.04
|
|
|
|
(0.04
|
)(1)
|
|
|
4.30
|
|
|
|
4.26
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1.98
|
)
|
2006(c)
|
|
|
22.21
|
|
|
|
|
(f)
|
|
|
0.83
|
|
|
|
0.83
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
12.53
|
|
|
|
(0.06
|
)(1)
|
|
|
(3.81
|
)
|
|
|
(3.87
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(0.75
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
10.23
|
|
|
|
(0.05
|
)(1)
|
|
|
2.35
|
|
|
|
2.30
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2006(b)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
|
(f)
|
|
|
0.23
|
|
|
|
0.23
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Return Fixed Income Fund
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008
|
|
|
9.79
|
|
|
|
0.39
|
|
|
|
(0.22
|
)
|
|
|
0.17
|
|
|
|
(0.38
|
)
|
|
|
(0.01
|
)
|
2007
|
|
|
9.82
|
|
|
|
0.47
|
|
|
|
(0.04
|
)
|
|
|
0.43
|
|
|
|
(0.46
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
2006
|
|
|
9.85
|
|
|
|
0.44
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.44
|
|
|
|
(0.45
|
)
|
|
|
(0.02
|
)
|
2005(e)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.28
|
|
|
|
(0.15
|
)
|
|
|
0.13
|
|
|
|
(0.28
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ratio of
|
|
Ratio of
|
|
Ratio of Net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Expenses to
|
|
Expenses to
|
|
Investment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Net
|
|
Average Net
|
|
Income (Loss) to
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets
|
|
Assets
|
|
Average Net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Including Waivers,
|
|
(Excluding
|
|
Assets (Including
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Asset
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Assets,
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Waivers,
|
|
Waivers,
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Value, End
|
|
Total
|
|
End of Period
|
|
and Excluding
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Portfolio
|
|
|
Total Distributions
|
|
of Period
|
|
Return(a)
|
|
(000)
|
|
Offsets)
|
|
and Offsets)
|
|
and Offsets)
|
|
Turnover Rate
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(2.06
|
)
|
|
|
6.97
|
|
|
|
(55.25
|
)
|
|
|
1,061
|
|
|
|
1.98
|
|
|
|
2.73
|
|
|
|
0.20
|
|
|
|
123
|
|
|
|
|
(0.03
|
)
|
|
|
17.86
|
|
|
|
70.09
|
|
|
|
2,594
|
|
|
|
2.00
|
|
|
|
2.95
|
|
|
|
0.08
|
|
|
|
107
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.53
|
|
|
|
5.30
|
|
|
|
1,053
|
|
|
|
2.12
|
*
|
|
|
5.10
|
|
|
|
0.71
|
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(0.21
|
)
|
|
|
6.71
|
|
|
|
(49.04
|
)
|
|
|
15,430
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
1.86
|
|
|
|
1.04
|
|
|
|
88
|
|
|
|
|
(0.08
|
)
|
|
|
13.40
|
|
|
|
26.92
|
|
|
|
28,308
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
1.77
|
|
|
|
0.60
|
|
|
|
112
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.64
|
|
|
|
4.01
|
|
|
|
21,481
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
2.43
|
|
|
|
(0.03
|
)
|
|
|
76
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(2.04
|
)
|
|
|
5.59
|
|
|
|
(50.78
|
)
|
|
|
771
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
3.89
|
|
|
|
3.58
|
|
|
|
50
|
|
|
|
|
(0.17
|
)
|
|
|
13.62
|
|
|
|
31.31
|
|
|
|
1,660
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
4.12
|
|
|
|
2.76
|
|
|
|
58
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.53
|
|
|
|
5.30
|
|
|
|
1,053
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
8.86
|
|
|
|
2.05
|
|
|
|
7
|
|
63
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ratio of
|
|
Ratio of
|
|
Ratio of Net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Expenses to
|
|
Expenses to
|
|
Investment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Net
|
|
Average Net
|
|
Income (Loss) to
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets
|
|
Assets
|
|
Average Net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Including Waivers,
|
|
(Excluding
|
|
Assets (Including
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Asset
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Assets,
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Waivers,
|
|
Waivers,
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Value, End
|
|
Total
|
|
End of Period
|
|
and Excluding
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Portfolio
|
|
|
Total Distributions
|
|
of Period
|
|
Return(a)
|
|
(000)
|
|
Offsets)
|
|
and Offsets)
|
|
and Offsets)
|
|
Turnover Rate
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(1.75
|
)
|
|
|
7.55
|
|
|
|
(35.08
|
)
|
|
|
102
|
|
|
|
0.70
|
|
|
|
0.70
|
|
|
|
1.57
|
|
|
|
131
|
|
|
|
|
(0.88
|
)
|
|
|
13.48
|
|
|
|
14.66
|
|
|
|
133
|
|
|
|
0.68
|
|
|
|
0.68
|
|
|
|
1.41
|
|
|
|
38
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.61
|
|
|
|
6.50
|
|
|
|
107
|
|
|
|
0.68
|
|
|
|
0.68
|
|
|
|
1.17
|
|
|
|
51
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(2.30
|
)
|
|
|
15.71
|
|
|
|
(31.28
|
)
|
|
|
3,337
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
(0.54
|
)
|
|
|
74
|
|
|
|
|
(1.98
|
)
|
|
|
25.32
|
|
|
|
19.76
|
|
|
|
5,910
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
|
|
|
(0.17
|
)
|
|
|
77
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
23.04
|
|
|
|
3.74
|
|
|
|
667
|
|
|
|
1.68
|
|
|
|
1.68
|
|
|
|
(0.31
|
)
|
|
|
101
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(0.75
|
)
|
|
|
7.91
|
|
|
|
(32.56
|
)
|
|
|
230
|
|
|
|
1.64
|
|
|
|
3.01
|
|
|
|
(0.55
|
)
|
|
|
92
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
12.53
|
|
|
|
22.48
|
|
|
|
1,420
|
|
|
|
1.65
|
|
|
|
3.37
|
|
|
|
(0.45
|
)
|
|
|
93
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
10.23
|
|
|
|
2.30
|
|
|
|
512
|
|
|
|
1.79
|
**
|
|
|
6.89
|
|
|
|
(0.33
|
)
|
|
|
46
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
%
|
|
|
|
(0.39
|
)
|
|
|
9.57
|
|
|
|
1.67
|
|
|
|
996
|
|
|
|
0.65
|
|
|
|
0.95
|
|
|
|
3.77
|
|
|
|
555
|
|
|
|
|
(0.46
|
)
|
|
|
9.79
|
|
|
|
4.53
|
|
|
|
852
|
|
|
|
0.65
|
|
|
|
1.48
|
|
|
|
4.73
|
|
|
|
464
|
|
|
|
|
(0.47
|
)
|
|
|
9.82
|
|
|
|
4.56
|
|
|
|
1,060
|
|
|
|
0.65
|
|
|
|
2.37
|
|
|
|
4.59
|
|
|
|
295
|
|
|
|
|
(0.28
|
)
|
|
|
9.85
|
|
|
|
1.30
|
|
|
|
1,013
|
|
|
|
0.65
|
|
|
|
3.30
|
|
|
|
3.35
|
|
|
|
571
|
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
Had custody offsets been included the ratio would have been 2.00%.
|
|
**
|
|
Had custody offsets been included the ratio would have been 1.64%.
|
|
|
|
Includes redemption fees. Amount less than $0.01 per share.
|
|
|
|
Includes redemption fees of $0.01 per share.
|
|
(1)
|
|
Per share net investment income (loss) calculated using average shares.
|
|
(a)
|
|
Total returns would have been lower had certain Fund expenses not been waived or reimbursed
during the periods shown. Total return calculations for a period of less than one year are not
annualized.
|
|
(b)
|
|
Commenced operations on March 31, 2006. All ratios for the period have been annualized,
except for the Total Return and the Portfolio Turnover Rate.
|
|
(c)
|
|
Commenced operations on May 15, 2006. All ratios for the period have been annualized, except
for the Total Return and the Portfolio Turnover Rate.
|
|
(d)
|
|
Commenced operations on August 30, 2006. All ratios for the period have been annualized,
except for the Total Return and the Portfolio Turnover Rate.
|
|
(e)
|
|
Commenced operations on December 31, 2004. All ratios for the period have been annualized,
except for the Total Return and the Portfolio Turnover Rate.
|
|
(f)
|
|
Amount was less than $0.01 per share.
|
USA PATRIOT ACT
|
|
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal
law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that
identifies each person who opens an account. What this means to you: When you open an account
directly with a Fund, you will be asked your name, address, date of birth, and other information
that will allow you to be identified. You may also be asked for other identifying documentation.
If a Trust is unable to verify the information shortly after your account is opened, your
account may be closed and your shares redeemed at their net asset values at the time of the
redemption.
|
64
INVESTMENT
ADVISER
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISER
SCHRODER EMERGING MARKET EQUITY FUND, SCHRODER
INTERNATIONAL ALPHA FUND, SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL DIVERSIFIED VALUE FUND, AND
SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND
Schroder Investment Management North America Limited
31 Gresham Street
London EC2V 7QA
ADMINISTRATOR
SCHRODER EMERGING MARKET EQUITY FUND, SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL
DIVERSIFIED VALUE FUND, SCHRODER U.S. SMALL AND MID CAP OPPORTUNITIES FUND,
AND SCHRODER TOTAL RETURN FIXED INCOME FUND
SEI Investments Global Funds Services
1 Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
ADMINISTRATOR
SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND
Schroder Fund Advisors, Inc.
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
SUB-ADMINISTRATOR
SCHRODER INTERNATIONAL ALPHA FUND, SCHRODER NORTH AMERICAN EQUITY FUND, AND
SCHRODER U.S. OPPORTUNITIES FUND
SEI Investments Global Funds Services
1 Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
CUSTODIAN
J.P. Morgan Chase Bank
270 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10017
DISTRIBUTOR
Schroder Fund Advisors Inc.
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
TRANSFER AND DIVIDEND DISBURSING AGENT
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc.
Two Heritage Drive
North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
COUNSEL
Ropes & Gray LLP
One International Place
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
[ ]
[ ]
65
SCHRODER CAPITAL FUNDS (DELAWARE)
Schroder International Alpha Fund
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
SCHRODER GLOBAL SERIES TRUST
Schroder North American Equity Fund
The Funds have a Statement of Additional Information (SAI) and annual and semi-annual reports to
shareholders which contain additional information about the Funds. In the Funds annual report, you
will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly
affected the Funds performance during their last fiscal year. The SAI and the financial statements
included in the Funds most recent annual reports to shareholders are incorporated by reference
into this Prospectus, which means they are part of this Prospectus for legal purposes. You may get
free copies of these materials, request other information about the Funds, or make shareholder
inquiries by calling (800) 464-3108. From outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and
ask to speak with a representative of the Schroder Mutual Funds. The Funds SAI and annual report
are also available on the following website:
www.schroderfunds.com
.
You may review and copy information about each Fund, including its SAI, at the Securities and
Exchange Commissions public reference room in Washington, D.C. You may call the Commission at
1-800-551-8090 for information about the operation of the public reference room. You may also
access reports and other information about each Fund on the Commissions Internet site at
www.sec.gov
. You may get copies of this information, with payment of a duplication fee, by
electronic request to the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public
Reference Section of the Commission, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You may need to refer to the
Trusts file number under the Investment Company Act, which are: Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware):
811-1911; Schroder Series Trust: 811-7840; and Schroder Global Series Trust: 811-21364.
SCHRODER CAPITAL FUNDS (DELAWARE)
SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
SCHRODER GLOBAL SERIES TRUST
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
(800) 464-3108
File No. 811-1911 Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware)
File No. 811-7840 Schroder Series Trust
File No. 811-21364 Schroder Global Series Trust
PRO-ADVISOR
[ ]
66
[** To be updated by amendment.**]
SCHRODER CAPITAL FUNDS (DELAWARE)
SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
SCHRODER GLOBAL SERIES TRUST
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
Schroder International Alpha Fund
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
Schroder North American Equity Fund
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
(the Funds)
FORM N-1A
PART B
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
March 1, 2010
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a prospectus and is only authorized for
distribution when accompanied or preceded by a prospectus for the Funds, as amended or supplemented
from time to time. This SAI relates to the Funds Investor Shares and Advisor Shares. Investor
Shares and Advisor Shares are offered through separate Prospectuses, each dated March 1, 2010, as
amended or supplemented from time to time (each, a Prospectus, and together, the Prospectuses).
This SAI contains information that may be useful to investors but which is not included in the
Prospectuses. Investors may obtain free copies of the Prospectuses by calling the Funds at (800)
464-3108. From outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and ask to speak with a
Schroder Mutual Funds representative.
Certain disclosure has been incorporated by reference into this SAI from the Trusts most recent
annual report. For a free copy of the annual report, please call (800) 464-3108.
|
|
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
Advisor Shares
|
|
SEMVX
|
Investor Shares
|
|
SEMNX
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Alpha Fund
|
Advisor Shares
|
|
SCVEX
|
Investor Shares
|
|
SCIEX
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
|
Advisor Shares
|
|
SIDVX
|
Investor Shares
|
|
SIDNX
|
|
|
|
Schroder North American Equity Fund
|
Advisor Shares
|
|
SNAVX
|
Investor Shares
|
|
SNAEX
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
Advisor Shares
|
|
SCUVX
|
Investor Shares
|
|
SCUIX
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
|
Advisor Shares
|
|
SMDVX
|
Investor Shares
|
|
SMCIX
|
|
|
|
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
|
Advisor Shares
|
|
SBBVX
|
Investor Shares
|
|
SBBIX
|
Table of Contents
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1
|
|
|
|
|
1
|
|
|
|
|
2
|
|
|
|
|
2
|
|
|
|
|
25
|
|
|
|
|
27
|
|
|
|
|
32
|
|
|
|
|
34
|
|
|
|
|
40
|
|
|
|
|
40
|
|
|
|
|
45
|
|
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
|
|
51
|
|
|
|
|
52
|
|
|
|
|
53
|
|
|
|
|
55
|
|
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
|
|
56
|
|
|
|
|
63
|
|
|
|
|
63
|
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
|
64
|
|
|
|
|
65
|
|
|
|
|
A-1
|
|
|
|
|
B-1
|
|
|
|
|
C-1
|
|
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
TRUST HISTORIES
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) describes seven mutual funds (each, a Fund
and collectively, the Funds) offered by Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), Schroder Series Trust
or Schroder Global Series Trust (each, a Trust and collectively, the Trusts).
Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) was organized as a Maryland corporation on July 30, 1969,
reorganized on February 29, 1988 as Schroder Capital Funds, Inc., and reorganized as a Delaware
business trust organized under the laws of the State of Delaware on January 9, 1996. Schroder
Capital Funds (Delaware) is governed by a Trust Instrument (the Trust Instrument) and under
Delaware law. Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) currently comprises two publicly offered series,
Schroder International Alpha Fund and Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund.
Schroder Series Trust is a Massachusetts business trust organized under the laws of The
Commonwealth of Massachusetts on May 6, 1993. The Trusts Agreement and Declaration of Trust, as
amended (the Schroder Series Trust Declaration of Trust), which is governed by Massachusetts law,
is on file with the Secretary of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Schroder Series Trust
currently comprises five series, of which four series, Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund,
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund,
and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, are described in this SAI.
Schroder Global Series Trust is a Massachusetts business trust organized under the laws of The
Commonwealth of Massachusetts on May 27, 2003. The Trusts Amended and Restated Agreement and
Declaration of Trust, as amended (the Schroder Global Series Trust Declaration of Trust and,
collectively with the Schroder Series Trust Declaration of Trust, the Declarations of Trust),
which is governed by Massachusetts law, is on file with the Secretary of The Commonwealth of
Massachusetts. Schroder North American Equity Fund is the only series of shares currently
comprising the Trust.
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (Schroders) serves as investment manager
to the Funds. Schroder Investment Management North America Limited (SIMNA Ltd.) serves as
investment sub-adviser to Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund,
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, and Schroder North American Equity Fund.
FUND CLASSIFICATION
Each Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended (the Investment Company Act or 1940 Act). Each Fund is a diversified
investment company under the Investment Company Act, which means that with respect to 75% of a
Funds total assets (i) that Fund may not invest in securities of any issuer if, immediately after
such investment, more than 5% of the total assets of that Fund (taken at current value) would be
invested in the securities of that issuer (this limitation does not apply to investments in U.S.
Government securities or securities of other investment companies) or (ii) that Fund may not invest
in a security if, as a result of such investment, it would hold more than 10% (taken at the time of
such investment) of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer (this limitation does not
apply to investments in U.S. Government securities or securities of other investment companies).
No diversified fund is subject to this limitation with respect to the remaining 25% of its total
assets. To the extent a Fund invests a significant portion of its assets in the securities of a
particular issuer, it will be subject to an increased risk of loss if the market value of the
issuers securities declines.
-1-
These policies may not be changed without the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of the relevant Fund.
CAPITALIZATION AND SHARE CLASSES
Each Trust has an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest that may, without
shareholder approval, be divided into an unlimited number of series of such shares, which, in turn,
may be divided into an unlimited number of classes of such shares. The shares of each of the Funds
described in this SAI are currently divided into two classes, Investor Shares and Advisor Shares.
Each class of shares is offered through a separate Prospectus. Unlike Investor Shares, Advisor
Shares are currently subject to distribution fees, so that the performance of a Funds Investor
Shares will normally be more favorable than that of a Funds Advisor Shares over the same time
period. Generally, expenses and liabilities particular to a class of a Fund, such as distribution
fees applicable only to Advisor Shares, are allocated only to that class. Expenses and liabilities
not related to a particular class are allocated in relation to the respective net asset value of
each class, or on such other basis as the Trustees may in their discretion consider fair and
equitable to each class. A Fund may suspend the sale of shares at any time.
Shares of each Fund entitle their holders to one vote per share, with fractional shares voting
proportionally; however, a separate vote will be taken by each Fund of each of the Trusts or class
of shares on matters affecting a particular Fund or class, as determined by the Trustees. For
example, a change in a fundamental investment policy for a Fund would be voted upon only by
shareholders of that Fund and a change to a distribution plan relating to a particular class and
requiring shareholder approval would be voted upon only by shareholders of that class. Shares have
noncumulative voting rights. Although the Trusts are not required to hold annual meetings of their
shareholders, shareholders have the right to call a meeting to elect or remove Trustees or to take
other actions as provided in each Trusts Declaration of Trust or Trust Instrument, as applicable.
Shares have no preemptive or subscription rights, and are transferable. Shares are entitled to
dividends as declared by each Trust as approved by the Trustees of that Trust, and if a Fund were
liquidated, each class of shares of that Fund would receive the net assets of that Fund
attributable to the class of shares. Because Investor and Advisor Shares are subject to different
expenses, a Funds dividends and other distributions will normally differ between the two classes.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING THE FUNDS PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The following discussion provides additional information concerning the Funds principal
investment strategies and the principal risks of the Funds described in the Prospectuses. Because
the following is a combined description of investment strategies and risks for the Funds, certain
strategies or risks described below may not apply to your Fund. Unless a strategy or policy
described below is specifically prohibited by a Funds investment restrictions as set forth in the
Prospectuses or under Investment Restrictions in this SAI, or by applicable law, a Fund may
engage in each of the practices described below.
Equity Securities.
A Fund may primarily invest in equity securities. Equity securities are
securities that represent an ownership interest (or the right to acquire such an interest) in a
company and include common and preferred stocks. Common stocks represent an equity or ownership
interest in an issuer. Preferred stocks represent an equity or ownership interest in an issuer
that pays dividends at a specified rate and that has priority over common stock in the payment of
dividends. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of
bonds take priority over holders of preferred stock, whose claims take priority over the claims of
those who own common stock.
While offering greater potential for long-term growth, equity securities generally are more
volatile and riskier than some other forms of investment, particularly debt securities. Therefore,
the value of an investment in a Fund may at times decrease instead of increase.
A Funds investments may include securities traded over-the-counter as well as those traded
on a securities exchange. Some securities, particularly over-the-counter securities, may be more
difficult to sell under some market conditions.
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Smaller Company Equity Securities.
A Fund may invest in equity securities of companies with
small market capitalizations. Such investments may involve greater risk than is usually associated
with larger, more established companies. These companies often have sales and earnings growth
rates that exceed those of companies with larger market capitalization. Such growth rates may in
turn be reflected in more rapid share price appreciation. However, companies with small market
capitalizations often have limited product lines, markets or financial resources and may be
dependent upon a relatively small management group. These securities may have limited
marketability and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic movements in price than securities of
companies with larger market capitalizations or market averages in general. Therefore, to the
extent a Fund invests in securities with small market capitalizations, the net asset value of the
Fund may fluctuate more widely than market averages.
Preferred Stock.
Preferred stock represents an equity interest in a company that generally
entitles the holder to receive, in preference to holders of other stocks such as common stocks,
dividends at a specified rate and a fixed share of proceeds resulting from a liquidation of the
company. Preferred stock, unlike common stock, generally has a stated dividend rate payable from
the corporations earnings. Preferred stock dividends may be cumulative or non-cumulative.
Cumulative dividend provisions require all or a portion of prior unpaid dividends to be paid to
preferred stockholders before dividends can be paid on the issuers common stock. Preferred stock
may be participating stock, which means that it may be entitled to a dividend that exceeds the
stated dividend in certain cases.
If interest rates rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing
the price of preferred stocks to decline.
A companys preferred stock generally pays a dividend only after the company makes required
payments to holders of its bonds and other debt. In addition, the rights of preferred stock on
distribution of a companys assets in the event of a liquidation are generally subordinate to the
rights of holders of the companys bonds or other creditors. As a result, the value of preferred
stock will usually react more strongly than bonds and other debt to actual or perceived changes in
the companys financial condition or prospects. Preferred stocks of small companies may be more
vulnerable to adverse developments than those of larger companies.
Certain Derivative Instruments.
Derivative instruments are financial instruments whose value
depends upon, or is derived from, the value of an underlying asset, such as a security, index or
currency. As described below, to the extent permitted under Investment Restrictions below and in
the Prospectuses, a Fund may engage in a variety of transactions involving the use of derivative
instruments, including options and futures contracts on securities and securities indices, options
on futures contracts, forward transactions and swap transactions. A Fund may engage in derivative
transactions involving foreign currencies. See Foreign Currency Transactions. Use of
derivatives other than for hedging purposes may be considered speculative, and when a Fund invests
in a derivative instrument it could lose more than the principal amount invested. A Funds use of
derivatives may cause the Fund to recognize higher amounts of short-term capital gains, generally
taxed to shareholders at ordinary income tax rates. Investments in derivatives may be applied
toward meeting a requirement to invest in a particular kind of investment if the derivatives have
economic characteristics similar to that investment.
The counterparties to the Funds derivatives transactions may not be considered the issuers of
securities for certain purposes of the 1940 Act and the United States Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended (the Code). The Funds adviser will monitor the Funds credit risk exposure to
derivative counterparties to prevent excess concentration to any one counterparty.
A Fund may use these derivatives strategies for hedging purposes or, to the extent permitted
by applicable law, to increase its current return. A Fund may also use derivatives to gain
exposure to securities or market sectors as a substitute for cash investments (not for leverage) or
pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvestment of the proceeds. For example, a Fund
may seek to obtain market exposure to the securities in which it may invest by entering into
forward contracts or similar arrangements to purchase those securities in the future. Any use of
derivatives strategies entails the risks of investing directly in the securities or instruments
underlying the derivatives strategies, as well as the risks of using derivatives generally,
described in the Prospectuses and in this SAI.
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Options.
A Fund may purchase and sell put and call options on its portfolio securities to
protect against changes in market prices and for other purposes.
Call options.
A Fund may write call options on its portfolio securities for various purposes,
including without limitation to realize a greater current return through the receipt of premiums
than it would realize on its securities alone. Such transactions may also be used as a limited
form of hedging against a decline in the price of securities owned by a Fund.
A call option gives the holder the right to purchase, and obligates the writer to sell, a
security at the exercise price at any time before the expiration date. A Fund may write covered
call options or uncovered call options. A call option is covered if the writer, at all times
while obligated as a writer, either owns the underlying securities (or comparable securities
satisfying the cover requirements of the securities exchanges), or has the right to acquire such
securities through immediate conversion of securities. When a Fund has written an uncovered call
option, the Fund will not necessarily hold securities offsetting the risk to the Fund. As a result,
if the call option were exercised, the Fund might be required to purchase the security that is the
subject of the call at the market price at the time of exercise. The Funds exposure on such an
option is theoretically unlimited.
In return for the premium received when it writes a call option, a Fund gives up some or all
of the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market price of the securities covering the
call option during the life of the option. The Fund retains the risk of loss should the price of
such securities decline. If the option expires unexercised, the Fund realizes a gain equal to the
premium, which may be offset by a decline in price of the underlying security. If the option is
exercised, the Fund realizes a gain or loss equal to the difference between the Funds cost for the
underlying security and the proceeds of the sale (exercise price minus commissions) plus the amount
of the premium.
A Fund may terminate a call option that it has written before it expires by entering into a
closing purchase transaction. A Fund may enter into closing purchase transactions in order to
realize a profit on a previously written call option or, in the case of a covered call option, to
free itself to sell the underlying security or to write another call on the security or protect a
security from being called in an unexpected market rise.
Any profits from a closing purchase transaction in the case of a covered call option may be
offset by a decline in the value of the underlying security. Conversely, because increases in the
market price of a call option will generally reflect increases in the market price of the
underlying security, any loss resulting from a closing purchase transaction relating to a covered
call option is likely to be offset in whole or in part by unrealized appreciation of the underlying
security owned by a Fund.
Covered put options.
A Fund may write covered put options in order to enhance its current
return. Such options transactions may also be used as a limited form of hedging against an increase
in the price of securities that the Fund plans to purchase. A put option gives the holder the right
to sell, and obligates the writer to buy, a security at the exercise price at any time before the
expiration date. A put option is covered if the writer segregates cash and high-grade short-term
debt obligations or other permissible collateral equal to the price to be paid if the option is
exercised.
In addition to the receipt of premiums and the potential gains from terminating such options
in closing purchase transactions, a Fund also receives interest on the cash and debt securities
maintained to cover the exercise price of the option. By writing a put option, a Fund assumes the
risk that it may be required to purchase the underlying security for an exercise price higher than
its then current market value, resulting in a potential capital loss unless the security later
appreciates in value.
A Fund may terminate a put option that it has written before it expires by a closing purchase
transaction. Any loss from this transaction may be partially or entirely offset by the premium
received on the terminated option.
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Purchasing put and call options.
A Fund may also purchase put options to protect portfolio
holdings against a decline in market value. This protection lasts for the life of the put option
because the Fund, as a holder of the option, may sell the underlying security at the exercise price
regardless of any decline in its market price. In order for a put option to be profitable, the
market price of the underlying security must decline sufficiently below the exercise price to cover
the premium and transaction costs that the Fund must pay. These costs will reduce any profit the
Fund might have realized had it sold the underlying security instead of buying the put option.
A Fund may purchase call options to hedge against an increase in the price of securities that
the Fund wants ultimately to buy. Such hedge protection is provided during the life of the call
option since the Fund, as holder of the call option, are able to buy the underlying security at the
exercise price regardless of any increase in the underlying securitys market price. In order for a
call option to be profitable, the market price of the underlying security must rise sufficiently
above the exercise price to cover the premium and transaction costs. These costs will reduce any
profit the Fund might have realized had it bought the underlying security at the time it purchased
the call option.
A Fund may also purchase put and call options to enhance its current return. A Fund may also
buy and sell combinations of put and call options on the same underlying security to earn
additional income.
Options on foreign securities.
A Fund may purchase and sell options on foreign securities if
in Schroders opinion the investment characteristics of such options, including the risks of
investing in such options, are consistent with a Funds investment objectives. It is expected that
risks related to such options will not differ materially from risks related to options on U.S.
securities. However, position limits and other rules of foreign exchanges may differ from those in
the U.S. In addition, options markets in some countries, many of which are relatively new, may be
less liquid than comparable markets in the U.S.
Risks involved in the sale of options.
Options transactions involve certain risks, including
the risks that Schroders will not forecast interest rate or market movements correctly, that a Fund
may be unable at times to close out such positions, or that hedging transactions may not accomplish
their purpose because of imperfect market correlations. The successful use of these strategies
depends on the ability of Schroders to forecast market and interest rate movements correctly.
An exchange-listed option may be closed out only on an exchange that provides a secondary
market for an option of the same series. Although a Fund will enter into an option position only if
Schroders believes that a liquid secondary market exists, there is no assurance that a liquid
secondary market on an exchange will exist for any particular option or at any particular time. If
no secondary market were to exist, it would be impossible to enter into a closing transaction to
close out an option position. As a result, a Fund may be forced to continue to hold, or to purchase
at a fixed price, a security on which it has sold an option at a time when Schroders believes it is
inadvisable to do so.
Higher than anticipated trading activity or order flow or other unforeseen events might cause
The Options Clearing Corporation or an exchange to institute special trading procedures or
restrictions that might restrict a Funds use of options. The exchanges have established
limitations on the maximum number of calls and puts of each class that may be held or written by an
investor or group of investors acting in concert. It is possible that the Funds and other clients
of Schroders may be considered such a group. These position limits may restrict the Funds ability
to purchase or sell options on particular securities.
As described below, each Fund generally expects that its options transactions will be
conducted on recognized exchanges. In certain instances, however, a Fund may purchase and sell
options in the over-the-counter markets. Options that are not traded on national securities
exchanges may be closed out only with the other party to the option transaction. For that reason,
it may be more difficult to close out over-the-counter options than exchange-traded options.
Options in the over-the-counter market may also involve the risk that securities dealers
participating in such transactions would be unable to meet their obligations to a Fund.
Furthermore, over-the-counter options are not subject to the protection afforded purchasers of
exchange-traded options by The Options Clearing Corporation. A Fund will, however, engage in
over-the-counter options transactions only when appropriate exchange-traded options
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transactions are unavailable and when, in the opinion of Schroders, the pricing mechanism and
liquidity of the over-the-counter markets are satisfactory and the participants are responsible
parties likely to meet their contractual obligations. A Fund will treat over-the-counter options
(and, in the case of options sold by the Fund, the underlying securities held by the Fund) as
illiquid investments as required by applicable law.
Government regulations, particularly the requirements for qualification as a regulated
investment company (a RIC) under the Code, may also restrict a Trusts use of options.
Futures Contracts.
To the extent permitted under Investment Restrictions below and in the
Prospectuses and by applicable law, a Fund may buy and sell futures contracts, options on futures
contracts, and related instruments in order to hedge against the effects of adverse market changes
or to increase current return. Depending upon the change in the value of the underlying security
or index when that Fund enters into or terminates a futures contract, that Fund may realize a gain
or loss.
The Funds are operated by a person who has claimed an exclusion from the definition of the
term commodity pool operator under the Commodity Exchange Act (the CEA) and, therefore, such
person is not subject to registration or regulation as a pool operator under the CEA.
Futures on Securities and Related Options.
A futures contract on a security is a binding
contractual commitment that, if held to maturity, will result in an obligation to make or accept
delivery, during a particular month, of securities having a standardized face value and rate of
return. By purchasing futures on securities assuming a long position the Fund will legally
obligate itself to accept the future delivery of the underlying security and pay the agreed price.
By selling futures on securities assuming a short position it will legally obligate itself
to make the future delivery of the security against payment of the agreed price. Open futures
positions on securities will be valued at the most recent settlement price, unless that price does
not, in the judgment of the Funds Valuation Committee, reflect the fair value of the contract, in
which case the positions will be fair valued by the Trustees or the Valuation Committee.
Positions taken in the futures markets are not normally held to maturity, but are instead
liquidated through offsetting transactions that may result in a profit or a loss. While futures
positions taken by a Fund will usually be liquidated in this manner, a Fund may instead make or
take delivery of the underlying securities whenever it appears in Schroders judgment economically
advantageous for the Fund to do so. A clearing corporation associated with the exchange on which
futures are traded assumes responsibility for such closing transactions and guarantees that a
Funds sale and purchase obligations under closed-out positions will be performed at the
termination of the contract.
Hedging by use of futures on securities seeks to establish more certainty with respect to the
effective rate of return on portfolio securities. A Fund may, for example, take a short position
in the futures market by selling contracts for the future delivery of securities held by the Fund
(or securities having characteristics similar to those held by the Fund) in order to hedge against
an anticipated rise in interest rates that would adversely affect the value of the Funds portfolio
securities. When hedging of this character is successful, any depreciation in the value of
portfolio securities may substantially be offset by appreciation in the value of the futures
position.
On other occasions, a Fund may take a long position by purchasing futures on securities.
This would be done, for example, when a Fund expects to purchase particular securities when it has
the necessary cash, but expects the rate of return available in the securities markets at that time
to be less favorable than rates currently available in the futures markets. If the anticipated
rise in the price of the securities should occur (with its concomitant reduction in yield), the
increased cost to the Fund of purchasing the securities may be offset, at least to some extent, by
the rise in the value of the futures position taken in anticipation of the subsequent securities
purchase.
A Fund may also use futures to adjust the duration of its fixed income portfolio and otherwise
to manage (increase or decrease) its exposure to interest rate risk.
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Successful use by a Fund of futures contracts on securities is subject to Schroders ability
to predict correctly movements in the direction of the securitys price and factors affecting
markets for securities. For example, if a Fund has hedged against the possibility of an increase
in interest rates that would adversely affect the market prices of securities held by it and the
prices of such securities increase instead, the Fund will lose part or all of the benefit of the
increased value of its securities that it has hedged because it will have offsetting losses in its
futures positions. In addition, in such situations, if the Fund has insufficient cash, it may have
to sell securities to meet daily maintenance margin requirements. A Fund may have to sell
securities at a time when it may be disadvantageous to do so.
A Fund may purchase and write put and call options on certain futures contracts, as they
become available. Such options are similar to options on securities except that options on futures
contracts give the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in a
futures contract (a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a
put) at a specified exercise price at any time during the period of the option. As with options on
securities, the holder or writer of an option may terminate his position by selling or purchasing
an option of the same series. There is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be
effected. A Fund will be required to deposit initial margin and maintenance margin with respect to
put and call options on futures contracts written by it pursuant to brokers requirements, and, in
addition, net option premiums received will be included as initial margin deposits. See Margin
Payments below. Compared to the purchase or sale of futures contracts, the purchase of call or
put options on futures contracts involves less potential risk to a Fund because the maximum amount
at risk is the premium paid for the options plus transactions costs. However, there may be
circumstances when the purchase of call or put options on a futures contract would result in a loss
to a Fund when the purchase or sale of the futures contracts would not, such as when there is no
movement in the prices of securities. The writing of a put or call option on a futures contract
involves risks similar to those risks relating to the purchase or sale of futures contracts.
Index Futures Contracts and Options.
A Fund may invest in debt index futures contracts and
stock index futures contracts, and in related options. A debt index futures contract is a contract
to buy or sell units of a specified debt index at a specified future date at a price agreed upon
when the contract is made. A unit is the current value of the index. A stock index futures
contract is a contract to buy or sell units of a stock index at a specified future date at a price
agreed upon when the contract is made. A unit is the current value of the stock index.
Depending on the change in the value of the index between the time when a Fund enters into and
terminates an index futures transaction, a Fund may realize a gain or loss. The following example
illustrates generally the manner in which index futures contracts operate. The Standard & Poors
100 Stock Index is composed of 100 selected common stocks, most of which are listed on the New York
Stock Exchange. The S&P 100 Index assigns relative weightings to the common stocks included in the
Index, and the Index fluctuates with changes in the market values of those common stocks. In the
case of the S&P 100 Index, contracts are to buy or sell 100 units. Thus, if the value of the S&P
100 Index were $180, one contract would be worth $18,000 (100 units x $180). The stock index
futures contract specifies that no delivery of the actual stocks making up the index will take
place. Instead, settlement in cash must occur upon the termination of the contract, with the
settlement being the difference between the contract price and the actual level of the stock index
at the expiration of the contract. For example, if a Fund enters into a futures contract to buy
100 units of the S&P 100 Index at a specified future date at a contract price of $180 and the S&P
100 Index is at $184 on that future date, the Fund will gain $400 (100 units x gain of $4). If a
Fund enters into a futures contract to sell 100 units of the stock index at a specified future date
at a contract price of $180 and the S&P 100 Index is at $182 on that future date, the Fund will
lose $200 (100 units x loss of $2).
A Fund may purchase or sell futures contracts with respect to any securities indices.
Positions in index futures may be closed out only on an exchange or board of trade that provides a
secondary market for such futures.
In order to hedge a Funds investments successfully using futures contracts and related
options, a Fund must invest in futures contracts with respect to indices or sub-indices the
movements of which will, in Schroders judgment, have a significant correlation with movements in
the prices of the Funds portfolio securities.
Options on index futures contracts are similar to options on securities except that options on
index futures contracts give the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a
position in an index futures contract
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(a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a put) at a
specified exercise price at any time during the period of the option. Upon exercise of the option,
the holder would assume the underlying futures position and would receive a variation margin
payment of cash or securities approximating the increase in the value of the holders option
position. If an option is exercised on the last trading day prior to the expiration date of the
option, the settlement will be made entirely in cash based on the difference between the exercise
price of the option and the closing level of the index on which the futures contract is based on
the expiration date. Purchasers of options who fail to exercise their options prior to the
exercise date suffer a loss of the premium paid.
As an alternative to purchasing and selling call and put options on index futures contracts, a
Fund may purchase and sell call and put options on the underlying indices themselves to the extent
that such options are traded on national securities exchanges. Index options are similar to
options on individual securities in that the purchaser of an index option acquires the right to buy
(in the case of a call) or sell (in the case of a put), and the writer undertakes the obligation to
sell or buy (as the case may be), units of an index at a stated exercise price during the term of
the option. Instead of giving the right to take or make actual delivery of securities, the holder
of an index option has the right to receive a cash exercise settlement amount. This amount is
equal to the amount by which the fixed exercise price of the option exceeds (in the case of a put)
or is less than (in the case of a call) the closing value of the underlying index on the date of
the exercise, multiplied by a fixed index multiplier.
A Fund may purchase or sell options on stock indices in order to close out its outstanding
positions in options on stock indices that it has purchased. A Fund may also allow such options to
expire unexercised.
Compared to the purchase or sale of futures contracts, the purchase of call or put options on
an index involves less potential risk to a Fund because the maximum amount at risk is the premium
paid for the options plus transactions costs. The writing of a put or call option on an index
involves risks similar to those risks relating to the purchase or sale of index futures contracts.
A Fund may also purchase warrants, issued by banks and other financial institutions, whose
values are based on the values from time to time of one or more securities indices. See Warrants
to Purchase Securities below.
Margin Payments.
When a Fund purchases or sells a futures contract, it is required to deposit
with its custodian or with a futures commission merchant an amount of cash, U.S. Treasury bills, or
other permissible collateral equal to a small percentage of the amount of the futures contract.
This amount is known as initial margin. The nature of initial margin is different from that of
margin in security transactions in that it does not involve borrowing money to finance
transactions. Rather, initial margin is similar to a performance bond or good faith deposit that
is returned to the Fund upon termination of the contract, assuming the Fund satisfies its
contractual obligations.
Subsequent payments to and from the broker occur on a daily basis in a process known as
marking to market. These payments are called variation margin and are made as the value of the
underlying futures contract fluctuates. For example, when a Fund sells a futures contract and the
price of the underlying security rises above the delivery price, the Funds position declines in
value. The Fund then pays the broker a variation margin payment equal to the difference between
the delivery price of the futures contract and the market price of the securities underlying the
futures contract. Conversely, if the price of the underlying security falls below the delivery
price of the contract, the Funds futures position increases in value. The broker then must make a
variation margin payment equal to the difference between the delivery price of the futures contract
and the market price of the securities underlying the futures contract.
When a Fund terminates a position in a futures contract, a final determination of variation
margin is made, additional cash is paid by or to the Fund, and the Fund realizes a loss or a gain.
Such closing transactions involve additional commission costs.
Special Risks of Transactions in Futures Contracts and Related Options
-8-
Liquidity Risks.
Positions in futures contracts may be closed out only on an exchange or
board of trade that provides a secondary market for such futures. Although the Funds intend to
purchase or sell futures only on exchanges or boards of trade where there appears to be an active
secondary market, there is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on an exchange or board of
trade will exist for any particular contract or at any particular time. If there is not a liquid
secondary market at a particular time, it may not be possible to close a futures position at such
time and, in the event of adverse price movements, a Fund would continue to be required to make
daily cash payments of variation margin. However, in the event financial futures are used to hedge
portfolio securities, such securities will not generally be sold until the financial futures can be
terminated. In such circumstances, an increase in the price of the portfolio securities, if any,
may partially or completely offset losses on the financial futures.
In addition to the risks that apply to all options transactions, there are several special
risks relating to options on futures contracts. The ability to establish and close out positions
in such options will be subject to the development and maintenance of a liquid secondary market.
It is not certain that such a market will develop. Although a Fund generally will purchase only
those options for which there appears to be an active secondary market, there is no assurance that
a liquid secondary market on an exchange will exist for any particular option or at any particular
time. In the event no such market exists for particular options, it might not be possible to
effect closing transactions in such options with the result that the Fund would have to exercise
the options in order to realize any profit.
Hedging Risks.
There are several risks in connection with the use by a Fund of futures
contracts and related options as a hedging device. One risk arises because of the imperfect
correlation between movements in the prices of the futures contracts and options and movements in
the underlying securities or index or in the prices of a Funds securities that are the subject of
a hedge. Schroders will, however, attempt to reduce this risk by purchasing and selling, to the
extent possible, futures contracts and related options on securities and indices the movements of
which will, in its judgment, correlate closely with movements in the prices of the underlying
securities or index and the Funds portfolio securities sought to be hedged.
Successful use of futures contracts and options by a Fund for hedging purposes is also subject
to Schroders ability to predict correctly movements in the direction of the market. It is
possible that, where a Fund has purchased puts on futures contracts to hedge its portfolio against
a decline in the market, the securities or index on which the puts are purchased may increase in
value and the value of securities held in the portfolio may decline. If this occurred, the Fund
would lose money on the puts and also experience a decline in value in its portfolio securities.
In addition, the prices of futures, for a number of reasons, may not correlate perfectly with
movements in the underlying securities or index due to certain market distortions. First, all
participants in the futures market are subject to margin deposit requirements. Such requirements
may cause investors to close futures contracts through offsetting transactions, which could distort
the normal relationship between the underlying security or index and futures markets. Second, the
margin requirements in the futures markets are less onerous than margin requirements in the
securities markets in general, and as a result the futures markets may attract more speculators
than the securities markets do. Increased participation by speculators in the futures markets may
also cause temporary price distortions. Due to the possibility of price distortion, even a correct
forecast of general market trends by Schroders may still not result in a successful hedging
transaction over a very short time period.
Lack of Availability.
Because the markets for certain options and futures contracts and other
derivative instruments in which a Fund may invest (including markets located in foreign countries)
are relatively new and still developing and may be subject to regulatory restraints, a Funds
ability to engage in transactions using such instruments may be limited. Suitable derivative
transactions may not be available in all circumstances and there is no assurance that a Fund will
engage in such transactions at any time or from time to time. A Funds ability to engage in
hedging transactions may also be limited by certain regulatory and tax considerations.
Other Risks.
A Fund will incur brokerage fees in connection with its futures and options
transactions. In addition, while futures contracts and options on futures may be purchased and
sold to reduce certain risks, those transactions themselves entail certain other risks. Thus,
while a Fund may benefit from the use of futures and related options, unanticipated changes in
interest rates or stock price movements may result in a poorer overall performance for a Fund than
if it had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. Moreover, in the event
of an
-9-
imperfect correlation between the futures position and the portfolio position that is intended to
be protected, the desired protection may not be obtained and the Fund may be exposed to risk of
loss. A Fund may be required to segregate certain of its assets on the books of its custodian in
respect of derivative transactions entered into by the Fund. As open-end investment companies,
registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Trusts are subject to
federal securities laws, including the Investment Company Act, related rules and various SEC and
SEC Staff positions. In accordance with these positions, with respect to certain kinds of
derivatives, each Trust must set aside (referred to sometimes as asset segregation) liquid
assets, or engage in other SEC- or Staff-approved measures while the derivatives contracts are
open. For example, with respect to forwards and futures contracts that are not contractually
required to cash-settle, a Trust must cover its open positions by setting aside liquid assets
equal to the contracts full, notional value. With respect to forwards and futures that are
contractually required to cash-settle, however, a Trust is permitted to set aside liquid assets
in an amount equal to a Trusts daily marked-to-market (net) obligation (
i.e.
, a Trusts daily net
liability, if any) rather than the notional value. By setting aside assets equal to only its net
obligation under cash-settled forward or futures a Trust will have the ability to employ leverage
to a greater extent than if a Trust were required to segregate assets equal to the full notional
value of such contracts. The use of leverage involves certain risks. Each Trust reserves the
right to modify its asset segregation policies in the future to comply with any changes in the
positions articulated from time to time by the SEC and its Staff.
Foreign Securities.
A Fund may invest in securities principally traded in foreign markets. A
Fund may also invest in Eurodollar certificates of deposit and other certificates of deposit issued
by United States branches of foreign banks and foreign branches of United States banks.
Investments in foreign securities may involve risks and considerations different from or in
addition to investments in domestic securities. There may be less information publicly available
about a foreign company than about a U.S. company, and foreign companies are not generally subject
to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards and practices comparable to those in the
United States. The securities of some foreign companies are less liquid and at times more volatile
than securities of comparable U.S. companies. Foreign brokerage commissions and other fees are also
generally higher than in the United States. Foreign settlement procedures and trade regulations may
involve certain risks (such as delay in payment or delivery of securities or in the recovery of a
Funds assets held abroad) and expenses not present in the settlement of domestic investments.
Also, because foreign securities are normally denominated and traded in foreign currencies, the
values of a Funds assets may be affected favorably or unfavorably by currency exchange rates and
exchange control regulations, and a Fund may incur costs in connection with conversion between
currencies.
In addition, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of
nationalization or expropriation of assets, imposition of currency exchange controls, adoption of
foreign governmental restrictions affecting the payment of principal and interest, imposition of
withholding or confiscatory taxes, political or financial instability, and adverse political,
diplomatic or economic developments, which could affect the values of investments in those
countries. In certain countries, legal remedies available to investors may be more limited than
those available with respect to investments in the United States or other countries and it may be
more difficult to obtain and enforce a judgment against a foreign issuer. Also, the laws of some
foreign countries may limit a Funds ability to invest in securities of certain issuers located in
those countries. Special tax considerations apply to foreign securities.
Income received by a Fund from sources within foreign countries may be reduced by withholding
and other taxes imposed by such countries. Tax conventions between certain countries and the
United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes. It is impossible to determine the effective rate
of foreign tax in advance since the amount of a Funds assets to be invested in various countries
is not known, and tax laws and their interpretations may change from time to time and may change
without advance notice. Any such taxes paid by a Fund will reduce its net income available for
distribution to shareholders.
Emerging Markets Securities.
A Fund may invest in securities of companies determined by
Schroders to be emerging market issuers. The risks of investing in foreign securities are
particularly high when securities of issuers based in developing or emerging market countries are
involved. Investing in emerging market countries
-10-
involves certain risks not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities, and imposes
risks greater than, or in addition to, risks of investing in foreign, developed countries. These
risks include: greater risks of nationalization or expropriation of assets or confiscatory
taxation; currency devaluations and other currency exchange rate fluctuations; greater social,
economic and political uncertainty and instability (including the risk of war); more substantial
government involvement in the economy; less government supervision and regulation of the securities
markets and participants in those markets; controls on foreign investment and limitations on
repatriation of invested capital and on a Funds ability to exchange local currencies for U.S.
dollars; unavailability of currency hedging techniques in certain emerging market countries; the
fact that companies in emerging market countries may be smaller, less seasoned and newly organized
companies; the difference in, or lack of, auditing and financial reporting standards, which may
result in unavailability of material information about issuers; the risk that it may be more
difficult to obtain and/or enforce a judgment in a court outside the United States; and greater
price volatility, substantially less liquidity, and significantly smaller market capitalization of
securities markets. Also, any change in the leadership or politics of emerging market countries,
or the countries that exercise a significant influence over those countries, may halt the expansion
of or reverse the liberalization of foreign investment policies now occurring and adversely affect
existing investment opportunities.
In addition, a number of emerging market countries restrict, to various degrees, foreign
investment in securities. Furthermore, high rates of inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation
rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities markets
of certain emerging market countries.
Foreign Currency Transactions.
A Fund may engage in currency exchange transactions to protect
against uncertainty in the level of future foreign currency exchange rates and to increase current
return. A Fund may engage in both transaction hedging and position hedging.
When it engages in transaction hedging, a Fund enters into foreign currency transactions with
respect to specific receivables or payables of that Fund generally arising in connection with the
purchase or sale of its portfolio securities. A Fund will engage in transaction hedging when it
desires to lock in the U.S. dollar price of a security it has agreed to purchase or sell, or the
U.S. dollar equivalent of a dividend or interest payment in a foreign currency. By transaction
hedging, a Fund will attempt to protect against a possible loss resulting from an adverse change in
the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the applicable foreign currency during the period
between the date on which the security is purchased or sold or on which the dividend or interest
payment is declared, and the date on which such payments are made or received.
A Fund may purchase or sell a foreign currency on a spot (or cash) basis at the prevailing
spot rate in connection with transaction hedging. A Fund may also enter into contracts to purchase
or sell foreign currencies at a future date (forward contracts) and purchase and sell foreign
currency futures contracts.
For transaction hedging purposes, a Fund may also purchase exchange-listed and
over-the-counter call and put options on foreign currency futures contracts and on foreign
currencies. A put option on a futures contract gives a Fund the right to assume a short position
in the futures contract until expiration of the option. A put option on currency gives a Fund the
right to sell a currency at an exercise price until the expiration of the option. A call option on
a futures contract gives a Fund the right to assume a long position in the futures contract until
the expiration of the option. A call option on currency gives a Fund the right to purchase a
currency at the exercise price until the expiration of the option. A Fund will engage in
over-the-counter transactions only when appropriate exchange-traded transactions are unavailable
and when, in Schroders opinion, the pricing mechanism and liquidity are satisfactory and the
participants are responsible parties likely to meet their contractual obligations.
When it engages in position hedging, a Fund enters into foreign currency exchange transactions
to protect against a decline in the values of the foreign currencies in which securities held by a
Fund are denominated or are quoted in their principal trading markets or an increase in the value
of currency for securities which a Fund expects to purchase. In connection with position hedging,
a Fund may purchase put or call options on foreign currency and foreign currency futures contracts
and buy or sell forward contracts and foreign currency futures contracts. A Fund may also purchase
or sell foreign currency on a spot basis.
-11-
The precise matching of the amounts of foreign currency exchange transactions and the value of
the portfolio securities involved will not generally be possible since the future value of such
securities in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements in the values of
those securities between the dates the currency exchange transactions are entered into and the
dates they mature.
It is impossible to forecast with precision the market value of a Funds portfolio securities
at the expiration or maturity of a forward or futures contract. Accordingly, it may be necessary
for a Fund to purchase additional foreign currency on the spot market (and bear the expense of such
purchase) if the market value of the security or securities being hedged is less than the amount of
foreign currency the Fund is obligated to deliver and if a decision is made to sell the security or
securities and make delivery of the foreign currency. Conversely, it may be necessary to sell on
the spot market some of the foreign currency received upon the sale of the portfolio security or
securities of a Fund if the market value of such security or securities exceeds the amount of
foreign currency the Fund is obligated to deliver.
To offset some of the costs to a Fund of hedging against fluctuations in currency exchange
rates, a Fund may write covered call options on those currencies.
Transaction and position hedging do not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the
securities that a Fund owns or intends to purchase or sell. They simply establish a rate of
exchange that one can achieve at some future point in time. Additionally, although these
techniques tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged currency,
they tend to limit any potential gain that might result from the increase in the value of such
currency. Also, suitable foreign currency hedging transactions may not be available in all
circumstances and there can be no assurance that a Fund will utilize hedging transactions at any
time or from time to time.
A Fund may also seek to increase its current return by purchasing and selling foreign currency
on a spot basis, and by purchasing and selling options on foreign currencies and on foreign
currency futures contracts, and by purchasing and selling foreign currency forward contracts.
Currency Forward and Futures Contracts.
A forward foreign currency exchange contract involves
an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed
number of days from the date of the contract as agreed by the parties, at a price set at the time
of the contract. In the case of a cancelable forward contract, the holder has the unilateral right
to cancel the contract at maturity by paying a specified fee. The contracts are traded in the
interbank market conducted directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and
their customers. A forward contract generally has no deposit requirement, and no commissions are
charged at any stage for trades. A foreign currency futures contract is a standardized contract
for the future delivery of a specified amount of a foreign currency at a future date at a price set
at the time of the contract. Foreign currency futures contracts traded in the United States are
designed by and traded on exchanges regulated by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the
CFTC), such as the New York Mercantile Exchange.
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts differ from foreign currency futures contracts in
certain respects. For example, the maturity date of a forward contract may be any fixed number of
days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, rather than a predetermined date in
a given month. Forward contracts may be in any amounts agreed upon by the parties rather than
predetermined amounts. Also, forward foreign exchange contracts are traded directly between
currency traders so that no intermediary is required. A forward contract generally requires no
margin or other deposit.
At the maturity of a forward or futures contract, the Fund may either accept or make delivery
of the currency specified in the contract, or at or prior to maturity enter into a closing
transaction involving the purchase or sale of an offsetting contract. Closing transactions with
respect to forward contracts are usually effected with the currency trader who is a party to the
original forward contract. Closing transactions with respect to futures contracts are effected on
a commodities exchange; a clearing corporation associated with the exchange assumes responsibility
for closing out such contracts.
-12-
Positions in foreign currency futures contracts and related options may be closed out only on
an exchange or board of trade that provides a secondary market in such contracts or options.
Although the Fund will normally purchase or sell foreign currency futures contracts and related
options only on exchanges or boards of trade where there appears to be an active secondary market,
there is no assurance that a secondary market on an exchange or board of trade will exist for any
particular contract or option or at any particular time. In such event, it may not be possible to
close a futures or related option position and, in the event of adverse price movements, a Fund
would continue to be required to make daily cash payments of variation margin on its futures
positions.
Foreign Currency Options.
Options on foreign currencies operate similarly to options on
securities, and are traded primarily in the over-the-counter market, although options on foreign
currencies have been listed on several exchanges. Such options will be purchased or written only
when Schroders believes that a liquid secondary market exists for such options. There can be no
assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for a particular option at any specific time.
Options on foreign currencies are affected by all of those factors that influence exchange rates
and investments generally.
The value of a foreign currency option is dependent upon the value of the foreign currency and
the U.S. dollar, and may have no relationship to the investment merits of a foreign security.
Because foreign currency transactions occurring in the interbank market involve substantially
larger amounts than those that may be involved in the use of foreign currency options, investors
may be disadvantaged by having to deal in an odd lot market (generally consisting of transactions
of less than $1 million) for the underlying foreign currencies at prices that are less favorable
than for round lots.
There is no systematic reporting of last sale information for foreign currencies and there is
no regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or other market sources be firm
or revised on a timely basis. Available quotation information is generally representative of very
large transactions in the interbank market and thus may not reflect relatively smaller transactions
(less than $1 million) where rates may be less favorable. The interbank market in foreign
currencies is a global, around-the-clock market. To the extent that the U.S. options markets are
closed while the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, significant price and rate
movements may take place in the underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the U.S. options
markets.
Foreign Currency Conversion.
Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for
currency conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (the spread) between prices
at which they buy and sell various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency
to a Fund at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should a Fund desire to resell that
currency to the dealer.
Convertible Securities.
A Fund may invest in convertible securities. Convertible securities
include bonds, debentures, notes, preferred stocks and other securities that may be converted into
or exchanged for, at a specific price or formula within a particular period of time, a prescribed
amount of common stock or other equity securities of the same or a different issuer. Convertible
securities entitle the holder to receive interest paid or accrued on debt or dividends paid or
accrued on preferred stock until the security matures or is redeemed, converted or exchanged.
Convertible securities provide for streams of income with yields that are generally higher than
those of common stocks.
The market value of a convertible security is a function of its investment value and its
conversion value. A securitys investment value represents the value of the security without
its conversion feature (
i.e.
, a nonconvertible fixed income security). The investment value may be
determined by reference to its credit quality and the current value of its yield to maturity or
probable call date. At any given time, investment value is dependent upon such factors as the
general level of interest rates, the yield of similar nonconvertible securities, the financial
strength of the issuer and the seniority of the security in the issuers capital structure. A
securitys conversion value is determined by multiplying the number of shares the holder is
entitled to receive upon conversion or exchange by the current price of the underlying security.
-13-
If the conversion value of a convertible security is significantly below its investment value,
the convertible security will trade like nonconvertible debt or preferred stock and its market
value will not be influenced greatly by fluctuations in the market price of the underlying
security. Conversely, if the conversion value of a convertible security is near or above its
investment value, the market value of the convertible security will be more heavily influenced by
fluctuations in the market price of the underlying security.
A Funds investments in convertible securities may at times include securities that have a
mandatory conversion feature, pursuant to which the securities convert automatically into common
stock or other equity securities at a specified date and a specified conversion ratio, or that are
convertible at the option of the issuer. Because conversion of the security is not at the option of
the holder, the Fund may be required to convert the security into the underlying common stock even
at times when the value of the underlying common stock or other equity security has declined
substantially.
A Funds investments in convertible securities, particularly securities that are convertible
into securities of an issuer other than the issuer of the convertible security, may be illiquid. A
Fund may not be able to dispose of such securities in a timely fashion or for a fair price, which
could result in losses to that Fund.
Warrants to Purchase Securities.
A Fund may invest in warrants to purchase securities. Bonds
issued with warrants attached to purchase equity securities have many characteristics of
convertible bonds and their prices may, to some degree, reflect the performance of the underlying
stock. Bonds also may be issued with warrants attached to purchase additional fixed income
securities at the same coupon rate. A decline in interest rates would permit a Fund to buy
additional bonds at the favorable rate or to sell the warrants at a profit. If interest rates
rise, the warrants would generally expire with no value.
A Fund may also invest in equity-linked warrants. A Fund purchases the equity-linked warrants
from a broker, who in turn is expected to purchase shares in the local market and issue a call
warrant hedged on the underlying holding. If the Fund exercises its call and closes its position,
the shares are expected to be sold and the warrant redeemed with the proceeds. Each warrant
represents one share of the underlying stock. Therefore, the price, performance and liquidity of
the warrant are all directly linked to the underlying stock, less transaction costs. Equity-linked
warrants are valued at the closing price of the underlying security, then adjusted for stock
dividends declared by the underlying security. In addition to the market risk related to the
underlying holdings, a Fund bears additional counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker.
Moreover, there is currently no active trading market for equity-linked warrants.
In addition to warrants on securities, a Fund may purchase put warrants and call warrants
whose values vary depending on the change in the value of one or more specified securities indices
(index-linked warrants). Index-linked warrants are generally issued by banks or other financial
institutions and give the holder the right, at any time during the term of the warrant, to receive
upon exercise of the warrant a cash payment from the issuer based on the value of the underlying
index at the time of exercise. In general, if the value of the underlying index rises above the
exercise price of the index-linked warrant, the holder of a call warrant will be entitled to
receive a cash payment from the issuer upon exercise based on the difference between the value of
the index and the exercise price of the warrant; if the value of the underlying index falls, the
holder of a put warrant will be entitled to receive a cash payment from the issuer upon exercise
based on the difference between the exercise price of the warrant and the value of the index. The
holder of a warrant would not be entitled to any payments from the issuer at any time when, in the
case of a call warrant, the exercise price is greater than the value of the underlying index, or,
in the case of a put warrant, the exercise price is less than the value of the underlying index. If
a Fund were not to exercise an index-linked warrant prior to its expiration, then the Fund would
lose the amount of the purchase price paid by it for the warrant.
A Fund using index-linked warrants would normally do so in a manner similar to its use of
options on securities indices. The risks of a Funds use of index-linked warrants are generally
similar to those relating to its use of index options. Unlike most index options, however,
index-linked warrants are issued in limited amounts and are not obligations of a regulated clearing
agency, but are backed only by the credit of the bank or other institution that issues the warrant.
Also, index-linked warrants generally have longer terms than index options. Index-linked warrants
are not
-14-
likely to be as liquid as certain index options backed by a recognized clearing agency. In
addition, the terms of index-linked warrants may limit a Funds ability to exercise the warrants at
such time, or in such quantities, as the Fund would otherwise wish to do.
Real Estate Investment Trusts.
A Fund may invest in real estate investment trusts (REITs).
Equity REITs invest directly in real property while mortgage REITs invest in mortgages on real
property. REITs may be subject to certain risks associated with the direct ownership of real
estate, including declines in the value of real estate, risks related to general and local economic
conditions, overbuilding and increased competition, increases in property taxes and operating
expenses, and variations in rental income. Generally, increases in interest rates will decrease the
value of high yielding securities and increase the costs of obtaining financing, which could
decrease the value of a REITs investments. In addition, equity REITs may be affected by changes in
the value of the underlying property owned by the REITs, while mortgage REITs may be affected by
the quality of credit extended. Equity and mortgage REITs are dependent upon management skill, are
not diversified and are subject to the risks of financing projects. REITs are also subject to heavy
cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self liquidation and the possibility of failing to
qualify for tax-free pass-through of income under the Code, and to maintain exemption from
registration under the 1940 Act.
Investments in Pooled Vehicles.
A Fund may invest in shares of both open- and closed-end
investment companies (including single country funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs)), and
trusts. A Fund also may invest in other private investment funds, vehicles, or structures.
Investing in another pooled vehicle exposes the Fund to all the risks of that pooled vehicle, and,
in general, subjects it to a pro rata portion of the other pooled vehicles fees and expenses. ETFs
are hybrid investment companies that are registered as open-end investment companies or unit
investment trusts (UITs) but possess some of the characteristics of closed-end funds. ETFs
typically hold a portfolio of securities that is intended to track the price and dividend
performance of a particular index. Common examples of ETFs include S&P Depositary Receipts
(SPDRs) and iShares, which may be purchased from the UIT or investment company issuing the
securities or purchased in the secondary market (SPDRs are listed on the American Stock Exchange
and iShares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange. The market price for ETF shares may be
higher or lower than the ETFs net asset value. The sale and redemption prices of ETF shares
purchased from the issuer are based on the issuers net asset value.
Depositary Receipts.
A Fund may invest in American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), Global
Depositary Receipts (GDRs), European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) or other similar securities
representing ownership of foreign securities (collectively, Depositary Receipts) if issues of
these Depositary Receipts are available that are consistent with the Funds investment objective.
Depositary Receipts generally evidence an ownership interest in a corresponding foreign security on
deposit with a financial institution. Transactions in Depositary Receipts usually do not settle in
the same currency in which the underlying securities are denominated or traded. Generally, ADRs,
in registered form, are designed for use in the U.S. securities markets and EDRs, in bearer form,
are designed for use in European securities markets. GDRs may be traded in any public or private
securities markets and may represent securities held by institutions located anywhere in the world.
Investments in non-U.S. issuers through Depositary Receipts and similar instruments may
involve certain risks not applicable to investing in U.S. issuers, including changes in currency
rates, application of local tax laws, changes in governmental administration or economic or
monetary policy or changed circumstances in dealings between nations. Costs may be incurred in
connection with conversions between various currencies. A Fund may enter into forward currency
contracts and purchase currencies on a spot basis to reduce currency risk; however, currency
hedging involves costs and may not be effective in all cases.
Swap Agreements.
A Fund may enter into swap agreements and other types of over-the-counter
transactions with broker-dealers or other financial institutions. Depending on their structures,
swap agreements may increase or decrease a Funds exposure to long-or short-term interest rates (in
the United States or abroad), foreign currency values, mortgage securities, corporate borrowing
rates, or other factors such as security prices or inflation rates. The value of a Funds swap
positions would increase or decrease depending on the changes in value of the underlying rates,
currency values, or other indices or measures.
-15-
A Fund may also enter into credit default swap transactions. In a credit default swap, one
party pays what is, in effect, an insurance premium through a stream of payments to another party
in exchange for the right to receive a specified return in an event of default (or similar events)
by a third party on its obligations. Therefore, in a credit default swap, a Fund may pay a premium
and, in return, have the right to put certain bonds or loans to the counterparty upon default by
the issuer of such bonds or loans (or similar events) and to receive in return the par value of
such bonds or loans (or another agreed upon amount). A Fund would generally enter into this type of
transaction to limit or reduce risk with respect to bonds or loans that it owns in its portfolios
or otherwise in connection with transactions intended to reduce one or more risks in the Funds
portfolio, or otherwise to increase the Funds investment return. In addition, a Fund could also
receive the premium referenced above, and be obligated to pay a counterparty the par value of
certain bonds or loans upon a default (or similar event) by the issuer. A Fund would generally
enter into this type of transaction as a substitute for investment in the securities of the issuer,
or otherwise to increase the Funds investment return.
A Funds ability to realize a profit from such transactions will depend on the ability of the
financial institutions with which they enter into the transactions to meet their obligations to the
Fund. Under certain circumstances, suitable transactions may not be available to a Fund, or a Fund
may be unable to close out its position under such transactions at the same time, or at the same
price, as if it had purchased comparable publicly traded securities. A Funds ability to engage in
certain swap transactions may be limited by tax considerations.
Hybrid Instruments.
These instruments are generally considered derivatives and include indexed
or structured securities, and combine the elements of futures contracts or options with those of
debt, preferred equity or a depositary instrument. A hybrid instrument may be a debt security,
preferred stock, warrant, convertible security, certificate of depositor other evidence of
indebtedness on which a portion of or all interest payments, and/or the principal or stated amount
payable at maturity, redemption or retirement, is determined by reference to prices, changes in
prices, or differences between prices, of securities, currencies, intangibles, goods, articles or
commodities (collectively, underlying assets), or by another objective index, economic factor or
other measure, including interest rates, currency exchange rates, or commodities or securities
indices (collectively, benchmarks). Hybrid instruments may take a number of forms, including, but
not limited to, debt instruments with interest or principal payments or redemption terms determined
by reference to the value of an index at a future time, preferred stock with dividend rates
determined by reference to the value of a currency, or convertible securities with the conversion
terms related to a particular commodity.
The risks of investing in hybrid instruments reflect a combination of the risks of investing
in securities, options, futures and currencies. An investment in a hybrid instrument may entail
significant risks that are not associated with a similar investment in a traditional debt
instrument that has a fixed principal amount, is denominated in U.S. dollars or bears interest
either at a fixed rate or a floating rate determined by reference to a common, nationally published
benchmark. The risks of a particular hybrid instrument will depend upon the terms of the
instrument, but may include the possibility of significant changes in the benchmark(s) or the
prices of the underlying assets to which the instrument is linked. Such risks generally depend upon
factors unrelated to the operations or credit quality of the issuer of the hybrid instrument, which
may not be foreseen by the purchaser, such as economic and political events, the supply and demand
of the underlying assets and interest rate movements. Hybrid instruments may be highly volatile and
their use by a Fund may not be successful.
Hybrid instruments may bear interest or pay preferred dividends at below market (or even
relatively nominal) rates. Alternatively, hybrid instruments may bear interest at above market
rates but bear an increased risk of principal loss (or gain). The latter scenario may result if
leverage is used to structure the hybrid instrument. Leverage risk occurs when the hybrid
instrument is structured so that a given change in a benchmark or underlying asset is multiplied to
produce a greater value change in the hybrid instrument, thereby magnifying the risk of loss as
well as the potential for gain.
Hybrid instruments can be an efficient means of creating exposure to a particular market, or
segment of a market, with the objective of enhancing total return. For example, a Fund may wish to
take advantage of expected declines in interest rates in several European countries, but avoid the
transaction costs associated with buying and
-16-
currency-hedging the foreign bond positions. One solution would be to purchase a U.S.
dollar-denominated hybrid instrument whose redemption price is linked to the average three year
interest rate in a designated group of countries. The redemption price formula would provide for
payoffs of less than par if rates were above the specified level. Furthermore, a Fund could limit
the downside risk of the security by establishing a minimum redemption price so that the principal
paid at maturity could not be below a predetermined minimum level if interest rates were to rise
significantly. The purpose of this arrangement, known as a structured security with an embedded put
option, would be to give a Fund the desired European bond exposure while avoiding currency risk,
limiting downside market risk, and lowering transaction costs. Of course, there is no guarantee
that the strategy will be successful and a Fund could lose money if, for example, interest rates do
not move as anticipated or credit problems develop with the issuer of the hybrid instrument.
Hybrid instruments are potentially more volatile and carry greater market risks than
traditional debt instruments. Depending on the structure of the particular hybrid instrument,
changes in a benchmark may be magnified by the terms of the hybrid instrument and have an even more
dramatic and substantial effect upon the value of the hybrid instrument. Also, the prices of the
hybrid instrument and the benchmark or underlying asset may not move in the same direction or at
the same time.
Hybrid instruments may also carry liquidity risk since the instruments are often customized
to meet the portfolio needs of a particular investor, and therefore, the number of investors that
are willing and able to buy such instruments in the secondary market may be smaller than that for
more traditional debt securities. Under certain conditions, the redemption value of such an
investment could be zero. In addition, because the purchase and sale of hybrid investments would
likely take place in an over-the-counter market without the guarantee of a central clearing
organization, or in a transaction between a Fund and the issuer of the hybrid instrument, the
creditworthiness of the counterparty of the issuer of the hybrid instrument would be an additional
risk factor the Fund would have to consider and monitor. Hybrid instruments also may not be subject
to regulation by the CFTC, which generally regulates the trading of commodity futures by U.S.
persons, the SEC, which regulates the offer and sale of securities by and to U.S. persons, or any
other governmental regulatory authority.
Structured Investments.
A structured investment is a security having a return tied to an
underlying index or other security or asset class. Structured investments generally are
individually negotiated agreements and may be traded over-the-counter. Structured investments are
organized and operated to restructure the investment characteristics of the underlying security.
This restructuring involves the deposit with or purchase by an entity, such as a corporation or
trust, or specified instruments (such as commercial bank loans) and the issuance by that entity or
one or more classes of securities (structured securities) backed by, or representing interests
in, the underlying instruments. The cash flow on the underlying instruments may be apportioned
among the newly issued structured securities to create securities with different investment
characteristics, such as varying maturities, payment priorities and interest rate provisions, and
the extent of such payments made with respect to structured securities is dependent on the extent
of the cash flow on the underlying instruments. Because structured securities typically involve no
credit enhancement, their credit risk generally will be equivalent to that of the underlying
instruments. Investments in structured securities are generally of a class of structured securities
that is either subordinated or unsubordinated to the right of payment of another class.
Subordinated structured securities typically have higher yields and present greater risks than
unsubordinated structured securities. Structured securities are typically sold in private placement
transactions, and there currently is no active trading market for structured securities.
Investments in government and government-related and restructured debt instruments are subject to
special risks, including the inability or unwillingness to repay principal and interest, requests
to reschedule or restructure outstanding debt and requests to extend additional loan amounts.
Private Placements and Restricted Securities.
A Fund may invest in securities that are
purchased in private placements. While such private placements may often offer attractive
opportunities for investment not otherwise available on the open market, the securities so
purchased are often restricted securities,
i.e.
, securities that cannot be sold to the public
without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act) or the
availability of an exemption from registration (such as Rules 144 or 144A), or that are not
readily marketable because they are subject to other legal or contractual delays in or
restrictions on resale. Because there may be
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relatively few potential purchasers for such investments, especially under adverse market or
economic conditions or in the event of adverse changes in the financial condition of the issuer, a
Fund could find it more difficult to sell such securities when Schroders believes it advisable to
do so or may be able to sell such securities only at prices lower than if such securities were more
widely held. At times, it may also be more difficult to determine the fair value of such
securities for purposes of computing a Funds net asset value.
The absence of a trading market can make it difficult to ascertain a market value for illiquid
investments. Disposing of illiquid investments may involve time-consuming negotiation and legal
expenses, and it may be difficult or impossible for a Fund to sell them promptly at an acceptable
price. A Fund may have to bear the extra expense of registering such securities for resale and the
risk of substantial delay in effecting such registration. Also, market quotations are less readily
available. The judgment of Schroders may at times play a greater role in valuing these securities
than in the case of publicly traded securities.
Generally speaking, restricted securities may be sold only to qualified institutional buyers,
or in a privately negotiated transaction to a limited number of purchasers, or in limited
quantities after they have been held for a specified period of time and other conditions are met
pursuant to an exemption from registration, or in a public offering for which a registration
statement is in effect under the 1933 Act. A Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter for
purposes of the 1933 Act when selling restricted securities to the public, and in such event a Fund
may be liable to purchasers of such securities if the registration statement prepared by the
issuer, or the prospectus forming a part of it, is materially inaccurate or misleading. The Staff
of SEC currently takes the view that any delegation by the Trustees of the authority to determine
that a restricted security is readily marketable (as described in the investment restrictions of
the Funds) must be pursuant to written procedures established by the Trustees and the Trustees have
delegated such authority to Schroders. If no qualified institutional buyers are interested in
purchasing the securities, then a Fund may not be able to sell such securities. In the event that
the Trustees, or persons designated by the Trustees, determine that a security is readily
marketable pursuant to these procedures, and a Fund is not able to sell such security at the price
that such persons anticipate, then the Funds net asset value will decrease.
Inverse Floaters.
Inverse floaters have variable interest rates that typically move in the
opposite direction from movements in prevailing short-term interest rate levelsrising when
prevailing short-term interest rate fall, and vice versa. The prices of inverse floaters can be
highly volatile and some inverse floaters may be leveraged, resulting in increased risk and
potential volatility. A Fund may use inverse floaters for hedging or investment purposes. Use of
inverse floaters other than for hedging purposes may be considered speculative.
Over-the-Counter Securities.
The Funds investments may include securities traded
over-the-counter as well as those traded on a securities exchange. Some securities, particularly
over-the-counter securities, may be more difficult to sell under some market conditions. As
described below under Determination of Net Asset Value, unlisted securities for which market
quotations are readily available generally are valued at the most recently reported sale prices on
any day or, in the absence of a reported sale price, at mid-market prices. Market quotations may
not be readily available for all over-the-counter securities. If the Fund is not able to sell such
securities at a price at which the Fund has valued the securities for purposes of calculating its
net asset value, the Funds net asset value will decrease. The Fund may invest in over-the-counter
securities as a non-principal investment strategy when the Funds sub-adviser believes that such
securities offer potential for long-term capital growth.
When-Issued Securities.
A Fund may from time to time purchase securities on a when-issued
basis. Debt securities are often issued on this basis. The price of such securities, which may be
expressed in yield terms, is fixed at the time a commitment to purchase is made, but delivery and
payment for the when-issued securities take place at a later date. Normally, the settlement date
occurs within one month of the purchase. During the period between purchase and settlement, no
payment is made by a Fund and no interest accrues to that Fund. To the extent that assets of a Fund
are held in cash pending the settlement of a purchase of securities, that Fund would earn no
income. While a Fund may sell its right to acquire when-issued securities prior to the settlement
date, the Fund may intend actually to acquire such securities unless a sale prior to settlement
appears desirable for investment reasons. At the time a Fund makes the commitment to purchase a
security on a when-issued basis, it will record the transaction and reflect the amount due and the
value of the security in determining the Funds net asset value. The market value of the
when-issued securities may be more or less than the purchase price payable at the settlement date.
Each Fund will establish a
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segregated account in which it will maintain cash and U.S. Government securities or other
liquid securities at least equal in value to commitments for when-issued securities. Such
segregated securities either will mature or, if necessary, be sold on or before the settlement
date.
Zero-Coupon Securities.
Zero-coupon securities in which a Fund may invest are debt obligations
that are generally issued at a discount and payable in full at maturity, and that do not provide
for current payments of interest prior to maturity. Zero-coupon securities usually trade at a deep
discount from their face or par value and are subject to greater market value fluctuations from
changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make current
distributions of interest. As a result, the net asset value of shares of a Fund investing in
zero-coupon securities may fluctuate over a greater range than shares of other Funds of the Trusts
and other mutual funds investing in securities making current distributions of interest and having
similar maturities. A Fund investing in zero-coupon bonds is required to distribute the income
these securities as the income accrues, even though the Fund is not receiving the income in cash on
a current basis. Thus, a Fund may have to sell other investments, including when it may not be
advisable to do so, to make income distributions.
Zero-coupon securities may include U.S. Treasury bills issued directly by the U.S. Treasury or
other short-term debt obligations, and longer-term bonds or notes and their unmatured interest
coupons that have been separated by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment
brokerage firm. A number of securities firms and banks have stripped the interest coupons from the
underlying principal (the corpus) of U.S. Treasury securities and resold them in custodial
receipt programs with a number of different names, including Treasury Income Growth Receipts
(TIGRS) and Certificates of Accrual on Treasuries (CATS). CATS and TIGRS are not considered
U.S. Government securities. The underlying U.S. Treasury bonds and notes themselves are held in
book-entry form at the Federal Reserve Bank or, in the case of bearer securities (
i.e.
,
unregistered securities that are owned ostensibly by the bearer or holder thereof), in trust on
behalf of the owners thereof.
In addition, the U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero-coupon
securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular interest coupons and
corpus payments on U.S. Treasury securities through the Federal Reserve book-entry record-keeping
system. The Federal Reserve program as established by the U.S. Treasury Department is known as
STRIPS or Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities. Under the STRIPS
program, a Fund will be able to have its beneficial ownership of U.S. Treasury zero-coupon
securities recorded directly in the book-entry record-keeping system in lieu of having to hold
certificates or other evidences of ownership of the underlying U.S. Treasury securities.
When debt obligations have been stripped of their unmatured interest coupons by the holder,
the stripped coupons are sold separately. The principal or corpus is sold at a deep discount
because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed payment on the security and
does not receive any rights to periodic cash interest payments. Once stripped or separated, the
corpus and coupons may be sold separately. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped
with other coupons with like maturity dates and sold in such bundled form. Purchasers of stripped
obligations acquire, in effect, discount obligations that are economically identical to the
zero-coupon securities issued directly by the obligor.
Fixed Income Securities.
In periods of declining interest rates, the yield (income from
portfolio investments) of a Fund may tend to be higher than prevailing market rates, and in periods
of rising interest rates, the yield of a Fund may tend to be lower. In addition, when interest
rates are falling, the inflow of net new money to a Fund will likely be invested in portfolio
instruments producing lower yields than the balance of the Funds portfolio, thereby reducing the
yield of the Fund. In periods of rising interest rates, the opposite can be true. The net asset
value of a Fund can generally be expected to change as general levels of interest rates fluctuate.
The values of fixed income securities in a Funds portfolio generally vary inversely with changes
in interest rates. Prices of fixed income securities with longer effective maturities are more
sensitive to interest rate changes than those with shorter effective maturities. A Fund may
purchase fixed income securities issued by companies of any market capitalization, including small
and micro cap companies. Such investments may involve greater risk than is usually associated with
larger, more established companies.
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Lower-Rated Securities.
A Fund may invest up in lower-rated fixed-income securities (commonly
known as junk bonds). A Fund may invest in securities that are in default, and which offer
little or no prospect for the payment of the full amount of unpaid principal and interest, although
normally a Fund will not invest in securities unless a nationally recognized statistical rating
organization (for example, Moodys Investors Service, Inc. (Moodys), Standard & Poors Rating
Service (Standard & Poors), or Fitch Investors Service, Inc. (Fitch)) has rated the securities
CC- (or the equivalent) or better, or the Funds adviser has determined the securities to be of
comparable quality. The lower ratings of certain securities held by a Fund reflect a greater
possibility that adverse changes in the financial condition of the issuer or in general economic
conditions, or both, or an unanticipated rise in interest rates, may impair the ability of the
issuer to make payments of interest and principal. The inability (or perceived inability) of
issuers to make timely payment of interest and principal would likely make the values of securities
held by a Fund more volatile and could limit the Funds ability to sell its securities at prices
approximating the values the Fund had placed on such securities. In the absence of a liquid
trading market for securities held by it, a Fund at times may be unable to establish the fair value
of such securities.
Securities ratings are based largely on the issuers historical financial condition and the
rating agencies analysis at the time of rating. Consequently, the rating assigned to any
particular security is not necessarily a reflection of the issuers current financial condition,
which may be better or worse than the rating would indicate. In addition, the rating assigned to a
security by Moodys or Standard & Poors (or by any other nationally recognized securities rating
agency) does not reflect an assessment of the volatility of the securitys market value or the
liquidity of an investment in the security.
Like those of other fixed-income securities, the values of lower-rated securities fluctuate in
response to changes in interest rates. A decrease in interest rates will generally result in an
increase in the value of a Funds assets. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates, the
value of a Funds assets will generally decline. The values of lower-rated securities may often be
affected to a greater extent by changes in general economic conditions and business conditions
affecting the issuers of such securities and their industries. Negative publicity or investor
perceptions may also adversely affect the values of lower-rated securities. Changes by nationally
recognized securities rating agencies in their ratings of any fixed-income security and changes in
the ability of an issuer to make payments of interest and principal may also affect the value of
these investments. Changes in the value of portfolio securities generally will not affect income
derived from these securities, but will affect a Funds net asset value. A Fund will not
necessarily dispose of a security when its rating is reduced below its rating at the time of
purchase. However, Schroders will monitor the investment to determine whether its retention will
assist in meeting a Funds investment objective.
Issuers of lower-rated securities are often highly leveraged, so that their ability to service
their debt obligations during an economic downturn or during sustained periods of rising interest
rates may be impaired. Such issuers may not have more traditional methods of financing available
to them and may be unable to repay outstanding obligations at maturity by refinancing. The risk of
loss due to default in payment of interest or repayment of principal by such issuers is
significantly greater because such securities frequently are unsecured and subordinated to the
prior payment of senior indebtedness.
At times, a portion of a Funds assets may be invested in an issue of which the Fund, by
itself or together with other funds and accounts managed by Schroders or its affiliates, holds all
or a major portion. Although Schroders generally considers such securities to be liquid because of
the availability of an institutional market for such securities, it is possible that, under adverse
market or economic conditions or in the event of adverse changes in the financial condition of the
issuer, the Fund could find it more difficult to sell these securities when Schroders believes it
advisable to do so or may be able to sell the securities only at prices lower than if they were
more widely held. Under these circumstances, it may also be more difficult to determine the fair
value of such securities for purposes of computing the Funds net asset value. In order to enforce
its rights in the event of a default, a Fund may be required to participate in various legal
proceedings or take possession of and manage assets securing the issuers obligations on such
securities. This could increase the Funds operating expenses and adversely affect the Funds net
asset value. In the case of tax-exempt funds, any income derived from a Funds ownership or
operation of such assets would not be tax-exempt. The ability of a holder of a tax-exempt security
to enforce the terms of that security in a bankruptcy
-20-
proceeding may be more limited than would be the case with respect to securities of private
issuers. In addition, a Funds intention to qualify as a RIC under the Code may limit the extent
to which the Fund may exercise its rights by taking possession of such assets.
Certain securities held by a Fund may permit the issuer at its option to call, or redeem,
its securities. If an issuer were to redeem securities held by a Fund during a time of declining
interest rates, the Fund may not be able to reinvest the proceeds in securities providing the same
investment return as the securities redeemed.
A Fund may invest in so-called zero-coupon bonds and payment-in-kind bonds. Zero-coupon
bonds are issued at a significant discount for their principal amount in lieu of paying interest
periodically. Payment-in-kind bonds allow the issuer, at its option, to make current interest
payments on the bonds either in cash or in additional bonds. Because zero-coupon bonds and
payment-in-kind bonds do not pay current interest in cash, their value is subject to greater
fluctuation in response to changes in market interest rates than bonds that pay interest currently.
Both zero-coupon bonds and payment-in-kind bonds allow an issuer to avoid the need to generate
cash to meet current interest payments. Accordingly, such bonds may involve greater credit risks
than bonds paying interest currently in cash. A Fund is required to accrue interest income on such
investments and to distribute such amounts at least annually to shareholders even though such bonds
do not pay current interest in cash. Thus, it may be necessary at times for a Fund to liquidate
investments in order to satisfy its dividend requirements.
To the extent a Fund invests in securities in the lower rating categories, the achievement of
the Funds goals is more dependent on Schroders investment analysis than would be the case if the
Fund were investing in securities in the higher rating categories. This also may be true with
respect to tax-exempt securities, as the amount of information about the financial condition of an
issuer of tax-exempt securities may not be as extensive as that which is made available by
corporations whose securities are publicly traded.
Mortgage Related and Asset-Backed Securities.
Mortgage-backed securities, including
collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) and certain stripped mortgage-backed securities
represent a participation in, or are secured by, mortgage loans. Asset-backed securities are
structured like mortgage-backed securities, but instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage
loans, the underlying assets may include such items as motor vehicle installment sales or
installment loan contracts, leases of various types of real and personal property and receivables
from credit card agreements. The ability of an issuer of asset-backed securities to enforce its
security interest in the underlying assets may be limited.
Mortgage-backed securities have yield and maturity characteristics corresponding to the
underlying assets. Unlike traditional debt securities, which may pay a fixed rate of interest until
maturity, when the entire principal amount comes due, payments on certain mortgage-backed
securities include both interest and a partial repayment of principal. Besides the scheduled
repayment of principal, repayments of principal may result from the voluntary prepayment,
refinancing or foreclosure of the underlying mortgage loans. If property owners make unscheduled
prepayments of their mortgage loans, these prepayments will result in early payment of the
applicable mortgage-related securities. In that event a Fund may be unable to invest the proceeds
from the early payment of the mortgage-related securities in an investment that provides as high a
yield as the mortgage-related securities. Consequently, early payment associated with
mortgage-related securities may cause these securities to experience significantly greater price
and yield volatility than that experienced by traditional fixed-income securities. The occurrence
of mortgage prepayments is affected by factors including the level of interest rates, general
economic conditions, the location and age of the mortgage and other social and demographic
conditions. During periods of falling interest rates, the rate of mortgage prepayments tends to
increase, thereby tending to decrease the life of mortgage-related securities. During periods of
rising interest rates, the rate of mortgage prepayments usually decreases, thereby tending to
increase the life of mortgage-related securities. If the life of a mortgage-related security is
inaccurately predicted, a Fund may not be able to realize the rate of return its adviser expected.
The types of mortgages underlying securities held by the Funds may differ and may be affected
differently by market factors. For example, a Funds investments in residential mortgage-backed
securities will likely be affected significantly by factors affecting residential real estate
markets and mortgages generally; similarly, investments in
-21-
commercial mortgage-backed securities will likely be affected significantly by factors
affecting commercial real estate markets and mortgages generally.
Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities are less effective than other types of securities
as a means of locking in attractive long-term interest rates. One reason is the need to reinvest
prepayments of principal; another is the possibility of significant unscheduled prepayments
resulting from declines in interest rates. These prepayments would have to be reinvested at lower
rates. As a result, these securities may have less potential for capital appreciation during
periods of declining interest rates than other securities of comparable maturities, although they
may have a similar risk of decline in market value during periods of rising interest rates.
Prepayments may also significantly shorten the effective maturities of these securities, especially
during periods of declining interest rates. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates, a
reduction in prepayments may increase the effective maturities of these securities, subjecting them
to a greater risk of decline in market value in response to rising interest rates than traditional
debt securities, and, therefore, potentially increasing the volatility of a Fund.
Prepayments may cause losses on securities purchased at a premium. At times, some
mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities will have higher than market interest rates and
therefore will be purchased at a premium above their par value.
If the Fund purchases mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities that are subordinated to
other interests in the same mortgage pool, the Fund as a holder of those securities may only
receive payments after the pools obligations to other investors have been satisfied. An
unexpectedly high rate of defaults on the mortgages held by a mortgage pool may limit substantially
the pools ability to make payments of principal or interest to the Fund as a holder of such
subordinated securities, reducing the values of those securities or in some cases rendering them
worthless. The risk of such defaults is generally higher in the case of mortgage pools that
include so-called subprime mortgages. An unexpectedly high or low rate of prepayments on a
pools underlying mortgages may have a similar effect on subordinated securities. A mortgage pool
may issue securities subject to various levels of subordination; the risk of non-payment affects
securities at each level, although the risk is greater in the case of more highly subordinated
securities.
CMOs and CMO residuals may be issued by a U.S. Government agency or instrumentality or by a
private issuer. Although payment of the principal of, and interest on, the underlying collateral
securing privately issued CMOs and CMO residuals may be guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its
agencies or instrumentalities, these CMOs and CMO residuals represent obligations solely of the
private issuer and are not insured or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities or any other person or entity.
Prepayments could cause early retirement of CMOs. CMOs are designed to reduce the risk of
prepayment for investors by issuing multiple classes of securities, each having different
maturities, interest rates and payment schedules, and with the principal and interest on the
underlying mortgages allocated among the several classes in various ways. Payment of interest or
principal on some classes or series of CMOs may be subject to contingencies or some classes or
series may bear some or all of the risk of default on the underlying mortgages. CMOs of different
classes or series are generally retired in sequence as the underlying mortgage loans in the
mortgage pool are repaid. If enough mortgages are repaid ahead of schedule, the classes or series
of a CMO with the earliest maturities generally will be retired prior to their maturities. Thus,
the early retirement of particular classes or series of a CMO would have the same effect as the
prepayment of mortgages underlying other mortgage-backed securities. Conversely, slower than
anticipated prepayments can extend the effective maturities of CMOs, subjecting them to a greater
risk of decline in market value in response to rising interest rates than traditional debt
securities, and, therefore, potentially increasing their volatility.
In the case of CMO residuals, the cash flow generated by the mortgage assets underlying a
series of CMOs is applied first to make required payments of principal and interest on the CMOs and
second to pay the related administrative expenses of the issuer. The residual in a CMO structure
generally represents the interest in any excess cash flow remaining after making the foregoing
payments. Each payment of such excess cash flow to a holder of the related CMO residual represents
income and/or a return of capital. The amount of residual cash flow resulting from a
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CMO will depend on, among other things, the characteristics of the mortgage assets, the coupon
rate of each class of CMO, prevailing interest rates, the amount of administrative expenses and the
prepayment experience on the mortgage assets. In particular, the yield to maturity on CMO residuals
is extremely sensitive to prepayments on the related underlying mortgage assets, in the same manner
as an IO class of stripped mortgage-backed securities. See below with respect to stripped
mortgage-backed securities. In addition, if a series of a CMO includes a class that bears interest
at an adjustable rate, the yield to maturity on the related CMO residual will also be extremely
sensitive to changes in the level of the index upon which interest rate adjustments are based. As
described below with respect to stripped mortgage-backed securities, in certain circumstances the
Fund may fail to recoup some or all of its initial investment in a CMO residual.
CMO residuals are generally purchased and sold by institutional investors through several
investment banking firms acting as brokers or dealers. The CMO residual market has developed fairly
recently and CMO residuals currently may not have the liquidity of other more established
securities trading in other markets. Transactions in CMO residuals are generally completed only
after careful review of the characteristics of the securities in question. In addition, CMO
residuals may, or pursuant to an exemption therefrom, may not, have been registered under the 1933
Act. CMO residuals, whether or not registered under the 1933 Act, may be subject to certain
restrictions on transferability, and may be deemed illiquid.
Prepayments could result in losses on stripped mortgage-backed securities. Stripped
mortgage-backed securities are usually structured with two classes that receive different portions
of the interest and principal distributions on a pool of mortgage loans. The yield to maturity on
an interest only or IO class of stripped mortgage-backed securities is extremely sensitive not
only to changes in prevailing interest rates but also to the rate of principal payments (including
prepayments) on the underlying assets. A rapid rate of principal prepayments may have a measurable
adverse effect on a Funds yield to maturity to the extent it invests in IOs. If the assets
underlying the IO experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, a Fund may fail to
recoup fully, or at all, its initial investment in these securities. Conversely, principal only
securities or POs tend to increase in value if prepayments are greater than anticipated and
decline if prepayments are slower than anticipated.
The secondary market for mortgage-backed securities, particularly stripped mortgage-backed
securities, or those comprised of subprime mortgages (mortgages rated below A, or its equivalent,
by Standard & Poors, Moodys or Fitch) may be more volatile and less liquid than that for other
mortgage-backed securities, potentially limiting a Funds ability to buy or sell those securities
at any particular time.
Loan Participations and Other Floating Rate Loans.
A Fund may invest in loan participations.
By purchasing a loan participation, a Fund acquires some or all of the interest of a bank or other
lending institution in a loan to a particular borrower. Many such loans are secured, and most
impose restrictive covenants that must be met by the borrower. These loans are typically made by a
syndicate of banks, represented by an agent bank that has negotiated and structured the loan and
that is responsible generally for collecting interest, principal, and other amounts from the
borrower on its own behalf and on behalf of the other lending institutions in the syndicate, and
for enforcing its and their other rights against the borrower. Each of the lending institutions,
including the agent bank, lends to the borrower a portion of the total amount of the loan, and
retains the corresponding interest in the loan.
A Funds ability to receive payments of principal and interest and other amounts in connection
with loan participations held by it will depend primarily on the financial condition of the
borrower. The failure by a Fund to receive scheduled interest or principal payments on a loan
participation would adversely affect the income of the Fund and would likely reduce the value of
its assets, which would be reflected in a reduction in the Funds net asset value. Banks and other
lending institutions generally perform a credit analysis of the borrower before originating a loan
or participating in a lending syndicate. In selecting the loan participations in which a Fund will
invest, however, Schroders will not rely solely on that credit analysis, but will perform its own
investment analysis of the borrowers. Schroders analysis may include consideration of the
borrowers financial strength and managerial experience, debt coverage, additional borrowing
requirements or debt maturity schedules, changing financial conditions, and responsiveness to
changes in business conditions and interest rates. Schroders will be unable to access non-public
information to which other investors in syndicated loans may have access. Because loan
participations in which the a
-23-
Fund may invest are not generally rated by independent credit rating agencies, a decision by a
Fund to invest in a particular loan participation will depend almost exclusively on Schroders, and
the original lending institutions, credit analysis of the borrower. Investments in loan
participations may be of any quality, including distressed loans, and will be subject to a Funds
credit quality policy.
Loan participations may be structured in different forms, including novations, assignments and
participating interests. In a novation, a Fund assumes all of the rights of a lending institution
in a loan, including the right to receive payments of principal and interest and other amounts
directly from the borrower and to enforce its rights as a lender directly against the borrower. A
Fund assumes the position of a co-lender with other syndicate members. As an alternative, a Fund
may purchase an assignment of a portion of a lenders interest in a loan. In this case, the Fund
may be required generally to rely upon the assigning bank to demand payment and enforce its rights
against the borrower, but would otherwise be entitled to all of such banks rights in the loan. A
Fund may also purchase a participating interest in a portion of the rights of a lending institution
in a loan. In such case, it will be entitled to receive payments of principal, interest and
premium, if any, but will not generally be entitled to enforce its rights directly against the
agent bank or the borrower, and must rely for that purpose on the lending institution. A Fund may
also acquire a loan participation directly by acting as a member of the original lending syndicate.
A Fund will in many cases be required to rely upon the lending institution from which it
purchases the loan participation to collect and pass on to the Fund such payments and to enforce
the Funds rights under the loan. As a result, an insolvency, bankruptcy or reorganization of the
lending institution may delay or prevent the Fund from receiving principal, interest and other
amounts with respect to the underlying loan. When the Fund is required to rely upon a lending
institution to pay to the Fund principal, interest and other amounts received by it, Schroders will
also evaluate the creditworthiness of the lending institution.
The borrower of a loan in which a Fund holds a participation interest may, either at its own
election or pursuant to terms of the loan documentation, prepay amounts of the loan from time to
time. There is no assurance that a Fund will be able to reinvest the proceeds of any loan
prepayment at the same interest rate or on the same terms as those of the original loan
participation.
Corporate loans in which a Fund may purchase a loan participation are made generally to
finance internal growth, mergers, acquisitions, stock repurchases, leveraged buy-outs and other
corporate activities. Under current market conditions, most of the corporate loan participations
purchased by a Fund will represent interests in loans made to finance highly leveraged corporate
acquisitions, known as leveraged buy-out transactions. The highly leveraged capital structure of
the borrowers in such transactions may make such loans especially vulnerable to adverse changes in
economic or market conditions. In addition, loan participations generally are subject to
restrictions on transfer, and only limited opportunities may exist to sell such participations in
secondary markets. As a result, a Fund may be unable to sell loan participations at a time when it
may otherwise be desirable to do so or may be able to sell them only at a price that is less than
their fair market value.
Certain of the loan participations acquired by a Fund may involve revolving credit facilities
under which a borrower may from time to time borrow and repay amounts up to the maximum amount of
the facility. In such cases, the Fund would have an obligation to advance its portion of such
additional borrowings upon the terms specified in the loan participation. To the extent that the
Fund is committed to make additional loans under such a participation, it will at all times hold
and maintain in a segregated account liquid assets in an amount sufficient to meet such
commitments. Certain of the loan participations acquired by the Fund may also involve loans made in
foreign currencies. A Funds investment in such participations would involve the risks of currency
fluctuations described above with respect to investments in the foreign securities.
Notwithstanding its intention generally not to receive material, non-public information with
respect to its management of investments in floating rate loans, Schroders may from time to time
come into possession of material, non-public information about the issuers of loans that may be
held in the a Funds portfolio. Possession of such information may in some instances occur despite
Schroders efforts to avoid such possession, but in other instances Schroders may choose to receive
such information (for example, in connection with participation in a creditors
-24-
committee with respect to a financially distressed issuer). As, and to the extent, required by
applicable law, Schroders ability to trade in these loans for the account of a Fund could
potentially be limited by its possession of such information. Such limitations on Schroders
ability to trade could have an adverse effect on a Fund by, for example, preventing the Fund from
selling a loan that is experiencing a material decline in value. In some instances, these trading
restrictions could continue in effect for a substantial period of time.
In some instances, other accounts managed by Schroders may hold other securities issued by
borrowers whose floating rate loans may be held in a Funds portfolio. These other securities may
include, for example, debt securities that are subordinate to the floating rate loans held in a
Funds portfolio, convertible debt or common or preferred equity securities. In certain
circumstances, such as if the credit quality of the issuer deteriorates, the interests of holders
of these other securities may conflict with the interests of the holders of the issuers floating
rate loans. In such cases, Schroders may owe conflicting fiduciary duties to the Fund and other
client accounts. Schroders will endeavor to carry out its obligations to all of its clients to the
fullest extent possible, recognizing that in some cases certain clients may achieve a lower
economic return, as a result of these conflicting client interests, than if Schroders client
accounts collectively held only a single category of the issuers securities.
Forward Commitments.
A Fund may enter into contracts to purchase securities for a fixed price
at a future date beyond customary settlement time (forward commitments) if the Fund holds, and
maintains until the settlement date in a segregated account, cash or liquid securities in an amount
sufficient to meet the purchase price, or if the Fund enters into offsetting contracts for the
forward sale of other securities it owns. Forward commitments may be considered securities in
themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines prior
to the settlement date, which risk is in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Funds
other assets. Where such purchases are made through dealers, the Fund relies on the dealer to
consummate the sale. The dealers failure to do so may result in the loss to the Fund of an
advantageous yield or price.
Although a Fund will generally enter into forward commitments with the intention of acquiring
securities for its portfolio or for delivery pursuant to options contracts it has entered into, a
Fund may dispose of a commitment prior to settlement if Schroders deems it appropriate to do so. A
Fund may realize short-term profits or losses upon the sale of forward commitments.
Floating Rate and Variable Rate Demand Notes.
Floating rate and variable rate demand notes
and bonds may have a stated maturity in excess of one year, but may have features that permit a
holder to demand payment of principal plus accrued interest upon a specified number of days notice.
Frequently, such obligations are secured by letters of credit or other credit support arrangements
provided by banks. The issuer has a corresponding right, after a given period, to prepay in its
discretion the outstanding principal of the obligation plus accrued interest upon a specific number
of days notice to the holders. The interest rate of a floating rate instrument may be based on a
known lending rate, such as a banks prime rate, and is reset whenever such rate is adjusted. The
interest rate on a variable rate demand note is reset at specified intervals at a market rate.
NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENTS, INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND RISKS
In addition to the principal investment strategies and the principal risks of the Funds
described in the Prospectuses and this SAI, the Funds may employ other investment practices and may
be subject to additional risks, which are described below.
Short Sales.
To the extent permitted under Investment Restrictions below and in the
Prospectuses, a Fund may seek to hedge investments or realize additional gains through short sales.
Short sales are transactions in which a Fund sells a security it does not own, in anticipation
of a decline in the market value of that security. To complete such a transaction, a Fund must
borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace the
security borrowed by purchasing it at the market price at or prior to the time of replacement. The
price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the Fund.
Until the security is replaced, the Fund is required to repay the lender any dividends or interest
that accrue
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during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund also may be required to pay a
premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. The net proceeds of the short sale
will be retained by the broker (or by the Funds custodian in a special custody account), to the
extent necessary to meet margin requirements, until the short position is closed out. A Fund also
will incur transaction costs in effecting short sales.
A Fund will incur a loss as a result of the short sale if the price of the security increases
between the date of the short sale and the date on which the Fund replaces the borrowed security.
A Fund may realize a gain if the security declines in price between those dates. The amount of any
gain will be decreased, and the amount of any loss increased, by the amount of the premium,
dividends, interest or expenses the Fund may be required to pay in connection with a short sale. A
Funds loss on a short sale could theoretically be unlimited in a case where the Fund is unable,
for whatever reason, to close out its short position. There can be no assurance that a Fund will
be able to close out a short position at any particular time or at an acceptable price. In
addition, short positions may result in a loss if a portfolio strategy of which the short position
is a part is otherwise unsuccessful.
At any time that a Fund has sold a security short, it will maintain liquid securities, in a
segregated account with its custodian, in an amount that, when combined with the amount of
collateral deposited with the broker in connection with the short sale, equals the value at the
time of securities sold short.
Loans of Fund Portfolio Securities.
A Fund may lend its portfolio securities, provided: (1)
the loan is secured continuously by collateral consisting of U.S. Government securities, cash, or
cash equivalents adjusted daily to have market value at least equal to the current market value of
the securities loaned; (2) the Fund may at any time call the loan and regain the securities loaned;
(3) the Fund will receive any interest or dividends paid on the loaned securities; and (4) the
aggregate market value of the Funds portfolio securities loaned will not at any time exceed
one-third of the total assets of the Fund. While a Fund may loan portfolio securities with an
aggregate market value of up to one third of the Funds total assets at any time, entering into
securities loans is not a principal strategy of any Fund and the risks arising from lending
portfolio securities are not principal risks of investing in the Funds. In addition, it is
anticipated that a Fund may share with the borrower some of the income received on the collateral
for the loan or that it will be paid a premium for the loan. Before a Fund enters into a loan,
Schroders considers all relevant facts and circumstances, including the creditworthiness of the
borrower. The risks in lending portfolio securities, as with other extensions of credit, consist
of possible delay in recovery of the securities or possible loss of rights in the collateral should
the borrower fail financially. Although voting rights or rights to consent with respect to the
loaned securities pass to the borrower, a Fund retains the right to call the loans at any time on
reasonable notice, and it will do so in order that the securities may be voted by the Fund if the
holders of such securities are asked to vote upon or consent to matters materially affecting the
investment. A Fund will not lend portfolio securities to borrowers affiliated with that Fund.
Repurchase Agreements.
A Fund may enter into repurchase agreements without limit. A
repurchase agreement is a contract under which a Fund acquires a security for a relatively short
period (usually not more than one week) subject to the obligation of the seller to repurchase and
the Fund to resell such security at a fixed time and price (representing the Funds cost plus
interest). It is each of the Trusts present intention to enter into repurchase agreements only
with member banks of the Federal Reserve System and securities dealers meeting certain criteria as
to creditworthiness and financial condition, and only with respect to obligations of the U.S.
Government or its agencies or instrumentalities or other investment grade short-term debt
obligations. Repurchase agreements may also be viewed as loans made by a Fund that are
collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. Schroders will monitor such transactions
to ensure that the value of the underlying securities will be at least equal at all times to the
total amount of the repurchase obligation, including the interest factor. If the seller defaults,
a Fund could realize a loss on the sale of the underlying security to the extent that the proceeds
of sale including accrued interest are less than the resale price provided in the agreement
including interest. In addition, if the seller should be involved in bankruptcy or insolvency
proceedings, a Fund may incur delay and costs in selling the underlying security or may suffer a
loss of principal and interest if the Fund is treated as an unsecured creditor and required to
return the underlying collateral to the sellers estate.
-26-
To the extent that a Fund has invested a substantial portion of its assets in repurchase
agreements, the Funds investment return on such assets, and potentially the Funds ability to
achieve its investment objectives, will depend on the counterparties willingness and ability to
perform their obligations under the repurchase agreements.
Temporary Defensive Strategies.
As described in the Prospectuses, Schroders may at times
judge that conditions in the securities markets make pursuing a Funds basic investment strategies
inconsistent with the best interests of its shareholders and may temporarily use alternate
investment strategies primarily designed to reduce fluctuations in the value of a Funds assets.
In implementing these defensive strategies, the Fund would invest in investment grade debt
securities, cash, or money market instruments to any extent Schroders considers consistent with
such defensive strategies. It is impossible to predict when, or for how long, a Fund will use these
alternate strategies, and a Fund is not required to use alternate strategies in any case. One risk
of taking such temporary defensive positions is that a Fund may not achieve its investment
objective.
Service Providers.
The Funds may be subject to credit risk with respect to the custodian. In
the event of the custodians bankruptcy, even if the Funds custodian does have sufficient assets
to meet all claims, there could be a delay before a Fund receives assets to satisfy their claims.
In addition, in the event of the bankruptcy of the Funds administrator, transfer agent or
custodian there are likely to be operational and other delays and additional costs and expenses
associated with changes in service provider arrangements.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
As fundamental investment restrictions, which may only be changed with approval by the holders
of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of that Fund, each of these Funds may not:
1. Issue any class of securities which is senior to the Funds shares of beneficial interest,
except to the extent the Fund is permitted to borrow money or otherwise to the extent consistent
with applicable law from time to time.
Note: The Investment Company Act currently prohibits an open-end investment company from issuing
any senior securities, except to the extent it is permitted to borrow money (see Note following
restriction 2, below).
2. Borrow money, except to the extent permitted by applicable law from time to time, and for
purposes of each of the Funds except Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund and Schroder U.S. Small
and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund, purchase securities when outstanding borrowings of money exceed 5%
of the Funds total assets.
Note: The Investment Company Act currently permits an open-end investment company to borrow money
from a bank so long as the ratio which the value of the total assets of the investment company
(including the amount of any such borrowing), less the amount of all liabilities and indebtedness
(other than such borrowing) of the investment company, bears to the amount of such borrowing is at
least 300%. An open-end investment company may also borrow money from other lenders in accordance
with applicable law and positions of the SEC and its staff.
3. Act as underwriter of securities of other issuers except to the extent that, in connection with
the disposition of portfolio securities, it may be deemed to be an underwriter under certain
federal securities laws.
4. With respect to each of these Funds, as to 75% of its total assets, purchase any security (other
than Government securities, as such term is defined in the 1940 Act, and securities of other
investment companies), if as a result more than 5% of the Funds total assets (taken at current
value) would then be invested in securities of a single issuer or the Fund would hold more than 10%
of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer.
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Note: Government securities are defined in the 1940 Act as any security issued or guaranteed as to
principal or interest by the United States, or by a person controlled or supervised by and acting
as an instrumentality of the Government of the United States pursuant to authority granted by the
Congress of the United States, or any certificate of deposit for any of the foregoing.
5. With respect to Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value
Fund, Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund, and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income
Fund, purchase any security (other than Government securities, as such term is defined in the 1940
Act) if as a result 25% or more of the Funds total assets (taken at current value) would be
invested in a single industry.
6. Make loans, except by purchase of debt obligations or other financial instruments, by entering
into repurchase agreements, or through the lending of its portfolio securities.
7(a). With respect to Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, purchase or sell commodities or
commodity contracts, except that the Fund may purchase or sell financial futures contracts, options
on financial futures contracts, and futures contracts, forward contracts, and options with respect
to foreign currencies, and may enter into swap transactions or other financial transactions, and
except in connection with otherwise permissible options, futures, and commodity activities.
7(b). With respect to each of the other Funds, purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts,
except that the Fund may purchase or sell financial futures contracts, options on financial futures
contracts, and futures contracts, forward contracts, and options with respect to foreign
currencies, and may enter into swap transactions or other financial transactions, and except in
connection with otherwise permissible options, futures, and commodity activities as described
elsewhere in the Prospectuses or this SAI from time to time.
8. Purchase or sell real estate or interests in real estate, including real estate mortgage loans,
although the Fund may purchase and sell securities that are secured by real estate and securities
of companies, including limited partnership interests, that invest or deal in real estate and it
may purchase interests in real estate investment trusts. (For purposes of this restriction,
investments by the Fund in mortgage-backed securities and other securities representing interests
in mortgage pools shall not constitute the purchase or sale of real estate or interests in real
estate or real estate mortgage loans).
Schroder International Alpha Fund
Schroder North American Equity Fund
As fundamental investment policies, which may only be changed with approval of the holders of
a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, each of these Funds may not:
1. As to 75% of its total assets, invest in securities of any issuer if, immediately after such
investment, more than 5% of the total assets of the Fund (taken at current value) would be invested
in the securities of such issuer; provided that this limitation does not apply to securities issued
or guaranteed as to principal or interest by the U.S. Government or its agencies or
instrumentalities or to securities of other investment companies.
2. As to 75% of its total assets, invest in a security if, as a result of such investment, it would
hold more than 10% (taken at the time of such investment) of the outstanding voting securities of
any one issuer; provided that this limitation does not apply to securities issued or guaranteed as
to principal or interest by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities or to
securities of other investment companies.
3. Invest 25% or more of the value of its total assets in any one industry.
4. Borrow money, except to the extent permitted by applicable law.
Note: The Investment Company Act currently permits an open-end investment company to borrow money
from a bank (including by entering into reverse repurchase agreements) so long as the ratio that
the value of the total assets of the investment company (including the amount of any such
borrowing), less the amount of all liabilities and
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indebtedness (other than such borrowing) of the investment company, bears to the amount of such
borrowing is at least 300%.
5. Purchase or sell real estate (provided that the Fund may invest in securities issued by
companies that invest in real estate or interests therein).
6. Make loans to other persons (provided that for purposes of this restriction, entering into
repurchase agreements, lending portfolio securities, acquiring corporate debt securities and
investing in U.S. Government obligations, short-term commercial paper, certificates of deposit and
bankers acceptances shall not be deemed to be the making of a loan).
7. Invest in commodities or commodity contracts, except that it may purchase or sell financial
futures contracts and options and other financial instruments.
8. Underwrite securities issued by other persons (except to the extent that, in connection with the
disposition of its portfolio investments, it may be deemed to be an underwriter under U.S.
securities laws).
9. Issue any class of securities that is senior to the Funds shares of beneficial interest, except
to the extent the Fund is permitted to borrow money or otherwise to the extent consistent with
applicable law from time to time.
Note: The Investment Company Act currently prohibits an open-end investment company from issuing
any senior securities, except to the extent it is permitted to borrow money (see restriction 4,
above). A class of securities may be senior to the Funds shares of beneficial interest if it
provides a preference upon liquidation, preferential dividends, or similar rights.
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
As fundamental investment policies, which may only be changed with approval of the holders of
a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, this Fund may not:
1. Borrow money, except that the Fund may borrow from banks or by entering into reverse repurchase
agreements, provided that such borrowings do not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the Funds total
assets (computed immediately after the borrowing).
2. Underwrite securities of other companies (except insofar as the Fund might be deemed to be an
underwriter in the resale of any securities held in its portfolio).
3. Invest in commodities or commodity contracts (other than covered call options, put and call
options, stock index futures, and options on stock index futures and broadly-based stock indices,
all of which are referred to as Hedging Instruments, which it may use as permitted by any of its
other fundamental policies, whether or not any such Hedging Instrument is considered to be a
commodity or a commodity contract).
4. Purchase or write puts or calls except as permitted by any of its other fundamental policies.
5. Lend money except in connection with the acquisition of that portion of publicly-distributed
debt securities that the Funds investment policies and restrictions permit it to purchase; the
Fund may also make loans of portfolio securities and enter into repurchase agreements.
6. Invest in real estate or in interests in real estate, but may purchase readily marketable
securities of companies holding real estate or interests therein.
7. Issue any class of securities that is senior to the Funds shares of beneficial interest, except
to the extent the Fund is permitted to borrow money or otherwise to the extent consistent with
applicable law from time to time.
-29-
Note: The Investment Company Act currently prohibits an open-end investment company from issuing
any senior securities, except to the extent it is permitted to borrow money (see restriction 1,
above). A class of securities may be senior to the Funds shares of beneficial interest if it
provides a preference upon liquidation, preferential dividends, or similar rights.
8. Purchase any security (other than Government securities, as such term is defined in the 1940
Act) if as a result 25% or more of the Funds total assets (taken at current value) would be
invested in a single industry.
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Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
Schroder North American Equity Fund
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
Non-Fundamental Policies:
1. It is contrary to the current policy of each of the Funds, which policy may be changed without
shareholder approval, to invest more than 15% of its net assets in securities that are not readily
marketable, including securities restricted as to resale (other than securities restricted as to
resale but determined by the Trustees, or persons designated by the Trustees to make such
determinations, to be readily marketable).
2. With respect to each of the Funds except Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, as a matter of
non-fundamental policy, each of these Funds may not purchase securities when outstanding borrowings
exceed 5% of the Funds total assets.
3. Each of Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities
Fund, and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund may, as a matter of non-fundamental policy,
engage in short sales of securities as described in this SAI from time to time, although each Fund
does not normally invest substantially in short sales.
4. Each Fund may, as a non-fundamental policy, pledge up to one-third of its assets in connection
with permissible borrowings by the Fund.
5. As a non-fundamental policy, the Funds will not invest in other companies for the purpose of
exercising control of those companies.
All percentage limitations on investments (except the limitation with respect to securities
that are not readily marketable set forth above) will apply at the time of investment and shall not
be considered violated unless an excess or deficiency occurs or exists immediately after and as a
result of such investment; except that, if a Fund ceases to maintain the 300% asset coverage ratio
described above in the respective sections regarding fundamental investment restrictions of the
Funds (see the Note following restriction 4 for Schroder North American Equity Fund and the Note
following restriction 2 for all other Funds, except the U.S. Opportunities Fund), it will take
steps to restore that asset coverage ratio within three days thereafter (excluding Sundays and
holidays) or such longer period as may be prescribed by applicable regulations.
Except for the investment restrictions listed above as fundamental or to the extent designated
as such in the Prospectuses, the other investment policies described in this SAI or in the
Prospectuses are not fundamental and may be changed by approval of the Trustees without notice to
the shareholders.
The 1940 Act provides that a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of a
Fund means the affirmative vote of the lesser of (1) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of
that Fund, or (2) 67% or more of the shares present at a meeting if more than 50% of the
outstanding shares are represented at the meeting in person or by proxy.
-31-
Schroder International Alpha Fund
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
Non-Fundamental Policies:
1. It is contrary to the current policy of Schroder International Alpha Fund to invest in
restricted securities. This policy does not include restricted securities eligible for resale to
qualified institutional purchasers pursuant to Rule 144A under the 1933 Act, that are determined to
be liquid by Schroders pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board of Trustees of the Trust. Such
guidelines take into account trading activity for such securities and the availability of reliable
pricing information, among other factors. If there is a lack of trading interest in particular
Rule 144A securities, these securities may be illiquid.
2. It is contrary to the current policy of Schroder International Alpha Fund to invest more than
15% of its net assets in securities that are not readily marketable, including securities
restricted as to resale determined by the Funds investment adviser to be illiquid. Certain
securities that are restricted as to resale may nonetheless be resold by the Fund in accordance
with Rule 144A under the 1933 Act. Such securities may be determined by the Funds investment
adviser to be liquid for purposes of compliance with the limitation on the Funds investment in
illiquid securities.
3. It is contrary to the current policy of Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund to invest more than 15%
of its assets in securities determined by Schroders to be illiquid. Certain securities that are
restricted as to resale may nonetheless be resold by the Fund in accordance with Rule 144A under
the 1933 Act. Such securities may be determined by Schroders to be liquid for purposes of
compliance with the limitation on the Funds investment in illiquid securities.
4. It is contrary to the current policy of each Fund to purchase securities when outstanding
borrowings of money exceed 5% of the Funds total assets.
5. It is contrary to the current policy of each Fund to invest in other companies for the purpose
of exercising control of those companies.
6. Each Fund may, as a non-fundamental policy, pledge up to one-third of its assets in connection
with permissible borrowings by the Fund.
DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
Through filings made with the SEC on Form N-CSR and Form N-Q, each Fund makes its full
portfolio holdings publicly available to shareholders on a quarterly basis. Each Fund normally
makes such filings on or shortly before the sixtieth day following the end of a fiscal quarter.
Each Fund delivers its complete portfolio schedules for the second and fourth fiscal quarters,
required to be filed on Form N-CSR, to shareholders in the Funds semi-annual and annual reports.
The Funds do not deliver their complete portfolio schedules for the first and third fiscal
quarters, required to be filed on Form N-Q, to shareholders, but these schedules are available on
the SEC website at www.sec.gov and on the Schroders website at www.schroderfunds.com.
In addition to filings made with the SEC, each Fund intends to make its full portfolio
holdings as of the end of each calendar quarter available on the Funds website at
www.schroderfunds.com
, on the last business day of the following month. Schroders may
exclude from disclosure on the Funds website all or any portion of a Funds portfolio holdings, or
modify the timing of such disclosure, as it deems necessary to protect the interests of the Funds.
To the extent that a Funds portfolio holdings have previously been disclosed publicly either
through a filing made with the SEC on Form N-CSR or Form N-Q, or by being posted to the Funds
website, such holdings may also be disclosed to any third party that requests them.
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Policies and Procedures.
The Schroder Funds have adopted policies and procedures with respect
to disclosure of the Funds portfolio holdings. These procedures apply both to arrangements,
expected to be in place over a period of time, to make available information about the securities
in a Funds portfolio and with respect to disclosure on a one-time, irregular basis. These
procedures provide that neither Schroders nor SIMNA Ltd., as applicable, nor the Funds receive any
compensation in return for the disclosure of information about a Funds portfolio securities or for
any ongoing arrangements to make available information about a Funds portfolio securities.
Portfolio holdings may be disclosed to certain third parties in advance of their public disclosure.
In each instance of such advance disclosure, a determination will have been made by Schroders or
SIMNA Ltd., as applicable, that such disclosure is supported by a legitimate business purpose of
the relevant Fund and that the recipients, except as described below, are subject to an independent
duty not to disclose (whether contractually or as a matter of law) or trade on the nonpublic
information. The Funds currently disclose nonpublic portfolio holdings information only to
recipients who have agreed in writing with Schroders, or SIMNA Ltd., as applicable, to keep such
information confidential. In some cases these recipients are subject to a contractual obligation
to keep portfolio holdings information confidential including a duty not to trade on the non-public
information, and in other cases they are subject to a duty of confidentiality under the federal
securities laws to keep information disclosed to them by the relevant Fund confidential.
Recipients of nonpublic portfolio holdings information are also subject to legal requirements
prohibiting them from trading on material nonpublic information. The Funds have no ongoing
arrangements to make available nonpublic portfolio holdings information, except pursuant to the
procedures described below. The following list describes the circumstances in which the Funds
disclose their portfolio holdings to select third parties:
Portfolio Managers.
Portfolio managers shall have full daily access to portfolio holdings for
the Funds for which they have direct management responsibility. Under Schroders code of ethics,
portfolio managers are prohibited from disclosing nonpublic information to third parties, other
than in accordance with the Funds portfolio holdings policies and procedures. Portfolio managers
may release and discuss specific portfolio holdings with various broker-dealers, on an as-needed
basis, for purposes of analyzing the impact of existing and future market changes on the prices,
availability or demand, and liquidity of such securities, as well as for the purpose of assisting
portfolio managers in the trading of such securities.
Schroders.
Schroders personnel, including personnel of its affiliates that perform services
for or related to the Funds, may have full daily access to the Funds portfolio holdings.
Employees of SIMNA Ltd., Schroder Investment Management Limited and SFA with access to portfolio
holdings information are provided with training on each of the Trusts policies and procedures
regarding disclosure of portfolio holdings information. Training is provided by the Schroders
compliance department in the applicable jurisdiction, after consultation with Schroders plcs
global compliance department located in London. Each Trusts Chief Compliance Officer reports to
the Trustees regarding compliance by such affiliates.
External Servicing Agents
. The Funds primary service providers, including distributors,
administrators, transfer agents, custodians, and their respective personnel, may receive or have
access to nonpublic portfolio holdings information on a daily basis. In addition, third parties
that provide services to the Funds, and their affiliates, such as trade execution measurement
systems providers, independent pricing services, proxy voting service providers, the Funds
insurers, computer systems service providers, lenders, counsel, accountants/auditors, and rating
and ranking organizations (such as Morningstar, Lipper, Thomson and Bloomberg) may also receive or
have access to full portfolio holdings information more frequently than publicly available. Such
parties, either by agreement or by virtue of their duties, are required to maintain confidentiality
with respect to such nonpublic portfolio holdings.
Other Third Parties.
Any additions to the list of persons eligible to receive portfolio
holdings information requires approval by the President and Chief Compliance Officer of the
relevant Fund. Such disclosure may only be made where the President and Chief Compliance Officer
of the relevant Fund have determined that: (i) the Fund has a legitimate business purpose for the
disclosure; (ii) the disclosure is in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders; and
(iii) the recipients are subject to a confidentiality agreement, including a duty not to trade on
the non-public information, or the Funds President and Chief Compliance Officer have determined
that the policies of the recipient are adequate to protect the information that is disclosed and
the entity is subject to a duty of confidentiality
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under the federal securities laws. In making such determinations, the President and Chief
Compliance Officer of the Fund shall review, among other considerations: (i) the type of fund
involved; (ii) the purpose for receiving the holdings information; (iii) the intended use of the
information; (iv) the frequency of the information to be provided; (v) the length of the lag, if
any, between the date of the information and the date on which the information will be disclosed;
(vi) the proposed recipients relationship to the Funds; (vii) the ability of Schroders to monitor
that such information will be used by the proposed recipient in accordance with the stated purpose
for the disclosure; and (viii) whether any potential conflicts exist regarding such disclosure
between the interests of Fund shareholders, on the one hand, and those of the Funds investment
adviser, principal underwriter, or any affiliated person of the Fund. Such disclosures shall be
reported to the Board of Trustees.
In general, the Schroder Funds policies and procedures provide that disclosure by Schroders
of information about the holdings of client accounts other than the Funds accounts is governed by
the policies relating to protection of client information pursuant to Regulation S-P. Details about
the holdings of any portfolio other than the Funds, however, may provide holdings information that
is substantially identical to holdings of the Funds that have not yet been publicly released. The
President and Chief Compliance Officer may approve disclosure by Schroders or SIMNA Ltd. of
non-Fund portfolios other than to clients holding the portfolios and their consultants, provided
they make certain determinations set forth in the Schroder Funds policies and procedures.
Nothing in the Schroder Funds policies and procedures prohibits any investment group from
providing to a research service provider a coverage list that identifies securities that the
investment group follows for research purposes provided that: (i) the list of securities does not
consist exclusively of the current portfolio holdings of any Fund; and (ii) no information about
actual holdings by any account is included.
The Board of Trustees of each Trust reviews and reapproves the policies and procedures related
to portfolio disclosure, including the list of approved recipients, as often as deemed appropriate,
but not less than annually, and may make any changes it deems appropriate.
MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUSTS
The Trustees of each of the Trusts are responsible for the general oversight of each of the
Trusts business. Subject to such policies as the Trustees may determine, Schroders furnishes a
continuing investment program for the Funds and makes investment decisions on their behalf, except
that SIMNA Ltd., an affiliate of Schroders, serves as sub-adviser responsible for portfolio
management for Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund, and Schroder North American Equity Fund. Subject to the
control of the Trustees, Schroders also manages the Funds other affairs and business.
The names, addresses and ages of the Trustees and executive officers of the Trusts, together
with information as to their principal business occupations during the past five years, are set
forth in the following tables. Unless otherwise indicated, each Trustee and executive officer shall
hold the indicated positions until his or her resignation or removal.
Disinterested Trustees
The following table sets forth certain information concerning Trustees of the Trusts who are
not interested persons (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the Trusts (each, a
Disinterested Trustee).
-34-
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Term of Office and
|
|
Principal
|
|
Portfolios in Fund
|
|
Other Directorships
|
Name, Age and Address of
|
|
Position(s) Held
|
|
Length of Time
|
|
Occupation(s)
|
|
Complex Overseen by
|
|
Outside of Schroders
|
Disinterested Trustee
|
|
with Trusts
|
|
Served
|
|
During Past 5 Years
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Fund Complex
|
William L. Means, 73*
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Indefinite
since 1997
(Schroder Capital
Funds (Delaware)
and Schroder Series
Trust) and since
2006 (Schroder
Global Series
Trust)
|
|
Retired.
|
|
[8]
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James D. Vaughn, 64*
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, New York 10022
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Indefinite since
2003 (Schroder
Capital Funds
(Delaware),
Schroder Series
Trust and Schroder
Global Series
Trust)
|
|
Retired. Formerly,
Managing Partner,
Deloitte & Touche
USA, LLP-Denver
(accounting).
|
|
[8]
|
|
AMG National Trust Bank
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
Also serves as a member of the Audit Committees for each Trust on which he serves. Mr. Vaughn is the Chairman of the Audit Committees.
|
Interested Trustee
The following table sets forth certain information concerning a Trustee who is an interested
person (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the Trusts (an Interested Trustee).
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of
|
|
Other Directorships
|
|
|
|
|
Term of Office and
|
|
Principal
|
|
Portfolios in Fund
|
|
Outside of
|
Name, Age and Address of
|
|
Position(s)
|
|
Length of Time
|
|
Occupation(s)
|
|
Complex Overseen by
|
|
Schroders Fund
|
Interested Trustee
|
|
Held with Trusts
|
|
Served
|
|
During Past 5 Years
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Complex
|
Catherine A. Mazza, 50*
875 Third Avenue, 22nd Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Trustee and Chairman
|
|
Indefinite since
2006 (Schroder
Capital Funds
(Delaware) and
Schroder Series
Trust) and since
2003 (Schroder
Global Series
Trust)
|
|
Institutional
Relationship
Director,
Schroders;
Director, SFA.
Formerly, President
and Chief Executive
Officer, Schroder
Capital Funds
(Delaware) and
Schroder Series
Trust.
|
|
[8]
|
|
None
|
-35-
|
|
|
*
|
|
Ms. Mazza is an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) of each Trust. She is an
interested person due to her status as an officer and employee of Schroders and its affiliates.
|
Officers
The following table sets forth certain information concerning the Trusts officers. The
officers of the Trusts are employees of the Trusts adviser and certain of its affiliates.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name, Age and Address
|
|
Position(s) Held with
|
|
Term of Office
|
|
Principal Occupation(s)
|
of Officer
|
|
Trusts
|
|
and Length of Time Served
|
|
During Past 5 Years
|
Catherine A. Mazza, 50
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Trustee and Chairman
|
|
Indefinite since 2006
(Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware) and Schroder
Series Trust) and since 2003
(Schroder Global Series
Trust)
|
|
Institutional
Relationship Director,
Schroders; Director,
SFA. Formerly,
President and Chief
Executive Officer,
Schroder Series Trust
and Schroder Capital
Funds (Delaware).
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mark A. Hemenetz, 53
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
President and Principal
Executive Officer
|
|
Indefinite
since May 2004
|
|
Chief Operating
Officer Americas,
Schroder; Chairman and
Director, SFA.
Formerly, Executive
Vice President and
Director of Investment
Management, Bank of
New York.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alan M. Mandel, 52
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Treasurer and Chief
Financial Officer
|
|
Indefinite
since 1998
|
|
Head of Fund
Administration,
Schroders; Director,
SFA.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Carin F. Muhlbaum, 47
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Vice President
|
|
Indefinite
Vice President since 1998
|
|
General Counsel and
Chief Administrative
Officer, Schroders;
Senior Vice President,
Director, Secretary
and General Counsel,
SFA.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
William Sauer, 46
875 Third Avenue, 22nd Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Vice President
|
|
Indefinite
Vice President since 2008
|
|
Head of Investor
Services, Schroders.
Formerly, Vice
President, The Bank of
New York.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stephen M. DeTore, 58
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Chief Compliance Officer
|
|
Indefinite
since 2005
|
|
Chief Compliance
Officer, Schroders;
Senior Vice President
and Director, SFA.
Formerly, Deputy
General Counsel,
Gabelli Asset
Management, Inc.;
Associate General
Counsel, Gabelli Asset
Management, Inc.;
Assistant Director,
Office of Examination
Support, U.S.
Securities and
Exchange Commission.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Abby L. Ingber, 47
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Chief Legal Officer and
Secretary/Clerk
|
|
Indefinite
Chief Legal Officer since 2006
Secretary/Clerk since 2007
|
|
Deputy General
Counsel, Schroders.
Formerly, Senior
Counsel, TIAA-CREF.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Angel Lanier, 48
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Assistant Secretary
|
|
Indefinite
since 2005
|
|
Legal Assistant,
Schroders; Assistant
Secretary, SFA.
Formerly, Associate,
Schroders.
|
Certain Affiliations
The following table lists the positions held by the Trusts officers and any Interested
Trustees with affiliated persons or principal underwriters of the Trusts:
-36-
|
|
|
|
|
Positions Held with
|
|
|
Affiliated Persons or
|
|
|
Principal Underwriters
|
Name
|
|
of the Trusts
|
Catherine A. Mazza
|
|
Trustee and Chairman of Schroder Series Trust, Schroder
Capital Funds (Delaware), and Schroder Global Series
Trust; Institutional Relationship Director, Schroders;
Director, SFA.
|
|
|
|
Mark A. Hemenetz
|
|
President and Principal Executive Officer of Schroder
Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), and
Schroder Global Series Trust; Chief Operating Officer -
Americas, Schroders; Director and Chairman, SFA.
|
|
|
|
Alan M. Mandel
|
|
Head of Fund Administration, Schroders; Director, SFA;
Treasurer & Principal Financial and Accounting Officer,
Schroder Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware), and Schroder Global Series Trust.
|
|
|
|
Carin F. Muhlbaum
|
|
General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer,
Schroders; Senior Vice President, Director, Secretary
and General Counsel, SFA; Vice President, Schroder
Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), and
Schroder Global Series Trust.
|
|
|
|
William Sauer
|
|
Head of Investor Services, Schroders; Vice President,
Schroder Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware), and Schroder Global Series Trust.
|
|
|
|
Stephen M. DeTore
|
|
Chief Compliance Officer, Schroders; Senior Vice
President and Director, SFA; Chief Compliance Officer,
Schroder Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware), and Schroder Global Series Trust.
|
|
|
|
Abby L. Ingber
|
|
Deputy General Counsel, Schroders; Chief Legal Officer
and Secretary/Clerk, Schroder Series Trust, Schroder
Capital Funds (Delaware), and Schroder Global Series
Trust.
|
|
|
|
Angel Lanier
|
|
Legal Assistant, Schroders; Assistant Secretary, SFA;
Assistant Clerk/Secretary, Schroder Series Trust,
Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), and Schroder Global
Series Trust.
|
Committees of the Board of Trustees
Audit Committee
. Each Board of Trustees has a separately-designated standing Audit Committee
composed of all of the Disinterested Trustees of the Trust (currently, Messrs. Means and
Vaughn). Each Audit Committee provides oversight with respect to the internal and external
accounting and auditing procedures of the Funds and, among other things, considers the selection of
the independent registered public accounting firms for the Funds and the scope of the audit,
approves all audit and permitted non-audit services proposed to be performed by those accountants
on behalf of the Funds, and considers other services provided by those accountants to the Funds and
Schroders and their affiliates and the possible effect of those services on the independence of
those accountants. Each Audit Committee met [ ] times during the fiscal year ended October 31,
2009.
Nominating Committee
. All of the Disinterested Trustees (currently, Messrs. Means and
Vaughn) of each Trust serve as a Nominating Committee responsible for reviewing and recommending
qualified candidates to each Board in the event that a position is vacated or created. Each
Nominating Committee will consider nominees recommended by shareholders if the Committee is
considering other nominees at the time of the nomination and the nominee meets the Committees
criteria. Nominee recommendations may be submitted to the Secretary of the relevant
-37-
Trust at that Trusts principal business address. The Nominating Committee met [ ] times during
the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009.
Securities Ownership
For each Trustee, the following table discloses the dollar range of equity securities
beneficially owned by the Trustee in each Fund, on an aggregate basis, in any registered investment
companies overseen by the Trustee within the Schroder family of investment companies, as of
December 31, 2009.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Aggregate Dollar Range
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
of Equity Securities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
in All Registered
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Companies
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Overseen by Trustee in
|
|
|
|
|
Dollar Range of Equity
|
|
Family of Investment
|
Name of Trustee
|
|
Fund
|
|
Securities in the Fund
|
|
Companies*
|
|
|
|
|
Ranges:
None
$1-$10,000
$10,001-$50,000
$50,001-$100,000
Over $100,000
|
|
Ranges:
None
$1-$10,000
$10,001-$50,000
$50,001-$100,000
Over $100,000
|
Disinterested Trustees
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
William L. Means
|
|
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Alpha Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder North American Equity Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
James D. Vaughn
|
|
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Alpha Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder North American Equity Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
Interested Trustees
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
-38-
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Aggregate Dollar Range
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
of Equity Securities
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
in All Registered
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Companies
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Overseen by Trustee in
|
|
|
|
|
Dollar Range of Equity
|
|
Family of Investment
|
Name of Trustee
|
|
Fund
|
|
Securities in the Fund
|
|
Companies*
|
Catherine A. Mazza
|
|
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Alpha Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder North American Equity Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
For these purposes, the Trusts are considered part of the same Family of Investment Companies.
|
For Disinterested Trustees and their immediate family members, the following table provides
information regarding each class of securities owned beneficially in an investment adviser or
principal underwriter of the Trusts, or a person (other than a registered investment company)
directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with an investment
adviser or principal underwriter of the Trusts, as of December 31, 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name of Owners and
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Relationships to
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name of Trustee
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Company
|
|
Title of Class
|
|
Value of Securities
|
|
Percent of Class
|
William L. Means
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
James D. Vaughn
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
Trustees Compensation
Effective January 1, 2007, Trustees who are not employees of Schroders or its affiliates
receive an annual retainer of $25,000 for their services as Trustees of all open-end investment
companies distributed by SFA, and $2,500 per meeting attended in person or $1,000 per meeting
attended by telephone. The Chairman of the Audit Committee receives an additional annual retainer
from the Trusts of $5,000, and each member of an Audit Committee receives a fee of $1,000 from the
Trusts for each Audit Committee meeting attended in person or by telephone. Payment of the Trustee
fees is allocated 50% to each Trust and the remaining 50% to the Trusts based on their respective
amount of assets. If a meeting relates only to a single Fund or group of Funds, payments of such
meeting fees are allocated only among those Funds to which the meeting relates.
The following table sets forth approximate information regarding compensation received by
Trustees from the Fund Complex for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009. (Interested Trustees
who are employees of Schroders or its affiliates and officers of the Trusts receive no compensation
from the Trusts and are compensated in their capacities as employees of Schroders and its
affiliates).
-39-
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Aggregate
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Compensation
|
|
Aggregate
|
|
Aggregate
|
|
Total Compensation
|
|
|
from Schroder
|
|
Compensation
|
|
Compensation
|
|
from Trust and Fund
|
|
|
Capital Funds
|
|
from Schroder
|
|
from Schroder
|
|
Complex Paid to
|
Name of Trustee
|
|
(Delaware)
|
|
Series Trust
|
|
Global Series Trust
|
|
Trustees*
|
Peter S.
Knight**
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
William L. Means
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
James D. Vaughn
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
The Total Compensation shown in this column for each Trustee includes compensation for services
as a Trustee of the Trusts. The Trusts are considered part of the same Fund Complex for these
purposes.
|
|
**
|
|
Mr. Knight resigned from the Board of Trustees effective
December 31, 2009.
|
The Declarations of Trust or Trust Instrument, as applicable, provides that the relevant Trust
will indemnify its Trustees and officers against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection
with litigation in which they may be involved because of their offices with the Trust, except if it
is determined in the manner specified in the Trusts Declaration of Trust or Trust Instrument,
applicable, that they have not acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that their actions were
in the best interests of the Trust or that such indemnification would relieve any officer or
Trustee of any liability to the Trust or its shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad
faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of his or her duties. Each Trusts bylaws provide
that the conduct of a Trustee shall be evaluated solely by reference to a hypothetical reasonable
person, without regard to any special expertise, knowledge, or other qualifications of the Trustee,
or any determination that the Trustee is an audit committee financial expert. Each Trusts
bylaws provide that the Trust will indemnify its Trustees against liabilities and expenses incurred
in connection with litigation or formal or informal investigations in which they may become
involved because of their service as Trustees, except to the extent prohibited by the Trusts
Declaration of Trust or Trust Instrument, as applicable. The Trusts, at their expense, provide
liability insurance for the benefit of its Trustees and officers.
SCHRODERS AND ITS AFFILIATES
Schroders serves as the investment adviser for the Funds. Schroders is a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Schroder U.S. Holdings Inc., which currently engages through its subsidiary firms in
the asset management business. Affiliates of Schroder U.S. Holdings Inc. (or their predecessors)
have been investment managers since 1927. Schroder U.S. Holdings Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Schroder International Holdings, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Schroders plc, a
publicly-owned holding company organized under the laws of England. Schroders plc, through certain
affiliates currently engages in the asset management business, and as of December 31, 2009, had
under management assets of approximately $[ ]. Schroders address is 875 Third Avenue, 22nd
Floor, New York, New York 10022.
SIMNA Ltd., an affiliate of Schroders, has served as sub-adviser to Schroder Emerging Market
Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, and
Schroder North American Equity Fund since each of their inceptions.
SFA, each Trusts principal underwriter and administrator of Schroder North American Equity
Fund, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Schroders.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
The portfolio managers primarily responsible for making investment decisions are: for Schroder
Emerging Market Equity Fund, James Gotto, Waj Hashmi, Robert Davy and Allan Conway; for Schroder
International Alpha
-40-
Fund, Virginie Maisonneuve; for Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Justin Abercrombie;
for Schroder North American Equity Fund, Justin Abercrombie and John Marsland; for each of Schroder
U.S. Opportunities Fund and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund, Jenny Jones; and
for Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Wesley A. Sparks, David Harris, Chris Ames, Gregg T.
Moore, Ed Fitzpatrick, and Tony Hui.
Other Accounts Managed.
The following tables show information regarding other accounts
managed by the portfolio managers of each Fund, as of October 31, 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets in
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Accounts
|
|
Accounts where
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
where Advisory Fee
|
|
Advisory Fee is
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets
|
|
is Based on Account
|
|
Based on Account
|
|
|
Number of Accounts
|
|
in Accounts
|
|
Performance
|
|
Performance
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
|
|
|
|
James Gotto
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Waj Hashmi, CFA
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Robert Davy
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Allan Conway
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Alpha Fund
|
|
|
|
|
Virginie Maisonneuve,
CFA
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
-41-
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets in
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Accounts
|
|
Accounts where
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
where Advisory Fee
|
|
Advisory Fee is
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets
|
|
is Based on Account
|
|
Based on Account
|
|
|
Number of Accounts
|
|
in Accounts
|
|
Performance
|
|
Performance
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
|
|
|
|
|
Justin Abercrombie
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder North American Equity Fund
|
|
|
|
|
Justin Abercrombie
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
John Marsland, CFA
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
|
|
|
|
Jenny Jones
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
|
|
|
|
|
Jenny Jones
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
|
|
|
|
|
Wesley A. Sparks, CFA
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
-42-
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets in
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Accounts
|
|
Accounts where
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
where Advisory Fee
|
|
Advisory Fee is
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets
|
|
is Based on Account
|
|
Based on Account
|
|
|
Number of Accounts
|
|
in Accounts
|
|
Performance
|
|
Performance
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
David Harris
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Chris Ames
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gregg T. Moore, CFA
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ed Fitzpatrick
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tony Hui
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
[ ]
|
|
$[ ]
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Material Conflicts of Interest.
Whenever a portfolio manager of a Fund manages other
accounts, potential conflicts of interest exist, including potential conflicts between the
investment strategy of the Fund and the investment strategy of the other accounts. For example, in
certain instances, a portfolio manager may take conflicting positions in a particular security for
different accounts, by selling a security for one account and continuing to hold it for another
-43-
account. In addition, the fact that other accounts require the portfolio manager to devote less
than all of his or her time to a Fund may be seen itself to constitute a conflict with the interest
of the Fund.
Each portfolio manager may also execute transactions for another fund or account at the
direction of such fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by a Fund.
Securities selected for funds or accounts other than such Fund may outperform the securities
selected for the Fund. Finally, if the portfolio manager identifies a limited investment
opportunity that may be suitable for more than one fund or other account, a Fund may not be able to
take full advantage of that opportunity due to an allocation of that opportunity across all
eligible funds and accounts. Schroders policies, however, require that portfolio managers allocate
investment opportunities among accounts managed by them in an equitable manner over time. Orders
are normally allocated on a pro rata basis, except that in certain circumstances, such as the small
size of an issue, orders will be allocated among clients in a manner believed by Schroders to be
fair and equitable over time. See Brokerage Allocation and Other Practices for more information
about this process.
The structure of a portfolio managers compensation may give rise to potential conflicts of
interest. A portfolio managers base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex
responsibilities that include increased assets under management, which indirectly links
compensation to sales. Also, potential conflicts of interest may arise since the structure of
Schroders compensation may vary from account to account.
Schroders has adopted certain compliance procedures that are designed to address these, and
other, types of conflicts. However, there is no guarantee that such procedures will detect each
and every situation where a conflict arises.
Compensation.
Schroders methodology for measuring and rewarding the contribution made by
portfolio managers combines quantitative measures with qualitative measures. The Funds portfolio
managers are compensated for their services to the Funds and to other accounts they manage in a
combination of base salary and annual discretionary bonus, as well as the standard retirement,
health and welfare benefits available to all Schroders employees. Base salary of Schroders
employees is determined by reference to the level of responsibility inherent in the role and the
experience of the incumbent, is benchmarked annually against market data to ensure competitive
salaries, and is paid in cash. The portfolio managers base salary is fixed and is subject to an
annual review and will increase if market movements make this necessary or if there has been an
increase in responsibilities.
Each portfolio managers bonus is based in part on performance. Discretionary bonuses for
portfolio managers may be comprised of an agreed contractual floor, a revenue component and/or a
discretionary component. Any discretionary bonus is determined by a number of factors. At a macro
level the total amount available to spend is a function of the compensation to revenue ratio
achieved by Schroders globally. Schroders then assesses the performance of the division and of a
management team to determine the share of the aggregate bonus pool that is spent in each area.
This focus on team maintains consistency and minimizes internal competition that may be
detrimental to the interests of Schroders clients. For each team, Schroders assesses the
performance of their funds relative to competitors and to relevant benchmarks, which may be
internally-and/or externally-based, over one and/or three year periods, the level of funds under
management and the level of performance fees generated. Performance is evaluated for each quarter,
year and since inception of the relevant Fund. The portfolio managers compensation for other
accounts they manage may be based upon such accounts performance.
For those employees receiving significant bonuses, a part may deferred in the form of
Schroders plc stock. These employees may also receive part of the deferred award in the form of
notional cash investments in a range of Schroders funds. These deferrals vest over a period of
three years and are designed to ensure that the interests of the employees are aligned with those
of the shareholders of Schroders.
For the purposes of determining the portfolio managers bonuses, the relevant external
benchmarks for performance comparison include: MSCI Emerging Markets Index (Net Div) for Messrs.
Gotto, Hashmi, Davy and Conway as portfolio managers of Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund; a
blend of international benchmarks for Ms. Maisonneuve as portfolio managers of Schroder
International Alpha Fund; Morgan Stanley International EAFE
-44-
Index for Mr. Abercrombie as portfolio manager of Schroder International Diversified Value
Fund; FTSE North American Index and S&P 500 Index for Messrs. Abercrombie and Marsland as portfolio
managers of Schroder North American Equity Fund; Russell 2000 Index and Russell 2500 Index for Ms.
Jones as portfolio manager of Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund, respectively; Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index for Messrs. Harris,
Sparks, Moore, Fitzpatrick, Hui and Ames as portfolio managers of Schroder Total Return Fixed
Income Fund, respectively.
Ownership of Securities.
As of October 31, 2009, none of the portfolio managers beneficially owned securities of the
Fund or Funds that they manage, except as follows: [for Schroders Total Return Fixed Income Fund
Mr. Sparks beneficially owned between $100,001 $500,000 of securities, Mr. Fitzpatrick
beneficially owned between $10,001 $50,000 of securities, and Mr. Harris beneficially owned
between $50,001 $100,000 of securities; and for each of Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund and
Schroders U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund Ms. Jones beneficially owned between
$10,001-$50,000 of securities].
Certain portfolio managers are not residents of the United States. It is not necessarily
advantageous in light of tax and other considerations for non-U.S. residents to invest in
U.S.-registered mutual funds.
MANAGEMENT CONTRACTS/INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS
Management Contract/Investment Advisory Agreement.
Under a Management Contract or Investment
Advisory Agreement, as applicable, between each Trust, on behalf of its Funds, and Schroders,
Schroders, at its expense, provides each Fund with investment advisory services and advises and
assists the officers of each Trust in taking such steps as are necessary or appropriate to carry
out the decisions of its Trustees regarding the conduct of business of the Trust and the Fund, and
in addition, in regards to Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Diversified
Value Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund, Schroders, at its expense,
provides each such Fund with management and administrative services necessary for the operation of
the Fund, including preparation of shareholder reports and communications, regulatory compliance,
such as reports to and filings with the SEC and state securities commissions, and general
supervision of the operation of the Fund, including coordination of the services performed by the
Funds administrator or sub-administrator, transfer agent, custodian, independent auditors, legal
counsel and others.
Under the Management Contract or Investment Advisory Agreement, as applicable, Schroders is
required to continuously furnish each Fund with an investment program consistent with the
investment objective and policies of the Fund, and to determine, for the Fund, what securities
shall be purchased, what securities shall be held or sold, and what portion of the Funds assets
shall be held uninvested, subject always to the provisions of the Trusts Declaration of Trust or
Trust Instrument, as applicable, and by-laws, and of the Investment Company Act, and to the Funds
investment objective, policies, and restrictions, and subject further to such policies and
instructions as the Trustees may from time to time establish.
As compensation for services provided to the Fund pursuant to the Management Contract or
Investment Advisory Agreement, as applicable, Schroders is entitled to receive from each Trust a
fee, computed and paid quarterly, at the following annual rate (based on each Funds average daily
net assets): Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund [1.00%]; Schroder International Alpha Fund
[0.975%]; Schroder International Diversified Value Fund [1.00%]; Schroder North American Equity
Fund [0.25%]; Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund [1.00%]; Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund [1.00%]; and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund [0.25%].
In order to limit the expenses of the Investor Shares and Advisor Shares of certain Funds, the
Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February 28, 2010 for Schroder U.S. Opportunities
Fund, Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
International Alpha Fund, Schroder
-45-
International Diversified Value Fund and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund to
pay or reimburse the applicable Fund for expenses to the extent that the Total Annual Fund
Operating Expenses of a Fund (other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, interest, taxes, and
extraordinary expenses, which may include typically non-recurring expenses such as, for example,
organizational expenses, litigation expenses, and shareholder meeting expenses) allocable to each
Funds Investor Shares exceed the following annual rates (based on the average daily net assets
attributable to each Funds Investor Shares): Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund: 1.25%; Schroder
International Alpha Fund: 1.15%; Schroder International Diversified Value Fund: 1.15%; Schroder
U.S. Opportunities Fund: 1.70%; Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund: 1.05%; and
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund: 0.40%; and to the extent that the Total Annual Fund
Operating Expenses of a Fund (other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, interest, taxes, and
extraordinary expenses, which may include typically non-recurring expenses such as, for example,
organizational expenses, litigation expenses, and shareholder meeting expenses) allocable to each
Funds Advisor Shares exceed the following annual rates (based on the average daily net assets
attributable to each Funds Advisor Shares): Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund: 1.50%; Schroder
International Alpha Fund: 1.40%; Schroder International Diversified Value Fund: 1.40%; Schroder
U.S. Opportunities Fund: 1.95%; Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund: 1.30%; and
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund: 0.65%. The fee waiver and/or expense limitations for the
Funds may only be terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
Schroders makes available to each Trust, without additional expense to the Trust, the services
of such of its directors, officers, and employees as may duly be elected Trustees or officers of
the Trust, subject to their individual consent to serve and to any limitations imposed by law.
Schroders pays the compensation and expenses of officers and executive employees of the Trusts.
Schroders also provides investment advisory research and statistical facilities and all clerical
services relating to such research, statistical, and investment work. Schroders pays the Trusts
office rent.
Under the Management Contract or Investment Advisory Agreement, as applicable, each Trust is
responsible for all its other expenses, which may include clerical salaries not related to
investment activities; fees and expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment
company organizations; brokers commissions; payment for portfolio pricing services to a pricing
agent, if any; legal expenses; auditing expenses; accounting expenses; payments under any
distribution plan; shareholder servicing payments; taxes and governmental fees; fees and expenses
of the transfer agent and investor servicing agent of the Trust; the cost of preparing share
certificates or any other expenses, including clerical expenses, incurred in connection with the
issue, sale, underwriting, redemption, or repurchase of shares; the expenses of and fees for
registering or qualifying securities for sale; the fees and expenses of the Trustees of the Trust
who are not affiliated with Schroders; the cost of preparing and distributing reports and notices
to shareholders; public and investor relations expenses; and fees and disbursements of custodians
of each Funds assets. Each Trust is also responsible for its expenses incurred in connection with
litigation, proceedings, and claims and the legal obligation it may have to indemnify its officers
and Trustees with respect thereto.
The Management Contract or Investment Advisory Agreement, as applicable, provides that
Schroders shall not be subject to any liability to a Trust or to any shareholder for any act or
omission in connection with rendering services to that Trust in the absence of willful misfeasance,
bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of its duties.
The Management Contract may be terminated as to a Fund without penalty by vote of the
Trustees, by the shareholders of that Fund, or by Schroders, on 60 days written notice. The
Management Contract or Investment Advisory Agreement, as applicable, also terminates without
payment of any penalty in the event of its assignment. In addition, the Management Contract or
Investment Advisory Agreement, as applicable, may be amended only by a vote of the shareholders of
the relevant Fund and by the vote, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on
such approval, of a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of Schroders. The
Management Contract or Investment Advisory Agreement, as applicable, provides that it will continue
in effect from year to year (after an initial two-year period) only so long as such continuance is
approved at least annually by vote of either the Trustees or the shareholders of the relevant Fund,
and, in either case, by a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of Schroders.
In each of the foregoing cases, the vote of the shareholders is the affirmative vote of a majority
of the outstanding voting securities (as defined above in Investment Restrictions).
-46-
Recent Management/Investment Advisory Fees
. The following table sets forth the
management/investment advisory fees paid by each Fund during the fiscal years ended October 31,
2009, October 31, 2008 and October 31, 2007. The fees listed in this table reflect reductions
pursuant to expense limitations and/or fee waivers in effect during such periods.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Advisory
|
|
Investment Advisory
|
|
Investment Advisory
|
|
|
Fees Paid for
|
|
Fees Paid for
|
|
Fees Paid for
|
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
Fund
|
|
10/31/09
|
|
10/31/08
|
|
10/31/07
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
57,535
|
|
|
$
|
12,861
|
|
Schroder International Alpha Fund*
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
291,138
|
|
|
$
|
388,807
|
|
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
Schroder North American Equity Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
1,678,892
|
|
|
$
|
2,464,110
|
|
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund**
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
2,521,188
|
|
|
$
|
2,853,566
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
Effective April 1, 2006, Schroder International Alpha Fund pays a combined advisory and
administrative fee to Schroders.
|
|
**
|
|
Effective May 1, 2006, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund pays a combined advisory and
administrative fee to Schroders.
|
Waived Fees
. For the periods shown above, a portion of the advisory fees payable to Schroders
was waived in the following amounts pursuant to expense limitations and/or fee waivers observed by
Schroders for the Funds during such periods.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fees Waived During
|
|
Fees Waived During
|
|
Fees Waived During
|
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
Fund
|
|
10/31/09
|
|
10/31/08
|
|
10/31/07
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
209,513
|
|
|
$
|
179,672
|
|
Schroder International Alpha Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
176,726
|
|
|
$
|
157,424
|
|
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
287,112
|
|
|
$
|
326,015
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
179,182
|
|
|
$
|
178,032
|
|
Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
224,083
|
|
|
$
|
225,662
|
|
Subadvisory Agreements.
The Board of Trustees of Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) has approved an arrangement whereby
Schroders would retain SIMNA Ltd. to serve as sub-adviser to Schroder International Alpha Fund. In
connection therewith, the Board of Trustees of Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) approved an
Investment Subadvisory Agreement between Schroders, SIMNA Ltd. and the Trust on behalf of Schroder
International Alpha Fund (a Subadvisory Agreement). This Agreement went into effect on April 1,
1994.
The Board of Trustees of Schroder Series Trust has approved separate arrangements whereby
Schroders would retain SIMNA Ltd. to serve as sub-adviser to Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
and Schroder International Diversified Value Fund. In connection therewith, the Board of Trustees
of Schroder Series Trust approved an Investment Subadvisory Agreement between Schroders, SIMNA Ltd.
and the Trust on behalf of Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, and an Investment Subadvisory
Agreement between Schroders, SIMNA Ltd. and the Trust on behalf of Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund (each, a Subadvisory Agreement). The agreement with Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund went into effect on March 31, 2006, and the agreement with Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund went into effect on August 29, 2006.
The Board of Trustees of Schroder Global Series Trust has approved an arrangement whereby
Schroders would retain SIMNA Ltd. to serve as sub-adviser to Schroder North American Equity Fund.
In connection therewith, the Board of Trustees of Schroder Global Series Trust re-approved an
Investment Subadvisory Agreement between
-47-
Schroders, SIMNA Ltd. and the Trust on behalf of Schroder
North American Equity Fund (a Subadvisory Agreement) on June 13, 2006.
Under the Subadvisory Agreements, subject to the oversight of the Trustees and the direction
and control of Schroders, SIMNA Ltd. is required to provide on behalf of the relevant Fund the
portfolio management services required of Schroders under the relevant Funds Management Contract
or Investment Advisory Agreement, as applicable. Accordingly, SIMNA Ltd. will be required to
regularly provide each such Fund with investment research, advice, and supervision and furnish
continuously investment programs consistent with the investment objectives and policies of the
Fund, and determine, what securities shall be purchased, what securities shall be held or sold, and
what portion of the Funds assets shall be held uninvested, subject always to the provisions of the
Trusts Declaration of Trust or Trust Instrument, as applicable, and By-laws, and of the Investment
Company Act, and to the Funds investment objectives, policies, and restrictions, and subject
further to such policies and instructions as the Trustees may from time to time establish.
For the services to be rendered by SIMNA Ltd., Schroders (and not the Trusts or the Funds)
will pay to SIMNA Ltd. a monthly fee in an amount equal to fifty percent (50%) of all fees actually
paid by the relevant Fund to Schroders for such month under the Management Contract, or Investment
Advisory Agreement, as applicable, provided that SIMNA Ltd.s fee for any period will be reduced
such that SIMNA Ltd. will bear fifty percent (50%) of any voluntary fee waiver observed or expense
reimbursement borne by Schroders with respect to the Fund for such period. Prior to March 1, 2006,
Schroders paid to SIMNA Ltd. a monthly fee in an amount equal to twenty-five percent (25%) of all
fees actually paid by Schroder International Alpha Fund and Schroder North American Equity Fund to
Schroders for such month under each Funds Investment Advisory Agreement, provided that SIMNA
Ltd.s fee for any period was reduced such that SIMNA Ltd. bore twenty-five percent (25%) of any
voluntary fee waiver observed or expense reimbursement borne by Schroders with respect to the
relevant Fund for such period.
Each Subadvisory Agreement provides that SIMNA Ltd. shall not be subject to any liability to
the relevant Trust or Schroders for any mistake of judgment or in any event whatsoever in
connection with rendering service to the Trust in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith,
gross negligence, or reckless disregard of its duties.
The Subadvisory Agreement relating to the relevant Fund may be terminated with respect to the
Fund without penalty (i) by vote of the Trustees or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities (as defined above) of the Fund on 60 days written notice to SIMNA Ltd., (ii) by
Schroders on 60 days written notice to SIMNA Ltd. or (iii) by SIMNA Ltd. on 60 days written
notice to Schroders and the Trust. Each Subadvisory Agreement will also terminate without payment
of any penalty in the event of its assignment. Each Subadvisory Agreement may be amended only by
written agreement of all parties thereto and otherwise in accordance with the Investment Company
Act.
Recent Subadvisory Fees
. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009, October 31, 2008 and
October 31, 2007, pursuant to the Subadvisory Agreement on behalf of Schroder North American Equity
Fund, Schroders paid a fee of $[ ], $772,290, and $1,232,051 respectively to SIMNA Ltd. For the
fiscal years ended October 31, 2009, October 31, 2008 and October 31, 2007, pursuant to a
Subadvisory Agreement on behalf of Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroders paid $[ ],
$26,465 and $47,326 respectively to SIMNA Ltd. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009 and
October 31, 2008, pursuant to a Subadvisory Agreement on behalf of Schroder International Alpha
Fund, Schroders paid a fee of $[ ] and $133,923 respectively to SIMNA Ltd. For the fiscal year
ended October 31, 2009, pursuant to a Subadvisory Agreement on behalf of Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund, Schroders paid a fee of $[ ] to SIMNA Ltd. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 2008, Schroders did not pay a subadvisory fee for the Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund under its Subadvisory Agreement. For the fiscal year ended October 31,
2007, Schroders did not pay a subadvisory fee for the following Funds under the respective
Subadvisory Agreement: Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, and
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund.
-48-
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES
Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware)
Prior to April 1, 2006 the Trust, on behalf of Schroder International Alpha Fund, and prior to
May 1, 2006 the Trust, on behalf of Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund, was a party to an
administration agreement with SFA, which is described below.
Under the previous administration agreement, SFA provided management and administrative
services necessary for the operation of the Funds, including: (1) preparation of shareholder
reports and communications; (2) regulatory compliance, such as reports to and filings with the SEC
and state securities commissions; and (3) general supervision of the operation of the Funds,
including coordination of the services performed by its investment adviser, transfer agent,
custodian, independent auditors, legal counsel and others. SFA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Schroders and is a registered broker-dealer organized to act as administrator and distributor of
mutual funds.
For providing administrative services, SFA was entitled to receive a monthly fee at the
following annual rates (based upon each Funds average daily net assets): 0.225% with respect to
Schroder International Alpha Fund; and 0.25% with respect to Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund. The
administration agreement was terminable with respect to the Funds without penalty, at any time, by
the Trustees upon 60 days written notice to SFA or by SFA upon 60 days written notice to the
Trust.
On March 23, 2006 and April 20, 2006, respectively, shareholders of Schroder International
Alpha Fund and Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund approved amendments to the Funds investment
advisory agreement with Schroders, which amendments increased the advisory fees paid by the Funds
and combined into a single agreement the Funds investment advisory and administrative agreements.
Effective April 1, 2006, Schroder International Alpha Fund pays a combined advisory and
administrative fee to Schroders at the annual rate (based on the average daily net assets of the
Fund) of 0.975%, and Schroders, not SFA, acts as administrator to the Fund. Effective May 1, 2006,
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund pays a combined advisory and administrative fee to Schroders at
the annual rate (based on the average daily net assets of the Fund) of 1.00%, and Schroders, not
SFA, acts as administrator to the Fund.
Effective November 5, 2001, the Trust entered into a sub-administration and accounting
agreement with SEI Investments Global Funds Services (SEI). Under that agreement, as amended,
the Trust and Schroder Series Trust pay fees to SEI based on the combined average daily net assets
of all the funds that are series of the Trust and Schroder Series Trust, according to the following
annual rates: 0.095% on the first $1 billion of such assets, 0.085% on the next $1 billion of such
assets, 0.07% on the next $1 billion of such assets, 0.06% on the next $2 billion and 0.05% on
assets in excess of $5 billion. Each Fund pays its pro rata portion of such expenses. The
sub-administration and accounting agreement is terminable by either party in the case of a material
breach.
Recent Administrative Fees
. During the three most recent fiscal years, the Funds paid the
following fees to SFA and SEI pursuant to the administration agreements in place during such
periods. The fees listed in the following table reflect reductions pursuant to fee waivers and/or
expense limitations in effect during such periods.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
Fund
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/09
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/08
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/07
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder International Alpha Fund
|
|
Schroder Fund
|
|
Schroder Fund
|
|
Schroder Fund
|
|
|
Advisors Inc.
|
|
Advisors Inc.
|
|
Advisors Inc.
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SEI
|
|
SEI
|
|
SEI
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
48,487
|
|
|
$
|
61,288
|
|
-49-
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
Fund
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/09
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/08
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/07
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
|
Schroder Fund
|
|
Schroder Fund
|
|
Schroder Fund
|
|
|
Advisors Inc.
|
|
Advisors Inc.
|
|
Advisors Inc.
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
SEI
|
|
SEI
|
|
SEI
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
254,264
|
|
|
$
|
311,562
|
|
Schroder Series Trust
The Trust, on behalf of the Funds, has entered into an administration and accounting agreement
with SEI, under which SEI provides administrative services necessary for the operation of each
Fund, including recordkeeping, preparation of shareholder communications, assistance with
regulatory compliance (such as reports to and filings with the SEC and state securities
commissions), preparation and filing of tax returns, preparation of the Trusts periodic financial
reports, and certain other fund accounting services. Under that agreement, as amended, the Trust,
together with Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), pays fees to SEI based on the combined average
daily net assets of all the funds of Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) and the Trust, according to
the following annual rates: 0.095% on the first $1 billion of such assets, 0.085% on the next $1
billion of such assets, 0.07% on the next $1 billion of such assets, 0.06% on the next $2 billion
and 0.05% on assets in excess of $5 billion. Each Fund pays its pro rata portion of such expenses.
The administration and accounting agreement is terminable by either party at the end of a
three-year initial term or thereafter, at any time, by either party upon six (6) months written
notice to the other party. The administration and accounting agreement is terminable by either
party in the case of a material breach.
Recent Administrative Fees.
For the last three fiscal years the Funds paid the following
administration and accounting fees to SEI. The fees listed in the following table reflect
reductions pursuant to fee waivers and/or expense limitations in effect during such periods.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
Fund
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/09
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/08
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/07
|
Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
26,911
|
|
|
$
|
20,915
|
|
Schroder
International
Diversified Value
Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
12,047
|
|
|
$
|
13,666
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small
and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
13,181
|
|
|
$
|
11,206
|
|
Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
74,788
|
|
|
$
|
42,821
|
|
Schroder Global Series Trust
On behalf of the Fund, the Trust has entered into an administration agreement with SFA, under
which SFA provides management and administrative services necessary for the operation of the Fund,
including: (1) preparation of shareholder reports and communications; (2) regulatory compliance,
such as reports to and filings with the SEC and state securities commissions; and (3) general
supervision of the operation of the Fund, including coordination of the services performed by its
investment adviser, transfer agent, custodian, independent accountants, legal counsel and others.
SFA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Schroders and is a registered broker-dealer organized to act as
administrator and distributor of mutual funds. The administration agreement is terminable with
respect to the Fund without penalty, at any time, by the Trustees upon 60 days written notice to
SFA or by SFA upon 60 days written notice to the Trust. For its services, SFA receives no
compensation. Effective January 28, 2005, SEI serves as sub-administrator to the Fund. The Fund
pays SEI a fee, computed and paid monthly, at an annual rate of 0.013% of the Funds average daily
net assets up to $1 billion and 0.005% of the Funds average daily net assets over $1 billion.
-50-
Recent Administration Fees.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009, October 31, 2008
and October 31, 2007 the Fund paid sub-administration and accounting fees of $[ ], $87,305, and
$124,242, respectively.
DISTRIBUTOR; DISTRIBUTION PLAN
Pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with each Trust, SFA (the Distributor), 875 Third
Avenue, 22
nd
Floor, New York, New York 10022, serves as the distributor for each Trusts
continually offered shares. The Distributor pays all of its own expenses in performing its
obligations under the Distribution Agreement. The Distributor is not obligated to sell any
specific amount of shares of any Fund. Please see Schroders and its Affiliates for ownership
information regarding the Distributor.
Distribution plan for Advisor Shares.
Each Fund has adopted a Distribution Plan pursuant to
Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act that allows the Fund to compensate the Distributor in
connection with the distribution of that Funds Advisor shares. Under the Plan, a Fund may make
payments at an annual rate up to 0.25% (0.35% for Schroder North American Equity Fund) of the
average daily net assets attributable to its Advisor Shares. Because the fees are paid out of a
Funds assets attributable to its Advisor Shares on an ongoing basis, over time these fees will
increase the cost of an investment in Advisor Shares of the Fund and may cost an investor more than
paying other types of sales charges.
The Distribution Plan is a compensation plan. The various costs and expenses that may be paid
or reimbursed by amounts paid under the Distribution Plan include advertising expenses, costs of
printing prospectuses and other materials to be given or sent to prospective investors, expenses of
sales employees or agents of the Distributor, including salary, commissions, travel and related
expenses in connection with the distribution of Advisor Shares, payments to broker-dealers who
advise shareholders regarding the purchase, sale, or retention of Advisor Shares, and payments to
banks, trust companies, broker-dealers (other than the Distributor), or other financial
organizations.
The Distribution Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount of payments
permitted thereunder without the approval of a majority of the outstanding Advisor Shares of the
affected Fund. Any other material amendment to the Distribution Plan must be approved both by a
majority of the Trustees and a majority of those Trustees (Qualified Trustees) who are not
interested persons (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the relevant Trust, and who have
no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Distribution Plan or in any
related agreement, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose. The Distribution
Plan will continue in effect for successive one-year periods provided each such continuance is
approved by a majority of the Trustees and the Qualified Trustees by vote cast in person at a
meeting called for the purpose. The Distribution Plan may be terminated at any time by vote of a
majority of the Qualified Trustees or by vote of a majority of each of the Funds outstanding
Advisor Shares.
During the fiscal periods ended October 31, 2009, October 31, 2008 and October 31, 2007, the
Funds (in respect of their Advisor Shares) paid fees under the Distribution Plans in the following
amounts:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
|
October 31, 2009
|
|
October 31, 2008
|
|
October 31, 2007
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity
Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
4,988
|
|
|
$
|
3,457
|
|
Schroder International Alpha
Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
60,072
|
|
|
$
|
51,344
|
|
Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
3,267
|
|
|
$
|
3,363
|
|
Schroder North American Equity
Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
439
|
|
|
$
|
416
|
|
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
11,877
|
|
|
$
|
11,275
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
1,428
|
|
|
$
|
2,988
|
|
Schroder Total Return Fixed
Income Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
2,177
|
|
|
$
|
2,046
|
|
-51-
BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND OTHER PRACTICES
Selection of Brokers.
Schroders, in selecting brokers to effect transactions on behalf of the
Funds, seeks to obtain the best execution available.
Allocation.
Schroders may deem the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interests
of a Fund as well as other clients of Schroders. In such cases, Schroders may, but is under no
obligation to, aggregate all such transactions in order to obtain the most favorable price or lower
brokerage commissions and efficient execution. Orders are normally allocated on a pro rata basis,
except that in certain circumstances, such as the small size of an issue, orders will be allocated
among clients in a manner believed by Schroders to be fair and equitable over time.
Brokerage and Research Services.
Transactions on U.S. stock exchanges and other agency
transactions involve the payment by a Trust of negotiated brokerage commissions. Schroders may
determine to pay a particular broker varying commissions according to such factors as the
difficulty and size of the transaction. Transactions in foreign securities often involve the
payment of fixed brokerage commissions, which are generally higher than those in the United States,
and therefore certain portfolio transaction costs may be higher than the costs for similar
transactions executed on U.S. securities exchanges. There is generally no stated commission in the
case of securities traded in the over-the-counter markets, but the price paid by a Fund usually
includes an undisclosed dealer commission or mark-up. In underwritten offerings, the price paid by
a Trust includes a disclosed, fixed commission or discount retained by the underwriter or dealer.
Schroders places all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities and buys and
sells securities through a substantial number of brokers and dealers. In so doing, it uses its
best efforts to obtain the best execution available. In seeking the best price and execution,
Schroders considers all factors it deems relevant, including price, the size of the transaction,
the nature of the market for the security, the amount of the commission, the timing of the
transaction (taking into account market prices and trends), the reputation, experience, and
financial stability of the broker-dealer involved, and the quality of service rendered by the
broker-dealer in other transactions.
It has for many years been a common practice in the investment advisory business for advisers
of investment companies and other institutional investors to receive research, statistical, and
quotation services from several broker-dealers that execute portfolio transactions for the clients
of such advisers. Consistent with this practice, Schroders receives research, statistical, and
quotation services from many broker-dealers with which it places the Funds portfolio transactions.
These services, which in some cases may also be purchased for cash, include such matters as
general economic and security market reviews, industry and company reviews, evaluations of
securities, and recommendations as to the purchase and sale of securities. Some of these services
are of value to Schroders and its affiliates in advising various of their clients (including the
Trusts), although not all of these services are necessarily useful and of value in managing each of
the Funds. The investment advisory fee paid by each of the Funds is not reduced because Schroders
and its affiliates receive such services.
As permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
Securities Exchange Act), and by the Management Contract or Investment Advisory Agreement, as
applicable, Schroders may cause the Funds to pay a broker that provides brokerage and research
services to Schroders an amount of disclosed commission for effecting a securities transaction for
a Fund in excess of the commission that another broker would have charged for effecting that
transaction. Schroders authority of each Trust to cause a Fund to pay any such greater
commissions is also subject to such policies as the Trustees may adopt from time to time.
-52-
SIMNA Ltd., in its capacity as sub-adviser to Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
International Alpha Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, and Schroder North
American Equity Fund, observes substantially the same allocation and brokerage and research
policies and practices as those observed by Schroders described above.
The following tables show the aggregate brokerage commissions paid for the three most recent
fiscal years with respect to each Fund that incurred brokerage costs.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brokerage
|
|
Brokerage
|
|
Brokerage
|
|
|
Commissions Paid
|
|
Commissions Paid
|
|
Commissions Paid
|
|
|
During Fiscal Year
|
|
During Fiscal Year
|
|
During Fiscal Year
|
Fund
|
|
Ended 10/31/09*
|
|
Ended 10/31/08*
|
|
Ended 10/31/07*
|
Schroder Emerging
Market Equity Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
96,531
|
|
|
$
|
81,742
|
|
Schroder
International Alpha
Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
104,590
|
|
|
$
|
128,841
|
|
Schroder
International
Diversified Value
Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
6,111
|
|
|
$
|
8,345
|
|
Schroder North
American Equity
Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
536,374
|
|
|
$
|
306,359
|
|
Schroder U.S.
Opportunities Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
788,722
|
|
|
$
|
558,034
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small
and Mid Cap
Opportunities Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
43,051
|
|
|
$
|
18,285
|
|
Schroder Total
Return Fixed Income
Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
4,992
|
|
|
$
|
2,362
|
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
Any materially significant difference between the amount of brokerage commissions paid by a Fund
during the most recent fiscal year and the amount of brokerage commissions paid by that Fund for
either of the two previous fiscal years is due to a significant decrease (or increase) in the size
of the Fund and/or the volatility of the relevant market for the Fund.
|
The following table shows the aggregate amount of brokerage commissions paid to firms that
provided research services in the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009. The provision of research
services to Schroders and its affiliates was not necessarily a factor in the placement of fund
transactions with these firms.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commissions Paid with
|
Fund
|
|
Respect to Such Transactions
|
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Schroder International Alpha Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Schroder International Diversified Value Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Schroder North American Equity Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Other Practices.
Schroders and its affiliates also manage private investment companies (hedge
funds) that are marketed to, among others, existing Schroders clients. These hedge funds may
invest in the same securities as those invested in by the Funds. The hedge funds trading
methodologies are generally different than those of the Funds and usually include short selling and
the aggressive use of leverage. At times, the hedge funds may be selling short securities held
long in a Fund.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
The net asset value per share of each class of shares of each of the Funds is determined daily
as of the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the Exchange) (normally 4:00 p.m.,
Eastern Time) on each day the Exchange is open for trading.
-53-
Securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at those quotations.
Securities for which current market quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value
pursuant to procedures established by the Board of Trustees of each Trust, which are summarized
below. It is possible that fair value prices will be used by a Fund to a significant extent. The
value determined for an investment using the Funds fair value guidelines may differ from recent
market prices for the investment.
Equity securities listed or traded on a domestic or foreign stock exchange for which last
sales information is readily available are valued at the last reported sale price on the exchange
on that day or, in the absence of sales that day, at the mean between the closing bid and ask
prices (the mid-market price) or, if none, the last sale price on the preceding trading day.
(Where the securities are traded on more than one exchange, they are valued based on trading on the
exchange where the security is principally traded.) Securities purchased in an initial public
offering and that have not commenced trading in a secondary market are valued at cost. In the case
of securities traded primarily on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated
Quotation System (NASDAQ), the NASDAQ Official Closing Price will, if available, be used to value
such securities as such price is reported by NASDAQ to market data vendors. If the NASDAQ Official
Closing Price is not available, such securities will be valued as described above for
exchange-traded securities.
Reliable market quotations are not considered to be readily available for many bonds
(excluding U.S. Treasury securities), certain preferred stocks, tax-exempt securities and certain
foreign securities. Such securities are valued at fair value, generally on the basis of valuations
furnished by pricing services, which determine valuations for normal, institutional-size trading
units of such securities using methods based on market transactions for comparable securities and
various relationships between securities that are generally recognized by institutional traders.
Below investment grade debt instruments (high yield debt) and emerging markets debt instruments
will generally be valued at prices furnished by pricing services based on the mean of bid and asked
prices supplied by brokers or dealers, although, if the bid-asked spread exceeds five points, that
security will typically be valued at the bid price. Short-term fixed income securities with
remaining maturities of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, unless Schroders believes
another valuation is more appropriate.
Unlisted securities for which market quotations are readily available generally are valued at
the most recently reported sale prices on any day or, in the absence of a reported sale price, at
mid-market prices. Options and futures contracts traded on a securities exchange or board of trade
generally are valued at the last reported sales price or, in the absence of a sale, at the closing
mid-market price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Options and futures not traded
on a securities exchange or board of trade for which over-the-counter market quotations are readily
available generally are valued at the most recently reported mid-market price. Credit default and
interest rate swaps are valued at the estimate of the mid-market price, together with other
supporting information. Options on indices or exchange-traded fund (ETF) shares are valued at the
closing mid-market price. If such prices are not available, unlisted securities and derivatives
are valued by Schroders at their fair values based on quotations from dealers, and if such
quotations are not available, based on factors in the markets where such securities and derivatives
trade, such as security and bond prices, interest rates, and currency exchange rates.
All other securities and other property are valued at fair value based on procedures
established by the Board of Trustees of each Trust.
All assets and liabilities of a Fund denominated in foreign currencies are translated into
U.S. dollars as of the close of trading of the Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time) based on
the mean between the last quoted bid and ask price of such currencies against the U.S. dollar.
If any securities held by a Fund are restricted as to resale, Schroders will obtain a
valuation based on the current bid for the restricted security from one or more independent dealers
or other parties reasonably familiar with the facts and circumstances of the security. If Schroders
is unable to obtain a fair valuation for a restricted security from an independent dealer or other
independent party, a pricing committee (comprised of certain officers at Schroders) shall determine
the bid value of such security. The valuation procedures applied in any specific instance are
likely to vary from case to case. However, consideration is generally given to the financial
position of the issuer
-54-
and other fundamental analytical data relating to the investment and to the nature of the
restrictions on disposition of the securities (including any registration expenses that might be
borne by the Trust in connection with such disposition). In addition, specific factors are also
generally considered, such as the cost of the investment, the market value of any unrestricted
securities of the same class (both at the time of purchase and at the time of valuation), the size
of the holding, the prices of any recent transactions or offers with respect to such securities,
and any available analysts reports regarding the issuer.
Generally, trading in certain securities (such as foreign securities) is substantially
completed each day at various times prior to the close of the Exchange. The values of these
securities used in determining the net asset value of a Funds shares are computed as of such
times. Also, because of the amount of time required to collect and process trading information as
to large numbers of securities issues, the values of certain securities (such as convertible bonds
and U.S. Government securities) are determined based on market quotations collected earlier in the
day. Occasionally, events affecting the value of such securities may occur between such times and
the close of the Exchange. If events materially affecting the value of such securities occur during
such period, then the Fair Value Committee of the Trust may consider whether it is appropriate to
value these securities at their fair value.
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, and Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund use a third-party fair valuation vendor that provides a fair
value for foreign securities held by the applicable Fund based on certain factors and methodologies
applied by the vendor in the event that there is movement in specified U.S. market prices that
exceeds a specific threshold established by the Fair Value Committee, in consultation with the
Trustees. Such methodologies generally involve tracking valuation correlations between the U.S.
market and each non-U.S. security. The Fair Value Committee also determines a confidence interval
that will be used, when the threshold is exceeded, to determine the level of correlation between
the value of a foreign security and movements in the U.S. market before a particular security will
be fair valued. In the event that the threshold established by the Fair Value Committee is exceeded
on a specific day, the Funds will typically value non-U.S. securities in their portfolios that
exceed the applicable confidence interval based upon the fair values provided by the vendor.
The proceeds received by each Fund for each issue or sale of its shares, and all income,
earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, subject only to the rights of creditors, will be
specifically allocated to such Fund, and constitute the underlying assets of such Fund. The
underlying assets of each Fund will be segregated on the Trusts books of account, and will be
charged with the liabilities in respect of each Fund and with a share of the general liabilities of
the Trust. Each Funds assets will be further allocated among its constituent classes of shares on
the Trusts books of account. Expenses with respect to any two or more funds or classes may be
allocated in proportion to the net asset values of the respective funds or classes except where
allocations of direct expenses can otherwise be fairly made to a specific fund or class. The net
asset value of the Funds Advisor Shares will generally differ from that of its Investor Shares due
to the variance in dividends paid on each class of shares and differences in the expenses of
Advisor Shares and Investor Shares.
REDEMPTION OF SHARES
Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder U.S. Opportunities Fund and Schroder U.S. Small and
Mid Cap Opportunities Fund each impose a 2.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed (including in
connection with an exchange) two months or less from their date of purchase. The fee is not a sales
charge (load); it is paid directly to the applicable Fund.
To the extent that the redemption fee applies, the price you will receive when you redeem your
shares of a Fund is the net asset value next determined after receipt of your redemption request in
good order, minus the redemption fee. The Funds permit exceptions to the redemption fee policy for
the following transactions:
|
|
|
to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the
intermediary agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected
clients, redemptions or exchanges by
|
-55-
|
|
|
discretionary asset allocation or wrap programs (wrap programs) that are initiated
by the sponsor of the program as part of a periodic rebalancing, provided that such
rebalancing occurs no more frequently than quarterly, or, if more frequent, was the
result of an extraordinary change in the management or operation of the wrap program
leading to a revised investment model that is applied across all applicable accounts
in the wrap program;
|
|
|
|
|
to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the
intermediary agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected
clients, redemptions or exchanges by a wrap program that are made as a result of a
full withdrawal from the wrap program or as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
|
|
|
|
|
to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the
intermediary agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected
clients, the following transactions in participant-directed retirement plans:
|
|
|
|
where the shares being redeemed were purchased with new
contributions to the plan (
e.g.
, payroll contributions, employer
contributions, and loan repayments);
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions made in connection with taking out a loan
from the plan;
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions in connection with death, disability,
hardship withdrawals, or Qualified Domestic Relations Orders;
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions made as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions made by a defined contribution plan in
connection with a termination or restructuring of the plan;
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions made in connection with a participants termination of employment; and
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions made as part of a periodic rebalancing under an asset allocation model.
|
|
|
|
involuntary redemptions, such as those resulting from a shareholders failure to
maintain a minimum investment in a Fund;
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions of shares acquired through the reinvestment of dividends or
distributions paid by a Fund;
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions and exchanges effected by other mutual funds (
e.g.
, funds of funds)
that are sponsored by Schroders or its affiliates;
|
|
|
|
|
to the extent a Fund is used as a qualified default investment alternative under
the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 for certain 401(k) plans; and
|
|
|
|
|
otherwise as the officers of Schroders or the applicable Trust may determine is
appropriate after consideration of the purpose of the transaction and the potential
impact to the Funds.
|
The application of the redemption fee and exceptions may vary among intermediaries, and certain
intermediaries may not apply the exceptions listed above. If you purchase or sell fund shares
through an intermediary, you should contact your intermediary for more information on whether the
redemption fee will be applied to redemptions of your shares.
ARRANGEMENTS PERMITTING FREQUENT PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS OF FUND SHARES
The Funds have no arrangements with any person to permit frequent purchases and redemptions of
the Fund shares.
TAXES
The following discussion of U.S. federal income tax consequences is based on the Code,
existing U.S. Treasury regulations, and other applicable authority, as of the date of this SAI.
These authorities are subject to change by legislative or administrative action, possibly with
retroactive effect. The following discussion is only a summary of some of the important U.S.
federal tax considerations generally applicable to investments in the Funds. It does not address
special tax rules applicable to certain classes of investors, such as IRAs and other retirement
plans, tax-exempt entities, foreign investors, insurance companies, financial institutions and
investors making in-kind contributions to
-56-
the Funds. You should consult your tax advisor for more information about your own tax
situation, including possible other federal, state, local, and, where applicable, foreign tax
consequences of investing in the Funds.
Taxation of the Funds.
Each Fund intends to qualify and to elect to be treated each year as a
RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. In order to qualify for the special tax treatment accorded
RICs and their shareholders, a Fund must, among other things, (a) derive at least 90% of its gross
income for each taxable year from (i) dividends, interest, payments with respect to securities
loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities, or foreign currencies and
other income (including but not limited to gains from options, futures or forward contracts)
derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies, and (ii)
net income from interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships (as defined below); (b)
diversify its holdings so that, at the close of each quarter of the Funds taxable year, (i) at
least 50% of the value of its total assets consists of cash, cash items, U.S. Government
securities, securities of other RICs and other securities limited in respect of any one issuer to a
value not greater than 5% of the value of a Funds the total assets and not more than 10% of the
outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of the Funds
total assets is invested (x) in the securities (other than those of the U.S. Government or other
RICs) of any one issuer or of two or more issuers that the Fund controls and that are engaged in
the same, similar or related trades or businesses or (y) the securities of one or more qualified
publicly traded partnerships (as defined below); and (c) distribute with respect to each taxable
year at least 90% of the sum of its investment company taxable income (as that term is defined in
the Code without regard to the deduction for dividends paid generally, taxable ordinary income
and the excess, if any, of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses) and net
tax-exempt interest income, for such year.
In general, for purposes of the 90% gross income requirement described in (a) above, income
derived from a partnership will be treated as qualifying income only to the extent such income is
attributable to items of income of the partnership which would be qualifying income if realized by
the RIC. However, 100% of the net income derived from an interest in a qualified publicly traded
partnership (defined as a partnership (x) interests in which are traded on an established
securities market or readily tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof,
(y) that derives at least 90% of its income from the passive income sources defined in Code section
7704(d), and (z) that derives less than 90% of its income from the qualifying income described in
(a)(i) above) will be treated as qualifying income. In addition, although in general the passive
loss rules of the Code do not apply to RICs, such rules do apply to a RIC with respect to items
attributable to an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership.
For purposes of meeting the diversification requirement described in (b) above, in the case of
the Funds investment in loan participations, the identity of the issuer may vary according to the
terms of the underlying contract. Also, for purposes of (b) above, the term outstanding voting
securities of such issuer will include the equity securities of a qualified publicly traded
partnership.
If a Fund qualifies as a RIC that is accorded special tax treatment, the Fund will not be
subject to federal income tax on income distributed in a timely manner to its shareholders in the
form of dividends (including capital gain dividends, as defined below).
If a Fund were to fail to qualify as a RIC accorded special tax treatment for any taxable
year, the Fund would be subject to tax on its taxable income at corporate income tax rates, and all
distributions from earnings and profits, including any distributions of net tax-exempt income and
net long-term capital gains would be taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. Some portions of
such distributions may be eligible for the dividends received deduction in the case of corporate
shareholders. In addition, in order to requalify for taxation as a RIC, a Fund may be required to
recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial taxes and interest, and make certain distributions.
If a Fund fails to distribute in a calendar year an amount equal to the sum of 98% of its
ordinary income for such year and 98% of its capital gain net income for the one-year period ending
October 31 of such year (or later if the Fund is permitted so to elect and so elects), plus any
retained amount from the prior year (to the extent not previously subject to tax under subchapter
M), the Fund will be subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax on the undistributed amounts. For
these purposes, the Fund will be treated as having distributed any amount on which it has been
subject
-57-
to corporate income tax in the taxable year ending within the calendar year. A dividend paid
to shareholders by a Fund in January of a year generally is deemed to have been paid by the Fund on
December 31 of the preceding year, if the dividend was declared and payable to shareholders of
record on a date in October, November, or December of that preceding year. Each Fund intends
generally to make distributions sufficient to avoid imposition of the 4% excise tax, although there
can be no assurance that it will be able to do so.
Taxable distributions.
For federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment income
(other than exempt-interest dividends, as described below) are generally taxed to shareholders as
ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are determined by how long a Fund owned
the investments that generated the gains, rather than how long a shareholder has owned his or her
shares. Distributions of net capital gains from the sale of investments that a Fund has held for
more than one year and that are properly designated by the Fund as capital gain dividends will be
taxable as long-term capital gains. Distributions from capital gains are generally made after
applying any available capital loss carryovers long-term capital gain rates applicable to
individuals have been temporarily reducedin general, to 15% with lower rates applying to
taxpayers in the 10% to 15% rate bracketsfor taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011.
Distributions of gains from the sale of investments that a Fund owned for one year or less will be
taxable as ordinary income.
For taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011, qualified dividend income received by an
individual will be taxed at the rates applicable to long-term capital gain. In order for some
portion of the dividends received by a Fund shareholder to be qualified dividend income, the Fund
must meet holding period and other requirements with respect to some portion of the dividend-paying
stocks in its portfolio and the shareholder must meet holding period and other requirements with
respect to the Funds shares. A dividend will not be treated as qualified dividend income (at
either the Fund or shareholder level) (1) if the dividend is received with respect to any share of
stock held for fewer than 61 days during the 121-day period beginning on the date which is 60 days
before the date on which such share becomes ex-dividend with respect to such dividend (or, on the
case of certain preferred stock, 91 days during the 181-day period beginning 90 days before such
date), (2) to the extent that the recipient is under an obligation (whether pursuant to a short
sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions in substantially similar or
related property, (3) if the recipient elects to have the dividend income treated as investment
income for purposes of the limitation on deductibility of investment interest, or (4) if the
dividend is received from a foreign corporation that is (a) not eligible for the benefits of a
comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States (with the exception of dividends paid on
stock of such a foreign corporation readily tradable on an established security market in the
United States) or (b) treated as a passive foreign investment company.
In general, distributions of investment income designated by a Fund as derived from qualified
dividend income will be treated as qualified dividend income by a shareholder taxed as an
individual provided the shareholder meets the holding period and other requirements described above
with respect to such Funds shares. If the aggregate qualified dividends received by a Fund during
any taxable year are 95% or more of its gross income (excluding net long-term capital gain over net
short-term capital loss), then 100% of the Funds dividends (other than dividends properly
designated as capital gain dividends) will be eligible to be treated as qualified dividend income.
Long-term capital gain rates applicable to individuals have been temporarily reduced in
general, to 15%, with lower rates applying to taxpayers in the 10% and 15% rate brackets for
taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011.
Return of capital distributions.
If a Fund makes a distribution to a shareholder in excess of
its current and accumulated earnings and profits in any taxable year, the excess distribution will
be treated as a return of capital to the extent of such shareholders tax basis in his or her
shares, and thereafter as capital gain. A return of capital is not taxable, but it reduces a
shareholders tax basis in his or her shares, thus reducing any loss or increasing any gain on a
subsequent taxable disposition by the shareholder of his or her shares.
Dividends and distributions on a Funds shares are generally subject to federal income tax as
described herein to the extent they do not exceed the Funds realized income and gains, even though
such dividends and distributions may economically represent a return of a particular shareholders
investment. Such distributions are
-58-
likely to occur in respect of shares purchased at a time when a Funds net asset value
reflects either unrealized gains, or realized but undistributed income or gains. Such realized
income and gains may be required to be distributed even when a Funds net asset value also reflects
unrealized losses. Distributions are taxable whether shareholders receive them in cash or reinvest
them in additional shares.
Exempt-interest dividends.
A Fund will qualify to pay exempt-interest dividends to
shareholders only if, at the close of each quarter of the Funds taxable year, at least 50% of the
total value of the Funds assets consists of obligations the interest on which is exempt from
federal income tax under section 103(a) of the Code. Distributions that a Fund properly designates
as exempt-interest dividends are not generally subject to federal income tax, but may be taxable
for state and local purposes.
Exempt-interest dividends may be taxable for purposes of the federal alternative minimum tax
(the AMT). Under the Code, exempt-interest dividends that are derived from interest on certain
private activity bonds generally must be included in an individuals tax base for purposes of
calculating the shareholders liability for federal AMT. Corporate shareholders will be required
to include all exempt-interest dividends in determining their federal AMT.
Tax-exempt dividends are included in income for purposes of determining the amount, if any, of
a shareholders Social Security and Railroad Retirement benefits that will be includable in gross
income subject to federal income tax. Shareholders receiving Social Security or railroad
retirement benefits should consult their tax advisers to determine what effect, if any, an
investment in the Funds may have on the federal taxation of such benefits.
Part or all of the interest on indebtedness, if any, incurred or continued by a shareholder to
purchase or carry shares of a Fund paying exempt-interest dividends is not deductible. The portion
of interest that is not deductible is equal to the total interest paid or accrued on the
indebtedness, multiplied by the percentage of the Funds total distributions (not including
distributions from net long-term capital gains) paid to the shareholder that are exempt-interest
dividends. Under rules employed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to determine when borrowed
funds are considered used for the purpose of purchasing or carrying particular assets, the purchase
of shares may be considered to have been made with borrowed funds even though such funds are not
directly traceable to the purchase of shares.
Distributions of a Funds income other than exempt-interest dividends generally will be
taxable as ordinary income, except that any distributions of net capital gains will be taxable as
capital gains. A Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities that generate income
subject to federal and state taxes.
Gains realized by a Fund on a sale or exchange of investments that generate tax-exempt income
will be taxable to shareholders. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are determined by how
long the Fund owned the investments that generated them, rather than how long a shareholder has
owned his or her shares. Distributions of net capital gains (that is, the excess of net long-term
capital gains over net short-term capital losses) from the sale of investments that a Fund owned
for more than one year and that are properly designated by the Fund as capital gain dividends
(Capital Gain Dividends) will be taxable as long-term capital gains. Long-term capital gain
rates have been temporarily reducedin general, to 15% with lower rates applying to taxpayers in
the 10% and 15% rate bracketsfor taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011. Distributions
of gains from the sale of investments that a Fund owned for one year or less will be taxable as
ordinary income. If shares of a Fund are sold at a loss after being held for six months or less,
the loss will be disallowed to the extent of any exempt-interest dividends received on those
shares. Distributions of investment income designated by a Fund as derived from qualified dividend
income are taxed at the rates applicable to long-term capital gain in taxable years beginning
before January 1, 2011. It is unclear whether a significant portion of Fund distributions to be
derived from qualified dividend income.
In general, exempt-interest dividends, if any, attributable to interest received on certain
private activity obligations and certain industrial development bonds will not be tax-exempt to any
shareholders who are substantial users of the facilities financed by such obligations or bonds or
who are related persons of such substantial users. In a May 2008 Supreme Court decision, the
Court said that it would not rule on the possibility that private activity bonds
-59-
could be treated differently from other municipal bonds. Future legislation or litigation may
result in additional taxation of private activity bonds.
Transactions in Fund shares.
The sale, exchange or redemption of Fund shares may give rise to
a gain or loss. In general, any gain or loss realized upon a taxable disposition of shares will be
treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than 12 months.
Otherwise, the gain or loss on the taxable disposition of Fund shares will be treated as short-term
capital gain or loss. However, any loss realized upon a taxable disposition of shares held for six
months or less will be treated as long-term, rather than short-term, to the extent of any long-term
capital gain distributions received (or deemed received) by the shareholder with respect to the
shares. If a shareholder sells shares at a loss within six months of purchase, any loss will be
disallowed for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent of any exempt-interest dividends
received on such shares. In addition, any loss (not already disallowed as provided in the
preceding sentence) realized upon a taxable disposition of shares held for six months or less will
be treated as long-term, rather than short-term, to the extent of any amounts treated as
distributions from a Fund of long-term capital gain with respect to the shares during the six-month
period. All or a portion of any loss realized upon a taxable disposition of Fund shares will be
disallowed if other shares of the same Fund are purchased within 30 days before or after the
disposition. In such a case, the basis of the newly purchased shares will be adjusted to reflect
the disallowed loss.
Shares purchased through tax-qualified plans.
Special tax rules apply to investments though
defined contribution plans and other tax-qualified plans. Shareholders should consult their tax
advisers to determine the suitability of shares of a Fund as an investment through such plans and
the precise effect of such an investment on their particular tax situation.
Foreign currency transactions.
A Funds transactions in foreign currencies, foreign
currency-denominated debt obligations and certain foreign currency options, futures contracts and
forward contracts (and similar instruments) may give rise to ordinary income or loss to the extent
such income or loss results from fluctuations of the foreign currency concerned.
Foreign investments.
With respect to investment income and gains received by a Fund from
sources within foreign countries, such income and gains may be subject to foreign taxes that are
withheld at the source. Tax treaties between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce or
eliminate such taxes.
If more than 50% of a Funds assets at year end consists of the securities of foreign
corporations, the Fund may elect to permit shareholders to claim a credit or deduction on their
income tax returns for their pro rata portions of qualified taxes paid by the Fund to foreign
countries in respect of foreign securities the Fund has held for at least the minimum period
specified in the Code. In such a case, shareholders will include in gross income from foreign
sources their pro rata shares of such taxes. (Shareholders of Funds that do not hold sufficient
foreign securities to meet the above threshold will not be entitled to claim a credit or deduction
with respect to foreign taxes paid by those Funds). A shareholders ability to claim a foreign tax
credit or deduction in respect of foreign taxes paid by a Fund may be subject to certain
limitations imposed by the Code, which may result in a shareholder not receiving a full credit or
deduction for the amount of such taxes. In particular, shareholders must hold their Fund shares
(without protection from risk of loss) on the ex-dividend date and for at least 15 additional days
during the 30-day period surrounding the ex-dividend date to be eligible to claim a foreign tax
credit with respect to a given dividend. Shareholders who do not itemize on their federal income
tax returns may claim a credit (but no deduction) for such foreign taxes.
Passive Foreign Investment Companies.
Equity investments by a Fund in certain passive
foreign investment companies (PFICs) could potentially subject the Fund to U.S. federal income
tax (including interest charges) on distributions received from the company or on proceeds received
from the disposition of shares in the company. This tax cannot be eliminated by making
distributions to Fund shareholders. However, a Fund may elect to avoid the imposition of that tax
by electing to treat a PFIC as a qualified electing fund (i.e., make a QEF election), in which
case the Fund will be required to include its share of the companys income and net capital gains
annually, regardless of whether it receives any distribution from the company. A Fund may also
make an election to mark the gains (and to a limited extent losses) in such holdings to the
market as though it had sold and repurchased its
-60-
holdings in those PFICs on the last day of the Funds taxable year. Such gains and losses are
treated as ordinary income and loss. The QEF and mark-to-market elections may accelerate the
recognition of income (without the receipt of cash) and increase the amount required to be
distributed by a Fund to avoid taxation. Making either of these elections may require a Fund to
liquidate other investments (including when it is not advantageous to do so) to meet its
distribution requirement, which also may accelerate the recognition of gain and affect the Funds
total return. Dividends paid by PFICs are not eligible to be treated as qualified dividend income.
Derivative transactions.
If a Fund engages in derivative transactions, including transactions
in options, forward or futures contracts, and straddles, or other similar transactions, including
for hedging purposes, it will be subject to special tax rules (including constructive sale,
mark-to-market, straddle, wash sale, and short sale rules), the effect of which may be to
accelerate income to the Fund, defer losses to the Fund, cause adjustments in the holding periods
of the Funds securities, convert long-term capital gain into short-term capital gain, or convert
short-term capital losses into long-term capital losses. These rules could therefore affect the
amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders. Each Fund will monitor its
transactions, determine whether to make certain applicable tax elections and make appropriate
entries in its books and records.
Certain of the Funds derivative activities (including its transactions, if any, in foreign
currencies or foreign currency-denominated instruments) are likely to produce a difference between
a Funds book income and taxable income. If a Funds book income exceeds the sum of its taxable
income and net tax-exempt income (if any), the distribution (if any) of such excess will be treated
as (i) a dividend to the extent of the Funds remaining earnings and profits (including earnings
and profits arising from tax-exempt income), (ii) thereafter as a return of capital to the extent
of the recipients basis in the shares, and (iii) thereafter as gain from the sale or exchange of a
capital asset. If a Funds book income is less than the sum of its taxable income and net
tax-exempt income (if any), the Fund could be required to make distributions exceeding book income
to qualify as a RIC that is accorded special tax treatment.
In general, 40% of the gain or loss arising from the closing out of a futures contract traded
on an exchange approved by the CFTC is treated as short-term gain or loss, and 60% is treated as
long-term gain or loss.
Securities issued or purchased at a discount.
A Funds investments, if any, in securities
issued at a discount (for example, zero-coupon bonds) and certain other obligations will (and
investments in securities purchased at a discount may) require the Fund to accrue and distribute
income not yet received. In order to generate sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions,
the Fund may be required to sell securities that it otherwise would have continued to hold.
Certain Investments in REITs.
The Funds are permitted to invest in REITs. Investments in
REIT equity securities may require the Fund to accrue and distribute income not yet received. To
generate sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions, the Fund may be required to sell
securities in its portfolio (including when it is not advantageous to do so) that it otherwise
would have continued to hold. A Funds investment in REIT equity securities may at other times
result in the Funds receipt of cash in excess of the REITs earnings. If a Fund distributes such
amounts, such distribution could constitute a return of capital to the Fund shareholders for
federal income tax purposes. Dividends received by a Fund from a REIT generally will not
constitute qualified dividend income.
Some of the REITs in which the Funds invest may be permitted to hold residual interests in
real estate mortgage investment conduits (REMICs), REITs that are themselves taxable mortgage
pools (TMPs) or REITs that invest in TMPs. Under a notice issued by the IRS in October 2006 and
Treasury regulations that have yet to be issued but may apply retroactively, a portion of a Funds
income (including income allocated to the Fund from a REIT or other pass-through entity) that is
attributable to the REITs residual interest in a REMIC or TMP (referred to in the Code as an
excess inclusion) will be subject to federal income tax in all events. This notice also
provides, and the regulations are expected to provide, that excess inclusion income of a RIC will
be allocated to shareholders of the RIC in proportion to the dividends received by such
shareholders, with the same consequences as if the shareholders held the related REMIC or TMP
residual interest directly. As a result, a Fund investing in such interests may not be a suitable
investment for charitable remainder trusts, as noted below.
-61-
In general, excess inclusion income allocated to shareholders (i) cannot be offset by net
operating losses (subject to a limited exception for certain thrift institutions), (ii) will
constitute unrelated business taxable income (UBTI) to entities (including a qualified pension
plan, an individual retirement account, a 401(k) plan, a Keogh plan or other tax-exempt entity)
subject to tax on UBTI, thereby potentially requiring such an entity that is allocated excess
inclusion income, and otherwise might not be required to file a tax return, to file a tax return
and pay tax on such income, and (iii) in the case of a non-U.S. shareholder, will not qualify for
any reduction in U.S. federal withholding tax.
Under current law, a Fund generally serves to block (that is, prevent the attribution to
shareholders of) UBTI from being realized by its tax-exempt shareholders. Notwithstanding this
blocking effect, a tax-exempt shareholder could realize UBTI by virtue of its investment in a
Fund if shares in the Fund constitute debt-financed property in the hands of the tax-exempt
shareholder within the meaning of Code Section 514(b).
A tax-exempt shareholder may also recognize UBTI if a Fund recognizes excess inclusion
income derived from direct or indirect investments in REMIC residual interests or TMPs if the
amount of such income recognized by the Fund exceeds the Funds investment company taxable income
(after taking into account deductions for dividends paid by the Fund). Furthermore, any investment
in residual interests of a Collateralized Mortgage Obligation (a CMO) that is treated as a REMIC
can create complex tax consequences, especially if the Fund has state or local governments or other
tax-exempt organizations as shareholders.
In addition, special tax consequences apply to charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) that
invest in RICs that invest directly or indirectly in residual interests in REMICs or equity
interests in TMPs. Under legislation enacted in December 2006, a CRT (as defined in Section 664 of
the Code) that realizes any UBTI for a taxable year must pay an excise tax annually of an amount
equal to such UBTI. Under IRS guidance issued in October 2006, a CRT will not recognize UBTI
solely as a result of investing in a fund that recognizes excess inclusion income. Rather, if at
any time during any taxable year a CRT (or one of certain other tax-exempt shareholders, such as
the United States, a state or political subdivision, or an agency or instrumentality thereof, and
certain energy cooperatives) is a record holder of a share in a fund that recognizes excess
inclusion income, then the fund will be subject to a tax on that portion of its excess inclusion
income for the taxable year that is allocable to such shareholders at the highest federal
corporate income tax rate. It is unclear how applicable this IRS guidance remains in light of the
December 2006 legislation. To the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, each Fund may elect to
specially allocate any such tax to the applicable CRT, or other shareholder, and thus reduce such
shareholders distributions for the year by the amount of the tax that relates to such
shareholders interest in the Fund. CRTs are urged to consult their tax advisors concerning the
consequences of investing in the Funds.
Backup withholding.
A Fund is generally required to withhold and remit to the U.S. Treasury a
percentage of the taxable distributions and redemption proceeds paid to any individual shareholder
who fails to properly furnish the Fund with a correct taxpayer identification number (TIN), who
has under-reported dividend or interest income, or who fails to certify to the Fund that he or she
is not subject to such withholding. The backup withholding tax rate is 28% for amounts paid
through 2010. This rate will expire and the backup withholding rate will be 31% for amounts paid
after December 31, 2010, unless Congress enacts tax legislation providing otherwise.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld may be credited against the
shareholders U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the appropriate information is furnished
to the IRS.
Tax shelter reporting regulations.
Under Treasury regulations, if a shareholder recognizes a
loss of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate
shareholder, the shareholder must file a disclosure statement on Form 8886 with the IRS. Direct
shareholders of portfolio securities are in many cases excepted from this reporting requirement,
but under current guidance, shareholders of a RIC are not excepted. Future guidance may extend the
current exception from this reporting requirement to shareholders of most or all RICs. The fact
that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of
whether the taxpayers treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult their tax
advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual
circumstances.
-62-
Non-U.S. Shareholders.
Distributions properly designated as Capital Gain Dividends and
exempt-interest dividends generally will not be subject to withholding of federal income tax. In
general, dividends (other than capital gain dividends) paid by a Fund to a shareholder that is not
a U.S. person within the meaning of the Code (a foreign person) are subject to withholding of
U.S. federal income tax at a rate of 30% (or lower applicable treaty rate) even if they are funded
by income or gains (such as portfolio interest, short-term capital gains, or foreign-source
dividend and interest income) that, if paid to a foreign person directly, would not be subject to
withholding. However, effective for taxable years of a Fund beginning before January 1, 2010, a
Fund will not be required to withhold any amounts (i) with respect to distributions (other than
distributions to a foreign person (w) that has not provided a satisfactory statement that the
beneficial owner is not a U.S. person, (x) to the extent that the dividend is attributable to
certain interest on an obligation if the foreign person is the issuer or is a 10% shareholder of
the issuer, (y) that is within certain foreign countries that have inadequate information exchange
with the United States, or (z) to the extent the dividend is attributable to interest paid by a
person that is a related person of the foreign person and the foreign person is a controlled
foreign corporation) from U.S.-source interest income of types similar to those not subject to U.S.
federal income tax if earned directly by an individual foreign person, to the extent such
distributions are properly designated by a Fund (an interest-related dividend), and (ii) with
respect to distributions (other than (a) distributions to an individual foreign person who is
present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the year
of the distribution and (b) distributions subject to special rules regarding the disposition of
U.S. real property interests) of net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term capital
losses, to the extent such distributions are properly designated by a Fund (a short-term capital
gain dividend). Depending on the circumstances, a Fund may make designations of interest-related
and/or short-term capital gain dividends with respect to all, some or none of its potentially
eligible dividends and/or treat such dividends, in whole or in part, as ineligible for these
exemptions from withholding. Absent legislation extending these exemptions for taxable years
beginning on or after January 1, 2010, these special withholding exemptions for interest-related
and short-term capital gain dividends will expire and these dividends generally will be subject to
withholding as described above. It is currently unclear whether Congress will extend the
exemptions for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2010.
In the case of shares held through an intermediary, the intermediary may withhold even if a
Fund makes a designation with respect to a payment. Foreign persons should contact their
intermediaries regarding the application of these rules to their accounts.
A beneficial holder of shares who is a foreign person is not, in general, subject to U.S.
federal income tax on gains (and is not allowed a deduction for losses) realized on the sale of
shares of a Fund or on capital gain dividends unless (i) such gain or capital gain dividend is
effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business carried on by such holder within the
United States, or (ii) in the case of an individual holder, the holder is present in the United
States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the year of the sale or the
receipt of the capital gain dividend and certain other conditions are met.
PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES
To the knowledge of each Trust, as of [ ], 2010, no person owned beneficially or of record
more than 5% of the outstanding voting securities of any Fund, except as indicated on Appendix A
hereto.
To the knowledge of each Trust, as of [ ], 2010, the Trustees of that Trust and the officers
of that Trust, as a group, owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of each Fund.
CUSTODIAN
JPMorgan Chase Bank, 270 Park Avenue, New York, New York, is the custodian of the assets of
the Funds. The custodians responsibilities include safeguarding and controlling each Funds cash
and securities, handling the receipt and delivery of securities, and collecting interest and
dividends on the Funds investments. The custodian does not determine the investment policies of
the Funds or decide which securities the Funds will buy or sell.
-63-
LINE OF CREDIT
The Funds, as well as certain other series of Schroder Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware) and Schroder Global Series Trust entered into a Credit Agreement dated October 6, 2008
with JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, for up to $25 million in a revolving line
of credit (the Line of Credit). Any advance under the Line of Credit is contemplated primarily
for temporary or emergency purposes consistent with the investment objectives and fundamental
investment restrictions of the borrower, or to finance the redemption of the shares of a
shareholder of the borrowing Fund. It is possible that a Fund may wish to borrow money under the
Line of Credit but may not be able to do so.
TRANSFER AGENT AND DIVIDEND DISBURSING AGENT
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc., 2000 Crown Colony Drive, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169, is
each Trusts registrar, transfer agent, and dividend disbursing agent.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
[ ], each Trusts independent registered public accounting firm, provides audit services and
tax return preparation services. Its address is [ ].
CODE OF ETHICS
Schroders, SFA, the Trusts distributor, and SIMNA Ltd. have each adopted a Code of Ethics,
and the Trusts have adopted a combined Code of Ethics as amended from time to time, pursuant to the
requirements of Rule 17j-1 of the Investment Company Act. Subject to certain restrictions, these
Codes of Ethics permit personnel subject to the Codes to invest in securities, including securities
that may be purchased or held by the Funds. The Codes of Ethics have been filed as exhibits to
each of the Trusts Registration Statements.
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Trusts have delegated authority and responsibility to vote any proxies relating to voting
securities held by the Funds to Schroders, which intends to vote such proxies in accordance with
its proxy voting policies and procedures. A copy of Schroders proxy voting policies and
procedures is attached as Appendix B to this SAI. Information regarding how the Funds voted
proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30
is available without charge, upon request, through the Schroders Funds website at
www.schroderfunds.com or by calling (800) 464-3108 and on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov.
LEGAL COUNSEL
Ropes & Gray LLP, One International Place, Boston, Massachusetts 02110-2624, serves as counsel
to the Trusts.
SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY
Under Delaware and Massachusetts law, shareholders could, under certain circumstances, be held
personally liable for the obligations of the relevant Trust. However, each Trusts Declaration of
Trust or Trust Instrument, as applicable, disclaims shareholder liability for acts or obligations
of the Trust and requires that notice of such disclaimer be given in each agreement, obligation, or
instrument entered into or executed by the Trust or the Trustees. Each Trusts Declaration of
Trust or Trust Instrument, as applicable, provides for indemnification out of the relevant Funds
property for all loss and expense of any shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of
such Fund. Thus, the risk of a shareholders incurring financial loss on account of shareholder
liability is limited to circumstances in which a Fund would be unable to meet its obligations.
-64-
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, Financial Highlights, and
Financial Statements in respect of the Funds are included in the Funds Annual Report to
Shareholders for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009 under Rule 30d-1 of the Investment Company
Act, filed electronically with the SEC on [ ] in the Funds Report on Form N-CSR for the period
ending October 31, 2009 (for Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), File No. 811-1911, Accession No. [
]; for Schroder Series Trust, File No. 811-07840; Accession No. [ ]; and for Schroder Global
Series Trust, File No. 811-21364, Accession No. [ ]). The Report, Financial Highlights and
Financial Statements referred to above relating to the Funds are incorporated by reference into
this SAI.
-65-
APPENDIX A
HOLDERS OF OUTSTANDING SHARES
To the knowledge of each Trust, as of [ ], 2010, no person owned beneficially or of record 5%
or more of the outstanding shares of any Fund, except as set forth below.
Investor Shares
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Number Of
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Outstanding
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Outstanding
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Record or Beneficial Owner
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Fund
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Shares Owned
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Shares Owned
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[ ]
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[ ]
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[ ]
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[ ]
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Advisor Shares
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Number Of
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Outstanding
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Outstanding
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Record or Beneficial Owner
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Fund
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Shares Owned
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Shares Owned
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[ ]
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[ ]
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[ ]
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A-1
APPENDIX B
SCHRODER INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT NORTH AMERICA INC.
POLICY RELATING TO IDENTIFYING AND ACTING UPON CONFLICTS
OF INTEREST IN CONNECTION WITH ITS PROXY VOTING OBLIGATIONS
This document sets forth Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.s (Schroders) policy
with respect to proxy voting and its procedures to comply with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment
Advisers Act of 1940 and Rule 30b1-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Specifically, Rule
206(4)-6 requires that Schroders:
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Adopt and implement written policies and procedures reasonably designed to ensure that
proxies are voted in the best interest of clients and
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Disclose its proxy voting policies and procedures to clients and inform them how they
may obtain information about how Schroders voted proxies.
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Rule 30b1-4 requires that the Schroder US Mutual Funds (the Funds):
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Disclose their proxy voting policies and procedures in their registration statements and
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Annually, file with the SEC and make available to shareholders their actual proxy
voting.
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(a) Proxy Voting General Principles
Schroders will evaluate and usually vote for or against all proxy requests relating to securities
held in any account managed by Schroders (unless this responsibility has been retained by the
client).
Proxies will be treated and evaluated with the same attention and investment skill as the trading
of securities in the accounts.
Proxies will be voted in a manner that is deemed most likely to protect and enhance the longer term
value of the security as an asset to the account.
Proxy Committee
The Proxy Committee consists of investment professionals and other officers and is responsible for
ensuring compliance with this proxy voting policy. The Committee meets quarterly to review proxies
voted, policy guidelines and to examine any issues raised, including a review of any votes cast in
connection with controversial issues.
The procedure for evaluating proxy requests is as follows:
Schroders Global Corporate Governance Team (the Team) is responsible for the initial evaluation
of the proxy request, for seeking advice where necessary, especially from the US small cap and mid
cap product heads, and for consulting with portfolio managers who have invested in the company
should a controversial issue arise.
When making proxy-voting decisions, Schroders generally adheres to the Global Corporate Governance
Policy (the Policy), as revised from time to time. The Policy, which has been developed by
Schroders Global Corporate Governance Team and approved by the Schroders Proxy Committee, sets
forth Schroders positions on recurring issues and criteria for addressing non-recurring issues.
The Policy is a part of these procedures and is incorporated herein by reference. The Proxy
Committee exercises oversight to assure that proxies are voted in accordance with the Policy and
that any votes inconsistent with the Policy or against management are appropriately documented.
Schroders uses Institutional Shareholder Services, Inc. (ISS) to assist in voting proxies. ISS
provides proxy research, voting and vote-reporting services. ISSs primary function with respect to
Schroders is to apprise the Group
B-1
of shareholder meeting dates of all securities holdings, translate proxy materials received from
companies, provide associated research and provide considerations and recommendations for voting on
particular proxy proposals. Although Schroders may consider ISSs and others recommendations on
proxy issues, Schroders bears ultimate responsibility for proxy voting decisions.
Schroders may also consider the recommendations and research of other providers, including the
National Association of Pension Funds Voting Issues Service.
Conflicts
From time to time, proxy voting proposals may raise conflicts between the interests of Schroders
clients and the interests of Schroders and/or its employees. Schroders is adopting this policy and
procedures to ensure that decisions to vote the proxies are based on the clients best interests.
For example, conflicts of interest may arise when:
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Proxy votes regarding non-routine matters are solicited by an issuer that, directly or
indirectly, has a client relationship with Schroders;
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A proponent of a proxy proposal has a client relationship with Schroders;
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A proponent of a proxy proposal has a business relationship with Schroders;
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Schroders has business relationships with participants in proxy contests, corporate
directors or director candidates;
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The Team is responsible for identifying proxy voting proposals that may present a material
conflict of interest. If Schroders receives a proxy relating to an issuer that raises a conflict of
interest, the Team shall determine whether the conflict is material to any specific proposal
included within the proxy. The Team will determine whether a proposal is material as follows:
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Routine Proxy Proposals: Proxy proposals that are routine shall be presumed not to
involve a material conflict of interest unless the Team has
actual
knowledge that a routine
proposal should be treated as material. For this purpose, routine proposals would
typically include matters such as uncontested election of directors, meeting formalities,
and approval of an annual report/financial statements.
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Non-Routine Proxy Proposals: Proxy proposals that are non-routine will be presumed to
involve a material conflict of interest, unless the Team determines that neither Schroders
nor its personnel have a conflict of interest or the conflict is unrelated to the proposal
in question. For this purpose, non-routine proposals would typically include any
contested matter, including a contested election of directors, a merger or sale of
substantial assets, a change in the articles of incorporation that materially affects the
rights of shareholders, and compensation matters for management (
e.g.
, stock, option plans,
retirement plans, profit-sharing or other special remuneration plans). If the Team
determines that there is, or may be perceived to be, a conflict of interest when voting a
proxy, Schroders will address matters involving such conflicts of interest as follows:
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A. If a proposal is addressed by the Policy, Schroders will vote in accordance with such
Policy;
B. If Schroders believes it is in the best interests of clients to depart from the Policy,
Schroders will be subject to the requirements of C or D below, as applicable;
C. If the proxy proposal is (1) not addressed by the Policy or (2) requires a case-by-case
determination, Schroders may vote such proxy as it determines to be in the best interest of
clients, without taking any action described in D below, provided that such vote would be against
Schroders own interest in the matter (
i.e.,
against the perceived or actual conflict). The
rationale of such vote will be memorialized in writing; and
B-2
D. If the proxy proposal is (1) not addressed by the Policy or (2) requires a case-by-case
determination, and Schroders believes it should vote in a way that may also benefit, or be
perceived to benefit, its own interest, then Schroders must take one of the following actions in
voting such proxy: (a) vote in accordance with ISS recommendation; (b) inform the client(s) of
the conflict of interest and obtain consent to vote the proxy as recommended by Schroders; or (c)
obtain approval of the decision from the Chief Compliance Officer and the Chief Investment Officer.
The rationale of such vote will be memorialized in writing.
Record of Proxy Voting
The Team will maintain, or have available, written or electronic copies of each proxy
statement received and of each executed proxy.
The Team will also maintain records relating to each proxy, including (i) the voting decision with
regard to each proxy; and (ii) any documents created by the Team and/or the Proxy Committee, or
others, that were material to making the voting decision; (iii) any decisions of the Chief
Compliance Officer and the Chief Investment Officer.
Schroders will maintain a record of each written request from a client for proxy voting information
and its written response to any request (oral or written) from any client for proxy voting
information.
Such records will be maintained for six years and may be retained electronically.
Additional Reports and Disclosures for the Schroder Funds
The Funds must disclose their policies and procedures for voting proxies in their Statement of
Additional Information. In addition to the records required to be maintained by Schroders, the
following information will be made available to the Funds or their agent to enable the Funds to
file Form N-PX under Rule 30b1-4:
For each matter on which a fund is entitled to vote:
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Name of the issuer of the security;
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Exchange ticker symbol;
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CUSIP number, if available;
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Shareholder meeting date;
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Brief summary of the matter voted upon;
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Source of the proposal,
i.e.
, issuer or shareholder;
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Whether the fund voted on the matter;
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How the fund voted; and
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Whether the fund voted with or against management.
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Further, the Funds are required to make available to shareholders the Funds actual proxy voting
record. If requested, the most recently filed Form N-PX must be sent within three (3) days of
receipt of the request.
July 30, 2003
B-3
APPENDIX C
FIXED INCOME AND COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
Moodys Investors Service Inc. (Moodys)
Fixed Income Security Ratings
Aaa Fixed income securities that are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They carry
the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as gilt edge. Interest
payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and principal is secure.
While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are
most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa Fixed income securities that are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are generally known as high grade fixed income
securities. They are rated lower than the best fixed income securities because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be
of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present that make the long-term risks appear
somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
A Fixed income securities that are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are
to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and
interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present that suggest a susceptibility to
impairment sometime in the future.
Baa Fixed income securities that are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations;
i.e.
, they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and principal
security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be
characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such fixed income securities lack
outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well.
Fixed income securities rated Aaa, Aa, A and Baa are considered investment grade.
Ba Fixed income securities that are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest and principal
payments may be very moderate, and therefore not well safeguarded during both good and bad times in
the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.
B Fixed income securities that are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the
contract over any long period of time may be small.
Caa Fixed income securities that are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or interest.
Ca Fixed income securities that are rated Ca present obligations that are speculative in a high
degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
C Fixed income securities that are rated C are the lowest rated class of fixed income
securities, and issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever
attaining any real investment standing.
Rating Refinements: Moodys may apply numerical modifiers, 1, 2, and 3 in each generic rating
classification from Aa through B. The modifier 1 indicates that the security ranks in the
higher end of its generic rating
C-1
category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid range ranking; and a modifier 3 indicates that the
issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating category.
Commercial Paper Ratings
Moodys Commercial Paper ratings are opinions of the ability to repay punctually promissory
obligations not having an original maturity in excess of nine months. The ratings apply to
Municipal Commercial Paper as well as taxable Commercial Paper. Moodys employs the following three
designations, all judged to be investment grade, to indicate the relative repayment capacity of
rated issuers: Prime 1, Prime 2, Prime 3.
Issuers rated Prime 1 have a superior capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligations. Issuers rated Prime 2 have a strong capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligations; and Issuers rated Prime 3 have an acceptable capacity for repayment of short-term
promissory obligations. Issuers rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating
categories.
Standard & Poors Rating Services (Standard & Poors)
Fixed Income Security Ratings
A Standard & Poors fixed income security rating is a current assessment of the creditworthiness of
an obligor with respect to a specific obligation. This assessment may take into consideration
obligors such as guarantors, insurers, or lessees.
The ratings are based on current information furnished by the issuer or obtained by Standard &
Poors from other sources it considers reliable. The ratings are based, in varying degrees, on the
following considerations: (1) likelihood of default capacity and willingness of the obligor as to
the timely payment of interest and repayment of principal in accordance with the terms of the
obligation; (2) nature of and provisions of the obligation; and (3) protection afforded by, and
relative position of, the obligation in the event of bankruptcy, reorganization or other
arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors rights.
Standard & Poors does not perform an audit in connection with any rating and may, on occasion,
rely on unaudited financial information. The ratings may be changed, suspended or withdrawn as a
result of changes in, or unavailability of, such information, or for other reasons.
AAA Fixed income securities rated AAA have the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poors.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
AA Fixed income securities rated AA have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the highest rated issues only in small degree.
A Fixed income securities rated A have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal
although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and
economic conditions than fixed income securities in higher rated categories.
BBB Fixed income securities rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse
economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay
interest and repay principal for fixed income securities in this category than for fixed income
securities in higher rated categories.
Fixed income securities rated AAA, AA, A and BBB are considered investment grade.
C-2
BB Fixed income securities rated BB have less near term vulnerability to default than other
speculative grade fixed income securities. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or
exposure to adverse business, financial or economic conditions that could lead to inadequate
capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal.
B Fixed income securities rated B have a greater vulnerability to default but presently have
the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial or
economic conditions would likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay
principal.
CCC Fixed income securities rated CCC have a current identifiable vulnerability to default, and
the obligor is dependent upon favorable business, financial and economic conditions to meet timely
payments of interest and repayments of principal. In the event of adverse business, financial or
economic conditions, it is not likely to have the capacity to pay interest and repay principal.
CC The rating CC is typically applied to fixed income securities subordinated to senior debt
that is assigned an actual or implied CCC rating.
C The rating C is typically applied to fixed income securities subordinated to senior debt that
is assigned an actual or implied CC rating.
CI The rating CI is reserved for fixed income securities on which no interest is being paid.
NR Indicates that no rating has been requested, that there is insufficient information on which
to base a rating or that Standard & Poors does not rate a particular type of obligation as a
matter of policy.
Fixed income securities rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C are regarded as having predominantly
speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal. BB
indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While such
fixed income securities will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are out
weighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions.
Plus (+) or minus (-): The rating from AA TO CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus or
minus sign to show relative standing with the major ratings categories.
Commercial Paper Ratings
Standard & Poors commercial paper rating is a current assessment of the likelihood of timely
payment of debt having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. The commercial paper rating
is not a recommendation to purchase or sell a security. The ratings are based upon current
information furnished by the issuer or obtained by Standard & Poors from other sources it
considers reliable. The ratings may be changed, suspended, or withdrawn as a result of changes in
or unavailability of such information. Ratings are graded into group categories, ranging from A
for the highest quality obligations to D for the lowest. Ratings are applicable to both taxable
and tax exempt commercial paper.
Issues assigned A ratings are regarded as having the greatest capacity for timely payment. Issues
in this category are further refined with the designation 1, 2, and 3 to indicate the
relative degree of safety.
A 1 Indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is very strong.
A 2 Indicates capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is strong. However, the
relative degree of safety is not as overwhelming as for issues designated A 1.
C-3
A 3 Indicates a satisfactory capacity for timely payment. Obligations carrying this designation
are, however, somewhat more vulnerable to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances than
obligations carrying the higher designations.
Fitch Investors Service, Inc. (Fitch)
Fixed Income Security Ratings
Investment Grade
AAA: Bonds considered to be investment grade and of the highest credit quality. The obligor has an
exceptionally strong ability to pay interest and repay principal, which is unlikely to be affected
by reasonably foreseeable events.
AA: Bonds considered to be investment grade and of very high credit quality. The obligors ability
to pay interest and repay principal is very strong, although not quite as strong as bonds rated
AAA. Because bonds rated in the AAA and AA categories are not significantly vulnerable to
foreseeable future developments, short-term debt of these issuers is generally rated F-1+.
A: Bonds considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. The obligors ability to pay
interest and repay principal is considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse
changes in economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
BBB: Bonds considered to be investment grade and of satisfactory credit quality. The obligors
ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in
economic conditions and circumstances, however, are more likely to have adverse impact on these
bonds, and therefore, impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings of these bonds will
fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with higher ratings.
High Yield Grade
BB: Bonds are considered speculative. The obligors ability to pay interest and repay principal may
be affected over time by adverse economic changes. However, business and financial alternatives
that could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt service requirements can be identified.
B: Bonds are considered highly speculative. While bonds in this class are currently meeting debt
service requirements, the probability of continued timely payment of principal and interest
reflects the obligors limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic
activity throughout the life of the issue.
CCC: Bonds have certain identifiable characteristics which, if not remedied, may lead to default.
The ability to meet obligations requires an advantageous business and economic environment.
CC: Bonds are minimally protected. Default in payment of interest and/or principal seems probable
over time.
C: Bonds are in imminent default in payment of interest or principal.
DDD, DD, and D: Bonds are in default of interest and/or principal payments. Such bonds are
extremely speculative and should be valued on the basis of their ultimate recovery value in
liquidation or reorganization of the obligor. DDD represents the highest potential for recovery
on these bonds, and D represents the lowest potential for recovery.
C-4
Plus (+) or Minus (-): The ratings from AA to C may be modified by the addition of a plus or minus
sign to indicate the relative position of a credit within the rating category.
NR: Indicates that Fitch does not rate the specific issue.
Conditional: A conditional rating is premised on the successful completion of a project or the
occurrence of a specific event.
Short-Term Ratings
Fitch short-term ratings apply to debt obligations that are payable on demand or have original
maturities of generally up to three years, including commercial paper, certificates of deposit,
medium-term notes, and municipal and investment notes.
F-1+: Exceptionally Strong Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating are regarded as having the
strongest degree of assurance for timely payment.
F-1: Very Strong Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating reflect an assurance of timely payment
only slightly less in degree than issues rated F-1+.
F-2: Good Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating have a satisfactory degree of assurance for
timely payment, but the margin of safety is not as great as the F-1+ and F-1 categories.
F-3: Fair Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating have characteristics suggesting that the
degree of assurance for timely payment is adequate, however, near-term adverse changes could cause
these securities to be rated below investment grade.
Duff & Phelps
Fixed Income Securities
Investment Grade
AAA: Highest credit quality. The risk factors are negligible, being only slightly more than for
risk-free US Treasury debt.
AA+, AA, and AA-: High credit quality. Protection factors are strong. Risk is modest but may vary
slightly from time to time because of economic conditions.
A+, A, and A-: Protection factors are average but adequate. However, risk factors are more variable
and greater in periods of economic stress.
BBB+, BBB, and BBB-: Below average protection factors but still considered sufficient for prudent
investment. Considerable variability in risk during economic cycles.
High Yield Grade
BB+, BB, and BB-: Below investment grade but deemed likely to meet obligations when due. Present or
prospective financial protection factors fluctuate according to industry conditions or company
fortunes. Overall quality may move up or down frequently within this category.
C-5
B+, B, and B-: Below investment grade and possessing risk that obligations will not be met when
due. Financial protection factors will fluctuate widely according to economic cycles, industry
conditions and/or company fortunes. Potential exists for frequent changes in the rating within this
category or into a higher or lower rating grade.
CCC: Well below investment grade securities. Considerable uncertainty exists as to timely payment
of principal interest or preferred dividends. Protection factors are narrow and risk can be
substantial with unfavorable economic/industry conditions, and/or with unfavorable company
developments.
Preferred stocks are rated on the same scale as bonds but the preferred rating gives weight to its
more junior position in the capital structure. Structured financings are also rated on this scale.
Certificates Of Deposit Ratings
Category 1: Top Grade
Duff 1 plus: Highest certainty of timely payment. Short-term liquidity including internal operating
factors and/or ready access to alternative sources of funds, is outstanding, and safety is just
below risk-free US Treasury short-term obligations.
Duff 1: Very high certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors are excellent and supported by
good Fundamental protection factors. Risk factors are minor.
Duff 1 minus: High certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors are strong and supported by good
Fundamental protection factors. Risk factors are very small.
Category 2: Good Grade
Duff 2: Good certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors and company Fundamentals are sound.
Although ongoing Funding needs may enlarge total financing requirements, access to capital markets
is good. Risk factors are small.
Category 3: Satisfactory Grade
Duff 3: Satisfactory liquidity and other protection factors qualify issue as to investment grade.
Risk factors are larger and subject to more variation. Nevertheless timely payment is expected.
No ratings are issued for companies whose paper is not deemed to be of investment grade.
C-6
PROSPECTUS
March 1, 2010
SCHRODER MULTI-ASSET GROWTH PORTFOLIO
A Shares (SALAX)
Advisor Shares (SALVX)
Investor Shares (SALIX)
R Shares (SALRX)
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
seeks long-term capital appreciation through a flexible asset
allocation approach across a variety of different asset classes including traditional asset
classes and alternative asset classes in response to changing market, economic, and investment
conditions.
This Prospectus explains what you should know about the Fund before you invest. Please read it
carefully.
Neither the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission
has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this Prospectus is accurate or
complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Page
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SUMMARY INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUND
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2
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
A Shares (SALAX)
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold A Shares of the Fund. You may qualify for an initial sales
load discount if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, more than $50,000 in
Class A Shares of the Fund. More information about this discount is available in the Types of
Shares Available A Shares section of the Funds statutory prospectus.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
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Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
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4.50
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%
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Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
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None
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Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
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None
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Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
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2.00
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%
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Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
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Management Fees
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0.75
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%
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Distribution (12b-1) Fees
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0.25
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%
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Other Expenses
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[x.xx]%
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Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
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[
]
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%
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Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
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[x.xx]%
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Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
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([x.xx])%
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Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
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[
]
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%
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(1)
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Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
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(2)
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The Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February 28, 2011 (i) to reduce its
management fee compensation by [ ]% and (ii) if necessary, in order to limit the expenses,
to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (other
than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest, taxes,
and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds A Shares exceed [1.50]% of A Shares average daily
net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be terminated during their term
by the Board of Trustees.
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(3)
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Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be [1.50]% for A Shares.
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Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in A
Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each year, and
the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower,
the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is based, for
the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on Total
Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
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1 year
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3 years
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5 years
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10 years
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A Shares (whether or not shares are redeemed)
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$
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[ ]
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$
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[ ]
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$
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[ ]
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$
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[ ]
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3
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the Example,
affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover
rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation
through a flexible asset allocation approach, investing in a variety of traditional asset classes (such as equity and fixed-income investments) and alternative asset classes
(such as real estate, commodities, currencies, private equity, and absolute return strategies).
The Fund seeks a level of investment return, after investment advisory fees, in excess of the
rate of inflation. The Funds adviser and sub-adviser vary the Funds exposure to different asset
classes and strategies over time in response to changing market, economic, and political factors
and events the adviser or sub-adviser believes may affect the value of the Funds investments.
The adviser and sub-adviser emphasize the management of risk and volatility. The Funds portfolio
is not managed with reference to a specified benchmark; using proprietary asset allocation models,
the adviser and sub-adviser adjust the amount of the Funds investments in the various asset
classes. Asset classes are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the adviser or sub-adviser to determine
whether they provide the opportunity to enhance performance or to reduce risk. The adviser or
sub-adviser may itself manage the Funds assets allocated to a particular asset class, either
directly or through a mutual fund or other pooled vehicle managed by it, or it may invest the
Funds assets in other investment companies or private investment pools providing access to
specialist management outside of the Schroders organization. Investment pools might include,
for example, other open-end or closed-end funds, exchange-traded funds, unit investment trusts, domestic or foreign private investment pools
(including hedge funds), or indexes of investment pools.
The amount and type of the Funds investment in a particular asset class, and the amount invested in certain investment companies or investment pools, is limited by law and by tax considerations.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Investing in underlying funds may involve conflicts of interest including
potential financial incentives to invest in affiliated funds and potential incentives to consider
the interests of affiliated funds, which may not be consistent with those of the Fund. The value of
your investment in the Fund is related to the investment performance of the underlying funds in
which it invests and the principal risks of investing in the Fund are closely related to the
principal risks associated with these funds. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund
include:
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Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
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Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
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IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
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Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
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Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
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Interest Rate Risk:
fixed income, or debt, securities may decline in value due to changes
in interest rates, extended duration of principal payments at below-market interest rate, or
prepayment;
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4
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Credit Risk:
the ability, or perceived ability, of the issuer of a debt security to make
timely payments of interest and principal will affect the securitys value, especially for
speculative securities rated below investment grade (high-yield bonds or junk bonds);
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Inflation/Deflation Risk:
the value of the Funds investments may decline as inflation
reduces the value of money; conversely, if deflation reduces prices throughout the economy
there may be an adverse effect on the creditworthiness of issuers in whose securities the Fund
invests;
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Valuation Risk:
certain securities may be difficult to value, and to the extent the Fund
sells a security at a price lower than that used to value the security, its net asset value
will be adversely affected;
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U.S. Government Securities Risk:
securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government may
not be supported by the full faith and credit of the United States and investing in such
securities involves interest rate, extension and mortgage and asset-backed securities risks;
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Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk:
investing in mortgage- and asset-backed
securities involves interest rate, credit, valuation, extension and liquidity risks and the
risk that payments on the underlying assets are delayed, prepaid, subordinated or defaulted
on;
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Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers, directly or through
use of depositary receipts, may be affected by currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign
withholding taxes, or adverse market or other developments affecting issuers located in
foreign countries;
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Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
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Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
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Leverage Risk:
use of leverage will increase volatility of the Funds investment portfolio
and could magnify gains or losses;
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Over-the-Counter Risk:
securities traded in over-the-counter markets may trade less
frequently and in limited volumes and thus exhibit more volatility, and the prices paid by the
Fund for such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup;
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Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
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REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
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Infrastructure Investment Risk:
issuers in infrastructure-related businesses may be subject
to high interest and/or regulatory costs, and the effects of other macro- and micro-economic
factors;
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Commodity Risk:
investing in commodity-linked derivative instruments involves volatility
risk and their value may be affected by changes in overall market movements, commodity index
volatility, changes in interest rates, or factors affecting a particular industry or
commodity, such as weather, economic, political and regulatory developments, and tax
considerations;
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Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
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Private Placements and Restricted Securities Risk:
investments in privately-placed or
otherwise restricted securities are subject to valuation and liquidity risks;
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Repurchase Agreements Risk:
investment returns on repurchase agreements will depend on the
counterparties willingness and ability to perform their obligations.
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5
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Fund in the Funds statutory prospectus for a more
detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and
is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government
agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index and the Consumer Price
Index, which is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for
a market basket of consumer goods and services.
Past performance (before and after taxes) is not
necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx]
for more current performance information.
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Calendar Year Total Returns
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Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
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(for periods shown in the bar chart)
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[**To be updated with chart reflecting
annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
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Highest
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[3/01/07 6/30/08 ]
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[-0.10]%
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Lowest
[9/01/08-12/31/08 ]
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[-17.05]%
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Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
6
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
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|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(December 20,
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
2007)
|
|
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index (reflects no deduction
for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Consumer Price Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Johanna Kyrklund, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Michael Spinks, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for
A Shares is $2,500. A Shares are intended for purchase through broker-dealers and certain other
third-party financial intermediaries or service organizations (each, an Organization) that have
an arrangement with the Funds distributor to sell shares. To avoid delays in a purchase or
redemption, please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at
800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any questions about the
requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your A Shares on any day the New
York Stock Exchange is open through your Organization, or by sending a letter of instruction or
stock power form to Schroder Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. If
your shares are held in the name of an Organization, they may only be sold through that
Organization. Generally, purchase and redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net
asset value (NAV) next calculated after an order is received by the Fund, BFDS, your
Organization or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
7
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
Advisor Shares (SALVX)
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Advisor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
0.75
|
%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
|
[
]
|
%
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
The Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February 28, 2011 (i) to reduce its
management fee compensation by [ ]% and (ii) if necessary, in order to limit the expenses,
to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (other
than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest, taxes,
and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Advisor Shares exceed [1.50]% of Advisor Shares
average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be terminated
during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be [1.50]% for Advisor Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Advisor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Advisor Shares (whether or not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes
8
for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating
expenses or in the Example, affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the
Funds portfolio turnover rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation
through a flexible asset allocation approach, investing in a variety of traditional asset classes (such as equity and fixed-income investments) and alternative asset classes
(such as real estate, commodities, currencies, private equity, and absolute return strategies).
The Fund seeks a level of investment return, after investment advisory fees, in excess of the
rate of inflation. The Funds adviser and sub-adviser vary the Funds exposure to different asset
classes and strategies over time in response to changing market, economic, and political factors
and events the adviser or sub-adviser believes may affect the value of the Funds investments.
The adviser and sub-adviser emphasize the management of risk and volatility. The Funds portfolio
is not managed with reference to a specified benchmark; using proprietary asset allocation models,
the adviser and sub-adviser adjust the amount of the Funds investments in the various asset
classes. Asset classes are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the adviser or sub-adviser to determine
whether they provide the opportunity to enhance performance or to reduce risk. The adviser or
sub-adviser may itself manage the Funds assets allocated to a particular asset class, either
directly or through a mutual fund or other pooled vehicle managed by it, or it may invest the
Funds assets in other investment companies or private investment pools providing access to
specialist management outside of the Schroders organization. Investment pools might include,
for example, other open-end or closed-end funds, exchange-traded funds, unit investment trusts, domestic or foreign private investment pools
(including hedge funds), or indexes of investment pools.
The amount and type of the Funds investment in a particular asset class, and the amount invested in certain investment companies or investment pools, is limited by law and by tax considerations.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Investing in underlying funds may involve conflicts of interest including
potential financial incentives to invest in affiliated funds and potential incentives to consider
the interests of affiliated funds, which may not be consistent with those of the Fund. The value of
your investment in the Fund is related to the investment performance of the underlying funds in
which it invests and the principal risks of investing in the Fund are closely related to the
principal risks associated with these funds. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund
include:
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
Interest Rate Risk:
fixed income, or debt, securities may decline in value due to changes
in interest rates, extended duration of principal payments at below-market interest rate, or
prepayment;
|
9
|
|
Credit Risk:
the ability, or perceived ability, of the issuer of a debt security to make
timely payments of interest and principal will affect the securitys value, especially for
speculative securities rated below investment grade (high-yield bonds or junk bonds);
|
|
|
Inflation/Deflation Risk:
the value of the Funds investments may decline as inflation
reduces the value of money; conversely, if deflation reduces prices throughout the economy
there may be an adverse effect on the creditworthiness of issuers in whose securities the Fund
invests;
|
|
|
Valuation Risk:
certain securities may be difficult to value, and to the extent the Fund
sells a security at a price lower than that used to value the security, its net asset value
will be adversely affected;
|
|
|
U.S. Government Securities Risk:
securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government may
not be supported by the full faith and credit of the United States and investing in such
securities involves interest rate, extension and mortgage and asset-backed securities risks;
|
|
|
Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk:
investing in mortgage- and asset-backed
securities involves interest rate, credit, valuation, extension and liquidity risks and the
risk that payments on the underlying assets are delayed, prepaid, subordinated or defaulted
on;
|
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers, directly or through
use of depositary receipts, may be affected by currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign
withholding taxes, or adverse market or other developments affecting issuers located in
foreign countries;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
|
|
|
Leverage Risk:
use of leverage will increase volatility of the Funds investment portfolio
and could magnify gains or losses;
|
|
|
Over-the-Counter Risk:
securities traded in over-the-counter markets may trade less
frequently and in limited volumes and thus exhibit more volatility, and the prices paid by the
Fund for such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup;
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
|
|
|
Infrastructure Investment Risk:
issuers in infrastructure-related businesses may be subject
to high interest and/or regulatory costs, and the effects of other macro- and micro-economic
factors;
|
|
|
Commodity Risk:
investing in commodity-linked derivative instruments involves volatility
risk and their value may be affected by changes in overall market movements, commodity index
volatility, changes in interest rates, or factors affecting a particular industry or
commodity, such as weather, economic, political and regulatory developments, and tax
considerations;
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
|
|
|
Private Placements and Restricted Securities Risk:
investments in privately-placed or
otherwise restricted securities are subject to valuation and liquidity risks;
|
|
|
Repurchase Agreements Risk:
investment returns on repurchase agreements will depend on the
counterparties willingness and ability to perform their obligations.
|
10
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Fund in the Funds statutory prospectus for a more
detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and
is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government
agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index and the Consumer Price
Index, which is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for
a market basket of consumer goods and services.
Past performance (before and after taxes) is not
necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx]
for more current performance information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year Total Returns
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
|
|
|
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
[**To be updated with chart reflecting
annual performance through 12/31/2009**]
|
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
|
[3/01/07 6/30/08 ]
|
|
[-0.10]%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
[9/01/08-12/31/08 ]
|
|
[-16.95]%
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
11
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(December 20,
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
2007)
|
|
|
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index (reflects no deduction
for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Consumer Price Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Johanna Kyrklund, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Michael Spinks, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for
Advisor Shares is $2,500 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Advisor Shares are
intended for purchase through a regular account or a traditional or Roth IRA account that you hold
through an investment intermediary or service organization (Organization) that has an agreement
with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Minimums may be modified, and service
fees may be charged, by your Organization, which you should consult for more information. You may
also purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment by check or wire as
described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption, please call the Funds
transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at 800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from
outside the United States) with any questions about the requirements before submitting a request.
You may sell (redeem) your Advisor Shares on any day the New York Stock Exchange is open through
your Organization, or by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual
Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. If your shares are held in the name of
an Organization, they may only be sold through that Organization. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS, your Organization or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
12
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
13
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
Investor Shares (SALIX)
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold Investor Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
2.00%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
0.75%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
None
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
[ ]
%
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
[ ]
%
|
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
The Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February 28, 2011 (i) to reduce its
management fee compensation by [ ]% and (ii) if necessary, in order to limit the expenses,
to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (other
than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest, taxes,
and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds Investor Shares
exceed [1.25]% of Investor Shares
average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be terminated
during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be [1.25]% for
Investors Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
Investor Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
Investor Shares (whether or not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes
for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in
annual fund operating
14
expenses or in the Example, affect the Funds performance. During the most
recent fiscal year, the Funds portfolio turnover rate was [
]% of the average value of its
portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation
through a flexible asset allocation approach, investing in a variety of traditional asset classes (such as equity and fixed-income investments) and alternative asset classes
(such as real estate, commodities, currencies, private equity, and absolute return strategies).
The Fund seeks a level of investment return, after investment advisory fees, in excess of the
rate of inflation. The Funds adviser and sub-adviser vary the Funds exposure to different asset
classes and strategies over time in response to changing market, economic, and political factors
and events the adviser or sub-adviser believes may affect the value of the Funds investments.
The adviser and sub-adviser emphasize the management of risk and volatility. The Funds portfolio
is not managed with reference to a specified benchmark; using proprietary asset allocation models,
the adviser and sub-adviser adjust the amount of the Funds investments in the various asset
classes. Asset classes are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the adviser or sub-adviser to determine
whether they provide the opportunity to enhance performance or to reduce risk. The adviser or
sub-adviser may itself manage the Funds assets allocated to a particular asset class, either
directly or through a mutual fund or other pooled vehicle managed by it, or it may invest the
Funds assets in other investment companies or private investment pools providing access to
specialist management outside of the Schroders organization. Investment pools might include,
for example, other open-end or closed-end funds, exchange-traded funds, unit investment trusts, domestic or foreign private investment pools
(including hedge funds), or indexes of investment pools.
The amount and type of the Funds investment in a particular asset class, and the amount invested in certain investment companies or investment pools, is limited by law and by tax considerations.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Investing in underlying funds may involve conflicts of interest including
potential financial incentives to invest in affiliated funds and potential incentives to consider
the interests of affiliated funds, which may not be consistent with those of the Fund. The value of
your investment in the Fund is related to the investment performance of the underlying funds in
which it invests and the principal risks of investing in the Fund are closely related to the
principal risks associated with these funds. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund
include:
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
Interest Rate Risk:
fixed income, or debt, securities may decline in value due to changes
in interest rates, extended duration of principal payments at below-market interest rate, or
prepayment;
|
15
|
|
Credit Risk:
the ability, or perceived ability, of the issuer of a debt security to make
timely payments of interest and principal will affect the securitys value, especially for
speculative securities rated below investment grade (high-yield bonds or junk bonds);
|
|
|
Inflation/Deflation Risk:
the value of the Funds investments may decline as inflation
reduces the value of money; conversely, if deflation reduces prices throughout the economy
there may be an adverse effect on the creditworthiness of issuers in whose securities the Fund
invests;
|
|
|
Valuation Risk:
certain securities may be difficult to value, and to the extent the Fund
sells a security at a price lower than that used to value the security, its net asset value
will be adversely affected;
|
|
|
U.S. Government Securities Risk:
securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government may
not be supported by the full faith and credit of the United States and investing in such
securities involves interest rate, extension and mortgage and asset-backed securities risks;
|
|
|
Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk:
investing in mortgage- and asset-backed
securities involves interest rate, credit, valuation, extension and liquidity risks and the
risk that payments on the underlying assets are delayed, prepaid, subordinated or defaulted
on;
|
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers, directly or through
use of depositary receipts, may be affected by currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign
withholding taxes, or adverse market or other developments affecting issuers located in
foreign countries;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
|
|
|
Leverage Risk:
use of leverage will increase volatility of the Funds investment portfolio
and could magnify gains or losses;
|
|
|
Over-the-Counter Risk:
securities traded in over-the-counter markets may trade less
frequently and in limited volumes and thus exhibit more volatility, and the prices paid by the
Fund for such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup;
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
|
|
|
Infrastructure Investment Risk:
issuers in infrastructure-related businesses may be subject
to high interest and/or regulatory costs, and the effects of other macro- and micro-economic
factors;
|
|
|
Commodity Risk:
investing in commodity-linked derivative instruments involves volatility
risk and their value may be affected by changes in overall market movements, commodity index
volatility, changes in interest rates, or factors affecting a particular industry or
commodity, such as weather, economic, political and regulatory developments, and tax
considerations;
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
|
|
|
Private Placements and Restricted Securities Risk:
investments in privately-placed or
otherwise restricted securities are subject to valuation and liquidity risks;
|
|
|
Repurchase Agreements Risk:
investment returns on repurchase agreements will depend on the
counterparties willingness and ability to perform their obligations.
|
16
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Fund in the Funds statutory prospectus for a more
detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank and
is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government
agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index and the Consumer Price
Index, which is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for
a market basket of consumer goods and services.
Past performance (before and after taxes) is not
necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx]
for more current performance information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year Total Returns
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
|
|
|
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
|
[**To be updated with chart
reflecting annual performance
through 12/31/2009**]
|
|
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
|
[3/01/07 6/30/08 ]
|
|
[-0.10]%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
|
|
|
[9/01/08-12/31/08 ]
|
|
[-16.90]%
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
17
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(December 20,
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
2007)
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Consumer Price Index (reflects no deduction for fees,
expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Johanna Kyrklund, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Michael Spinks, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund
for Investor Shares is $250,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $1,000. Investor
Shares are intended for purchase directly from the Fund, though minimums may be modified for
certain authorized brokers, fund networks or financial intermediaries that have an agreement with
SIMNA Inc. or the Funds distributor to sell shares. Please consult your financial institution for
more information. You may purchase shares by completing an account application and sending payment
by check or wire as described in the application. To avoid delays in a purchase or redemption,
please call the Funds transfer agent, Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. (BFDS) at
800-464-3108 (617-483-5000 from outside the United States) with any questions about the
requirements before submitting a request. You may sell (redeem) your Investor Shares on any day the
New York Stock Exchange is open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder
Mutual Funds (P.O. Box 8507, Boston, MA 02266) or by calling BFDS. Generally, purchase and
redemption orders for Fund shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after
an order is received by the Fund, BFDS or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you
as ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement,
such as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the
18
broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
19
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
R Shares (SALRX)
Investment Objective
:
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund
:
The tables below describe the fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold R Shares of the Fund.
Shareholder Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
|
|
|
Maximum Initial Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases
|
|
None
|
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load)
|
|
None
|
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends
|
|
None
|
Redemption Fee on Shares Held Two Months or Less
|
|
2.00%
|
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
0.75%
|
Distribution (12b-1) Fees
|
|
0.50%
|
Other Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses
(1)
|
|
[ ]
%
|
|
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
|
|
[x.xx]%
|
Less: Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation
(1)(2)
|
|
([x.xx])%
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(2)(3)
|
|
[ ]
%
|
|
|
|
|
(1)
|
|
Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses are incurred indirectly by the Fund as a result of its
investments in one or more funds, including ETFs, and these fees and expenses are not subject
to the expense limitation of the Fund.
|
|
(2)
|
|
The Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February 28, 2011 (i) to reduce its
management fee compensation by [ ]% and (ii) if necessary, in order to limit the expenses,
to pay or reimburse the Fund to the extent that Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (other
than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, other indirect acquired fund expenses, interest, taxes,
and extraordinary expenses) for the Funds R Shares
exceed [1.75]% of R Shares
average daily net assets. The fee waiver and/or expense limitation may only be terminated
during their term by the Board of Trustees.
|
|
(3)
|
|
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses shown above include expenses incurred indirectly by the
Fund (
e.g.
, indirect Other Expenses and/or Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses), and thus may be
higher than the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets included in the Financial Highlights
section of the statutory prospectus. If only the operating expenses of the Fund were included
in Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses, and not the indirect expenses incurred by the Fund, the
Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses would be [1.75]% for R Shares.
|
Example.
This Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with
the costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in
R Shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated, your investment has a 5% return each
year, and the Funds operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher
or lower, the Example shows what your costs would be based on these assumptions. The Example is
based, for the first year, on the Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses and, for all other periods, on
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
1 year
|
|
3 years
|
|
5 years
|
|
10 years
|
R Shares (whether or not shares are redeemed)
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Portfolio Turnover.
The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells
securities (or turns over its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher
transaction costs and may result in higher taxes for you if your Fund shares are held in a taxable
account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating
20
expenses or in the Example, affect the Funds performance. During the most recent fiscal year, the
Funds portfolio turnover rate was [
]% of the average value of its portfolio.
Investments, Risks, and Performance
:
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation
through a flexible asset allocation approach, investing in a variety of traditional asset classes (such as equity and fixed-income investments) and alternative asset classes
(such as real estate, commodities, currencies, private equity, and absolute return strategies).
The Fund seeks a level of investment return, after investment advisory fees, in excess of the
rate of inflation. The Funds adviser and sub-adviser vary the Funds exposure to different asset
classes and strategies over time in response to changing market, economic, and political factors
and events the adviser or sub-adviser believes may affect the value of the Funds investments.
The adviser and sub-adviser emphasize the management of risk and volatility. The Funds portfolio
is not managed with reference to a specified benchmark; using proprietary asset allocation models,
the adviser and sub-adviser adjust the amount of the Funds investments in the various asset
classes. Asset classes are reviewed on an ongoing basis by the adviser or sub-adviser to determine
whether they provide the opportunity to enhance performance or to reduce risk. The adviser or
sub-adviser may itself manage the Funds assets allocated to a particular asset class, either
directly or through a mutual fund or other pooled vehicle managed by it, or it may invest the
Funds assets in other investment companies or private investment pools providing access to
specialist management outside of the Schroders organization. Investment pools might include,
for example, other open-end or closed-end funds, exchange-traded funds, unit investment trusts, domestic or foreign private investment pools
(including hedge funds), or indexes of investment pools.
The amount and type of the Funds investment in a particular asset class, and the amount invested in certain investment companies or investment pools, is limited by law and by tax considerations.
Principal Risks.
The Fund will be affected by the investment decisions, techniques and risk
analyses of the Funds management and may not achieve desired results or the Funds investment
objective. The value of securities held by the Fund may fluctuate dramatically in response to
actual or perceived issuer, political, market, and economic factors influencing the U.S. or global
securities markets, or relevant industries or sectors within them, and such responses may be more
pronounced to the extent the Fund invests substantially in one country or group of countries or in
companies with smaller- to medium-sized market capitalizations. Frequent trading of the Funds
securities increases transaction costs, may result in taxable capital gains, and may lower
investment performance. Investing in underlying funds may involve conflicts of interest including
potential financial incentives to invest in affiliated funds and potential incentives to consider
the interests of affiliated funds, which may not be consistent with those of the Fund. The value of
your investment in the Fund is related to the investment performance of the underlying funds in
which it invests and the principal risks of investing in the Fund are closely related to the
principal risks associated with these funds. Other principal risks of investing in the Fund
include:
|
|
Equity Securities Risk:
in a liquidation or bankruptcy, claims of bond owners take priority
over those of preferred stockholders, whose claims take priority over those of common
stockholders;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
IPO Risk:
securities issued in IPOs have little to no trading history, limited issuer
information, increased volatility and may not be available to the extent desired;
|
|
|
Convertible Securities Risk:
debt securities that are convertible into preferred and common
stocks are subject to the risks of both debt and equity securities;
|
|
|
Warrants Risk:
warrants involve the market risk related to the underlying holdings, the
counterparty risk with respect to the issuing broker, and risk of illiquidity within the
trading market for warrants;
|
|
|
Interest Rate Risk:
fixed income, or debt, securities may decline in value due to changes
in interest rates, extended duration of principal payments at below-market interest rate, or
prepayment;
|
21
|
|
Credit Risk:
the ability, or perceived ability, of the issuer of a debt security to make
timely payments of interest and principal will affect the securitys value, especially for
speculative securities rated below investment grade (high-yield bonds or junk bonds);
|
|
|
Inflation/Deflation Risk:
the value of the Funds investments may decline as inflation
reduces the value of money; conversely, if deflation reduces prices throughout the economy
there may be an adverse effect on the creditworthiness of issuers in whose securities the Fund
invests;
|
|
|
Valuation Risk:
certain securities may be difficult to value, and to the extent the Fund
sells a security at a price lower than that used to value the security, its net asset value
will be adversely affected;
|
|
|
U.S. Government Securities Risk:
securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government may
not be supported by the full faith and credit of the United States and investing in such
securities involves interest rate, extension and mortgage and asset-backed securities risks;
|
|
|
Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk:
investing in mortgage- and asset-backed
securities involves interest rate, credit, valuation, extension and liquidity risks and the
risk that payments on the underlying assets are delayed, prepaid, subordinated or defaulted
on;
|
|
|
Foreign Investment/Currencies Risk:
investments in non-U.S. issuers, directly or through
use of depositary receipts, may be affected by currency exchange rates or regulations, foreign
withholding taxes, or adverse market or other developments affecting issuers located in
foreign countries;
|
|
|
Emerging Markets Securities Risk:
compared to foreign developed markets, investing in
emerging markets may involve heightened volatility, greater political, regulatory, legal and
economic uncertainties, less liquidity, dependence on particular commodities or international
aid, extremely high levels of inflation, and certain special risks associated with smaller
capitalization companies;
|
|
|
Derivatives Risk:
investing in derivative instruments may be considered speculative and
involves leverage, liquidity, and valuation risks and the risk of losing more than the
principal amount invested;
|
|
|
Leverage Risk:
use of leverage will increase volatility of the Funds investment portfolio
and could magnify gains or losses;
|
|
|
Over-the-Counter Risk:
securities traded in over-the-counter markets may trade less
frequently and in limited volumes and thus exhibit more volatility, and the prices paid by the
Fund for such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup;
|
|
|
Liquidity Risk:
illiquid securities may be highly volatile, difficult to value, and
difficult to sell or close out at favorable prices or times;
|
|
|
REIT Risk:
REITs involve risks similar to those associated with direct ownership of real
estate. Some REITs have limited diversification and some have expenses that may be indirectly
incurred by shareholders of the Fund;
|
|
|
Infrastructure Investment Risk:
issuers in infrastructure-related businesses may be subject
to high interest and/or regulatory costs, and the effects of other macro- and micro-economic
factors;
|
|
|
Commodity Risk:
investing in commodity-linked derivative instruments involves volatility
risk and their value may be affected by changes in overall market movements, commodity index
volatility, changes in interest rates, or factors affecting a particular industry or
commodity, such as weather, economic, political and regulatory developments, and tax
considerations;
|
|
|
Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk:
investing in another investment company subjects the
Fund to that companys risks, and, in general, to a pro rata portion of that companys fees
and expenses;
|
|
|
Private Placements and Restricted Securities Risk:
investments in privately-placed or
otherwise restricted securities are subject to valuation and liquidity risks;
|
|
|
Repurchase Agreements Risk:
investment returns on repurchase agreements will depend on the
counterparties willingness and ability to perform their obligations.
|
22
Please see Principal Risks Of Investing In The Fund in the Funds statutory prospectus for a
more detailed description of the Funds risks. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of a bank
and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency.
It is possible to lose money on an investment in the Fund.
Performance Information.
The following bar chart and table provide some indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing changes in its total return from year to year and by comparing the
Funds average annual total returns with those of a broad-based market index and the Consumer Price
Index, which is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for
a market basket of consumer goods and services.
Past performance (before and after taxes) is not
necessarily predictive of future performance.
Visit www.schroderfunds.com [or call 800-xxx-xxxx]
for more current performance information.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Calendar Year Total Returns
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Highest and Lowest Quarter Returns
|
|
|
(for periods shown in the bar chart)
|
|
|
|
|
[**To be updated with chart
reflecting annual performance
through 12/31/2009**]
|
|
Highest
|
|
|
|
|
|
[3/01/07 6/30/08 ]
|
|
[-0.21]%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Lowest
|
|
|
|
|
[9/01/08-12/31/08 ]
|
|
[-17.02]%
|
Calendar Year End (through 12/31)
23
Average Annual Total Returns for Periods Ended December 31, 2009
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Since Inception
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(December 20,
|
|
|
1 Year
|
|
2007)
|
Return Before Taxes
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
Return After Taxes on Distributions and Sale of Fund Shares
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index
(reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
Consumer Price Index (reflects no deduction for fees,
expenses or taxes)
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
|
[__]
|
%
|
|
After-tax returns are estimated using the highest historical individual federal marginal income tax
rates and do not reflect the impact of state and local taxes. Actual after-tax returns depend on an
investors tax situation and may differ from those shown. After-tax returns are not relevant to
investors who hold their shares in the Fund through tax-deferred arrangements, such as 401(k) plans
or individual retirement accounts. In some cases, the return after taxes may exceed the return
before taxes due to an assumed tax benefit from any losses on a sale of Fund shares at the end of
the measurement period.
Management of the Fund
:
Investment Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (SIMNA Inc.)
Sub-Adviser
Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (SIMNA Ltd.)
Portfolio Managers
Johanna Kyrklund, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Michael Spinks, CFA, Portfolio Manager, has managed the Fund since 2008.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares
:
The minimum initial investment in the Fund for R
Shares is $1,000. R Shares are intended for purchase through an employee benefit plan or
employer-sponsored retirement plan (Plan) that has an agreement with SIMNA Inc. or the Funds
distributor to sell shares. Although R Shares may be purchased by a Plan administrator directly
from SIMNA Inc., Plans that purchase R Shares directly from the Funds distributor must hold their
shares in an omnibus account at the Plan level. Plan participants may not directly purchase R
Shares from the Funds distributor. For information on how to buy and sell shares of the Fund
through your Plan, including any investment restrictions and charges that the Plan may impose,
consult your employer or Plan administrator. Generally, purchase and redemption orders for Fund
shares are processed at the net asset value (NAV) next calculated after an order is received by the
Fund, its distributor, your Plan or an authorized intermediary.
Tax Information
:
The Funds distributions are generally currently taxable to you as
ordinary income or capital gains, unless you are investing through a tax-deferred arrangement, such
as a 401(k) plan or an individual retirement account. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are
determined by how long the Fund owned the investment that generated the gains, rather than how long
you have owned your shares.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries
:
If you purchase
the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund, its
distributor or their affiliates may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related
services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or
other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your
salesperson or visit your financial intermediarys Web site for more information.
24
INVESTMENT STRATEGY AND ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
ABOUT THE FUND
Investment Objective.
To seek long-term capital appreciation.
Principal Investment Strategies.
The Fund seeks long-term capital appreciation through a flexible
asset allocation approach, investing in traditional asset classes and in alternative asset classes.
The Funds adviser, Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (Schroders), and
sub-adviser, Schroder Investment Management North America Limited (SIMNA Ltd.), allocate the
Funds investments among asset classes in response to changing market, economic, and political
factors and events that the adviser or sub-adviser believe may affect the value of the Funds
investments. The Fund seeks a level of investment return, after investment advisory fees, in excess
of the rate of inflation.
The Funds adviser or sub-adviser may seek exposure to the asset classes described below by
investing in other investment companies or investment pools ,by investing directly in securities
and other investments or through the use of derivatives. These might include, for example, other
open-end or closed-end investment companies (including investment companies that concentrate their
investments in one or more industries or economic or market sectors), exchange-traded funds
(ETFs, which are open-end investment companies whose shares may be bought or sold by investors in
transactions on major stock exchanges), and unit investment trusts, and domestic or foreign private
investment pools (including investment companies not registered under the Investment Company Act of
1940, as amended (the 1940 Act), such as hedge funds) or indexes of investment pools. Some of
these funds or pools may be managed or sponsored by the adviser or sub-adviser and its affiliates,
although others may not be. The amount and type of the Funds investment in a particular asset
class, and the amount invested in certain investment companies or investment pools, is limited by
law and by tax considerations.
The Fund pursues its objective by using a combination of the following strategies:
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Allocating its investments among a broad array of traditional asset classes, such as equity
and fixed-income investments, and less traditional, alternative asset classes, such as
investments in real estate, commodities, currencies, and private equity, and investments in
absolute return strategies, described below;
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On-going asset allocation across markets and asset classes in response to changing market
conditions and market cycles; and
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Specialist management within certain of the underlying asset classes. The Funds adviser or
sub-adviser may itself manage the Funds assets allocated to a particular asset class, either
directly or through a mutual fund or other pooled vehicle managed by it, or it may invest the
Funds assets in other investment companies or private investment pools providing access to
specialist management outside of the Schroders organization.
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The Funds adviser and sub-adviser emphasize the management of risk and volatility. Generally, the
Funds adviser and sub-adviser seeks to minimize volatility in the value of its portfolio by:
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Using a wide range of asset classes whose performance the adviser or sub-adviser believes
will not be highly correlated with each other;
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Employing asset allocation positioning with the aim of providing greater stability of
performance; and
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Employing derivatives to seek to limit the potential for loss in times of market volatility.
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The portfolio is not managed with reference to a specified benchmark. Every asset class is reviewed
on an ongoing basis by the Funds adviser or sub-adviser to determine whether it provides the
opportunity to enhance performance or to reduce risk. The portfolio will be allocated across a
range of asset classes. The Funds adviser and sub-adviser will rely on proprietary asset
allocation models to adjust the amount of the Funds investments in the various asset classes.
Exposure to different asset classes and strategies will vary over time, in response to changes in
the advisers or the sub- advisers assessment of changing market, economic, and political factors
and events that the adviser or sub-adviser believe may impact the value of the Funds investments.
25
Principal Investments.
Traditional Asset Classes
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Equity Investments
Equity securities, of U.S. or foreign issuers of any size. Equity
securities include common stocks, preferred stocks, and securities convertible into common or
preferred stocks, and options and warrants to purchase common or preferred stocks. The Fund may
invest any portion of its assets in equity securities of issuers located in emerging market
countries. The Fund may also purchase securities in initial public offerings (IPOs). In
selecting investments for the Fund, the Funds adviser or sub-adviser may seek to identify
securities of companies in industries, sectors, or geographical regions that it believes are
undervalued or otherwise offer significant potential for capital appreciation, and companies that
it believes offer the potential for capital appreciation based on novel, superior, or niche
products or services, operating characteristics, quality of management, an entrepreneurial
management team, their having gone public in recent years, opportunities provided by mergers,
divestitures, new management, or other factors.
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Fixed-Income Investments
Debt securities of issuers located anywhere in the world believed to
offer the potential for attractive capital appreciation, current income, or both. Debt securities
in which the Fund may invest include securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or
its agencies or instrumentalities; debt securities of domestic or foreign corporations;
mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities; obligations of international agencies or
supranational entities; debt securities convertible into equity securities; inflation-indexed
bonds; structured notes, including hybrid or indexed securities, event-linked bonds, and loan
participations; and delayed funding loans and revolving credit facilities. Fixed income
securities in which the Fund invests may include securities that pay interest at fixed rates or
at floating or variable rates; payments of principal or interest may be made at fixed intervals
or only at maturity or upon the occurrence of stated events or contingencies. The Fund may invest
in securities of any credit rating, including securities of investment grade and higher-yielding,
lower-rated securities, sometimes known as junk bonds. Securities will be considered to be of
investment grade if they are rated BBB or above by a nationally recognized statistical rating
organization (for example, Moodys Investor Service, Inc. (Moodys), Standard & Poors Rating
Service (S&P), or Fitch Investors Service, Inc. (Fitch)), or if they are unrated and the
Funds adviser or sub-adviser considers them to be of comparable quality. If more than one
nationally recognized statistical rating organization has rated a security, the highest rating
will control for this purpose. The Fund will not normally invest in securities rated below CC- or
the equivalent (or determined by the Funds adviser or sub-adviser to be of comparable quality).
The Fund may invest any portion of its assets in debt securities of issuers located in emerging
market countries.
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Short-Term Investments
Short-term, high quality investments, including, for example,
commercial paper, bankers acceptances, certificates of deposit, bank time deposits, repurchase
agreements, and investments in money market mutual funds or similar pooled investments.
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Alternative Asset Classes
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Real Estate
Investments in real-estate related securities, such as real estate investment
trusts (REITs) (equity REITs or mortgage REITs), real estate operating companies, brokers,
developers, and builders of residential, commercial, and industrial properties; property
management firms; finance, mortgage, and mortgage servicing firms; construction supply and
equipment manufacturing companies; and firms dependent on real estate holdings for revenues and
profits, including lodging, leisure, timber, mining, and agriculture companies.
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Absolute Return
Investments in portfolios of securities managed to provide an investment
return that is generally independent of changes in the values of broad-based equity securities
indices. Those portfolios may include long and short equity or fixed-income positions and
investments in derivatives. Absolute return investments will normally be selected for their
ability to provide predictable, hedged returns over time.
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Infrastructure
Securities of U.S. and non-U.S. issuers providing exposure to infrastructure
investment. Infrastructure investments may be related to physical structures and networks that
provide necessary services to society, such as transportation and communications networks, water
and energy utilities, and public service facilities.
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Commodities
Investments intended to provide exposure to one or more physical commodities or
securities indices. Investments may include, by way of example, futures contracts, options on
futures contracts, and forward contracts, and securities designed to provide commodity-based
exposures.
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26
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Currencies
Investment positions in various foreign currencies, including actual holdings of
those currencies, forward, futures, swap, and option contracts with respect to foreign
currencies.
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Private Equity
Investments in private companies (or private investments in public companies)
typically made in connection with the organization or restructuring of a company, including
so-called leveraged buy-outs and management buy-outs.
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The Funds adviser or sub-adviser may also seek exposure to the asset classes described above
either by investing in other investment companies or investment pools or by investing directly in
securities or other investments. The Fund may seek to obtain, or reduce, exposure to one or more
asset classes through the use of exchange-traded or over-the-counter derivatives, such as, for
example, futures contracts, interest rate swaps, total return swaps, options (puts and calls)
purchased or sold by the Fund, and structured notes. The Fund may also use derivatives for hedging
purposes, or to gain long or short exposure to securities or market sectors as a substitute for
cash investments or pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvestment of the proceeds.
Any use of derivatives strategies entails the risks of investing directly in the securities or
instruments underlying the derivatives strategies, as well as the risks of using derivatives
generally, and in some cases the risks of leverage, described in this Prospectus and in the Funds
Statement of Additional Information (SAI). In addition, investments in derivatives, as well as in
securities with substantial market and/or credit risk as well as foreign securities, tend to have
exposure to liquidity risk, as described further in this Prospectus and in the Funds SAI.
Provisions of the 1940 Act and the rules promulgated thereunder limit the Funds ability to invest
both in certain derivatives that are not securities as the term is defined in the 1940 Act and in
other funds. The Fund relies on exemptive relief from the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
SEC) to use such derivatives and to invest in other funds, subject to certain conditions.
The Funds adviser or sub-adviser may sell securities when it believes that they no longer offer
attractive potential future returns compared to other investment opportunities or that they present
undesirable risks, or in order to limit losses on securities that have declined in value. If the
Funds adviser and sub-adviser trade the Funds portfolio securities frequently, it may result in
taxable capital gains and transaction costs (such as brokerage expense or the bid/asked spread on
purchases and sales of securities).
The Funds investment adviser or sub-adviser may retain one or more other additional sub-advisers
to manage portions of the Funds portfolio invested in certain asset classes. The Fund may apply
for exemptive relief from the SEC to permit the Funds adviser or sub-adviser to retain one or more
sub-advisers without approval of shareholders of the Fund. Until the Fund receives that relief, the
Funds adviser or sub-adviser will not generally be permitted to retain any sub-adviser (other than
certain sub-advisers affiliated with Schroders) without shareholder approval, although the Fund
will be permitted to terminate any sub-advisory agreement.
The table below shows the percentages of the Funds assets allocated to each of the identified
assets as of December 31, 2009. The Fund may gain exposure to each asset class directly, through
investments in other investment companies, or through use of derivatives. It is possible that the
initial allocation and advisory arrangements with respect to an asset class will be different from
those shown in the table. Allocations and anticipated investment ranges will change over time.
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Allocation (as
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Anticipated
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of December 31,
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Investment
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Asset Class
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2009)
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Ranges
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Equity Investments
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[ ]
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%
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0-75
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%
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Fixed Income Investments
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Investment Grade Fixed-Income Investments
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[ ]
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%
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0-25
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%
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Emerging Market and Below Investment Grade Fixed Income Investments
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[ ]
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%
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0-25
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%
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Alternative Investments
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[ ]
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%
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0-50
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%
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Real Estate
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[ ]
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%
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0-25
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%
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Absolute Return
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[ ]
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%
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0-30
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%
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Infrastructure
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[ ]
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%
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0-15
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%
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Commodities
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[ ]
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%
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0-20
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%
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Currencies
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[ ]
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%
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0-8
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%
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Private Equity
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[ ]
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%
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0-15
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%
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Cash and other short-term investments
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[ ]
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%
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0-25
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%
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27
The Fund will seek to allocate its investments across a variety of asset classes, which may serve
to reduce overall investment risk, although it is not a guarantee against losses. Although
Schroders will attempt to reduce the volatility of the Funds portfolio through investment across a
variety of asset classes, there can, of course, be no assurance that Schroders will be successful
in doing so. It is possible that the Fund could experience losses in all of the asset classes in
which it has invested at any time. The Fund is a diversified investment company as defined in the
1940 Act.
Currently, the Fund allocates its assets as follows: pooled investment vehicles not sponsored by
Schroders or a Schroders affiliate approximately 60%; pooled investment vehicles sponsored by
Schroders or a Schroders affiliate approximately 30%; and direct investments (not through other
investment pools) approximately 10%. It is nonetheless possible that over time or from time to
time, the allocation will be different; allocations between direct investments and affiliated and
unaffiliated pooled investment vehicles will change over time.
Three of the underlying affiliated funds in which the Funds assets are currently invested are the
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund, Schroder International Alpha Fund, and Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund. Summaries of the investment strategies of these underlying
funds are provided in Appendix A. From time to time the Fund may invest in other or different
affiliated funds or may no longer invest in these underlying funds at all or in a significant
amount. Schroders may change the investment policies and/or programs of the underlying funds at any
time without notice to shareholders of the Fund. Each of the underlying funds is subject to some or
all of the risks detailed under Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund.
In addition, the underlying unaffiliated funds to which the Fund may indirectly have exposure may
include, but are not limited to, Goldman Sachs High Yield Fund, which invests primarily in high
yield, fixed income securities that, at the time of purchase, are non-investment grade, and iShares
iBoxx Investment Grade Corporate Bond Fund, which seeks investment results that correspond
generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of a segment of the U.S.
investment grade corporate bond market as defined by the iBoxx
®
$ Liquid Investment Grade Index.
For a more detailed explanation of each underlying funds principal investments, investment
methodology and risks, please refer to the prospectus of each underlying fund. From time to time
the Fund may invest in other or different unaffiliated funds or may no longer invest in the funds
above at all or in a significant amount.
Changes in investment objective and strategies.
The Funds investment objective and strategy and
target allocations and, unless otherwise noted in this prospectus or in the SAI, other investment
policies of the Fund are not fundamental policies and, as such, may be changed by the Trustees
without a vote of, or notice to, the shareholders.
28
Additional Performance Information.
This section contains additional information regarding the Funds performance and the presentation
of such performance.
The Average Annual Total Returns Table in the Funds Summary Information section above compares
the Funds returns with those of a broad-based market index and the Consumer Price Index. The
Morgan Stanley Capital International World Index is an unmanaged market-capitalization index that
is designed to measure global developed market equity performance. The Consumer Price Index is a
measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a market basket
of consumer goods and services.
The current portfolio managers primarily responsible for making investment decisions for the Fund
assumed this responsibility effective December 1, 2008. The performance results shown in the bar
chart and table in the Summary Information section for periods prior to December 1, 2008 were
achieved by the Fund under a different portfolio manager
29
PRINCIPAL RISKS OF INVESTING IN THE FUND
The Fund may not achieve its objective. The following provides more detail about certain of the
Funds principal risks and the circumstances which could adversely affect the value of the Funds
shares or its investment return. Unless a strategy or policy described below is specifically
prohibited by the Funds investment restrictions as set forth in this Prospectus or under
Investment Restrictions in the Funds SAI, or by applicable law, the Fund may engage in each of
the practices described below.
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Equity Securities Risk.
The principal risks of investing in the Fund include the risk that
the value of the equity securities in the portfolio will fall, or will not appreciate as
anticipated by the Funds adviser or sub-adviser, due to factors that adversely affect
equities markets generally or particular companies in the portfolio. Common stocks represent
an equity or ownership interest in an issuer and are subject to issuer and market risks that
may cause their prices to fluctuate over time. Preferred stocks represent an equity or
ownership interest in an issuer that typically pays dividends at a specified rate and that has
priority over common stock in the payment of dividends and in liquidation. If interest rates
rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing the price of
preferred stocks to decline. Different types of investments tend to shift into and out of
favor with investors depending on changes in market and economic conditions.
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Convertible Securities Risk.
The Fund may invest in convertible securities, which are
corporate debt securities that may be converted at either a stated price or stated rate into
underlying shares of preferred or common stock, and so subject to the risks of investments in
both debt securities and equity securities. The Fund may also invest in preferred stocks that
are convertible into common stocks, and so subject to the risks of investments in both
preferred and common stocks. The market value of convertible securities tends to decline as
interest rates increase and, conversely, tends to increase as interest rates decline. In
addition, because of the conversion feature, the market value of convertible securities tends
to vary with fluctuations in the market value of the underlying preferred and common stocks
and, therefore, also will react to variations in the general market for equity securities.
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Warrants Risk.
The Fund may invest in warrants to purchase equity securities. The price,
performance and liquidity of such warrants are typically linked to the underlying stock.
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Foreign Investment Risk.
The Fund may invest in foreign securities. Investments in foreign
securities entail certain risks. There may be a possibility of nationalization or
expropriation of assets, confiscatory taxation, political or financial instability, and
diplomatic developments that could affect the value of the Funds investments in certain
foreign countries. In addition, there may be less information publicly available about a
foreign issuer than about a U.S. issuer, and foreign issuers are not generally subject to
accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards and practices comparable to those in
the United States. The securities of some foreign issuers are less liquid and at times more
volatile than securities of comparable U.S. issuers. Foreign brokerage commissions and other
fees are also generally higher than in the United States. Foreign settlement procedures and
trade regulations may involve certain risks (such as delay in payment or delivery of
securities or in the recovery of the Funds assets held abroad) and expenses not present in
the settlement of domestic investments.
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In addition, legal remedies available to investors in certain foreign countries may be more
limited than those available to investors in the United States or in other foreign countries. The
willingness and ability of foreign governmental entities to pay principal and interest on
government securities depends on various economic factors, including the issuers balance of
payments, overall debt level, and cash-flow considerations related to the availability of tax or
other revenues to satisfy the issuers obligations. If a foreign governmental entity defaults on
its obligations on the securities, the Fund may have limited recourse available to it. The laws
of some foreign countries may limit the Funds ability to invest in securities of certain issuers
located in those countries.
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Special tax considerations apply to the Funds investments in foreign securities. In determining
whether to invest the Funds assets in debt securities of foreign issuers, the Funds adviser or
sub-adviser considers the likely impact of foreign taxes on the net yield available to the Fund
and its shareholders. Income and/or gains received by the Fund from sources within foreign
countries may be reduced by withholding and other taxes imposed by such countries. Tax
conventions between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes.
Any such taxes paid by the Fund will reduce its income available for distribution to
shareholders. Certain of these risks may also apply to some extent to investments in U.S.
companies that are traded in foreign markets, or investments in U.S. companies that have
significant foreign operations.
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In addition, the Funds investments in foreign securities or foreign currencies may increase or
accelerate the Funds recognition of ordinary income and may affect the timing or character of
the Funds distributions.
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Foreign Currencies Risk.
Since foreign securities normally are denominated and traded in
foreign currencies, the value of the Funds assets may be affected favorably or unfavorably by
currency exchange rates, currency exchange control regulations, foreign withholding taxes, and
restrictions or prohibitions on the repatriation of foreign currencies. The Fund may, but is
not required to, buy or sell foreign securities and options and futures contracts on foreign
securities for hedging purposes in connection with its foreign investments.
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If the Fund purchases securities denominated in foreign currencies, a change in the value of any
such currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a change in the U.S. dollar value of the
Funds assets and the Funds income available for distribution. Officials in foreign countries
may from time to time take actions in respect of their currencies which could significantly
affect the value of the Funds assets denominated in those currencies or the liquidity of such
investments. For example, a foreign government may unilaterally devalue its currency against
other currencies, which would typically have the effect of reducing the U.S. dollar value of
investments denominated in that currency. A foreign government may also limit the convertibility
or repatriation of its currency or assets denominated in its currency, which would adversely
affect the U.S. dollar value and liquidity of investments denominated in that currency. In
addition, although at times most of the Funds income may be received or realized in these
currencies, the Fund will be required to compute and distribute its income in U.S. dollars. As a
result, if the exchange rate for any such currency declines after the Funds income has been
earned and translated into U.S. dollars but before payment to shareholders, the Fund could be
required to liquidate portfolio securities to make such distributions. Similarly, if the Fund
incurs an expense in U.S. dollars and the exchange rate declines before the expense is paid, the
Fund would have to convert a greater amount of U.S. dollars to pay for the expense at that time
than it would have had to convert at the time the Fund incurred the expense. The Fund may, but is
not required to, buy or sell foreign currencies and options and futures contracts on foreign
currencies for hedging purposes in connection with its foreign investments.
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Emerging Markets Securities Risk.
Investing in emerging market securities poses risks
different from, and/or greater than, risks of investing in domestic securities or in the
securities of foreign, developed countries. These risks include: smaller market capitalization
of securities markets, which may suffer periods of relative illiquidity; significant price
volatility; restrictions on foreign investment; and possible repatriation of investment income
and capital. In addition, foreign investors may be required to register the proceeds of sales,
and future economic or political crises could lead to price controls, forced mergers,
expropriation or confiscatory taxation, seizure, nationalization or the creation of government
monopolies. The currencies of emerging market countries may experience significant declines
against the U.S. dollar, and devaluation may occur subsequent to investments in these
currencies by the Fund. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates have had, and may
continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging
market countries. Although many of the emerging market securities in which the Fund may invest
are traded on securities exchanges, they may trade in limited volume, and the exchanges may
not provide all of the conveniences or protections provided by securities exchanges in more
developed markets.
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Additional risks of emerging market securities may include: greater social, economic and
political uncertainty and instability; more substantial governmental involvement in the economy;
less governmental supervision and regulation; unavailability of currency hedging techniques;
companies that are newly organized and small; differences in auditing and financial reporting
standards, which may result in unavailability of material information about issuers; and less
developed legal systems. In addition, emerging securities markets may have different clearance
and settlement procedures, which may be unable to keep pace with the volume of securities
transactions or otherwise make it difficult to engage in such transactions. Settlement problems
may cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities, hold a portion of its assets in
cash pending investment, or be delayed in disposing of a portfolio security. Such a delay could
result in possible liability to a purchaser of the security.
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Geographic Focus Risk.
To the extent that the Fund invests a substantial amount of its assets
in one country or group of countries, its performance may at times be worse than the
performance of other mutual funds that invest more broadly.
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Equity Markets Risk.
Although stocks may outperform other asset classes over the long term,
their prices tend to fluctuate more dramatically over the shorter term. These movements may
result from factors affecting individual companies, or from broader influences like changes in
interest rates, market conditions, investor confidence or announcements of economic, political
or financial information. While potentially offering greater opportunities for capital growth
than larger, more established companies, the stocks of smaller companies may be particularly
volatile, especially during periods of economic uncertainty. These companies may face less
certain growth prospects, or depend heavily on a limited line of products and services or the
efforts of a small number of key management personnel.
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Small and Mid Cap Companies Risk.
The Fund may invest in companies that are smaller and less
well-known than larger, more widely held companies. Micro, small and mid cap companies may
offer greater opportunities for capital appreciation than larger companies, but may also
involve certain special risks. They are more likely than larger companies to have limited
product lines, markets or financial resources, or to depend on a small, inexperienced
management group. Securities of smaller companies may trade less frequently and in lesser
volume than more widely held securities and their values may fluctuate more sharply than other
securities. They may also trade in the over-the-counter market or on a regional exchange, or
may otherwise have limited liquidity. These securities may therefore be more vulnerable to
adverse developments than securities of larger companies, and the Fund may have difficulty
establishing or closing out its securities positions in smaller companies at prevailing market
prices. Also, there may be less publicly available information about smaller companies or less
market interest in their securities as compared to larger companies, and it may take longer
for the prices of the securities to reflect the full value of their issuers earnings
potential or assets.
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Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) Risk.
The Fund may also purchase securities of companies in
IPOs, which frequently are smaller companies. Such securities have no trading history, and
information about these companies may be available for very limited periods. The prices of
securities sold in IPOs also can be highly volatile. Under certain market conditions, very few
companies, if any, may determine to make IPOs of their securities. At any particular time or
from time to time the Fund may not be able to invest in securities issued in IPOs or invest to
the extent desired, because, for example, only a small portion (if any) of the securities
being offered in an IPO may be made available to the Fund. The investment performance of the
Fund during periods when they are unable to invest significantly or at all in IPOs may be
lower than during periods when the Fund is able to do so.
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Private Placements and Restricted Securities.
The Fund may invest in securities that are
purchased in private placements. Because there may be relatively few potential purchasers for
such investments, especially under adverse market or economic conditions or in the event of
adverse changes in the financial condition of the issuer, the Fund could find it more
difficult to sell such securities when the Funds adviser or sub-adviser believes it advisable
to do so or may be able to sell such securities only at prices lower than if such securities
were more widely held. At times, it may also be more difficult to determine the fair value of
such securities for purposes of computing the Funds net asset value. The Funds sale of such
investments may also be restricted under securities laws. In the event that the Trustees, or
persons designated by the Trustees, determine that a security is readily marketable pursuant
to these procedures, and the Fund is not able to sell such security at the price that such
persons anticipate, the Funds net asset value will decrease.
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Derivatives Risk.
Derivatives are financial contracts whose value depends on, or derives
from, the value of an underlying asset, reference rate, or index. The Funds use of derivative
instruments involves risks different from, and possibly greater than, the risks associated
with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. Derivatives are
subject to a number of risks described elsewhere in this section, such as liquidity risk,
interest rate risk, and credit risk, and the risk that a derivative transaction may not have
the effect the Funds adviser or sub-adviser anticipated. Derivatives also involve the risk of
mispricing or improper valuation and the risk that changes in the value of the derivative may
not correlate perfectly with the underlying asset, rate, or
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index. Derivative transactions typically involve leverage and may be highly volatile. Use of
derivatives other than for hedging purposes may be considered speculative, and when the Fund
invests in a derivative instrument it could lose more than the principal amount invested. Also,
suitable derivative transactions may not be available in all circumstances and there can be no
assurance that the Fund will engage in these transactions to reduce exposure to other risks when
that would be beneficial. Many derivative transactions are entered into over-the-counter (not
on an exchange or contract market); as a result, the value of such a derivative transaction will
depend on the ability and willingness of the Funds counterparty to perform its obligations under
the transaction. The Fund may be required to segregate certain of its assets on the books of its
custodian in respect of derivatives transactions entered into by the Fund. See the Funds SAI for
more information. Special tax considerations apply to the Funds investments in derivatives.
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Leverage Risk.
The use of leverage has the potential to increase returns to shareholders, but
also involves additional risks. Leverage will increase the volatility of the Funds investment
portfolio and could result in larger losses than if it were not used. If there is a net
decrease (or increase) in the value of the Funds investment portfolio, any leverage will
decrease (or increase) the net asset value per share to a greater extent than if the Fund were
not leveraged. The use of leverage is considered to be a speculative investment practice and
may result in losses to the Fund. Certain derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss,
regardless of the size of the initial investment.
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Over-the-Counter Risk.
Securities traded in over-the-counter markets may trade in smaller
volumes, and their prices may be more volatile, than securities principally traded on
securities exchanges. Such securities may be less liquid than more widely traded securities.
In addition, the prices of such securities may include an undisclosed dealer markup, which the
Fund pays as part of the purchase price.
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Liquidity Risk.
Liquidity risk exists when particular investments are difficult to purchase
or sell. The Funds investments in illiquid securities may reduce the returns of the Fund
because it may be unable to sell the illiquid securities at an advantageous time or price.
Investments in foreign securities, derivatives, or securities with substantial market and/or
credit risk tend to have the greatest exposure to liquidity risk. Illiquid securities may be
highly volatile and difficult to value.
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Real Estate Risk.
The Fund may invest in REITs that subject it to risks similar to those
associated with direct ownership of real estate, including losses from casualty or
condemnation, and changes in local and general economic conditions, supply and demand,
interest rates, zoning laws, regulatory limitations on rents, property taxes and operating
expenses. In addition, an investment in a REIT is subject to additional risks, such as poor
performance by the manager of the REIT, adverse changes to the tax laws or failure by the REIT
to qualify for tax-free pass-through of income under the Code. In addition, some REITs have
limited diversification because they invest in a limited number of properties, a narrow
geographic area, or a single type of property. Also, the organizational documents of a REIT
may contain provisions that make changes in control of the REIT difficult and time-consuming.
As a shareholder in a REIT, the Fund, and indirectly the Funds shareholders, would bear its
ratable share of the REITs expenses and would at the same time continue to pay its own fees
and expenses.
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Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk.
Mortgage-backed securities, including
collateralized mortgage obligations and certain stripped mortgage-backed securities represent
a participation in, or are secured by, mortgage loans. Asset-backed securities are structured
like mortgage-backed securities, but instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage loans,
the underlying assets may include such items as motor vehicle installment sales or installment
loan contracts, leases of various types of real and personal property and receivables from
credit card agreements.
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Traditional debt investments typically pay a fixed rate of interest until maturity, when the
entire principal amount is due. By contrast, payments on mortgage-backed and many asset-backed
investments typically include both interest and partial payment of principal. Principal may also
be prepaid voluntarily, or as a result of refinancing or foreclosure. The Fund may have to invest
the proceeds from prepaid investments in other investments with less attractive terms and yields.
As a result, these securities may have less potential for capital appreciation during periods of
declining interest rates than other securities of comparable maturities, although they may have a
similar risk of decline in market value during periods of rising interest rates. Because the
prepayment rate generally declines as interest rates rise, an increase in interest rates will
likely increase the duration, and thus the volatility, of mortgage-backed and asset-backed
securities. In addition to interest rate risk (as described below under Interest Rate Risk),
investments in mortgage-backed securities composed of subprime mortgages may be subject to a
higher degree of liquidity risk, valuation and credit risk (as described above under Liquidity
Risk and below under Credit Risk and Valuation Risk). Duration is a measure of the expected
life of a fixed income security that is used to determine the sensitivity of the securitys price
to changes in interest rates. Unlike the maturity of a fixed income security, which measures only
the time until final payment is due, duration takes into account the time until all payments of
interest and principal on a security are expected to be made, including how these payments are
affected by prepayments and by changes in interest rates.
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The ability of an issuer of asset-backed securities to enforce its security interest in the
underlying assets may be limited. Some mortgage-backed and asset-backed investments receive only
the interest portion (IOs) or the principal portion (POs) of payments on the underlying
assets. The yields and values of these investments are extremely sensitive to changes in interest
rates and in the rate of principal payments on the underlying assets. IOs tend to decrease in
value if interest rates decline and rates of repayment (including prepayment) on the underlying
mortgages or assets increase; it is possible that the Fund may lose the entire amount of its
investment in an IO due to a decrease in interest rates. Conversely, POs tend to decrease in
value if interest rates rise and rates of repayment decrease. Moreover, the market for IOs and
POs may be volatile and limited, which may make them difficult for the Fund to buy or sell.
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The Fund may gain investment exposure to mortgage-backed and asset-backed investments by entering
into agreements with financial institutions to buy the investments at a fixed price at a future
date. The Fund may or may not take delivery of the investments at the termination date of such an
agreement, but will nonetheless be exposed to changes in value of the underlying investments
during the term of the agreement.
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If the Fund purchases mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities that are subordinated to
other interests in the same mortgage pool, the Fund as a holder of those securities may only
receive payments after the pools obligations to other investors have been satisfied. An
unexpectedly high rate of defaults on the mortgages held by a mortgage pool may limit
substantially the pools ability to make payments of principal or interest to the Fund as a
holder of such subordinated securities, reducing the values of those securities or in some cases
rendering them worthless; the risk of such defaults is generally higher in the case of mortgage
pools that include so-called subprime mortgages. An unexpectedly high or low rate of
prepayments on a pools underlying mortgages may have a similar effect on subordinated
securities. A mortgage pool may issue securities subject to various levels of subordination; the
risk of non-payment affects securities at each level, although the risk is greater in the case of
more highly subordinated securities.
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Infrastructure Investment Risk.
The Funds infrastructure-related investments expose the Fund
to potential adverse economic, regulatory, political and other changes affecting such
investments. Issuers of securities in infrastructure-related businesses are subject to a
variety of factors that may adversely affect their business or operations including high
interest costs in connection with capital construction programs, costs associated with
environmental and other regulations, the effects of economic slowdown and surplus capacity,
increased competition from other providers of services, uncertainties concerning the
availability of fuel at reasonable prices, the effects of energy conservation policies and
other factors. Additionally, infrastructure-related entities may be subject to regulation by
various governmental authorities and may also be affected by governmental regulation of rates
charged to customers, service interruption due to environmental, operational, or other mishaps
and the imposition of special tariffs and changes in tax laws, regulatory policies and
accounting standards.
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Commodity Risk.
The Funds investments in commodity-linked derivative instruments may subject
the Fund to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. The value of
commodity-linked derivative instruments may be affected by changes in overall market
movements, commodity index volatility, changes in interest rates, or factors affecting a
particular industry or commodity, such as drought, floods, weather, livestock disease,
embargoes, tariffs, and international economic, political and regulatory developments. In
order to qualify for the special tax treatment available to regulated investment companies
under the Code, the Fund must derive at least 90% of its gross income each taxable year from
certain specified types of investments. It is currently unclear which types of
commodities-linked derivatives fall within these specified investment types. As a result, if
the Funds income from investments in commodities-linked derivatives were to exceed a certain
threshold, the Fund could fail to qualify for the special tax treatment available to regulated
investment companies under the Code.
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Interest Rate Risk.
The values of bonds and other debt instruments usually rise and fall in
response to changes in interest rates. Declining interest rates generally increase the values
of existing debt instruments, and rising interest rates generally reduce the value of existing
debt instruments. Interest rate risk is generally greater for investments with longer
durations or maturities. Some investments give the issuer the option to call or redeem an
investment before its maturity date. If an issuer calls or redeems an investment during a time
of declining interest rates, the Fund might have to reinvest the proceeds in an investment
offering a lower yield, and therefore might not benefit from any increase in value as a result
of declining interest rates.
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Credit Risk.
The ability, or perceived ability, of the issuer of a debt security to make
timely payments of interest and principal on the security will affect the value of the
security. It is possible that the ability of an issuer to meet its obligations will decline
substantially during the period when the Fund owns securities of that issuer, or that the
issuer will default on its obligations. An actual or perceived deterioration in the ability of
an issuer to meet its obligations will likely have an adverse effect on the value of the
issuers securities.
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If a security has been rated by more than one nationally recognized statistical rating
organization the Funds adviser or sub-adviser will consider the highest rating for the purposes
of determining whether the security is of investment grade. The Fund will not necessarily
dispose of a security held by it if its rating falls below investment grade, although the Funds
adviser or sub-adviser will consider whether the security continues to be an appropriate
investment for the Fund. The Fund considers whether a security is of investment grade only at
the time of purchase. The Fund may invest in securities which will not be rated by a nationally
recognized statistical rating organization (such as Moodys, S&P, or Fitch), and their credit
quality will be determined by the adviser or sub-adviser.
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Credit risk is generally greater for investments issued at less than their face values and
required to make interest payments only at maturity rather than at intervals during the life of
the investment. Credit rating agencies base their ratings largely on the issuers historical
financial condition and the rating agencies investment analysis at the time of rating. The
rating assigned to any particular investment does not necessarily reflect the issuers current
financial condition, and does not reflect an assessment of an investments volatility or
liquidity. Although investment grade investments generally have lower credit risk than
investments rated below investment grade, they may share some of the risks of lower-rated
investments, including the possibility that the issuers may be unable to make timely payments of
interest and principal and thus default.
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Inflation/Deflation Risk.
Inflation risk is the risk that the Funds assets or income from
the Funds investments may be worth less in the future as inflation decreases the value of
money. As inflation increases, the real value of the Funds portfolio could decline. Deflation
risk is the risk that prices throughout the economy may decline over time the opposite of
inflation. Deflation may have an adverse effect on the creditworthiness of issuers and may
make issuer default more likely, which may result in a decline in the value of the Funds
portfolio.
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Extension Risk.
During periods of rising interest rates, the average life of certain types of
securities may be extended because of slower than expected principal payments. This may lock
in a below-market interest rate, increase the securitys duration, and reduce the value of the
security.
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U.S. Government Securities Risk.
U.S. Government securities include a variety of securities
that differ in their interest rates, maturities, and dates of issue. While securities issued
or guaranteed by some agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. Government (such as the
Government National Mortgage Association) are supported by the full faith and credit of the
United States, securities issued or guaranteed by certain other agencies or instrumentalities
of the U.S. Government (such as Federal Home Loan Banks) are supported by the right of the
issuer to borrow from the U.S. Government, and securities issued or guaranteed by certain
other agencies and instrumentalities of the U.S. Government (such as Fannie Mae and Freddie
Mac) are supported only by the credit of the issuer itself. Although Fannie Mae and Freddie
Mac are now under conservatorship by the Federal Housing Finance Agency, and are benefiting
from a liquidity backstop of the U.S. Treasury, no assurance can be given that these
initiatives will be successful. Investments in these securities are also subject to interest
rate risk (as described above under Interest Rate Risk), prepayment risk (as described above
under Mortgage and Asset-Backed Securities Risk), extension risk (as described above under
Extension Risk), and the risk that the value of the securities will fluctuate in response to
political, market, or economic developments.
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High-Yield/Junk Bonds Risk.
The Fund may invest in securities of any credit rating, including
securities of investment grade and higher-yielding, lower-rated securities, sometimes known as
junk bonds. Securities will be considered to be of investment grade if they are rated BBB or
above by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization (for example, Moodys, S&P,
or Fitch), or if they are unrated and the Funds adviser or sub-adviser considers them to be
of comparable quality. If more than one nationally recognized statistical rating organization
has rated a security, the highest rating will control for this purpose. The Fund will not
normally invest in securities rated below CC- or the equivalent (or determined by the Funds
adviser or sub-adviser to be of comparable quality). The lower ratings of certain securities
held by the Fund reflect a greater possibility that adverse changes in the financial condition
of the issuer or in general economic conditions, or both, or an unanticipated rise in interest
rates, may impair the ability of the issuer to make payments of interest and principal. The
inability (or perceived inability) of issuers to make timely payment of interest and principal
would likely make the values of securities held by the Fund more volatile and could limit the
Funds ability to sell its securities at prices approximating the values the Fund has placed
on such securities. In the absence of a liquid trading market for securities held by them, the
Fund at times may be unable to establish the fair value of such securities. To the extent the
Fund invests in securities in the lower rating categories, the achievement of the Funds goals
is more dependent on the Fund advisers or sub-advisers investment analysis than would be the
case if the Fund was investing in securities in the higher rating categories.
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Investments in Pooled Vehicles Risk.
The Fund may invest in other investment companies or
pooled vehicles, including closed-end funds, trusts, and ETFs, that are advised by the Funds
adviser or sub-adviser or its affiliates or by unaffiliated parties, to the extent permitted
by applicable law. When investing in a closed-end investment company, the Fund may pay a
premium above such investment companys net asset value per share and when the shares are
sold, the price received by the Fund may be at a discount to net asset value. As a shareholder
in an investment company, the Fund, and indirectly that Funds shareholders, would bear its
ratable share of the investment companys expenses, including advisory and administrative
fees, and would at the same time continue to pay its own fees and expenses. Where an
investment company or pooled investment vehicle offers multiple classes of shares or
interests, the Fund will seek to invest in the class with the lowest expenses to the Fund,
although there is no guarantee that it will be able to do so. ETFs issue redeemable
securities, but because these securities may only be redeemed in kind in significant amounts
investors generally buy and sell shares in transactions on securities exchanges. Investments
in other investment companies may be subject to investment limitations, such as redemption
fees; under certain circumstances, such investment companies that are sponsored by Schroders
or its affiliates will waive such a redemption fee. See How to Sell Fund Shares Redemption
Fees for more information.
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Allocation Risk.
The Funds investment performance may depend, at least in part, on how its
assets are allocated and reallocated among the underlying funds in which it invests according
to the Funds asset allocation targets and ranges. The Funds adviser and sub-adviser attempt
to identify allocations that will provide consistent, quality performance for the Fund, but
there is no guarantee that such allocation techniques will produce the desired results. It is
possible that the Funds adviser or sub-adviser will focus on an underlying fund that performs
poorly or underperforms other underlying funds under various market conditions. You could lose
money on your investment in the Fund as a result of these allocation decisions. Although the
Fund will attempt to invest in a number of different underlying funds, to the extent that the
Fund invests a significant portion of its assets in a single underlying fund, it will be
particularly sensitive to the risks associate with that fund and any investments in which that
fund concentrates.
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Underlying Fund Risk.
The value of your investment in the Fund is related to the investment
performance of the underlying funds in which it invests. Therefore, the principal risks of
investing in the Fund are closely related to the principal risks associated with these funds
and their investments. Because the Funds allocation among different underlying funds and
investments directly in securities will vary, your investment may be subject to any and all of
these risks at different times and to different degrees. There is no guarantee that the
underlying funds will achieve their investment objectives, and the underlying funds
performance may be lower than the performance of the asset class which they were selected to
represent. The underlying funds may change their investment objective or policies without the
approval of the Fund. If an underlying fund were to change its investment objective or
policies, the Fund may be forced to withdraw its investment from the underlying fund at a
disadvantageous time. To the extent that the Fund invests a significant portion of its assets
in an underlying fund, it will be particularly sensitive to the risks associated with that
underlying fund. Underlying funds that are non-diversified because they may invest a
significant portion of their assets in a relatively small number of issuers may have more risk
because changes in the value of a single security or the impact of a single economic,
political or regulatory occurrence may have a greater adverse impact on the underlying funds
net asset value.
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Affiliated Fund Risk.
In managing the Fund, the Funds adviser or sub-adviser will have
authority to select and substitute underlying funds. The Funds investment adviser or its
sub-adviser may be subject to a potential conflict of interest in determining whether to
invest in an underlying fund managed by the adviser or sub-adviser or an affiliate, or in a
pool managed by an unaffiliated manager, and may have an economic or other incentive to select
the pool managed by it or its affiliate over another pool that may be more appropriate for the
Fund. The adviser or sub-adviser may be subject to potential conflicts of interest in
selecting underlying funds because the fees paid to them by some underlying Schroders funds
may be higher than the fees paid to them by the Fund or by other funds available for
investment by the Fund. The Funds adviser or sub-adviser or an affiliate may receive fees
from underlying funds which they advise or sub-advise, in addition to fees paid to the adviser
by the Fund, and therefore may have an incentive to invest the Funds assets in such funds.
Similarly, the adviser and sub-adviser have a financial incentive to invest the Funds assets
in affiliated underlying funds with higher fees than other affiliated and unaffiliated funds
available for investment by the Fund. The Funds adviser has implemented a fee waiver and
expense limitation the amount of which is based, in part, on the likely revenues to the
adviser and its affiliates from investments in affiliated underlying funds. In addition, the
adviser will report to the Funds Trustees periodically as to the amount of the Funds assets
invested in affiliated underlying funds and the bases for the advisers or sub-advisers
selection of those investments. Furthermore, the adviser or sub-adviser may have an incentive
to take into account the effect on an underlying fund in which the Fund may invest in
determining whether, and under what circumstances, to purchase or sell interests in the pool;
the interests of the underlying fund or pool may or may not be consistent with those of the
Fund. However, the Funds adviser or sub-adviser is a fiduciary to the Fund and is obligated
to act in its best interest when selecting underlying funds. In fulfilling their fiduciary
duties, on an on-going basis, the adviser and sub-adviser will seek to assure that any
conflicts are minimized.
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Depositary Receipts Risk.
The Fund may invest in American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), as
well as German Depositary Receipts (GDRs), European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) or other
similar securities representing ownership of foreign securities. Depositary Receipts generally
evidence an ownership interest in a corresponding foreign security on deposit with a financial
institution. Investments in non-U.S. issuers through Depositary Receipts and similar
instruments may involve certain risks not applicable to investing in U.S. issuers, including
changes in currency rates, application of local tax laws, changes in governmental
administration or economic or monetary policy or changed circumstances in dealings between
nations. Costs may be incurred in connection with conversions between various currencies. The
Fund may invest in both sponsored and unsponsored Depositary Receipts. Unsponsored Depositary
Receipts are organized independently and without the cooperation of the issuer of the
underlying securities. As a result, available information concerning the issuers may not be as
current for unsponsored Depositary Receipts and the prices of unsponsored Depositary Receipts
may be more volatile than if such instruments were sponsored by the issuer.
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Management Risk.
Because the Fund is actively managed, the Funds investment return depends
on the ability of its adviser or sub-adviser to manage its portfolio successfully. The Funds
adviser or sub-adviser and its investment team will apply investment techniques and risk
analyses in making investment decisions for the Fund, but there can be no guarantee that these
will produce the desired results. The Funds ability to achieve its investment objective
depends upon the advisers or sub-advisers ability to select the best mix of underlying funds
and securities and strategic asset allocation. There is a risk that the Funds adviser or
sub-adviser may be incorrect in its analysis of economic trends, countries, industries,
companies, and the relative attractiveness of asset classes or other matters.
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Frequent Trading/Portfolio Turnover Risk.
The length of time the Fund has held a particular
security is not generally a consideration in investment decisions. The investment policies of
the Fund may lead to frequent changes in the Funds investments, particularly in periods of
volatile market movements, in order to take advantage of what the Funds adviser or
sub-adviser believes to be temporary disparities in normal yield relationships between
securities. A change in the securities held by the Fund is known as portfolio turnover.
Portfolio turnover generally involves some expense to the Fund, including bid-asked spreads,
dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs on the sale of securities and reinvestments in
other securities, and may result in the realization of taxable capital gains (including
short-term gains, which are generally taxed to shareholders at ordinary income rates). The
trading costs and tax effects associated with portfolio turnover may adversely affect the
Funds performance. During periods when the Fund experiences high portfolio turnover rates,
these effects are likely to be more pronounced. The portfolio turnover rate for the Funds
last fiscal year was [ ]%. Consult your tax advisor regarding the effect the Funds portfolio
turnover rate could have on your tax situation. The Fund and its shareholders will also share
in the costs and tax effects of portfolio turnover in any underlying funds in which the Fund
invests.
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Valuation Risk.
Due to the nature of some of the Funds investments and the market
environment, a portion of the Funds assets may be valued by Schroders at fair value pursuant
to guidelines established by the Board of Trustees. The Funds assets may be valued using
prices provided by a pricing service or, alternatively, a broker-dealer or other market
intermediary (sometimes just one broker-dealer or other market intermediary) when other
reliable pricing sources may not be available. To the extent the Fund relies on a pricing
service to value some or all of its portfolio securities, it is possible that the pricing
information provided by the service will not reflect the actual price the Fund would receive
upon sale of a security. In addition, to the extent the Fund sells a security at a price lower
than the price it has been using to value the security, its net asset value will be adversely
affected. If the Fund has overvalued securities it holds, you may end up paying too much for
the Funds shares when you buy into the Fund. If the Fund underestimates the price of its
portfolio securities, you may not receive the full market value for your Fund shares when you
sell. When the Fund invests in other mutual funds or investment pools, it will generally value
its investments in those funds or pools based on the valuations determined by the funds or
pools, which may not be precisely the same as if the net assets of the funds or pools had been
valued using the procedures employed by the Fund to value its own assets.
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Loan Participations.
The Fund may invest in loan participations. Loan participations may be
structured in different forms, including novations, assignments and participating interests.
By purchasing a loan participation, the Fund acquires some or all of the interest of a bank or
other lending institution in a loan to a particular borrower. The Funds ability to receive
payments of principal and interest and other amounts in connection with loan participations
held by it will depend primarily on the financial condition of the borrower. The failure by
the Fund to receive scheduled interest or principal payments on a loan participation would
adversely affect the income of the Fund and would likely reduce the value of its assets, which
would be reflected in a reduction in the Funds net asset value. In addition, loan
participations generally are subject to restrictions on transfer, and only limited
opportunities may exist to sell such participations in secondary markets. As a result, the
Fund may be unable to sell loan participations at a time when it may otherwise be desirable to
do so or may be able to sell them only at a price that is less than their fair market value.
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Repurchase Agreements.
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements. Repurchase agreements
may be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities subject to
repurchase. The Funds investment return on such assets will depend on the counterparties
willingness and ability to perform their obligations under the repurchase agreements. If the
seller of a repurchase agreement defaults, the Fund could realize a loss on the sale of the
underlying security to the extent that the proceeds of sale including accrued interest are
less than the resale price provided in the agreement including interest.
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NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND TECHNIQUES
In addition to the principal investment strategies described in the Principal Investment
Strategies section above, the Fund may at times, but is not required to, use the strategies and
techniques described below, which involve certain special risks. This Prospectus does not attempt
to disclose all of the various investment techniques and types of securities that the Funds
adviser or sub-adviser might use in managing the Fund. As in any mutual fund, investors must rely
on the professional investment judgment and skill of the Funds adviser or sub-adviser.
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Short Sales
. The Fund may sell a security short when the Funds adviser or sub-adviser
anticipates that the price of the security will decline. The Fund may make a profit or incur a
loss depending on whether the market price of the security decreases or increases between the
date of the short sale and the date on which the Fund closes the short position. A short
position will result in a loss if the market price of the security in question increases
between the date when the Fund enters into the short position and the date when the Fund
closes the short position. Such a loss could theoretically be unlimited in a case where such
Fund is unable, for whatever reason, to close out its short position. In addition, short
positions may result in a loss if a portfolio strategy of which the short position is a part
is otherwise unsuccessful.
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When-Issued, Delayed Delivery, and Forward Commitment Transactions.
The Fund may purchase
securities on a when-issued, delayed delivery, or forward commitment basis. These transactions
involve a commitment by the Fund to purchase a security for a predetermined price or yield,
with payments and delivery taking place more than seven days in the future, or after a period
longer than the customary settlement period for that type of security. These transactions may
increase the overall investment exposure for the Fund and involve a risk of loss if the value
of the securities declines prior to the settlement date.
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Securities Loans
.
The Fund may lend portfolio securities to broker-dealers. These
transactions must be fully collateralized at all times, but involve some risk to the Fund if
the other party should default on its obligation and the Fund is delayed or prevented from
recovering the collateral. The Fund may enter into securities loans as a non-principal
investment strategy, as a way to recognize additional current income on securities that it
owns.
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Temporary Defensive Strategies
. At times, the Funds adviser or sub-adviser may judge that
conditions in the securities markets make pursuing the Funds investment strategy inconsistent
with the best interests of its shareholders. At such times, the Funds adviser or sub-adviser
may, but is not required to, take temporary defensive positions that are inconsistent with
the Funds principal investment strategies in attempting to respond to adverse market,
economic, political, or other conditions. In implementing these defensive strategies, the Fund
may invest in investment grade fixed income securities, cash or money market instruments to
any extent the Funds adviser or sub-adviser considers consistent with such defensive
strategies. It is impossible to predict when, or for how long, the Fund would use these
alternate strategies. One risk of taking such temporary defensive positions is that the Fund
may not achieve its investment objective.
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Securities in Default
. The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in debt securities that
are in default. Securities that are in default are subject generally to the risks described
above under Principal Risks of Investing in the Fund High Yield/Junk Bonds Risk, and may
offer little or no prospect for the payment of the full amount of unpaid principal and
interest.
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Other Investments
. The Fund may also invest in other types of securities and utilize a
variety of investment techniques and strategies that are not described in this Prospectus.
These securities and techniques may subject the Fund to additional risks. Please see the SAI
for additional information about the securities and investment techniques described in this
Prospectus and about additional techniques and strategies that may be used by the Fund.
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MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND
The Trust is governed by a Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees of the Trust has retained
Schroders to serve as the Funds adviser. Subject to the control of the applicable Board of
Trustees, Schroders also manages the Funds other affairs and business.
SIMNA Ltd., an affiliate of Schroders, serves as sub-adviser responsible for portfolio management
of the Fund, including the allocation of the Funds investments among asset classes.
Schroders (itself and its predecessors) has been an investment manager since 1962, and serves as
investment adviser to the Fund and as investment adviser to other mutual funds and a broad range of
institutional investors. Schroders plc, Schroders ultimate parent, is a global asset management
company with approximately $[ ] under management as of December 31, 2009. Schroders and its
affiliates have clients that are major financial institutions including banks and insurance
companies, public and private pension funds, endowments and foundations, high net worth
individuals, financial intermediaries and retail investors. Schroders plc has one of the largest
networks of offices of any dedicated asset management company and over 350 portfolio managers and
analysts covering the worlds investment markets.
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Management Fees
. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, [the Fund did not pay any
aggregate management fees], net of applicable expense limitations and/or fee waivers, for
investment management and administration services to Schroders (based on the Funds average
daily net assets). For the services to be rendered by SIMNA Ltd., Schroders (and not the Trust
or the Fund) will pay to SIMNA Ltd. a monthly fee in an amount equal to fifty percent (50%) of
all fees actually paid by the Fund to Schroders for such month, provided that SIMNA Ltd.s fee
for any period will be reduced such that SIMNA Ltd. will bear fifty percent (50%) of any
voluntary fee waiver observed or expense reimbursement borne by Schroders with respect to the
Fund for such period. Schroders has agreed to waive a portion of its management fees through
February 28, 2011.
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Expense Limitations and Waivers.
Schroders has contractually agreed until February 28, 2011
(i) to reduce its management fee compensation by [0.21]% and (ii) if necessary, in order to
limit the expenses of the Funds shares, to pay expenses to the extent that the Total Annual
Fund Operating Expenses of the Fund (other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, interest,
taxes, and extraordinary expenses, which may include typically non-recurring expenses such as,
for example, organizational expenses, litigation expenses, and shareholder meeting expenses)
allocable to each share class of the Fund exceed the following annual rates (based on the
average daily net assets attributable to each of the Funds share classes taken separately): A
Shares: [1.50]%; Advisor Shares: [1.50]%; Investor Shares [1.25]%; and R Shares: [1.75]%.
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Portfolio Management.
The portfolio managers at SIMNA Ltd. named below have primary
responsibility for making investment decisions for the Fund. All investment decisions are made
by a team of investment professionals at SIMNA Ltd. with the portfolio managers named below
having primary responsibility for making investment decisions for the Fund. The portfolio
managers recent professional experience is also shown. The Funds SAI provides additional
information about the portfolio managers compensation, other accounts managed by the
portfolio managers, and the portfolio managers ownership of securities in the Fund.
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NAME
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TITLE
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SINCE
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RECENT PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
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Johanna
Kyrklund,
CFA
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Portfolio Manager
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2008
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Ms. Kyrklund has been with
the Schroders organization
since 2007 and is responsible
for investment on behalf of
all US and UK multi-asset
clients, is a member of the
Global Asset Allocation
Committee and co-fund manager
of Schroders Diversified
Growth Fund. Formerly, fund
manager of Absolute Insight
Tactical Asset Allocation
Fund, a global macro absolute
return fund, at Insight
Investment (2005-2007), and
Head of Asset Allocation in
the UK and fund manager of
the Deutsche tactical asset
allocation fund, Deutsche
Asset Management (1997-2005).
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Michael
Spinks,
CFA
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Portfolio Manager
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2008
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Mr. Spinks has been with the
Schroders organization since
2004 and is responsible for
investment on behalf of all
US and UK multi-asset
clients, is co-fund manager
of Schroders Diversified
Growth Fund and fund manager
of the Diversified Completion
Fund. Formerly, consultant to
investment managers at Watson
Wyatt (1996-2004).
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39
HOW THE FUNDS SHARES ARE PRICED
The Fund calculates the net asset value per share of each of its classes of shares by dividing the
total value of the assets attributable to that class, less its liabilities attributable to that
class, by the number of shares of that class that are outstanding. The Fund values its shares as of
the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the Exchange) (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern
Time) each day the Exchange is open. The Exchange is currently closed on weekend days and on New
Years Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence
Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day.
Securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at prices which, in the
opinion of Schroders, most nearly represent the market values of such securities. Securities for
which market values are not readily available, or for which the Funds adviser or sub-adviser
believes the market value is unreliable (including, for example, certain foreign securities,
thinly-traded securities, IPOs, or when there is a particular event that may affect the value of a
security), are valued by Schroders at their fair values pursuant to guidelines established by the
Board of Trustees, and under the ultimate supervision of the Board of Trustees. A pricing service
may recommend a fair value based generally on prices of comparable securities. Certain securities,
such as various types of options (as described further below), are valued at fair value on the
basis of valuations furnished by broker-dealers or other market intermediaries. It is possible that
fair value prices will be used by the Fund to a significant extent. The value determined for an
investment using the Funds fair value guidelines may differ from recent market prices for the
investment. Reliable market quotations are not considered to be readily available for many bonds
(excluding U.S. Treasury securities), certain preferred stocks, tax-exempt securities and certain
foreign securities. Such securities are valued at fair value, generally on the basis of valuations
furnished by pricing services, which determine valuations for normal, institutional-size trading
units of such securities using methods based on market transactions for comparable securities and
various relationships between securities that are generally recognized by institutional traders.
Below investment grade debt instruments (high yield debt) and emerging markets debt instruments
will generally be valued at prices furnished by pricing services based on the mean of bid and asked
prices supplied by brokers or dealers, although, if the bid-asked spread exceeds five points, that
security will typically be valued at the bid price. Short-term fixed income securities with
remaining maturities of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, unless Schroders believes
another valuation is more appropriate.
If the Funds assets are invested in one or more open-end investment management companies that are
registered under the 1940 Act, the Funds net asset value is calculated based upon the value of the
securities held directly by the Fund and the net asset values of the registered open-end investment
management companies in which the Fund invests, and the prospectuses for these companies explain
the circumstances under which these companies will use fair value pricing.
Unlisted securities for which market quotations are readily available generally are valued at the
most recently reported sale prices on any day or, in the absence of a reported sale price, at
mid-market prices. Options and futures contracts traded on a securities exchange or board of trade
generally are valued at the last reported sales price or, in the absence of a sale, at the closing
mid-market price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Options and futures not traded on
a securities exchange or board of trade for which over-the-counter market quotations are readily
available are generally valued at the most recently reported mid-market price. Credit default and
interest rate swaps are valued at the estimate of the mid-market price, together with other
supporting information. Options on indices or ETF shares are valued at the closing mid-market
price. If such prices are not available, unlisted securities and derivatives are valued by
Schroders pursuant to guidelines established by the Board of Trustees, and under the ultimate
supervision of the Board of Trustees, at their fair values based on quotations from dealers, and if
such quotations are not available, based on factors in the markets where such securities and
derivatives trade, such as security and bond prices, interest rates, and currency exchange rates.
The Fund may invest in foreign securities that are primarily listed on foreign exchanges that trade
on weekends and other days when the Fund does not price its shares. As a result, the value of the
Funds portfolio securities may change on days when the price of the Funds shares is not
calculated. The price of the Funds shares will reflect any such changes when the price of the
Funds shares is next calculated, which is the next day the Exchange is open. The Fund may use fair
value pricing more frequently for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets because, among
other things, most foreign markets close well before the Fund values its securities. The earlier
close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including
broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. The Funds investments may be priced based on
fair values provided by a third-party fair valuation vendor, based on certain factors and
methodologies applied by such vendor, in the event that there is movement in the U.S. market that
exceeds a specific threshold established by the Schroders Fair Value Committee pursuant to
guidelines established by the Board of Trustees, and under the ultimate supervision of the Board of
Trustees. The net asset value of each of the Funds classes of shares may differ from each other
due to differences in the expenses of each of the share classes.
40
TYPES OF SHARES AVAILABLE
A Shares, Advisor Shares, Investor Shares and R Shares are offered in this Prospectus. (A Shares
have an initial sales charge; Advisor Shares, Investor Shares, and R Shares do not have an initial
sales load, but their operating expenses differ from those of A Shares.) Shares of the different
classes are available to eligible investors.
There are two types of expenses related to the Fund: expenses you pay directly (sales load) and
expenses that are deducted from Fund assets:
Expenses you pay directly.
There is a one-time charge that you may pay upon purchase of A Shares of
the Fund called an initial sales load. This charge is designed to provide compensation to your
financial intermediary who has an arrangement with Schroder Fund Advisors Inc. (SFA), the Trusts
distributor, in connection with the sale of the Funds shares to you. It does not necessarily cover
all the fees your financial intermediary may charge you for helping you buy shares in the Fund. R
Shares do not have initial sales loads, but R Shares have higher operating expenses than the other
classes of the Fund. R Shares are subject to a 12b-1 fee of 0.50% (described below), which is
greater than the 12b-1 fee associated with other classes of the Fund. This means you could pay more
in 12b-1 fees over time than the sales loads you would have paid if you had purchased shares of
other classes. Your broker or agent may also charge you a fee for helping you buy shares in the
Fund. Upon purchase of Investor Shares or Advisor Shares, you will not pay a sales load. However,
your broker or agent may also charge you a fee for helping you buy shares in the Fund.
Expenses you pay through the Fund.
The costs of managing and administering the Fund are spread
among shareholders of each class of shares. These operating costs cover such things as investment
management, distribution (Rule 12b-1 fees) and shareholder servicing, custody, auditing,
administrative and transfer agency expenses, and fees and expenses of Trustees.
To compensate SFA for the services it provides and for the expenses it bears in connection with the
distribution of the Funds A Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares, the Fund makes payments to SFA
from the assets attributable to those classes under a distribution plan (the Distribution Plan)
adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. The Distribution Plan is a compensation plan
that provides for payments at annual rates (based on average daily net assets) of 0.25% on A
Shares, 0.25% on Advisor Shares, and 0.50% on R Shares. Because Rule 12b-1 fees are paid out of the
assets of the Funds A Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares on an ongoing basis, they will increase
the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales loads. For
example, R Shares have a higher Rule 12b-1 fee that may cost you more over time than paying the
initial sales load for A Shares. All shareholders of A Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares share in
the expense of Rule 12b-1 fees paid by their class; however, because these shareholders hold their
shares through varying arrangements they may not share equally in the benefits of the Distribution
Plan. It is expected that all or a substantial portion of the payments made to SFA under the
Distribution Plan applicable to the Funds R shares will be paid to plan administrators and other
intermediaries for distribution and/or shareholder services. Unlike A Shares, Advisor Shares and R
Shares, Investor Shares are not subject to a Rule 12b-1 fee.
Choosing a Share Class.
The Fund offers four share classes: A Shares, Advisor Shares, Investor
Shares, or R Shares. Shares of different classes are available to different eligible investors. The
Funds generally do not have the ability to enforce these limitations on access to the different
share classes. It is the sole responsibility of each financial intermediary to ensure that it only
makes a class of shares available to those categories of investors that qualify for access to such
class. However, the Funds will not knowingly sell a class of shares to any investor not meeting one
of the applicable criteria for that share class.
A Shares have an initial sales load and are only available through certain third-party distribution
channels. When you buy A Shares, the initial sales load is deducted from the amount you invest,
unless you qualify for an initial sales load waiver. This means that less money will be invested in
the Fund immediately. Advisor Shares, Investor Shares and R Shares do not have initial sales loads,
but R Shares have higher ongoing operating expenses than do A Shares.
41
The chart below summarizes the features of the different share classes. This chart is only a
general summary, and you should read the description of the Funds expenses in the Fees and
Expenses section of this Prospectus. You should also consider the effects of any available sales
load waivers.
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Maximum
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Maximum
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Minimum
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Maximum
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Initial Sales
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Contingent
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Initial/Subsequent
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Purchase
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Charge
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Deferred
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Annual 12b-1
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Purchase Amount
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Amount
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(Load)
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Sales Load
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Fee
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A Shares
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$
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2,500
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(1)
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None
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4.50
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%(2)
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None
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0.25
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%
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Advisor Shares
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$
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2,500/$1,000
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(1)
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None
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None
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None
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0.25
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%
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Investor Shares
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$
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250,000/$1,000
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(1)
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None
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None
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None
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None
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R Shares
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$
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1,000
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None
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None
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None
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0.50
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%
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(1)
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A $100 minimum subsequent purchase amount applies for automatic investment plans.
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(2)
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As discussed below, the initial sales load with respect to A Shares may be waived in certain
circumstances.
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The Trust may, in its sole discretion, waive the minimum initial or subsequent investment amounts
for share purchases by specific investors or types of investors, including, without limitation:
employee benefit plans, employer-sponsored retirement plans, an employee of Schroders, any of its
affiliates or a financial intermediary authorized to sell shares of the Fund, or such employees
spouse or life partner, or children or step-children age 21 or younger; investment advisory clients
of Schroders; and current or former Trustees. For share purchases made through certain fund
networks or other financial intermediaries, the investment minimums associated with the policies
and programs of the fund network or financial intermediary will apply.
The Trust may suspend the offering of Fund shares for any period of time. The Trust may change or
waive any investment minimum from time to time.
A Shares.
You may purchase A Shares of the Fund through broker-dealers and certain other
third-party financial intermediaries that have an arrangement with SFA. You must make a minimum
initial investment of $2,500. When you buy A Shares, you pay an initial sales load at the time of
your investment, which is included in the offering price. This fee is deducted from the amount you
invest, and the remainder of your purchase price is used to buy shares in the Fund. The initial
sales load varies depending upon the size of your purchase, as set forth below. You may be eligible
to have the initial sales load waived under certain circumstances. It is the responsibility of your
financial intermediary to ensure that you obtain the proper breakpoint discount. In addition, A
Shares are subject to a 12b-1 fee of 0.25%.
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Reallowance
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Reallowance to
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payable to SFA as
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Amount of Purchase
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Sales Load as a % of
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selected dealers as
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% of offering
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Payment
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Offering Price
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% of offering price
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price
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Less than $50,000
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4.50
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%
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4.00
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%
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0.50
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%
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$50,000 to $99,999
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4.00
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%
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3.50
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%
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0.50
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%
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$100,000 to $249,999
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3.50
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%
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3.00
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%
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0.50
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%
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$250,000 to $499,999
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2.50
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%
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2.00
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%
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0.50
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%
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$500,000 to $999,999
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2.00
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%
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1.75
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%
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0.25
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%
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$1,000,000 or more
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|
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0.00
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%
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0.00
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%
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0.00
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%
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A Shares may be purchased without initial sales loads by: (i) investment advisory clients of
Schroders; (ii) current or former Trustees; (iii) trustees or custodians of any employee benefit
plan or employer-sponsored retirement plan, IRA, Keogh plan, or trust established for the benefit
of an employee or officer of Schroders and any of its affiliates; (iv) any trust company or bank
trust department exercising discretionary investment authority and holding unallocated accounts in
a fiduciary, agency, custodial, or similar capacity; and (v) certain financial intermediaries such
as broker-dealers, financial institutions, and registered investment advisers and their investors
who buy through accounts established with certain fee-based investment advisers or financial
planners, wrap fee accounts and other managed agency/asset allocation accounts.
In addition, an employee benefit plan or employer-sponsored retirement plan is eligible to purchase
A Shares without a sales load if its plan administrator or dealer of record has entered into an
agreement with Schroders or SFA. You may also qualify for a reduced initial sales load through the
Rights of Accumulation program and through investment by a letter of intent.
42
Rights of Accumulation.
To reduce your initial sales load on A Shares, you may combine subsequent A
Share purchases with your current A Share holdings. You may also include shares held by your spouse
and minor children. However, you may not include A Shares that are not subject to a sales load.
Specifically, if the sales load on A Shares has been waived or the shares were purchased through
the reinvestment of dividends and distributions, these shares may not be included. Simply notify
the financial intermediary through whom you purchase your shares that your purchase will qualify
for a reduction in the initial sales load and provide the names and account numbers of the family
members whose holdings are to be included.
Investment by Letter of Intent.
An investor who intends to invest over a 13-month period the
minimum amount required to reduce the initial sales load on each intended purchase of A Shares of
the Fund may do so by providing a letter of intent. The initial sales load for each purchase will
be at the reduced rate that would apply if the full investment were made at one time. You can
include purchases by your spouse and minor children in order to obtain the sales load discount.
However, you cannot include shares that are not subject to a sales load, such as shares purchased
through the reinvestment of dividends and distributions. A letter of intent is not available for
SIMPLE IRAs or qualified retirement plans administered by State Street Bank and Trust Company or
ExpertPlan, Inc. Shares purchased or held through an employee benefit plan or employer-sponsored
retirement plan do not count for purposes of determining whether an investor has qualified for a
reduced initial sales load through the use of a letter of intent.
In order to obtain the sales load discount, you should inform your financial intermediary at the
time you purchase shares of the existence of other accounts or purchases that are eligible to be
linked for purposes of calculating the initial sales charge. The Fund or your financial
intermediary may ask you for records or other information about other shares held in your accounts
and linked accounts, including accounts opened with a different financial intermediary.
Restrictions may apply to certain accounts and transactions.
Completion of a letter of intent does not bind a shareholder to buy the entire intended investment
amount. However, the Funds transfer agent (BFDS) will escrow shares valued at 5% of the intended
investment amount to ensure payment of additional initial sales loads if the intended purchases are
not made and the shareholder fails to pay the additional initial sales loads within 20 days after
BFDS requests payment.
Further details about sales loads are available in the SAI.
Advisor Shares.
Advisor Shares are only available through a service organization, such as a bank,
trust company, broker-dealer, or other financial organization, that charges an advisory fee,
management fee, consulting fee, fee in lieu of brokerage commissions or other similar fee for their
services for the shareholder account (a Service Organization), provided it has an arrangement
with SFA. The Trust sells Advisor Shares at their net asset value without any sales charges or
loads, so that the full amount of your purchase payment is invested in the Fund. Advisor Shares of
the Fund are intended for purchase by investors making a minimum initial investment of $2,500
through a regular account or a traditional or Roth IRA account and purchasing through a Service
Organization. Advisor Shares are subject to a 12b-1 fee of 0.25%.
Investor Shares.
Investor Shares are generally available to direct clients of Schroders or its
affiliates who meet the high investment minimum of $250,000 or investors meeting the minimum and
who are clients of certain financial intermediaries having an arrangement with SFA.
R Shares.
R Shares are offered only through employee benefit plans or employer-sponsored retirement
plans (except a SIMPLE IRA, SEP or SARSEP plan). An employee benefit plan or employer-sponsored
retirement plan means any plan or arrangement, whether or not it is qualified under the Code,
under which R Shares are purchased by a fiduciary or administrator for the account of participants
who are employees of a single employer or of affiliated employers. These may include, for example,
401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, and health savings accounts. The Fund accounts must be registered in
the name of the fiduciary or administrator purchasing the shares for the benefit of participants in
the plan.
The procedures for buying, selling, exchanging and transferring other classes of shares and the
special account features available to purchasers or those other classes of shares described
elsewhere in this Prospectus do not apply to R Shares.
43
HOW TO BUY SHARES
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A Shares and Advisor Shares
: You may purchase A Shares of the Fund from broker-dealers and
certain other financial intermediaries having an arrangement with SFA. You may be eligible to
purchase Advisor Shares of the Fund if you are a client of a Service Organization having an
arrangement with SFA. If you do not have a financial intermediary or Service Organization, SFA
can provide you with a list of available firms. Your financial intermediary or Service
Organization is responsible for forwarding all of the necessary documentation to the Trust,
and may charge you separately for its services.
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The purchase, redemption and exchange policies and fees charged by such financial intermediaries
or Service Organizations may be different than those of the Fund. For instance, banks, brokers,
retirement plans and financial advisers may charge transaction fees in addition to any fees
charged by the Fund, and may set different minimums or limitations on buying, exchanging, or
redeeming shares. Please consult a representative of your financial intermediary or Service
Organization for further information.
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Investor Shares
: If you meet the initial $250,000 investment minimum, you may purchase
Investor Shares of the Fund by completing the Account Application that accompanies this
Prospectus, providing the completed Account Application to your Schroders representative, and
sending payment by check or wire as described below. You may also buy and exchange Investor
Shares of the Fund through an authorized broker or other financial institution that has an
agreement with Schroders or SFA. The purchase and exchange policies and fees charged by such
brokers and other institutions may be different than those of the Fund. For instance, banks,
brokers, retirement plans and financial advisers may charge transaction fees and may set
different investment minimums or limitations on buying or exchanging Investor Shares. Please
consult a representative of your financial institution for further information.
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R Shares
: Employee benefit plans and employer-sponsored retirement plans may purchase R
Shares. Although R Shares may be purchased by a plan administrator directly from the Trust,
specified benefit plans that purchase R Shares directly from SFA must hold their shares in an
omnibus account at the benefit plan level. Plan participants may not directly purchase R
Shares from SFA. For information on how to buy shares of the Fund through your employers
retirement plan, including any restrictions and charges that the plan may impose, or any tax
implications with respect to such sale, please consult your employer or plan administrator.
|
Acceptance of your order may be delayed pending receipt of additional documentation, such as copies
of corporate resolutions and instruments of authority from corporations, administrators, executors,
personal representatives, directors, or custodians.
The Fund sells its shares at their net asset value next determined after the Fund, BFDS, or an
authorized broker or financial institution (as described below) receives your request in good order
(meaning that the request meets the requirements set out below and, if applicable, in the Account
Application that accompanies this Prospectus, and otherwise meets the requirements implemented from
time to time by the Funds transfer agent or the Fund). In order for you to receive the Funds next
determined net asset value, the Fund, BFDS or the authorized broker or financial institution must
receive your order before the close of trading on the Exchange
(normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time), and the broker or financial
institution must subsequently communicate the order properly to the
Fund. Because financial intermediaries and Services Organizations processing times may vary, please ask
your financial intermediary or Services Organization, if any, when your account will be credited.
The Trust reserves the right to reject any order to purchase shares of the Fund. The Trust
generally expects to inform any persons that their purchase has been rejected within 24 hours.
Certain plan administrators, brokers or other financial institutions may accept purchase orders for
A Shares, Advisor Shares, Investor Shares, or R Shares on behalf of the Fund. Such brokers or
financial institutions may designate other intermediaries to accept purchase orders on behalf of
the Fund. For purposes of pricing, the Fund will be deemed to have received a purchase order when a
plan administrator, broker or financial institution or, if applicable, an authorized designee,
receives the order, provided that the broker or financial institution
subsequently communicates the order properly to the Fund. Orders received in good order prior to the close of the Exchange on any day the Exchange
is open for trading will receive the net asset value next determined as of the end of that day.
Orders received after that time will receive the next days net asset value. Because these
intermediaries processing times may vary, please ask your plan administrator or financial
intermediary when your account will be credited. Plan administrators, brokers or other financial
institutions and their designees may charge investors a fee for effecting transactions in shares of
the Fund, in addition to any fees the Fund charges.
44
The Fund does not issue share certificates.
Purchases by check.
If you are eligible to purchase Investor Shares, you should mail a check (in
U.S. dollars) payable to the Fund at the address specified below. Schroder Mutual Funds will not
accept third-party checks or starter checks. You should direct your check and your completed
Account Application as follows:
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|
REGULAR MAIL
|
|
OVERNIGHT OR EXPRESS MAIL
|
Schroder Mutual Funds
|
|
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc.
|
P.O. Box 8507
|
|
Attn: Schroder Mutual Funds
|
Boston, MA 02266
|
|
66 Brooks Drive
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|
|
Braintree, MA 02184
|
For initial purchases, a completed Account Application must accompany your check.
Purchases by bank wire.
You may purchase Investor Shares by making your initial investment by wire.
A completed Account Application must precede your order. Upon receipt of the Application, BFDS will
assign you an account number. BFDS will process wire orders received prior to the close of trading
on the Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time) on each day the Exchange is open for trading at
the net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. BFDS will process wire orders
received after that time at the net asset value next determined thereafter.
Please call BFDS at (800) 464-3108 to give notice that you will send funds by wire, and obtain a
wire reference number. (From outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and ask to speak
with a Schroder Mutual Funds representative.) Please be sure to obtain a wire reference number.
Instruct your bank to wire funds with the assigned reference number as follows:
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State Street Bank and Trust Company
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Boston, Massachusetts 02110
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Attn: Schroder Mutual Funds
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FBO: Account Registration
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A/C: Mutual Fund Account Number
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BFDS will not process your purchase until it receives the wired funds.
Automatic purchases.
You can make regular investments of $100 or more per month or quarter in
Investor Shares of the Fund through automatic deductions from your bank account. Please complete
the appropriate section of the Account Application if you would like to utilize this option. For
more information, please call (800) 464-3108. If you purchase A Shares through certain financial
intermediaries or Advisor Shares through a Service Organization, your firm may also provide
automatic purchase options. Please contact your financial intermediary or Service Organization for
details.
Purchases in kind.
Investors may purchase A Shares, Advisor Shares or Investor Shares of the Fund
for cash or in exchange for securities, subject to the determination by Schroders in its discretion
that the securities are acceptable and that such a transaction is in the best interests of the
Fund. (For purposes of determining whether securities will be acceptable, Schroders will consider,
among other things, whether they are liquid securities of a type consistent with the investment
objective and policies of the Fund and have a readily ascertainable value.) If the Fund receives
securities from an investor in exchange for A Shares, Advisor Shares or Investor Shares of the
Fund, the Fund will under some circumstances have the same tax basis in the securities as the
investor had prior to the exchange (and the Funds gain for tax purposes would be calculated with
regard to the investors tax basis), and in such cases the Funds holding period in those
securities would include the investors holding period. Any gain on the sale of securities received
in exchange for A Shares, Advisor Shares or Investor Shares of the Fund would be subject to
distribution as capital gain to all of the Funds shareholders. (In some circumstances, receipt of
securities from an investor in exchange for A Shares, Advisor Shares or Investor Shares of the Fund
may be a taxable transaction to the investor, in which case the Funds tax basis in the securities
would reflect the fair market value of the securities on the date of the exchange, and its holding
period in the securities would begin on that date.) The Fund values securities accepted by
Schroders in the same manner as are the Funds portfolio securities as of the time of the next
determination of the Funds net asset value. Although the Fund seeks to determine the fair value of
securities contributed to the
45
Fund, any valuation that does not reflect fair value may dilute the interests of the purchasing
shareholder or the other shareholders of the Fund. All rights reflected in the market price of
accepted securities at the time of valuation become the property of the Fund and must be delivered
to the Fund upon receipt by the investor. Investors may realize a taxable gain or loss upon the
exchange. Investors interested in purchases through exchange should telephone Schroders at (800)
464-3108, their Schroders client representative, or other financial intermediary. Investors may not
purchase R Shares in exchange for securities.
Certain payments by Schroders or its affiliates.
SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates may, at their
own expense and out of their own assets, provide compensation to financial intermediaries in
connection with sales of Fund shares or shareholder servicing. In some instances, they may make
this compensation available only to certain intermediaries who have sold or are expected to sell
significant amounts of shares of the Fund. If you purchase or sell shares through an intermediary,
the intermediary may charge a separate fee for its services. Consult your intermediary for
information. See Payments to Financial Intermediaries below. In addition, employees of Schroders who are registered representatives of SFA may be more favorably
compensated in respect of sales of some Funds than others; the identity of those Funds may change
from time to time in Schroders discretion. Those employees would have a financial incentive to
promote the sales of those Funds for which they are more highly compensated.
If correspondence to the shareholders address of record is returned, then, unless BFDS determines
the shareholders new address, BFDS will reinvest dividends and other distributions returned to it
in the Fund, and if the correspondence included checks, the checks will be canceled and
re-deposited to the shareholders account at then-current net asset value.
HOW TO SELL SHARES
When you may redeem.
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A Shares and Advisor Shares:
You may sell your A Shares or Advisor Shares back to the
Fund on any day the Exchange is open through your financial intermediary or Service
Organization. The financial intermediary or Service Organization may charge you a fee for
its services. Redemption requests received in good order by your financial intermediary or
Service Organization or another authorized broker or financial institution (as described
below) prior to the close of the Exchange on any day the Exchange is open for trading (and subsequently communicated properly to the Fund by the broker or financial institution) will
be priced at the net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. Orders received
after that time will receive the next days net asset value. Please contact your financial
intermediary or Service Organization for instructions on how to place redemption requests.
Because financial intermediary or Service Organizations processing times may vary, please
ask your financial intermediary or Service Organization when your account will be debited. A
redemption request is in good order if it includes the exact name in which the shares are
registered, the investors account number, and the number of shares or the dollar amount of
shares to be redeemed, and, for written requests, if it is signed in accordance with the
account registration, although in certain circumstances you may need to submit additional
documentation to redeem your shares. A bank, broker-dealer, or certain other financial
institutions must guarantee the signature(s) of all account holders for any redemption
request in excess of $50,000. The Stamp 2000 Medallion Guarantee is the only acceptable form
of guarantee. An investor can obtain this signature guarantee from a commercial bank,
savings bank, credit union, or broker-dealer that participates in one of the Medallion
signature guarantee programs. You may redeem your shares by telephone only if you elected
the telephone redemption privilege option in writing. Telephone redemption proceeds will be
sent only to you at an address on record with the Fund for at least 30 days. Unless
otherwise agreed, you may only exercise the telephone redemption privilege to redeem shares
worth not more than $50,000. In certain circumstances, you may need to submit additional
documentation to redeem your shares.
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The Fund will pay you for your redemptions as promptly as possible and in any event within
seven days after the request for redemption is received in good order. The Fund generally
sends payment for shares on the business day after a request is received, although it may not
always do so. In case of emergencies, the Fund may suspend redemptions or postpone payment for
more than seven days, as permitted by law. If you paid for your shares by check, the Fund will
not send you your redemption proceeds until the check you used to pay for the shares has
cleared, which may take up to 15 calendar days from the purchase date.
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If you redeem shares through your financial intermediary or Service Organization, it is
responsible for ensuring that BFDS receives your redemption request in proper form. If your
financial intermediary or Service Organization receives Federal Reserve wires, you may
instruct that your redemption proceeds be forwarded by wire to your account with it; you may
also instruct that your redemption proceeds be forwarded to you by a wire transfer. Please
indicate your financial intermediary or Service Organizations or your own complete wiring
instructions. Your financial intermediary or Service Organization may charge you separately
for this service.
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Investor Shares:
You may sell your Investor Shares back to the Fund on any day the
Exchange is open by sending a letter of instruction or stock power form to Schroder Mutual
Funds, or by calling BFDS at (800) 464-3108. Redemption requests received in good order by
Schroder Mutual Funds, BFDS, or an authorized broker or financial institution (as described
below) prior to the close of the Exchange on any day the Exchange is
open for trading (and subsequently communicated properly to the Fund
by the broker or financial institution) will
be priced at the net asset value next determined as of the end of that day. Orders received
after that time will receive the next days net asset value. A redemption request is in good
order if it includes the exact name in which the shares are registered, the investors
account number, and the number of shares or the dollar amount of shares to be redeemed, and,
for written requests, if it is signed in accordance with the account registration, although
in certain circumstances you may need to submit additional documentation to redeem your
shares. A bank, broker-dealer, or certain other financial institutions must guarantee the
signature(s) of all account holders for any redemption request in excess of $50,000. The
Stamp 2000 Medallion Guarantee is the only acceptable form of guarantee. An investor can
obtain this signature guarantee from a commercial bank, savings bank, credit union, or
broker-dealer that participates in one of the Medallion signature guarantee programs. You
may redeem your shares by telephone only if you elected the telephone redemption privilege
option on your Account Application or otherwise in writing. Telephone redemption proceeds
will be sent only to you at an address on record with the Fund for at least 30 days. Unless
otherwise agreed, you may only exercise the telephone redemption privilege to redeem shares
worth not more than $50,000. In certain circumstances, you may need to submit additional
documentation to redeem your shares.
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The Fund will meet redemption requests as promptly as possible and in any event within seven
days after the request for redemption is received in good order. The Fund generally sends
payment for shares on the business day after a request is received, although it may not always
do so. In case of emergencies, the Fund may suspend redemptions or postpone payment for more
than seven days, as permitted by law. If you paid for your Investor Shares by check, the Fund
will not send you your redemption proceeds until the check you used to pay for the shares has
cleared, which may take up to 15 calendar days from the purchase date.
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You may also redeem and exchange Investor Shares of the Fund through an authorized broker or
other financial institution that has an agreement with Schroders or SFA. The redemption and
exchange policies and fees charged by such brokers and other institutions may be different
than those of the Fund. For instance, banks, brokers, retirement plans and financial advisers
may charge transaction fees and may set different investment minimums or limitations on
exchanging or redeeming Investor Shares. Please consult a representative of your financial
institution for further information.
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R Shares.
For information on how to sell R Shares that were purchased through your
employee benefit plan or employer-sponsored retirement plan, including any restrictions and
charges that the plan may impose, please consult your employer or plan administrator. In
certain circumstances, you may need to submit additional documentation to redeem your
shares.
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Certain brokers or other financial institutions may accept redemption orders for A Shares, Advisor
Shares or Investor Shares on behalf of the Fund. Such brokers or financial institutions may
designate other intermediaries to accept redemption orders on behalf of the Fund. For purposes of
pricing, the Fund will be deemed to have received a redemption order when an authorized broker or
financial institution or, if applicable, a broker or financial institutions authorized designee,
receives the order, provided that the broker or financial institution
subsequently communicates the order properly to the Fund. Orders received in good order prior
to the close of the Exchange on any day the Exchange is open for trading will receive the net asset
value next determined as of the end of that day. Orders received after that time will receive the
next days net asset value.
Brokers or other agents may charge investors a fee for effecting transactions in shares of the
Fund, in addition to any fees the Fund charges. Plan administrators or other agents may charge
investors a fee for effecting transactions in R Shares of the Fund, in addition to any fees the
Fund charges.
Involuntary redemptions.
If, because of your redemptions, an account balance for the Fund falls
below a minimum amount set by the Fund (presently $2,000), the Trust may choose to redeem the
shares in the account and pay you for them. A shareholder will receive at least 30 days written
notice before the Trust redeems such shares, and the shareholder may purchase additional shares of
its share class at any time to avoid a redemption. The Trust may also redeem shares in an account
if the account holds shares of the Fund above a maximum amount set by the Trustees. There is
currently no maximum, but the Trustees may establish one at any time, which could apply to both
present and future shareholders.
47
Suspension.
The Trust may suspend the right of redemption of the Fund or postpone payment by the
Fund during any period when: (1) trading on the Exchange is restricted, as determined by the SEC,
or the Exchange is closed; (2) the SEC has by order permitted such suspension; or (3) an emergency
(as defined by rules of the SEC) exists, making disposal of portfolio investments or determination
of the Funds net asset value not reasonably practicable.
Redemptions in kind.
The Trust may redeem in kind, but does not expect to do so under normal
circumstances. If a Trust redeems your shares in kind, you should expect to incur brokerage
expenses and other transaction costs upon the disposition of the securities you receive from the
Fund. In addition, the price of those securities may change between the time when you receive the
securities and the time when you are able to dispose of them. The Trust may pay redemption proceeds
in any amount with respect to the Fund in whole or in part by a distribution in kind of securities
held by the Fund in lieu of cash.
General.
In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent redemption requests by telephone, BFDS
will follow reasonable procedures to confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. BFDS and the
Trust generally will not be liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent purchase or
redemption requests, but the applicable party or parties may be liable if they do not follow these
procedures. In certain circumstances, you may need to submit additional documentation to redeem
your shares.
Redemption fee.
The Fund imposes a 2.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed (including in connection
with an exchange) two months or less from their date of purchase. The fee is not a sales charge
(load); it is paid directly to the Fund. The purpose of the redemption fee is principally to
discourage market timing, and also to help defray costs incurred by the Fund in connection with
short-term trading by investors in its shares.
To the extent that the redemption fee applies, the price you will receive when you redeem your
shares of the Fund is the net asset value next determined after receipt of your redemption request
in good order, minus the redemption fee. The Fund permits exceptions to the redemption fee policy
for the following transactions:
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to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the intermediary
agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected clients, redemptions
or exchanges by discretionary asset allocation or wrap programs (wrap programs) that are
initiated by the sponsor of the program as part of a periodic rebalancing, provided that
such rebalancing occurs no more frequently than quarterly, or, if more frequent, was the
result of an extraordinary change in the management or operation of the wrap program leading
to a revised investment model that is applied across all applicable accounts in the wrap
program;
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to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the intermediary
agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected clients, redemptions
or exchanges by a wrap program that are made as a result of a full withdrawal from the wrap
program or as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
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to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the intermediary
agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected clients, the following
transactions in participant-directed retirement plans:
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where the shares being redeemed were purchased with new contributions to the
plan (
e.g.
, payroll contributions, employer contributions, and loan repayments);
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redemptions made in connection with taking out a loan from the plan;
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redemptions in connection with death, disability, hardship withdrawals, or Qualified Domestic Relations Orders;
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redemptions made as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
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redemptions made by a defined contribution plan in connection with a termination or restructuring of the plan;
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redemptions made in connection with a participants termination of employment; and
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redemptions made as part of a periodic rebalancing under an asset allocation model.
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involuntary redemptions, such as those resulting from a shareholders failure to maintain
a minimum investment in the Fund;
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redemptions of shares acquired through the reinvestment of dividends or distributions
paid by the Fund;
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redemptions and exchanges effected by other mutual funds (
e.g.
, funds of funds) that are
sponsored by Schroders or its affiliates;
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to the extent the Fund is used as a qualified default investment alternative under the
Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 for certain 401(k) plans; and
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otherwise as the officers of Schroders or the applicable Trust may determine is
appropriate after consideration of the purpose of the transaction and the potential impact
to the Fund.
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The application of the redemption fee and exceptions may vary among intermediaries, and certain
intermediaries may not apply the exceptions listed above. If you purchase or sell fund shares
through an intermediary, you should contact your intermediary for more information on whether the
redemption fee will be applied to redemptions of your shares.
For purposes of computing the redemption fee, redemptions by a shareholder to which the fee applies
will be deemed to have been made on a first-purchased, first-redeemed basis.
EXCHANGES
You cannot currently exchange your Investor Shares, A Shares or your Advisor Shares of the Fund for
shares of other Schroder funds. For information regarding the exchange of R Shares, please consult
your employer or plan administrator.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
The Fund declares dividends from net investment income and distributes these dividends annually.
The Fund distributes any net investment income and any net realized capital gain at least annually.
The Fund makes distributions from net capital gain after applying any available capital loss
carryovers.
You can choose from four distribution options:
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Reinvest all distributions in additional shares of your share class of the Fund;
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Receive distributions from net investment income in cash while reinvesting capital gains
distributions in additional shares of your share class of the Fund;
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Receive distributions from net investment income in additional shares of your share class
of the Fund while receiving capital gain distributions in cash; or
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Receive all distributions in cash.
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You can change your distribution option by notifying your financial intermediary or Services
Organization or, for Investor Shares notifying BFDS, in writing. If you do not select an option
when you open your account, all distributions by the Fund will be reinvested in additional shares
of your share class of the Fund. You will receive a statement confirming reinvestment of
distributions in additional Fund shares promptly following the period in which the reinvestment
occurs. If you own A Shares of the Fund, you will not be charged an initial sales load on shares
purchased through reinvestment of dividends and distributions.
49
FREQUENT PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS OF FUND SHARES
Excessive trading can hurt Fund performance, operations, and shareholders. The Board of Trustees of
the Fund has adopted policies and procedures with respect to frequent purchases and redemptions of
Fund shares by Fund shareholders. The Fund discourages, and does not accommodate, frequent
purchases and redemptions of the Funds shares to the extent Schroders believes that such trading
is harmful to the Funds shareholders, although the Fund will not necessarily prevent all frequent
trading in its shares. The Fund reserves the right, in its discretion, to reject any purchase, in
whole or in part (including, without limitation, purchases by persons whose trading activity
Schroders believes could be harmful to the Fund). The Trust or Schroders may also limit the amount
or number of exchanges or reject any purchase by exchange if the Trust or Schroders believes that
the investor in question is engaged in market timing activities or similar activities that may be
harmful to the Fund or its shareholders, although the Trust and Schroders have not established any
maximum amount or number of such exchanges that may occur in any period. The Trust generally
expects to inform any persons that their purchase has been rejected within 24 hours. In addition,
the Board of Trustees of the Fund has established a 2.00% redemption fee for shares of the Fund
held for two months or less from their date of purchase. See How to Sell Shares Redemption Fee
for further information. The ability of Schroders to monitor trades that are placed through omnibus
or other nominee accounts is limited in those instances in which the broker, retirement plan
administrator, or fee-based program sponsor does not provide complete information to Schroders
regarding underlying beneficial owners of Fund shares. The Trust or its distributor enters into
written agreements with financial intermediaries who hold omnibus accounts that require the
intermediaries to provide certain information to the Trust regarding shareholders who hold shares
through such accounts and to restrict or prohibit trading in Fund shares by shareholders identified
by the Trust as having engaged in trades that violate the Trusts market timing policies. The
Trust or Schroders may take any steps they consider appropriate in respect of frequent trading in
omnibus accounts, including seeking additional information from the holder of the omnibus account
or potentially closing the omnibus account (although there can be no assurance that the Trust or
Schroders would do so). Please see the SAI for additional information on frequent purchases and
redemptions of Fund shares. There can be no assurance that the Fund or Schroders will identify all
harmful purchase or redemption activity, or market timing or similar activities, affecting the
Fund, or that the Fund or Schroders will be successful in limiting or eliminating such activities.
PAYMENTS TO FINANCIAL INTERMEDIARIES
SFA, Schroders or any of their affiliates, may, from time to time, make payments to financial
intermediaries for sub-administration, sub-transfer agency, or other shareholder services or
distribution, out of their own resources and without additional cost to a Fund or its shareholders.
For A Shares, Advisor Shares, and R Shares, these payments may be in addition to payments made with
12b-1 fees or sales loads. Financial intermediaries are firms that, for compensation, sell shares
of mutual funds, including the Fund, and/or provide certain administrative and account maintenance
services to mutual fund shareholders. These financial intermediaries may include, among others,
brokers, financial planners or advisers, banks, and insurance companies.
In some cases, a financial intermediary may hold its clients shares of the Fund in nominee or
street name. Financial intermediaries may also provide shareholder services, which may include,
among other things: processing and mailing trade confirmations, periodic statements, prospectuses,
annual and semiannual reports, shareholder notices, and other SEC-required communications;
processing tax data; issuing and mailing dividend checks to shareholders who have selected cash
distributions; preparing record date shareholder lists for proxy solicitations; collecting and
posting distributions to shareholder accounts; and establishing and maintaining systematic
withdrawals and automated investment plans and shareholder account registrations.
The compensation paid by SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates to an intermediary is typically paid
continually over time, during the period when the intermediarys clients hold investments in the
Fund. The amount of continuing compensation paid by SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates to
different financial intermediaries for distribution and/or shareholder services varies. In most
cases, the compensation is paid at an annual rate ranging up to 0.45% (0.00% to 0.45%) of the value
of the financial intermediarys clients investments in the Fund. The amounts do not include sales
loads or any dealer reallowances on A Shares. In addition, SFA, Schroders, or their affiliates may
also pay financial intermediaries one-time charges for setting up access for the Funds on
particular platforms, as well as transaction fees, or per position fees.
SFA or its affiliates, at their own expense and out of their own assets, also may provide other
compensation to financial intermediaries in connection with conferences, sales, or training
programs for their employees, seminars for the public, advertising or sales campaigns, or other
financial intermediary-sponsored special events. In some instances, the compensation may be made
available only to certain financial intermediaries whose representatives have sold or are expected
to sell significant amounts of shares. Intermediaries that are registered broker-dealers may not
use sales of Fund shares to qualify for this compensation to the extent prohibited by the laws or
rules of any state or any self-regulatory agency, such as FINRA.
If payments to financial intermediaries by the distributor or adviser for a particular mutual fund
complex exceed payments by other mutual fund complexes, your financial adviser and the financial
intermediary employing him or her may have an incentive to recommend that fund complex over others.
Please speak with your financial adviser to learn more about the total amounts paid to your
financial adviser and his or her firm by SFA and its affiliates, and by sponsors of other mutual
funds he or she may recommend to you. You should also consult disclosures made by your financial
intermediary at the time of purchase.
50
TAXES
Taxes on dividends and distributions.
For federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment
income (including from municipal bonds, unless the Fund meets applicable holdings requirements that
it does not expect to meet) are taxed as ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains
are determined by how long the Fund owned the investments that generated the gains, rather than how
long you have owned your shares. Distributions of net capital gains from the sale of investments
that the Fund has held for more than one year and that are properly designated by the Fund as
capital gain dividends will be taxable as long-term capital gains. Distributions of gains from the
sale of investments that the Fund owned for one year or less and gains on the sale of bonds
characterized as a market discount sale will be taxable as ordinary income. For taxable years
beginning before January 1, 2011, distributions of investment income designated by the Fund as
derived from qualified dividend income will be taxed in the hands of individuals at rates
applicable to long-term capital gains, provided holding period and other requirements are met at
both the shareholder and Fund level.
Distributions are taxable to shareholders even if they are paid from income or gains earned by the
Fund before a shareholders investment (and thus were included in the price the shareholder paid).
Distributions are taxable whether shareholders receive them in cash or reinvest them in additional
shares.
Distributions by the Fund to retirement plans that qualify for tax-exempt treatment under federal
income tax laws will not be taxable. Special tax rules apply to investments through such plans. You
should consult your tax advisor to determine the suitability of the Fund as an investment through
such a plan and the tax treatment of distributions (including distributions of amounts attributable
to an investment in the Fund) from such a plan.
The Funds investment in certain debt obligations, hedging transactions and derivatives may cause
the Fund to recognize taxable income in excess of the cash generated by such obligations. Thus, the
Fund could be required at times to liquidate other investments, including at times when it may not
be advantageous to do so, in order to satisfy its distribution requirements.
In general, dividends (other than capital gain dividends) paid to a shareholder that is not a U.S.
person within the meaning of the Code (a foreign person), are subject to withholding of U.S.
federal income tax at a rate of 30% (or lower applicable treaty rate). However, effective for
taxable years of the Fund beginning before January 1, 2010, the Fund generally will not be required
to withhold any amounts with respect to distributions of (i) U.S.-source interest income that, in
general, would not be subject to U.S. federal income tax if earned directly by an individual
foreign person, and (ii) net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term capital losses, in
each case to the extent such distributions are properly designated by the Fund.
Long-term capital gain rates applicable to individuals have been temporarily reduced in general,
to 15% with lower rates applying to taxpayers in the 10% and 15% rate brackets for taxable years
beginning before January 1, 2011.
Taxes when you sell, redeem or exchange your shares
. Any gain resulting from a redemption, sale or
exchange (including an exchange for shares of another fund) of your shares in the Fund will also
generally be subject to federal income tax at either short-term or long-term capital gain rates
depending on how long you have owned your shares.
Foreign taxes.
The Funds investments in foreign securities may be subject to foreign withholding
or other taxes. In that case, the Funds return on those securities would be decreased.
Shareholders of the Fund generally will not be entitled to claim a credit or deduction with respect
to foreign taxes. In addition, investments in foreign securities may increase or accelerate the
Funds recognition of ordinary income and may affect the timing or amount of the Funds
distributions.
Derivatives.
The Funds use of derivatives may affect the amount, timing, and character of
distributions to shareholders and, therefore, may increase the amount of taxes payable by
shareholders.
Fund of Funds Structure.
Special tax consequences may apply to shareholders of the Fund as a result
of its investments in other funds. Please see the SAI under TAXES for more information.
Consult your tax advisor about other possible tax consequences
. This is a summary of certain U.S.
federal income tax consequences of investing in the Fund. You should consult your tax advisor for
more information on your own tax situation, including possible other federal, state, local and
foreign tax consequences of investing in the Fund.
DISCLOSURES OF FUND PORTFOLIO INFORMATION
Please see the Funds SAI for a description of the Funds policies and procedures regarding the
persons to whom the Fund or Schroders may disclose the Funds portfolio securities positions, and
under which circumstances.
51
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The financial highlights below are intended to help you understand the financial performance of the
Fund since its inception. Certain information reflects financial results for a single Fund share.
The total returns represent the total return for an investment in a particular class of shares of
the Fund, assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions.
For all periods through the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, the financial highlights have been
audited by [ ], independent registered public accountant to the Fund. The audited financial
statements for the Fund and the related independent registered public accountants report are
contained in the Funds Annual Report and are incorporated by reference into the Funds SAI. Copies
of the Annual Report may be obtained without charge by writing the Fund at P.O. Box 8507, Boston,
Massachusetts 02266, or by calling (800) 464-3108. The Funds Annual Report is also available on
the following website: www.schroderfunds.com.
Financial Highlights
Selected Per Share Data and Ratios for a Share Outstanding
Through the Period Ended October 31
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Net
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Net Asset
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Realized
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|
|
|
|
Dividends
|
|
Distributions
|
|
|
Value,
|
|
Net
|
|
and
|
|
Total From
|
|
From Net
|
|
From Net
|
|
|
Beginning
|
|
Investment
|
|
Unrealized
|
|
Investment
|
|
Investment
|
|
Realized
|
Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
|
|
of Period
|
|
Income
|
|
Losses
|
|
Operations
|
|
Income
|
|
Gain
|
Investor Shares
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008(a)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.16
|
(1)
|
|
|
(3.15
|
)
|
|
|
(2.99
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A Shares
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008(a)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.14
|
(1)
|
|
|
(3.14)
|
|
|
|
(3.00
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Advisor Shares
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008(a)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.14
|
(1)
|
|
|
(3.14
|
)
|
|
|
(3.00
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
R Shares
2009
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
|
$
|
|
|
2008(a)
|
|
|
10.00
|
|
|
|
0.12
|
(1)
|
|
|
(3.14
|
)
|
|
|
(3.02
|
)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ratio of
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ratio of Net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Expenses to
|
|
Ratio of
|
|
Investment
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Average Net
|
|
Expenses to
|
|
Income (Loss) to
|
|
|
|
|
Net
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Assets
|
|
Average Net
|
|
Average Net
|
|
|
|
|
Asset
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Including
|
|
Assets
|
|
Assets
|
|
|
|
|
Value,
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net Assets,
|
|
Waivers,
|
|
(Excluding
|
|
(Including
|
|
|
|
|
End
|
|
|
|
|
|
End of
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Waivers,
|
|
Waivers,
|
|
Portfolio
|
|
|
of
|
|
Total
|
|
Period
|
|
and Excluding
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Reimbursements
|
|
Turnover
|
Total Distributions
|
|
Period
|
|
Return(c)
|
|
(000)
|
|
Offsets)
|
|
and Offsets)
|
|
and Offsets)
|
|
Rate
|
$
|
|
$
|
7.01
|
|
|
|
(29.90)
|
%
|
|
$
|
354
|
|
|
|
1.25
|
%
|
|
|
3.80 (b)
|
%
|
|
|
1.91
|
%
|
|
|
151
|
%
|
$
|
|
$
|
7.00
|
|
|
|
(30.00)
|
%
|
|
$
|
18,320
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
%
|
|
|
4.06(b)
|
%
|
|
|
1.65
|
%
|
|
|
151
|
%
|
$
|
|
$
|
7.00
|
|
|
|
(30.00)
|
%
|
|
$
|
2,660
|
|
|
|
1.50
|
%
|
|
|
4.06(b)
|
%
|
|
|
1.66
|
%
|
|
|
151
|
%
|
$
|
|
$
|
6.98
|
|
|
|
(30.20)
|
%
|
|
$
|
349
|
|
|
|
1.75
|
%
|
|
|
4.30(b)
|
%
|
|
|
1.41
|
%
|
|
|
151
|
%
|
|
|
|
|
|
Includes redemption fees. Amount less than $0.01 per share.
|
|
(1)
|
|
Per share net investment income calculated using average shares.
|
|
(a)
|
|
Commenced operations on December 20, 2007. All ratios for the period have been annualized,
except for the Total Return and the Portfolio Turnover Rate.
|
|
(b)
|
|
If tax expense was not included, the Ratio of Expenses to Average Net Assets (Excluding
Waivers, Reimbursements and Offsets) would have been 3.20%, 3.46%, 3.46%, and 3.71% for the
Investor Shares, A Shares, Advisor Shares, and R Shares, respectively.
|
52
|
|
|
(c)
|
|
Total returns would have been lower had certain fund expenses had not been waived or
reimbursed during periods shown. Total return calculations for a period of less than one year
are not annualized.
|
USA PATRIOT ACT
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, federal law
requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each
person who opens an account. What this means to you: When you open an
account directly with the Fund, you will be asked your name, address, date of birth, and other
information that will allow you to be identified. You may also be asked for other identifying
documentation. If the Trust is unable to verify the information shortly after your account is
opened, your account may be closed and your shares redeemed at their net asset values at the time
of the redemption.
53
APPENDIX A
The summaries below are qualified in their entirety by reference to the prospectus and SAI of each
underlying fund, which are available free of charge by telephoning the Trust at (800) 464-3108 or
by visiting the Trusts website: www.schroderfunds.com. Please refer to the prospectus and SAI of
each underlying fund for a more detailed explanation of each underlying funds principal
investments, investment methodology and risks, as well as a definition of each underlying funds
benchmark.
|
|
|
|
|
Name
|
|
Investment Goal/Strategy
|
|
Benchmark
|
Schroder U.S. Small and
Mid Cap Opportunities
Fund
|
|
The fund seeks capital
appreciation. The fund
invests primarily in
companies in the United
States that the funds
adviser considers to be
small or mid cap
companies. In selecting
investments for the
fund, the funds
adviser seeks to
identify securities of
companies that it
believes offer the
potential for capital
appreciation, based on
novel, superior, or
niche products or
services, operating
characteristics,
quality of management,
an entrepreneurial
management team, their
having gone public in
recent years,
opportunities provided
by mergers,
divestitures, new
management, or other
factors. The fund
normally invests at
least 80% of its net
assets in companies
considered by the
funds adviser at the
time to be small or mid
cap companies located
in the United States.
|
|
Russell 2500 Index
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder
International Alpha
Fund
|
|
The fund seeks
long-term capital
appreciation through
investment in
securities markets
outside the United
States. The fund
invests principally in
securities of companies
located outside of the
United States, and
normally invests at
least 65% of its total
assets in equity
securities of companies
the funds adviser
considers to be located
outside of the United
States. The fund will
invest in a variety of
countries throughout
the world. The fund
normally invests a
substantial portion of
its assets in countries
included in the Morgan
Stanley Capital
International EAFE
Index, which is a
market weighted index
of companies
representative of the
market structure of
certain developed
market countries in
Europe, Australia,
Asia, and the Far East.
|
|
Morgan Stanley
Capital
International EAFE
Index
|
|
|
|
|
|
Schroder
International
Diversified Value
Fund
|
|
The fund seeks
long-term capital
appreciation. The fund
invests principally in
a diversified portfolio
of equity securities of
companies located
outside of the United
States that the funds
sub-adviser considers
to offer attractive
valuations. The funds
sub-adviser applies a
proprietary
quantitative investment
analysis that seeks to
develop a portfolio
designed to capture the
historically high
returns from value
stocks but with lower
risk than the Morgan
Stanley Capital
International EAFE
Index over the longer
term and to provide a
dividend yield
typically above that
Index. The sub-adviser
expects that a
substantial portion of
the funds investments
will normally be in
countries included in
the Morgan Stanley
Capital International
EAFE Index, which is a
market-weighted index
of companies
representative of the
market structure of
certain developed
market countries in
Europe, Australia,
Asia, and the Far East,
although the fund may
invest in any country
in the world, including
emerging market
countries.
|
|
Morgan Stanley
Capital
International EAFE
Index
|
54
INVESTMENT
ADVISER
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISER
Schroder Investment Management North America Limited
31 Gresham Street
London EC2V 7QA
SUB-ADMINISTRATOR
SEI Investments Global Funds Services
1 Freedom Valley Drive
Oaks, Pennsylvania 19456
CUSTODIAN
J.P. Morgan Chase Bank
270 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10017
DISTRIBUTOR
Schroder Fund Advisors Inc.
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
TRANSFER AND DIVIDEND DISBURSING AGENT
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc.
Two Heritage Drive
North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
COUNSEL
Ropes & Gray LLP
One International Place
Boston, Massachusetts 02110
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
[ ]
[ ]
55
SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
The Fund has a Statement of Additional Information (SAI) and annual and semi-annual reports to
shareholders which contain additional information about the Fund. In the Funds annual report, you
will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly
affected the Funds performance during its last fiscal year. The SAI and the financial statements
included in the Funds most recent annual report to shareholders are incorporated by reference into
this Prospectus, which means they are part of this Prospectus for legal purposes. You may get free
copies of these materials, request other information about the Fund, or make shareholder inquiries
by calling (800) 464-3108. From outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and ask to
speak with a representative of the Schroder Mutual Funds. The Funds SAI and annual report are also
available on the following website: www.schroderfunds.com.
You may review and copy information about the Fund, including its SAI, at the Securities and
Exchange Commissions public reference room in Washington, D.C. You may call the SEC at
1-800-551-8090 for information about the operation of the public reference room. You may also
access reports and other information about the Fund on the SEC Internet site at www.sec.gov. You
may get copies of this information, with payment of a duplication fee, by electronic request to the
following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section of the
Commission, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. You may need to refer to the Trusts file number under the
Investment Company Act, which is: Schroder Series Trust: 811-7840.
SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
875 Third Avenue
New York, New York 10022
(800) 464-3108
File No. 811-7840 Schroder Series Trust
56
[** To be updated by amendment.**]
SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
(the Fund)
|
|
|
A Shares
|
|
SALAX
|
Advisor Shares
|
|
SALVX
|
Investor Shares
|
|
SALIX
|
R Shares
|
|
SALRX
|
FORM N-1A
PART B
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
March 1, 2010
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a prospectus and is only authorized for
distribution when accompanied or preceded by a prospectus for the Fund, as amended or supplemented
from time to time. This SAI relates to the Funds A Shares, Advisor Shares, Investor Shares and R
Shares, which are offered through separate Prospectuses, each dated March 1, 2010, as amended or
supplemented from time to time (each, a Prospectus, and together, the Prospectuses). This SAI
contains information that may be useful to investors but which is not included in the Prospectuses.
Investors may obtain free copies of the Prospectuses by calling the Fund at (800) 464-3108. From
outside the United States, please call (617) 483-5000 and ask to speak with a Schroder Mutual Funds
representative.
Certain disclosure has been incorporated by reference into this SAI from the Trusts most recent
annual report. For a free copy of the annual report, please call (800) 464-3108.
Table of Contents
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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1
|
|
|
|
|
1
|
|
|
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1
|
|
|
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2
|
|
|
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26
|
|
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|
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28
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|
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|
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30
|
|
|
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32
|
|
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|
|
38
|
|
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|
|
38
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|
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|
|
40
|
|
|
|
|
42
|
|
|
|
|
44
|
|
|
|
|
45
|
|
|
|
|
47
|
|
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|
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48
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|
|
|
|
49
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|
|
|
|
49
|
|
|
|
|
57
|
|
|
|
|
57
|
|
|
|
|
57
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|
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|
57
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|
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|
57
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57
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|
57
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|
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|
58
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|
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|
|
58
|
|
|
|
|
58
|
|
|
|
|
A-1
|
|
|
|
|
B-1
|
|
|
|
|
C-1
|
|
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
TRUST HISTORY
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) describes Schroder Multi-Asset Growth
Portfolio (the Fund), a mutual fund offered by Schroder Series Trust (the Trust).
The Trust is a Massachusetts business trust organized under the laws of The Commonwealth of
Massachusetts on May 6, 1993. The Trusts Agreement and Declaration of Trust (as amended, the
Declaration of Trust), which is governed by Massachusetts law, is on file with the Secretary of
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Trust currently comprises six other series, Schroder
Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder International Diversified Value Fund, Schroder U.S. Small and
Mid Cap Opportunities Fund, Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, Schroder Municipal Bond Fund
and Schroder Short-Term Municipal Bond Fund.
Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (Schroders) serves as investment manager
to the Fund. Schroder Investment Management North America Limited (SIMNA Ltd.) serves as
investment sub-adviser to the Fund.
FUND CLASSIFICATION
The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended (the Investment Company Act or 1940 Act). The Fund is a diversified
investment company under the Investment Company Act, which means that with respect to 75% of the
Funds total assets (i) the Fund may not invest in securities of any issuer if, immediately after
such investment, more than 5% of the total assets of the Fund (taken at current value) would be
invested in the securities of that issuer (this limitation does not apply to investments in U.S.
Government securities or securities of other investment companies) or (ii) the Fund may not invest
in a security if, as a result of such investment, it would hold more than 10% (taken at the time of
such investment) of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer (this limitation does not
apply to investments in U.S. Government securities or securities of other investment companies). No
diversified fund is subject to this limitation with respect to the remaining 25% of its total
assets. To the extent the Fund invests a significant portion of its assets in the securities of a
particular issuer, it will be subject to an increased risk of loss if the market value of the
issuers securities declines.
These policies may not be changed without the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of the Fund.
CAPITALIZATION AND SHARE CLASSES
The Trust has an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest that may, without
shareholder approval, be divided into an unlimited number of series of such shares, which, in turn,
may be divided into an unlimited number of classes of such shares. The shares of the Fund described
in this SAI are currently divided into four classes, A Shares, Advisor Shares, Investor Shares and
R Shares. Each class of shares is offered through a separate Prospectus. Unlike Investor Shares, A
Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares are currently subject to distribution fees, so that the
performance of the Funds Investor Shares will normally be more favorable than that of the Funds A
Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares over the same time period. Similarly, because R Shares are
subject to higher distribution fees than are A Shares and Advisor Shares, the performance of the
Funds A Shares and Advisor Shares will normally be more favorable than that of the Funds R Shares
over the same time period. Generally, expenses and liabilities particular to a class of the Fund,
such as distribution fees applicable only to A Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares, are allocated
only to that class. Expenses and liabilities not related to a particular class are allocated in
relation to the respective net asset value of each class, or on such other basis as the Trustees
may in their discretion consider fair and equitable to each class. The Fund may suspend the sale of
shares at any time.
-1-
Shares of the Fund entitle their holders to one vote per share, with fractional shares voting
proportionally; however, a separate vote will be taken by each Fund of the Trust or class of shares
on matters affecting a particular Fund or class, as determined by the Trustees. For example, a
change in a fundamental investment policy for a Fund would be voted upon only by shareholders of
that Fund and a change to a distribution plan relating to a particular class and requiring
shareholder approval would be voted upon only by shareholders of that class. Shares have
noncumulative voting rights. Although the Trust is not required to hold annual meetings of their
shareholders, shareholders have the right to call a meeting to elect or remove Trustees or to take
other actions as provided in the Trusts Declaration of Trust. Shares have no preemptive or
subscription rights, and are transferable. Shares are entitled to dividends as declared by the
Trust as approved by the Trustees of the Trust, and if a Fund were liquidated, each class of shares
of that Fund would receive the net assets of that Fund attributable to the class of shares. Because
A Shares, Advisor Shares, Investor Shares and R Shares are subject to different expenses, the
Funds dividends and other distributions will normally differ among the four classes.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING THE FUNDS PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The following discussion provides additional information concerning the Funds principal
investment strategies and the principal risks of the Fund described in the Prospectuses. The Fund
may engage in any of the principal investment strategies described below directly, through its
investment in one or more other investment companies, or through hybrid instruments, structured
investments, or other derivatives, described below.
Equity Securities.
The Fund may primarily invest in equity securities. Equity securities are
securities that represent an ownership interest (or the right to acquire such an interest) in a
company and include common and preferred stocks. Common stocks represent an equity or ownership
interest in an issuer. Preferred stocks represent an equity or ownership interest in an issuer that
pays dividends at a specified rate and that has priority over common stock in the payment of
dividends. In the event an issuer is liquidated or declares bankruptcy, the claims of owners of
bonds take priority over holders of preferred stock, whose claims take priority over the claims of
those who own common stock.
While offering greater potential for long-term growth, equity securities generally are more
volatile and riskier than some other forms of investment, particularly debt securities. Therefore,
the value of an investment in the Fund may at times decrease instead of increase.
The Funds investments may include securities traded over-the-counter as well as those
traded on a securities exchange. Some securities, particularly over-the-counter securities, may be
more difficult to sell under some market conditions.
Smaller Company Equity Securities.
The Fund may invest in equity securities of companies with
small market capitalizations. Such investments may involve greater risk than is usually associated
with larger, more established companies. These companies often have sales and earnings growth rates
that exceed those of companies with larger market capitalization. Such growth rates may in turn be
reflected in more rapid share price appreciation. However, companies with small market
capitalizations often have limited product lines, markets or financial resources and may be
dependent upon a relatively small management group. These securities may have limited marketability
and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic movements in price than securities of companies with
larger market capitalizations or market averages in general. Therefore, to the extent the Fund
invests in securities with small market capitalizations, the net asset value of the Fund may
fluctuate more widely than market averages.
Preferred Stock.
Preferred stock represents an equity interest in a company that generally
entitles the holder to receive, in preference to holders of other stocks such as common stocks,
dividends at a specified rate and a fixed share of proceeds resulting from a liquidation of the
company. Preferred stock, unlike common stock, generally has a stated dividend rate payable from
the corporations earnings. Preferred stock dividends may be cumulative or non-cumulative.
Cumulative dividend provisions require all or a portion of prior unpaid dividends to be paid to
preferred stockholders before dividends can be paid on the issuers common stock. Preferred stock
may be
-2-
participating stock, which means that it may be entitled to a dividend that exceeds the
stated dividend in certain cases.
If interest rates rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing
the price of preferred stocks to decline.
A companys preferred stock generally pays a dividend only after the company makes required
payments to holders of its bonds and other debt. In addition, the rights of preferred stock on
distribution of a companys assets in the event of a liquidation are generally subordinate to the
rights of holders of the companys bonds or other creditors. As a result, the value of preferred
stock will usually react more strongly than bonds and other debt to actual or perceived changes in
the companys financial condition or prospects. Preferred stocks of small companies may be more
vulnerable to adverse developments than those of larger companies.
Certain Derivative Instruments.
Derivative instruments are financial instruments whose value
depends upon, or is derived from, the value of an underlying asset, such as a security, index or
currency. As described below, to the extent permitted under Investment Restrictions below and in
the Prospectuses, the Fund may engage in a variety of transactions involving the use of derivative
instruments, including options and futures contracts on securities and securities indices, options
on futures contracts, forward transactions and swap transactions. The Fund may engage in derivative
transactions involving foreign currencies. See Foreign Currency Transactions. Use of derivatives
other than for hedging purposes may be considered speculative, and when the Fund invests in a
derivative instrument it could lose more than the principal amount invested. The Funds use of
derivatives may cause the Fund to recognize higher amounts of short-term capital gains, generally
taxed to shareholders at ordinary income tax rates. Investments in derivatives may be applied
toward meeting a requirement to invest in a particular kind of investment if the derivatives have
economic characteristics similar to that investment.
The counterparties to the Funds derivatives transactions may not be considered the issuers of
securities for certain purposes of the 1940 Act and the United States Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended (the Code). The Funds adviser will monitor the Funds credit risk exposure to
derivative counterparties to prevent excess concentration to any one counterparty.
The Fund may use these derivatives strategies for hedging purposes or, to the extent
permitted by applicable law, to increase its current return. The Fund may also use derivatives to
gain exposure to securities or market sectors as a substitute for cash investments (not for
leverage) or pending the sale of securities by the Fund and reinvestment of the proceeds. For
example, the Fund may seek to obtain market exposure to the securities in which it may invest by
entering into forward contracts or similar arrangements to purchase those securities in the future.
Any use of derivatives strategies entails the risks of investing directly in the securities or
instruments underlying the derivatives strategies, as well as the risks of using derivatives
generally, described in the Prospectuses and in this SAI.
Options.
The Fund may purchase and sell put and call options on its portfolio securities to
protect against changes in market prices and for other purposes.
Call options
. The Fund may write call options on its portfolio securities for various
purposes, including without limitation to realize a greater current return through the receipt of
premiums than it would realize on its securities alone. Such transactions may also be used as a
limited form of hedging against a decline in the price of securities owned by the Fund.
A call option gives the holder the right to purchase, and obligates the writer to sell, a
security at the exercise price at any time before the expiration date. The Fund may write covered
call options or uncovered call options. A call option is covered if the writer, at all times
while obligated as a writer, either owns the underlying securities (or comparable securities
satisfying the cover requirements of the securities exchanges), or has the right to acquire such
securities through immediate conversion of securities. When the Fund has written an uncovered call
option, the Fund will not necessarily hold securities offsetting the risk to the Fund. As a result,
if the call option were exercised, the
-3-
Fund might be required to purchase the security that is the subject of the call at the market
price at the time of exercise. The Funds exposure on such an option is theoretically unlimited.
In return for the premium received when it writes a call option, the Fund gives up some or all
of the opportunity to profit from an increase in the market price of the securities covering the
call option during the life of the option. The Fund retains the risk of loss should the price of
such securities decline. If the option expires unexercised, the Fund realizes a gain equal to the
premium, which may be offset by a decline in price of the underlying security. If the option is
exercised, the Fund realizes a gain or loss equal to the difference between the Funds cost for the
underlying security and the proceeds of the sale (exercise price minus commissions) plus the amount
of the premium.
The Fund may terminate a call option that it has written before it expires by entering into a
closing purchase transaction. The Fund may enter into closing purchase transactions in order to
realize a profit on a previously written call option or, in the case of a covered call option, to
free itself to sell the underlying security or to write another call on the security or protect a
security from being called in an unexpected market rise.
Any profits from a closing purchase transaction in the case of a covered call option may be
offset by a decline in the value of the underlying security. Conversely, because increases in the
market price of a call option will generally reflect increases in the market price of the
underlying security, any loss resulting from a closing purchase transaction relating to a covered
call option is likely to be offset in whole or in part by unrealized appreciation of the underlying
security owned by the Fund.
Covered put options.
The Fund may write covered put options in order to enhance its current
return. Such options transactions may also be used as a limited form of hedging against an increase
in the price of securities that the Fund plans to purchase. A put option gives the holder the right
to sell, and obligates the writer to buy, a security at the exercise price at any time before the
expiration date. A put option is covered if the writer segregates cash and high-grade short-term
debt obligations or other permissible collateral equal to the price to be paid if the option is
exercised.
In addition to the receipt of premiums and the potential gains from terminating such options
in closing purchase transactions, the Fund also receives interest on the cash and debt securities
maintained to cover the exercise price of the option. By writing a put option, the Fund assumes the
risk that it may be required to purchase the underlying security for an exercise price higher than
its then current market value, resulting in a potential capital loss unless the security later
appreciates in value.
The Fund may terminate a put option that it has written before it expires by a closing
purchase transaction. Any loss from this transaction may be partially or entirely offset by the
premium received on the terminated option.
Purchasing put and call options.
The Fund may also purchase put options to protect portfolio
holdings against a decline in market value. This protection lasts for the life of the put option
because the Fund, as a holder of the option, may sell the underlying security at the exercise price
regardless of any decline in its market price. In order for a put option to be profitable, the
market price of the underlying security must decline sufficiently below the exercise price to cover
the premium and transaction costs that the Fund must pay. These costs will reduce any profit the
Fund might have realized had it sold the underlying security instead of buying the put option.
The Fund may purchase call options to hedge against an increase in the price of securities
that the Fund wants ultimately to buy. Such hedge protection is provided during the life of the
call option since the Fund, as holder of the call option, are able to buy the underlying security
at the exercise price regardless of any increase in the underlying securitys market price. In
order for a call option to be profitable, the market price of the underlying security must rise
sufficiently above the exercise price to cover the premium and transaction costs. These costs will
reduce any profit the Fund might have realized had it bought the underlying security at the time it
purchased the call option.
-4-
The Fund may also purchase put and call options to enhance its current return. The Fund may
also buy and sell combinations of put and call options on the same underlying security to earn
additional income.
Options on foreign securities.
The Fund may purchase and sell options on foreign securities if
in Schroders opinion the investment characteristics of such options, including the risks of
investing in such options, are consistent with the Funds investment objectives. It is expected
that risks related to such options will not differ materially from risks related to options on U.S.
securities. However, position limits and other rules of foreign exchanges may differ from those in
the U.S. In addition, options markets in some countries, many of which are relatively new, may be
less liquid than comparable markets in the U.S.
Risks involved in the sale of options.
Options transactions involve certain risks, including
the risks that Schroders will not forecast interest rate or market movements correctly, that the
Fund may be unable at times to close out such positions, or that hedging transactions may not
accomplish their purpose because of imperfect market correlations. The successful use of these
strategies depends on the ability of Schroders to forecast market and interest rate movements
correctly.
An exchange-listed option may be closed out only on an exchange that provides a secondary
market for an option of the same series. Although the Fund will enter into an option position only
if Schroders believes that a liquid secondary market exists, there is no assurance that a liquid
secondary market on an exchange will exist for any particular option or at any particular time. If
no secondary market were to exist, it would be impossible to enter into a closing transaction to
close out an option position. As a result, the Fund may be forced to continue to hold, or to
purchase at a fixed price, a security on which it has sold an option at a time when Schroders
believes it is inadvisable to do so.
Higher than anticipated trading activity or order flow or other unforeseen events might cause
The Options Clearing Corporation or an exchange to institute special trading procedures or
restrictions that might restrict the Funds use of options. The exchanges have established
limitations on the maximum number of calls and puts of each class that may be held or written by an
investor or group of investors acting in concert. It is possible that the Fund and other clients of
Schroders may be considered such a group. These position limits may restrict the Funds ability to
purchase or sell options on particular securities.
As described below, the Fund generally expects that its options transactions will be conducted
on recognized exchanges. In certain instances, however, the Fund may purchase and sell options in
the over-the-counter markets. Options that are not traded on national securities exchanges may be
closed out only with the other party to the option transaction. For that reason, it may be more
difficult to close out over-the-counter options than exchange-traded options. Options in the
over-the-counter market may also involve the risk that securities dealers participating in such
transactions would be unable to meet their obligations to the Fund. Furthermore, over-the-counter
options are not subject to the protection afforded purchasers of exchange-traded options by The
Options Clearing Corporation. The Fund will, however, engage in over-the-counter options
transactions only when appropriate exchange-traded options transactions are unavailable and when,
in the opinion of Schroders, the pricing mechanism and liquidity of the over-the-counter markets
are satisfactory and the participants are responsible parties likely to meet their contractual
obligations. The Fund will treat over-the-counter options (and, in the case of options sold by the
Fund, the underlying securities held by the Fund) as illiquid investments as required by applicable
law.
Government regulations, particularly the requirements for qualification as a regulated
investment company (a RIC) under the Code, may also restrict the Trusts use of options.
Futures Contracts.
To the extent permitted under Investment Restrictions below and in the
applicable Prospectus and by applicable law, the Fund may buy and sell futures contracts, options
on futures contracts, and related instruments in order to hedge against the effects of adverse
market changes or to increase current return. Depending upon the change in the value of the
underlying security or index when the Fund enters into or terminates a futures contract, the Fund
may realize a gain or loss.
-5-
The Fund is operated by a person who has claimed an exclusion from the definition of the term
commodity pool operator under the Commodity Exchange Act (the CEA) and, therefore, such person
is not subject to registration or regulation as a pool operator under the CEA.
Futures on Securities and Related Options.
A futures contract on a security is a binding
contractual commitment that, if held to maturity, will result in an obligation to make or accept
delivery, during a particular month, of securities having a standardized face value and rate of
return. By purchasing futures on securities assuming a long position the Fund will legally
obligate itself to accept the future delivery of the underlying security and pay the agreed price.
By selling futures on securities assuming a short position it will legally obligate itself
to make the future delivery of the security against payment of the agreed price. Open futures
positions on securities will be valued at the most recent settlement price, unless that price does
not, in the judgment of the Funds Valuation Committee, reflect the fair value of the contract, in
which case the positions will be fair valued by the Trustees or the Valuation Committee.
Positions taken in the futures markets are not normally held to maturity, but are instead
liquidated through offsetting transactions that may result in a profit or a loss. While futures
positions taken by the Fund will usually be liquidated in this manner, the Fund may instead make or
take delivery of the underlying securities whenever it appears in Schroders judgment economically
advantageous for the Fund to do so. A clearing corporation associated with the exchange on which
futures are traded assumes responsibility for such closing transactions and guarantees that the
Funds sale and purchase obligations under closed-out positions will be performed at the
termination of the contract.
Hedging by use of futures on securities seeks to establish more certainty with respect to the
effective rate of return on portfolio securities. The Fund may, for example, take a short
position in the futures market by selling contracts for the future delivery of securities held by
the Fund (or securities having characteristics similar to those held by the Fund) in order to hedge
against an anticipated rise in interest rates that would adversely affect the value of the Funds
portfolio securities. When hedging of this character is successful, any depreciation in the value
of portfolio securities may substantially be offset by appreciation in the value of the futures
position.
On other occasions, the Fund may take a long position by purchasing futures on securities.
This would be done, for example, when the Fund expects to purchase particular securities when it
has the necessary cash, but expects the rate of return available in the securities markets at that
time to be less favorable than rates currently available in the futures markets. If the anticipated
rise in the price of the securities should occur (with its concomitant reduction in yield), the
increased cost to the Fund of purchasing the securities may be offset, at least to some extent, by
the rise in the value of the futures position taken in anticipation of the subsequent securities
purchase.
The Fund may also use futures to adjust the duration of its fixed income portfolio and
otherwise to manage (increase or decrease) its exposure to interest rate risk.
Successful use by the Fund of futures contracts on securities is subject to Schroders ability
to predict correctly movements in the direction of the securitys price and factors affecting
markets for securities. For example, if the Fund has hedged against the possibility of an increase
in interest rates that would adversely affect the market prices of securities held by it and the
prices of such securities increase instead, the Fund will lose part or all of the benefit of the
increased value of its securities that it has hedged because it will have offsetting losses in its
futures positions. In addition, in such situations, if the Fund has insufficient cash, it may have
to sell securities to meet daily maintenance margin requirements. The Fund may have to sell
securities at a time when it may be disadvantageous to do so.
The Fund may purchase and write put and call options on certain futures contracts, as they
become available. Such options are similar to options on securities except that options on futures
contracts give the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in a
futures contract (a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a
put) at a specified exercise price at any time during the period of the option. As with options on
securities, the holder or writer of an option may terminate his position by selling or purchasing
an option of the same series. There is no guarantee that such closing transactions can be effected.
The Fund will be required to
-6-
deposit initial margin and maintenance margin with respect to put and call options on futures
contracts written by it pursuant to brokers requirements, and, in addition, net option premiums
received will be included as initial margin deposits. See Margin Payments below. Compared to the
purchase or sale of futures contracts, the purchase of call or put options on futures contracts
involves less potential risk to the Fund because the maximum amount at risk is the premium paid for
the options plus transactions costs. However, there may be circumstances when the purchase of call
or put options on a futures contract would result in a loss to the Fund when the purchase or sale
of the futures contracts would not, such as when there is no movement in the prices of securities.
The writing of a put or call option on a futures contract involves risks similar to those risks
relating to the purchase or sale of futures contracts.
Index Futures Contracts and Options.
The Fund may invest in debt index futures contracts and
stock index futures contracts, and in related options. A debt index futures contract is a contract
to buy or sell units of a specified debt index at a specified future date at a price agreed upon
when the contract is made. A unit is the current value of the index. A stock index futures contract
is a contract to buy or sell units of a stock index at a specified future date at a price agreed
upon when the contract is made. A unit is the current value of the stock index.
Depending on the change in the value of the index between the time when the Fund enters into
and terminates an index futures transaction, the Fund may realize a gain or loss. The following
example illustrates generally the manner in which index futures contracts operate. The Standard &
Poors 100 Stock Index is composed of 100 selected common stocks, most of which are listed on the
New York Stock Exchange. The S&P 100 Index assigns relative weightings to the common stocks
included in the Index, and the Index fluctuates with changes in the market values of those common
stocks. In the case of the S&P 100 Index, contracts are to buy or sell 100 units. Thus, if the
value of the S&P 100 Index were $180, one contract would be worth $18,000 (100 units x $180). The
stock index futures contract specifies that no delivery of the actual stocks making up the index
will take place. Instead, settlement in cash must occur upon the termination of the contract, with
the settlement being the difference between the contract price and the actual level of the stock
index at the expiration of the contract. For example, if the Fund enters into a futures contract to
buy 100 units of the S&P 100 Index at a specified future date at a contract price of $180 and the
S&P 100 Index is at $184 on that future date, the Fund will gain $400 (100 units x gain of $4). If
the Fund enters into a futures contract to sell 100 units of the stock index at a specified future
date at a contract price of $180 and the S&P 100 Index is at $182 on that future date, the Fund
will lose $200 (100 units x loss of $2).
The Fund may purchase or sell futures contracts with respect to any securities indices.
Positions in index futures may be closed out only on an exchange or board of trade that provides a
secondary market for such futures.
In order to hedge the Funds investments successfully using futures contracts and related
options, the Fund must invest in futures contracts with respect to indices or sub-indices the
movements of which will, in Schroders judgment, have a significant correlation with movements in
the prices of the Funds portfolio securities.
Options on index futures contracts are similar to options on securities except that options on
index futures contracts give the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a
position in an index futures contract (a long position if the option is a call and a short position
if the option is a put) at a specified exercise price at any time during the period of the option.
Upon exercise of the option, the holder would assume the underlying futures position and would
receive a variation margin payment of cash or securities approximating the increase in the value of
the holders option position. If an option is exercised on the last trading day prior to the
expiration date of the option, the settlement will be made entirely in cash based on the difference
between the exercise price of the option and the closing level of the index on which the futures
contract is based on the expiration date. Purchasers of options who fail to exercise their options
prior to the exercise date suffer a loss of the premium paid.
As an alternative to purchasing and selling call and put options on index futures contracts,
the Fund may purchase and sell call and put options on the underlying indices themselves to the
extent that such options are traded on national securities exchanges. Index options are similar to
options on individual securities in that the purchaser of an index option acquires the right to buy
(in the case of a call) or sell (in the case of a put), and the writer undertakes the obligation to
sell or buy (as the case may be), units of an index at a stated exercise price during the term of
the option. Instead of giving the right to take or make actual delivery of securities, the holder
of an index option has the
-7-
right to receive a cash exercise settlement amount. This amount is equal to the amount by
which the fixed exercise price of the option exceeds (in the case of a put) or is less than (in the
case of a call) the closing value of the underlying index on the date of the exercise, multiplied
by a fixed index multiplier.
The Fund may purchase or sell options on stock indices in order to close out its outstanding
positions in options on stock indices that it has purchased. The Fund may also allow such options
to expire unexercised.
Compared to the purchase or sale of futures contracts, the purchase of call or put options on
an index involves less potential risk to the Fund because the maximum amount at risk is the premium
paid for the options plus transactions costs. The writing of a put or call option on an index
involves risks similar to those risks relating to the purchase or sale of index futures contracts.
The Fund may also purchase warrants, issued by banks and other financial institutions, whose
values are based on the values from time to time of one or more securities indices.
Margin Payments.
When the Fund purchases or sells a futures contract, it is required to
deposit with its custodian or with a futures commission merchant an amount of cash, U.S. Treasury
bills, or other permissible collateral equal to a small percentage of the amount of the futures
contract. This amount is known as initial margin. The nature of initial margin is different from
that of margin in security transactions in that it does not involve borrowing money to finance
transactions. Rather, initial margin is similar to a performance bond or good faith deposit that is
returned to the Fund upon termination of the contract, assuming the Fund satisfies its contractual
obligations.
Subsequent payments to and from the broker occur on a daily basis in a process known as
marking to market. These payments are called variation margin and are made as the value of the
underlying futures contract fluctuates. For example, when the Fund sells a futures contract and the
price of the underlying security rises above the delivery price, the Funds position declines in
value. The Fund then pays the broker a variation margin payment equal to the difference between the
delivery price of the futures contract and the market price of the securities underlying the
futures contract. Conversely, if the price of the underlying security falls below the delivery
price of the contract, the Funds futures position increases in value. The broker then must make a
variation margin payment equal to the difference between the delivery price of the futures contract
and the market price of the securities underlying the futures contract.
When the Fund terminates a position in a futures contract, a final determination of variation
margin is made, additional cash is paid by or to the Fund, and the Fund realizes a loss or a gain.
Such closing transactions involve additional commission costs.
Special Risks of Transactions in Futures Contracts and Related Options
Liquidity Risks.
Positions in futures contracts may be closed out only on an exchange or board
of trade that provides a secondary market for such futures. Although the Fund intends to purchase
or sell futures only on exchanges or boards of trade where there appears to be an active secondary
market, there is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on an exchange or board of trade will
exist for any particular contract or at any particular time. If there is not a liquid secondary
market at a particular time, it may not be possible to close a futures position at such time and,
in the event of adverse price movements, the Fund would continue to be required to make daily cash
payments of variation margin. However, in the event financial futures are used to hedge portfolio
securities, such securities will not generally be sold until the financial futures can be
terminated. In such circumstances, an increase in the price of the portfolio securities, if any,
may partially or completely offset losses on the financial futures.
In addition to the risks that apply to all options transactions, there are several special
risks relating to options on futures contracts. The ability to establish and close out positions in
such options will be subject to the development and maintenance of a liquid secondary market. It is
not certain that such a market will develop. Although the Fund generally will purchase only those
options for which there appears to be an active secondary market, there is no assurance that a
liquid secondary market on an exchange will exist for any particular option or at any particular
time.
-8-
In the event no such market exists for particular options, it might not be possible to effect
closing transactions in such options with the result that the Fund would have to exercise the
options in order to realize any profit.
Hedging Risks.
There are several risks in connection with the use by the Fund of futures
contracts and related options as a hedging device. One risk arises because of the imperfect
correlation between movements in the prices of the futures contracts and options and movements in
the underlying securities or index or in the prices of the Funds securities that are the subject
of a hedge. Schroders will, however, attempt to reduce this risk by purchasing and selling, to the
extent possible, futures contracts and related options on securities and indices the movements of
which will, in its judgment, correlate closely with movements in the prices of the underlying
securities or index and the Funds portfolio securities sought to be hedged.
Successful use of futures contracts and options by the Fund for hedging purposes is also
subject to Schroders ability to predict correctly movements in the direction of the market. It is
possible that, where the Fund has purchased puts on futures contracts to hedge its portfolio
against a decline in the market, the securities or index on which the puts are purchased may
increase in value and the value of securities held in the portfolio may decline. If this occurred,
the Fund would lose money on the puts and also experience a decline in value in its portfolio
securities. In addition, the prices of futures, for a number of reasons, may not correlate
perfectly with movements in the underlying securities or index due to certain market distortions.
First, all participants in the futures market are subject to margin deposit requirements. Such
requirements may cause investors to close futures contracts through offsetting transactions which
could distort the normal relationship between the underlying security or index and futures markets.
Second, the margin requirements in the futures markets are less onerous than margin requirements in
the securities markets in general, and as a result the futures markets may attract more speculators
than the securities markets do. Increased participation by speculators in the futures markets may
also cause temporary price distortions. Due to the possibility of price distortion, even a correct
forecast of general market trends by Schroders may still not result in a successful hedging
transaction over a very short time period.
Lack of Availability.
Because the markets for certain options and futures contracts and other
derivative instruments in which the Fund may invest (including markets located in foreign
countries) are relatively new and still developing and may be subject to regulatory restraints, the
Funds ability to engage in transactions using such instruments may be limited. Suitable derivative
transactions may not be available in all circumstances and there is no assurance that the Fund will
engage in such transactions at any time or from time to time. The Funds ability to engage in
hedging transactions may also be limited by certain regulatory and tax considerations.
Other Risks.
The Fund will incur brokerage fees in connection with its futures and options
transactions. In addition, while futures contracts and options on futures may be purchased and sold
to reduce certain risks, those transactions themselves entail certain other risks. Thus, while the
Fund may benefit from the use of futures and related options, unanticipated changes in interest
rates or stock price movements may result in a poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it
had not entered into any futures contracts or options transactions. Moreover, in the event of an
imperfect correlation between the futures position and the portfolio position that is intended to
be protected, the desired protection may not be obtained and the Fund may be exposed to risk of
loss. The Fund may be required to segregate certain of its assets on the books of its custodian in
respect of derivative transactions entered into by the Fund. As open-end investment companies,
registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Trust is subject to
federal securities laws, including the Investment Company Act, related rules and various SEC and
SEC Staff positions. In accordance with these positions, with respect to certain kinds of
derivatives, the Trust must set aside (referred to sometimes as asset segregation) liquid
assets, or engage in other SEC- or Staff-approved measures while the derivatives contracts are
open. For example, with respect to forwards and futures contracts that are not contractually
required to cash-settle, the Trust must cover its open positions by setting aside liquid assets
equal to the contracts full, notional value. With respect to forwards and futures that are
contractually required to cash-settle, however, the Trust is permitted to set aside liquid assets
in an amount equal to the Trusts daily marked-to-market (net) obligation (
i.e.
a Trusts daily net
liability, if any) rather than the notional value. By setting aside assets equal to only its net
obligation under cash-settled forward or futures the Trust will have the ability to employ leverage
to a greater extent than if the Trust were required to segregate assets equal to the full notional
value of such contracts.
-9-
The use of leverage involves certain risks. The Trust reserves the right to modify its asset
segregation policies in the future to comply with any changes in the positions articulated from
time to time by the SEC and its Staff.
Foreign Securities.
The Fund may invest in securities principally traded in foreign markets.
The Fund may also invest in Eurodollar certificates of deposit and other certificates of deposit
issued by United States branches of foreign banks and foreign branches of United States banks.
Investments in foreign securities may involve risks and considerations different from or in
addition to investments in domestic securities. There may be less information publicly available
about a foreign company than about a U.S. company, and foreign companies are not generally subject
to accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards and practices comparable to those in the
United States. The securities of some foreign companies are less liquid and at times more volatile
than securities of comparable U.S. companies. Foreign brokerage commissions and other fees are also
generally higher than in the United States. Foreign settlement procedures and trade regulations may
involve certain risks (such as delay in payment or delivery of securities or in the recovery of
Fund assets held abroad) and expenses not present in the settlement of domestic investments. Also,
because foreign securities are normally denominated and traded in foreign currencies, the values of
the Funds assets may be affected favorably or unfavorably by currency exchange rates and exchange
control regulations, and the Fund may incur costs in connection with conversion between currencies.
In addition, with respect to certain foreign countries, there is a possibility of
nationalization or expropriation of assets, imposition of currency exchange controls, adoption of
foreign governmental restrictions affecting the payment of principal and interest, imposition of
withholding or confiscatory taxes, political or financial instability, and adverse political,
diplomatic or economic developments which could affect the values of investments in those
countries. In certain countries, legal remedies available to investors may be more limited than
those available with respect to investments in the United States or other countries and it may be
more difficult to obtain and enforce a judgment against a foreign issuer. Also, the laws of some
foreign countries may limit the Funds ability to invest in securities of certain issuers located
in those countries. Special tax considerations apply to foreign securities.
Income received by the Fund from sources within foreign countries may be reduced by
withholding and other taxes imposed by such countries. Tax conventions between certain countries
and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes. It is impossible to determine the
effective rate of foreign tax in advance since the amount of the Funds assets to be invested in
various countries is not known, and tax laws and their interpretations may change from time to time
and may change without advance notice. Any such taxes paid by the Fund will reduce its net income
available for distribution to shareholders.
Emerging Markets Securities.
The Fund may invest in securities of companies determined by
Schroders to be emerging market issuers. The risks of investing in foreign securities are
particularly high when securities of issuers based in developing or emerging market countries are
involved. Investing in emerging market countries involves certain risks not typically associated
with investing in U.S. securities, and imposes risks greater than, or in addition to, risks of
investing in foreign, developed countries. These risks include: greater risks of nationalization or
expropriation of assets or confiscatory taxation; currency devaluations and other currency exchange
rate fluctuations; greater social, economic and political uncertainty and instability (including
the risk of war); more substantial government involvement in the economy; less government
supervision and regulation of the securities markets and participants in those markets; controls on
foreign investment and limitations on repatriation of invested capital and on the Funds ability to
exchange local currencies for U.S. dollars; unavailability of currency hedging techniques in
certain emerging market countries; the fact that companies in emerging market countries may be
smaller, less seasoned and newly organized companies; the difference in, or lack of, auditing and
financial reporting standards, which may result in unavailability of material information about
issuers; the risk that it may be more difficult to obtain and/or enforce a judgment in a court
outside the United States; and greater price volatility, substantially less liquidity, and
significantly smaller market capitalization of securities markets. Also, any change in the
leadership or politics of emerging market countries, or the countries that exercise a significant
influence over those countries, may halt the expansion of or reverse the liberalization of foreign
investment policies now occurring and adversely affect existing investment opportunities.
-10-
In addition, a number of emerging market countries restrict, to various degrees, foreign
investment in securities. Furthermore, high rates of inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation
rates have had, and may continue to have, negative effects on the economies and securities markets
of certain emerging market countries.
Foreign Currency Transactions.
The Fund may engage in currency exchange transactions to
protect against uncertainty in the level of future foreign currency exchange rates and to increase
current return. The Fund may engage in both transaction hedging and position hedging.
When it engages in transaction hedging, the Fund enters into foreign currency transactions
with respect to specific receivables or payables of that Fund generally arising in connection with
the purchase or sale of its portfolio securities. The Fund will engage in transaction hedging when
it desires to lock in the U.S. dollar price of a security it has agreed to purchase or sell, or
the U.S. dollar equivalent of a dividend or interest payment in a foreign currency. By transaction
hedging, The Fund will attempt to protect against a possible loss resulting from an adverse change
in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and the applicable foreign currency during the period
between the date on which the security is purchased or sold or on which the dividend or interest
payment is declared, and the date on which such payments are made or received.
The Fund may purchase or sell a foreign currency on a spot (or cash) basis at the prevailing
spot rate in connection with transaction hedging. The Fund may also enter into contracts to
purchase or sell foreign currencies at a future date (forward contracts) and purchase and sell
foreign currency futures contracts.
For transaction hedging purposes, the Fund may also purchase exchange-listed and
over-the-counter call and put options on foreign currency futures contracts and on foreign
currencies. A put option on a futures contract gives the Fund the right to assume a short position
in the futures contract until expiration of the option. A put option on currency gives the Fund the
right to sell a currency at an exercise price until the expiration of the option. A call option on
a futures contract gives the Fund the right to assume a long position in the futures contract until
the expiration of the option. A call option on currency gives the Fund the right to purchase a
currency at the exercise price until the expiration of the option. The Fund will engage in
over-the-counter transactions only when appropriate exchange-traded transactions are unavailable
and when, in Schroders opinion, the pricing mechanism and liquidity are satisfactory and the
participants are responsible parties likely to meet their contractual obligations.
When it engages in position hedging, the Fund enters into foreign currency exchange
transactions to protect against a decline in the values of the foreign currencies in which
securities held by the Fund are denominated or are quoted in their principal trading markets or an
increase in the value of currency for securities which the Fund expects to purchase. In connection
with position hedging, the Fund may purchase put or call options on foreign currency and foreign
currency futures contracts and buy or sell forward contracts and foreign currency futures
contracts. The Fund may also purchase or sell foreign currency on a spot basis.
The precise matching of the amounts of foreign currency exchange transactions and the value of
the portfolio securities involved will not generally be possible since the future value of such
securities in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements in the values of
those securities between the dates the currency exchange transactions are entered into and the
dates they mature.
It is impossible to forecast with precision the market value of the Funds portfolio
securities at the expiration or maturity of a forward or futures contract. Accordingly, it may be
necessary for the Fund to purchase additional foreign currency on the spot market (and bear the
expense of such purchase) if the market value of the security or securities being hedged is less
than the amount of foreign currency the Fund is obligated to deliver and if a decision is made to
sell the security or securities and make delivery of the foreign currency. Conversely, it may be
necessary to sell on the spot market some of the foreign currency received upon the sale of the
portfolio security or securities of the Fund if the market value of such security or securities
exceeds the amount of foreign currency the Fund is obligated to deliver.
-11-
To offset some of the costs to the Fund of hedging against fluctuations in currency exchange
rates, the Fund may write covered call options on those currencies.
Transaction and position hedging do not eliminate fluctuations in the underlying prices of the
securities that the Fund owns or intends to purchase or sell. They simply establish a rate of
exchange that one can achieve at some future point in time. Additionally, although these techniques
tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged currency, they tend
to limit any potential gain that might result from the increase in the value of such currency.
Also, suitable foreign currency hedging transactions may not be available in all circumstances and
there can be no assurance that the Fund will utilize hedging transactions at any time or from time
to time.
The Fund may also seek to increase its current return by purchasing and selling foreign
currency on a spot basis, and by purchasing and selling options on foreign currencies and on
foreign currency futures contracts, and by purchasing and selling foreign currency forward
contracts.
Currency Forward and Futures Contracts.
A forward foreign currency exchange contract involves
an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which may be any fixed
number of days from the date of the contract as agreed by the parties, at a price set at the time
of the contract. In the case of a cancelable forward contract, the holder has the unilateral right
to cancel the contract at maturity by paying a specified fee. The contracts are traded in the
interbank market conducted directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and
their customers. A forward contract generally has no deposit requirement, and no commissions are
charged at any stage for trades. A foreign currency futures contract is a standardized contract for
the future delivery of a specified amount of a foreign currency at a future date at a price set at
the time of the contract. Foreign currency futures contracts traded in the United States are
designed by and traded on exchanges regulated by the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the
CFTC), such as the New York Mercantile Exchange.
Forward foreign currency exchange contracts differ from foreign currency futures contracts in
certain respects. For example, the maturity date of a forward contract may be any fixed number of
days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties, rather than a predetermined date in
a given month. Forward contracts may be in any amounts agreed upon by the parties rather than
predetermined amounts. Also, forward foreign exchange contracts are traded directly between
currency traders so that no intermediary is required. A forward contract generally requires no
margin or other deposit.
At the maturity of a forward or futures contract, the Fund may either accept or make delivery
of the currency specified in the contract, or at or prior to maturity enter into a closing
transaction involving the purchase or sale of an offsetting contract. Closing transactions with
respect to forward contracts are usually effected with the currency trader who is a party to the
original forward contract. Closing transactions with respect to futures contracts are effected on a
commodities exchange; a clearing corporation associated with the exchange assumes responsibility
for closing out such contracts.
Positions in foreign currency futures contracts and related options may be closed out only on
an exchange or board of trade that provides a secondary market in such contracts or options.
Although the Fund will normally purchase or sell foreign currency futures contracts and related
options only on exchanges or boards of trade where there appears to be an active secondary market,
there is no assurance that a secondary market on an exchange or board of trade will exist for any
particular contract or option or at any particular time. In such event, it may not be possible to
close a futures or related option position and, in the event of adverse price movements, the Fund
would continue to be required to make daily cash payments of variation margin on its futures
positions.
Foreign Currency Options.
Options on foreign currencies operate similarly to options on
securities, and are traded primarily in the over-the-counter market, although options on foreign
currencies have been listed on several exchanges. Such options will be purchased or written only
when Schroders believes that a liquid secondary market exists for such options. There can be no
assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for a particular option at any specific time.
Options on foreign currencies are affected by all of those factors that influence exchange rates
and investments generally.
-12-
The value of a foreign currency option is dependent upon the value of the foreign currency and
the U.S. dollar, and may have no relationship to the investment merits of a foreign security.
Because foreign currency transactions occurring in the interbank market involve substantially
larger amounts than those that may be involved in the use of foreign currency options, investors
may be disadvantaged by having to deal in an odd lot market (generally consisting of transactions
of less than $1 million) for the underlying foreign currencies at prices that are less favorable
than for round lots.
There is no systematic reporting of last sale information for foreign currencies and there is
no regulatory requirement that quotations available through dealers or other market sources be firm
or revised on a timely basis. Available quotation information is generally representative of very
large transactions in the interbank market and thus may not reflect relatively smaller transactions
(less than $1 million) where rates may be less favorable. The interbank market in foreign
currencies is a global, around-the-clock market. To the extent that the U.S. options markets are
closed while the markets for the underlying currencies remain open, significant price and rate
movements may take place in the underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the U.S. options
markets.
Foreign Currency Conversion.
Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for
currency conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (the spread) between prices
at which they buy and sell various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency
to the Fund at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the Fund desire to resell
that currency to the dealer.
Convertible Securities.
The Fund may invest in convertible securities. Convertible securities
include bonds, debentures, notes, preferred stocks and other securities that may be converted into
or exchanged for, at a specific price or formula within a particular period of time, a prescribed
amount of common stock or other equity securities of the same or a different issuer. Convertible
securities entitle the holder to receive interest paid or accrued on debt or dividends paid or
accrued on preferred stock until the security matures or is redeemed, converted or exchanged.
Convertible securities provide for streams of income with yields that are generally higher than
those of common stocks.
The market value of a convertible security is a function of its investment value and its
conversion value. A securitys investment value represents the value of the security without
its conversion feature (
i.e.
, a nonconvertible fixed income security). The investment value may be
determined by reference to its credit quality and the current value of its yield to maturity or
probable call date. At any given time, investment value is dependent upon such factors as the
general level of interest rates, the yield of similar nonconvertible securities, the financial
strength of the issuer and the seniority of the security in the issuers capital structure. A
securitys conversion value is determined by multiplying the number of shares the holder is
entitled to receive upon conversion or exchange by the current price of the underlying security.
If the conversion value of a convertible security is significantly below its investment value,
the convertible security will trade like nonconvertible debt or preferred stock and its market
value will not be influenced greatly by fluctuations in the market price of the underlying
security. Conversely, if the conversion value of a convertible security is near or above its
investment value, the market value of the convertible security will be more heavily influenced by
fluctuations in the market price of the underlying security.
The Funds investments in convertible securities may at times include securities that have a
mandatory conversion feature, pursuant to which the securities convert automatically into common
stock or other equity securities at a specified date and a specified conversion ratio, or that are
convertible at the option of the issuer. Because conversion of the security is not at the option of
the holder, the Fund may be required to convert the security into the underlying common stock even
at times when the value of the underlying common stock or other equity security has declined
substantially.
The Funds investments in convertible securities, particularly securities that are convertible
into securities of an issuer other than the issuer of the convertible security, may be illiquid.
The Fund may not be able to dispose of such securities in a timely fashion or for a fair price,
which could result in losses to the Fund.
-13-
Warrants to Purchase Securities.
The Fund may invest in warrants to purchase securities. Bonds
issued with warrants attached to purchase equity securities have many characteristics of
convertible bonds and their prices may, to some degree, reflect the performance of the underlying
stock. Bonds also may be issued with warrants attached to purchase additional fixed income
securities at the same coupon rate. A decline in interest rates would permit the Fund to buy
additional bonds at the favorable rate or to sell the warrants at a profit. If interest rates rise,
the warrants would generally expire with no value.
The Fund may also invest in equity-linked warrants. The Fund purchases the equity-linked
warrants from a broker, who in turn is expected to purchase shares in the local market and issue a
call warrant hedged on the underlying holding. If the Fund exercises its call and closes its
position, the shares are expected to be sold and the warrant redeemed with the proceeds. Each
warrant represents one share of the underlying stock. Therefore, the price, performance and
liquidity of the warrant are all directly linked to the underlying stock, less transaction costs.
Equity-linked warrants are valued at the closing price of the underlying security, then adjusted
for stock dividends declared by the underlying security. In addition to the market risk related to
the underlying holdings, the Fund bears additional counterparty risk with respect to the issuing
broker. Moreover, there is currently no active trading market for equity-linked warrants.
In addition to warrants on securities, the Fund may purchase put warrants and call warrants
whose values vary depending on the change in the value of one or more specified securities indices
(index-linked warrants). Index-linked warrants are generally issued by banks or other financial
institutions and give the holder the right, at any time during the term of the warrant, to receive
upon exercise of the warrant a cash payment from the issuer based on the value of the underlying
index at the time of exercise. In general, if the value of the underlying index rises above the
exercise price of the index-linked warrant, the holder of a call warrant will be entitled to
receive a cash payment from the issuer upon exercise based on the difference between the value of
the index and the exercise price of the warrant; if the value of the underlying index falls, the
holder of a put warrant will be entitled to receive a cash payment from the issuer upon exercise
based on the difference between the exercise price of the warrant and the value of the index. The
holder of a warrant would not be entitled to any payments from the issuer at any time when, in the
case of a call warrant, the exercise price is greater than the value of the underlying index, or,
in the case of a put warrant, the exercise price is less than the value of the underlying index. If
the Fund were not to exercise an index-linked warrant prior to its expiration, then the Fund would
lose the amount of the purchase price paid by it for the warrant.
If the Fund used index-linked warrants, it would normally do so in a manner similar to its use
of options on securities indices. The risks of the Funds use of index-linked warrants are
generally similar to those relating to its use of index options. Unlike most index options,
however, index-linked warrants are issued in limited amounts and are not obligations of a regulated
clearing agency, but are backed only by the credit of the bank or other institution that issues the
warrant. Also, index-linked warrants generally have longer terms than index options. Index-linked
warrants are not likely to be as liquid as certain index options backed by a recognized clearing
agency. In addition, the terms of index-linked warrants may limit the Funds ability to exercise
the warrants at such time, or in such quantities, as the Fund would otherwise wish to do.
Real Estate Investment Trusts.
The Fund may invest in real estate investment trusts (REITs).
Equity REITs invest directly in real property while mortgage REITs invest in mortgages on real
property. REITs may be subject to certain risks associated with the direct ownership of real
estate, including declines in the value of real estate, risks related to general and local economic
conditions, overbuilding and increased competition, increases in property taxes and operating
expenses, and variations in rental income. Generally, increases in interest rates will decrease the
value of high yielding securities and increase the costs of obtaining financing, which could
decrease the value of a REITs investments. In addition, equity REITs may be affected by changes in
the value of the underlying property owned by the REITs, while mortgage REITs may be affected by
the quality of credit extended. Equity and mortgage REITs are dependent upon management skill, are
not diversified and are subject to the risks of financing projects. REITs are also subject to heavy
cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self liquidation and the possibility of failing to
qualify for tax-free pass-through of income under the Code, and to maintain exemption from
registration under the 1940 Act.
-14-
Investments in Pooled Vehicles.
The Fund may invest in shares of both open- and closed-end
investment companies (including single country funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs)), and
trusts. The Fund also may invest in other private investment funds, vehicles, or structures.
Investing in another pooled vehicle exposes the Fund to all the risks of that pooled vehicle, and,
in general, subjects it to a pro rata portion of the other pooled vehicles fees and expenses. ETFs
are hybrid investment companies that are registered as open-end investment companies or unit
investment trusts (UITs) but possess some of the characteristics of closed-end funds. ETFs
typically hold a portfolio of securities that is intended to track the price and dividend
performance of a particular index. Common examples of ETFs include S&P Depositary Receipts
(SPDRs) and iShares, which may be purchased from the UIT or investment company issuing the
securities or purchased in the secondary market. SPDRs are listed on the American Stock Exchange
and iShares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange. (iShares® is a registered trademark of
Barclays Global Investors, N.A. (BGI). Neither BGI nor the iShares® Funds make any representation
regarding the advisability of investing in the Fund.) The market price for ETF shares may be higher
or lower than the ETFs net asset value. The sale and redemption prices of ETF shares purchased
from the issuer are based on the issuers net asset value.
Depositary Receipts.
The Fund may invest in American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), Global
Depositary Receipts (GDRs), European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) or other similar securities
representing ownership of foreign securities (collectively, Depositary Receipts) if issues of
these Depositary Receipts are available that are consistent with the Funds investment objective.
Depositary Receipts generally evidence an ownership interest in a corresponding foreign security on
deposit with a financial institution. Transactions in Depositary Receipts usually do not settle in
the same currency in which the underlying securities are denominated or traded. Generally, ADRs, in
registered form, are designed for use in the U.S. securities markets and EDRs, in bearer form, are
designed for use in European securities markets. GDRs may be traded in any public or private
securities markets and may represent securities held by institutions located anywhere in the world.
Investments in non-U.S. issuers through Depositary Receipts and similar instruments may
involve certain risks not applicable to investing in U.S. issuers, including changes in currency
rates, application of local tax laws, changes in governmental administration or economic or
monetary policy or changed circumstances in dealings between nations. Costs may be incurred in
connection with conversions between various currencies. The Fund may enter into forward currency
contracts and purchase currencies on a spot basis to reduce currency risk; however, currency
hedging involves costs and may not be effective in all cases.
Swap Agreements.
The Fund may enter into swap agreements and other types of over-the-counter
transactions with broker-dealers or other financial institutions. Depending on their structures,
swap agreements may increase or decrease the Funds exposure to long-or short-term interest rates
(in the United States or abroad), foreign currency values, mortgage securities, corporate borrowing
rates, or other factors such as security prices or inflation rates. The value of the Funds swap
positions would increase or decrease depending on the changes in value of the underlying rates,
currency values, or other indices or measures.
The Fund may also enter into credit default swap transactions. In a credit default swap, one
party pays what is, in effect, an insurance premium through a stream of payments to another party
in exchange for the right to receive a specified return in an event of default (or similar events)
by a third party on its obligations. Therefore, in a credit default swap, the Fund may pay a
premium and, in return, have the right to put certain bonds or loans to the counterparty upon
default by the issuer of such bonds or loans (or similar events) and to receive in return the par
value of such bonds or loans (or another agreed upon amount). The Fund would generally enter into
this type of transaction to limit or reduce risk with respect to bonds or loans that it owns in its
portfolios or otherwise in connection with transactions intended to reduce one or more risks in the
Funds portfolio, or otherwise to increase the Funds investment return. In addition, the Fund
could also receive the premium referenced above, and be obligated to pay a counterparty the par
value of certain bonds or loans upon a default (or similar event) by the issuer. The Fund would
generally enter into this type of transaction as a substitute for investment in the securities of
the issuer, or otherwise to increase the Funds investment return.
-15-
The Funds ability to realize a profit from such transactions will depend on the ability of
the financial institutions with which they enter into the transactions to meet their obligations to
the Fund. Under certain circumstances, suitable transactions may not be available to the Fund, or
the Fund may be unable to close out its position under such transactions at the same time, or at
the same price, as if it had purchased comparable publicly traded securities. The Funds ability to
engage in certain swap transactions may be limited by tax considerations.
Hybrid Instruments.
These instruments are generally considered derivatives and include indexed
or structured securities, and combine the elements of futures contracts or options with those of
debt, preferred equity or a depositary instrument. A hybrid instrument may be a debt security,
preferred stock, warrant, convertible security, certificate of depositor other evidence of
indebtedness on which a portion of or all interest payments, and/or the principal or stated amount
payable at maturity, redemption or retirement, is determined by reference to prices, changes in
prices, or differences between prices, of securities, currencies, intangibles, goods, articles or
commodities (collectively, underlying assets), or by another objective index, economic factor or
other measure, including interest rates, currency exchange rates, or commodities or securities
indices (collectively, benchmarks). Hybrid instruments may take a number of forms, including, but
not limited to, debt instruments with interest or principal payments or redemption terms determined
by reference to the value of an index at a future time, preferred stock with dividend rates
determined by reference to the value of a currency, or convertible securities with the conversion
terms related to a particular commodity.
The risks of investing in hybrid instruments reflect a combination of the risks of investing
in securities, options, futures and currencies. An investment in a hybrid instrument may entail
significant risks that are not associated with a similar investment in a traditional debt
instrument that has a fixed principal amount, is denominated in U.S. dollars or bears interest
either at a fixed rate or a floating rate determined by reference to a common, nationally published
benchmark. The risks of a particular hybrid instrument will depend upon the terms of the
instrument, but may include the possibility of significant changes in the benchmark(s) or the
prices of the underlying assets to which the instrument is linked. Such risks generally depend upon
factors unrelated to the operations or credit quality of the issuer of the hybrid instrument, which
may not be foreseen by the purchaser, such as economic and political events, the supply and demand
of the underlying assets and interest rate movements. Hybrid instruments may be highly volatile and
their use by the Fund may not be successful.
Hybrid instruments may bear interest or pay preferred dividends at below market (or even
relatively nominal) rates. Alternatively, hybrid instruments may bear interest at above market
rates but bear an increased risk of principal loss (or gain). The latter scenario may result if
leverage is used to structure the hybrid instrument. Leverage risk occurs when the hybrid
instrument is structured so that a given change in a benchmark or underlying asset is multiplied to
produce a greater value change in the hybrid instrument, thereby magnifying the risk of loss as
well as the potential for gain.
Hybrid instruments can be an efficient means of creating exposure to a particular market, or
segment of a market, with the objective of enhancing total return. For example, the Fund may wish
to take advantage of expected declines in interest rates in several European countries, but avoid
the transaction costs associated with buying and currency-hedging the foreign bond positions. One
solution would be to purchase a U.S. dollar-denominated hybrid instrument whose redemption price is
linked to the average three year interest rate in a designated group of countries. The redemption
price formula would provide for payoffs of less than par if rates were above the specified level.
Furthermore, the Fund could limit the downside risk of the security by establishing a minimum
redemption price so that the principal paid at maturity could not be below a predetermined minimum
level if interest rates were to rise significantly. The purpose of this arrangement, known as a
structured security with an embedded put option, would be to give the Fund the desired European
bond exposure while avoiding currency risk, limiting downside market risk, and lowering transaction
costs. Of course, there is no guarantee that the strategy will be successful and the Fund could
lose money if, for example, interest rates do not move as anticipated or credit problems develop
with the issuer of the hybrid instrument.
Hybrid instruments are potentially more volatile and carry greater market risks than
traditional debt instruments. Depending on the structure of the particular hybrid instrument,
changes in a benchmark may be
-16-
magnified by the terms of the hybrid instrument and have an even more dramatic and substantial
effect upon the value of the hybrid instrument. Also, the prices of the hybrid instrument and the
benchmark or underlying asset may not move in the same direction or at the same time.
Hybrid instruments may also carry liquidity risk since the instruments are often customized
to meet the portfolio needs of a particular investor, and therefore, the number of investors that
are willing and able to buy such instruments in the secondary market may be smaller than that for
more traditional debt securities. Under certain conditions, the redemption value of such an
investment could be zero. In addition, because the purchase and sale of hybrid investments would
likely take place in an over-the-counter market without the guarantee of a central clearing
organization, or in a transaction between the Fund and the issuer of the hybrid instrument, the
creditworthiness of the counterparty of the issuer of the hybrid instrument would be an additional
risk factor the Fund would have to consider and monitor. Hybrid instruments also may not be subject
to regulation by the CFTC, which generally regulates the trading of commodity futures by U.S.
persons, the SEC, which regulates the offer and sale of securities by and to U.S. persons, or any
other governmental regulatory authority.
Structured Investments.
A structured investment is a security having a return tied to an
underlying index or other security or asset class. Structured investments generally are
individually negotiated agreements and may be traded over-the-counter. Structured investments are
organized and operated to restructure the investment characteristics of the underlying security.
This restructuring involves the deposit with or purchase by an entity, such as a corporation or
trust, or specified instruments (such as commercial bank loans) and the issuance by that entity or
one or more classes of securities (structured securities) backed by, or representing interests
in, the underlying instruments. The cash flow on the underlying instruments may be apportioned
among the newly issued structured securities to create securities with different investment
characteristics, such as varying maturities, payment priorities and interest rate provisions, and
the extent of such payments made with respect to structured securities is dependent on the extent
of the cash flow on the underlying instruments. Because structured securities typically involve no
credit enhancement, their credit risk generally will be equivalent to that of the underlying
instruments. Investments in structured securities are generally of a class of structured securities
that is either subordinated or unsubordinated to the right of payment of another class.
Subordinated structured securities typically have higher yields and present greater risks than
unsubordinated structured securities. Structured securities are typically sold in private placement
transactions, and there currently is no active trading market for structured securities.
Investments in government and government-related and restructured debt instruments are subject to
special risks, including the inability or unwillingness to repay principal and interest, requests
to reschedule or restructure outstanding debt and requests to extend additional loan amounts.
Private Placements and Restricted Securities.
The Fund may invest in securities that are
purchased in private placements. While such private placements may often offer attractive
opportunities for investment not otherwise available on the open market, the securities so
purchased are often restricted securities,
i.e.
, securities that cannot be sold to the public
without registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the 1933 Act) or the
availability of an exemption from registration (such as Rules 144 or 144A), or that are not
readily marketable because they are subject to other legal or contractual delays in or
restrictions on resale. Because there may be relatively few potential purchasers for such
investments, especially under adverse market or economic conditions or in the event of adverse
changes in the financial condition of the issuer, the Fund could find it more difficult to sell
such securities when Schroders believes it advisable to do so or may be able to sell such
securities only at prices lower than if such securities were more widely held. At times, it may
also be more difficult to determine the fair value of such securities for purposes of computing the
Funds net asset value.
The absence of a trading market can make it difficult to ascertain a market value for illiquid
investments. Disposing of illiquid investments may involve time-consuming negotiation and legal
expenses, and it may be difficult or impossible for the Fund to sell them promptly at an acceptable
price. The Fund may have to bear the extra expense of registering such securities for resale and
the risk of substantial delay in effecting such registration. Also, market quotations are less
readily available. The judgment of Schroders may at times play a greater role in valuing these
securities than in the case of publicly traded securities.
-17-
Generally speaking, restricted securities may be sold only to qualified institutional buyers,
or in a privately negotiated transaction to a limited number of purchasers, or in limited
quantities after they have been held for a specified period of time and other conditions are met
pursuant to an exemption from registration, or in a public offering for which a registration
statement is in effect under the 1933 Act. The Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter for
purposes of the 1933 Act when selling restricted securities to the public, and in such event the
Fund may be liable to purchasers of such securities if the registration statement prepared by the
issuer, or the prospectus forming a part of it, is materially inaccurate or misleading. The Staff
of the SEC currently takes the view that any delegation by the Trustees of the authority to
determine that a restricted security is readily marketable (as described in the investment
restrictions of the Fund) must be pursuant to written procedures established by the Trustees and
the Trustees have delegated such authority to Schroders. If no qualified institutional buyers are
interested in purchasing the securities, then the Fund may not be able to sell such securities. In
the event that the Trustees, or persons designated by the Trustees, determine that a security is
readily marketable pursuant to these procedures, and the Fund is not able to sell such security
at the price that such persons anticipate, then the Funds net asset value will decrease.
Inverse Floaters.
Inverse floaters have variable interest rates that typically move in the
opposite direction from movements in prevailing short-term interest rate levelsrising when
prevailing short-term interest rate fall, and vice versa. The prices of inverse floaters can be
highly volatile and some inverse floaters may be leveraged, resulting in increased risk and
potential volatility. The Fund may use inverse floaters for hedging or investment purposes. Use of
inverse floaters other than for hedging purposes may be considered speculative.
Over-the-Counter Securities.
The Funds investments may include securities traded
over-the-counter as well as those traded on a securities exchange. Some securities, particularly
over-the-counter securities, may be more difficult to sell under some market conditions. As
described below under Determination of Net Asset Value, unlisted securities for which market
quotations are readily available generally are valued at the most recently reported sale prices on
any day or, in the absence of a reported sale price, at mid-market prices. Market quotations may
not be readily available for all over-the-counter securities. If the Fund is not able to sell such
securities at a price at which the Fund has valued the securities for purposes of calculating its
net asset value, the Funds net asset value will decrease. The Fund may invest in over-the-counter
securities as a non-principal investment strategy when the Funds sub-adviser believes that such
securities offer potential for long-term capital growth.
Zero-Coupon Securities.
Zero-coupon securities in which the Fund may invest are debt
obligations that are generally issued at a discount and payable in full at maturity, and that do
not provide for current payments of interest prior to maturity. Zero-coupon securities usually
trade at a deep discount from their face or par value and are subject to greater market value
fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities that make
current distributions of interest. As a result, the net asset value of shares of the Fund investing
in zero-coupon securities may fluctuate over a greater range than shares of other mutual funds
investing in securities making current distributions of interest and having similar maturities. The
Fund is required to distribute the income of zero-coupon securities as the income accrues, even
though the Fund is not receiving the income in cash on a current basis. Thus, the Fund may have to
sell other investments, including when it may not be advisable to do so, to make income
distributions.
Zero-coupon securities may include U.S. Treasury bills issued directly by the U.S. Treasury or
other short-term debt obligations, and longer-term bonds or notes and their unmatured interest
coupons that have been separated by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment
brokerage firm. A number of securities firms and banks have stripped the interest coupons from the
underlying principal (the corpus) of U.S. Treasury securities and resold them in custodial
receipt programs with a number of different names, including Treasury Income Growth Receipts
(TIGRS) and Certificates of Accrual on Treasuries (CATS). CATS and TIGRS are not considered
U.S. Government securities. The underlying U.S. Treasury bonds and notes themselves are held in
book-entry form at the Federal Reserve Bank or, in the case of bearer securities (
i.e.
,
unregistered securities that are owned ostensibly by the bearer or holder thereof), in trust on
behalf of the owners thereof.
-18-
In addition, the U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero-coupon
securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular interest coupons and
corpus payments on U.S. Treasury securities through the Federal Reserve book-entry record-keeping
system. The Federal Reserve program as established by the U.S. Treasury Department is known as
STRIPS or Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities. Under the STRIPS
program, the Fund will be able to have its beneficial ownership of U.S. Treasury zero-coupon
securities recorded directly in the book-entry record-keeping system in lieu of having to hold
certificates or other evidences of ownership of the underlying U.S. Treasury securities.
When debt obligations have been stripped of their unmatured interest coupons by the holder,
the stripped coupons are sold separately. The principal or corpus is sold at a deep discount
because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed payment on the security and
does not receive any rights to periodic cash interest payments. Once stripped or separated, the
corpus and coupons may be sold separately. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped
with other coupons with like maturity dates and sold in such bundled form. Purchasers of stripped
obligations acquire, in effect, discount obligations that are economically identical to the
zero-coupon securities issued directly by the obligor.
Fixed Income Securities.
In periods of declining interest rates, the yield (income from
portfolio investments) of the Fund may tend to be higher than prevailing market rates, and in
periods of rising interest rates, the yield of the Fund may tend to be lower. In addition, when
interest rates are falling, the inflow of net new money to the Fund will likely be invested in
portfolio instruments producing lower yields than the balance of the Funds portfolio, thereby
reducing the yield of the Fund. In periods of rising interest rates, the opposite can be true. The
net asset value of the Fund can generally be expected to change as general levels of interest rates
fluctuate. The values of fixed income securities in the Funds portfolio generally vary inversely
with changes in interest rates. Prices of fixed income securities with longer effective maturities
are more sensitive to interest rate changes than those with shorter effective maturities. The Fund
may purchase fixed income securities issued by companies of any market capitalization, including
small and micro cap companies. Such investments may involve greater risk than is usually associated
with larger, more established companies.
Lower-Rated Securities.
The Fund may invest up in lower-rated fixed-income securities
(commonly known as junk bonds). The Fund may invest in securities that are in default, and which
offer little or no prospect for the payment of the full amount of unpaid principal and interest,
although normally the Fund will not invest in securities unless a nationally recognized statistical
rating organization (for example, Moodys Investors Service, Inc. (Moodys), Standard & Poors
Rating Service (Standard & Poors), or Fitch Investors Service, Inc. (Fitch)) has rated the
securities CC- (or the equivalent) or better, or the Funds adviser has determined the securities
to be of comparable quality. The lower ratings of certain securities held by the Fund reflect a
greater possibility that adverse changes in the financial condition of the issuer or in general
economic conditions, or both, or an unanticipated rise in interest rates, may impair the ability of
the issuer to make payments of interest and principal. The inability (or perceived inability) of
issuers to make timely payment of interest and principal would likely make the values of securities
held by the Fund more volatile and could limit the Funds ability to sell its securities at prices
approximating the values the Fund had placed on such securities. In the absence of a liquid trading
market for securities held by it, the Fund at times may be unable to establish the fair value of
such securities.
Securities ratings are based largely on the issuers historical financial condition and the
rating agencies analysis at the time of rating. Consequently, the rating assigned to any
particular security is not necessarily a reflection of the issuers current financial condition,
which may be better or worse than the rating would indicate. In addition, the rating assigned to a
security by Moodys or Standard & Poors (or by any other nationally recognized securities rating
agency) does not reflect an assessment of the volatility of the securitys market value or the
liquidity of an investment in the security.
Like those of other fixed-income securities, the values of lower-rated securities fluctuate in
response to changes in interest rates. A decrease in interest rates will generally result in an
increase in the value of the Funds assets. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates,
the value of the Funds assets will generally decline. The values of lower-rated securities may
often be affected to a greater extent by changes in general economic conditions
-19-
and business conditions affecting the issuers of such securities and their industries.
Negative publicity or investor perceptions may also adversely affect the values of lower-rated
securities. Changes by nationally recognized securities rating agencies in their ratings of any
fixed-income security and changes in the ability of an issuer to make payments of interest and
principal may also affect the value of these investments. Changes in the value of portfolio
securities generally will not affect income derived from these securities, but will affect the
Funds net asset value. The Fund will not necessarily dispose of a security when its rating is
reduced below its rating at the time of purchase. However, Schroders will monitor the investment to
determine whether its retention will assist in meeting the Funds investment objective.
Issuers of lower-rated securities are often highly leveraged, so that their ability to service
their debt obligations during an economic downturn or during sustained periods of rising interest
rates may be impaired. Such issuers may not have more traditional methods of financing available to
them and may be unable to repay outstanding obligations at maturity by refinancing. The risk of
loss due to default in payment of interest or repayment of principal by such issuers is
significantly greater because such securities frequently are unsecured and subordinated to the
prior payment of senior indebtedness.
At times, a portion of the Funds assets may be invested in an issue of which the Fund, by
itself or together with other funds and accounts managed by Schroders or its affiliates, holds all
or a major portion. Although Schroders generally considers such securities to be liquid because of
the availability of an institutional market for such securities, it is possible that, under adverse
market or economic conditions or in the event of adverse changes in the financial condition of the
issuer, the Fund could find it more difficult to sell these securities when Schroders believes it
advisable to do so or may be able to sell the securities only at prices lower than if they were
more widely held. Under these circumstances, it may also be more difficult to determine the fair
value of such securities for purposes of computing the Funds net asset value. In order to enforce
its rights in the event of a default, the Fund may be required to participate in various legal
proceedings or take possession of and manage assets securing the issuers obligations on such
securities. This could increase the Funds operating expenses and adversely affect the Funds net
asset value. In the case of tax-exempt funds, any income derived from the Funds ownership or
operation of such assets would not be tax-exempt. The ability of a holder of a tax-exempt security
to enforce the terms of that security in a bankruptcy proceeding may be more limited than would be
the case with respect to securities of private issuers. In addition, the Funds intention to
qualify as a RIC under the Code may limit the extent to which the Fund may exercise its rights by
taking possession of such assets.
Certain securities held by the Fund may permit the issuer at its option to call, or redeem,
its securities. If an issuer were to redeem securities held by the Fund during a time of declining
interest rates, the Fund may not be able to reinvest the proceeds in securities providing the same
investment return as the securities redeemed.
The Fund may invest in so-called zero-coupon bonds and payment-in-kind bonds. Zero-coupon
bonds are issued at a significant discount for their principal amount in lieu of paying interest
periodically. Payment-in-kind bonds allow the issuer, at its option, to make current interest
payments on the bonds either in cash or in additional bonds. Because zero-coupon bonds and
payment-in-kind bonds do not pay current interest in cash, their value is subject to greater
fluctuation in response to changes in market interest rates than bonds that pay interest currently.
Both zero-coupon bonds and payment-in-kind bonds allow an issuer to avoid the need to generate cash
to meet current interest payments. Accordingly, such bonds may involve greater credit risks than
bonds paying interest currently in cash. The Fund is required to accrue interest income on such
investments and to distribute such amounts at least annually to shareholders even though such bonds
do not pay current interest in cash. Thus, it may be necessary at times for the Fund to liquidate
investments in order to satisfy its dividend requirements.
To the extent the Fund invests in securities in the lower rating categories, the achievement
of the Funds goals is more dependent on Schroders investment analysis than would be the case if
the Fund were investing in securities in the higher rating categories. This also may be true with
respect to tax-exempt securities, as the amount of information about the financial condition of an
issuer of tax-exempt securities may not be as extensive as that which is made available by
corporations whose securities are publicly traded.
-20-
Mortgage Related and Asset-Backed Securities.
Mortgage-backed securities, including
collateralized mortgage obligations (CMOs) and certain stripped mortgage-backed securities
represent a participation in, or are secured by, mortgage loans. Asset-backed securities are
structured like mortgage-backed securities, but instead of mortgage loans or interests in mortgage
loans, the underlying assets may include such items as motor vehicle installment sales or
installment loan contracts, leases of various types of real and personal property and receivables
from credit card agreements. The ability of an issuer of asset-backed securities to enforce its
security interest in the underlying assets may be limited.
Mortgage-backed securities have yield and maturity characteristics corresponding to the
underlying assets. Unlike traditional debt securities, which may pay a fixed rate of interest until
maturity, when the entire principal amount comes due, payments on certain mortgage-backed
securities include both interest and a partial repayment of principal. Besides the scheduled
repayment of principal, repayments of principal may result from the voluntary prepayment,
refinancing or foreclosure of the underlying mortgage loans. If property owners make unscheduled
prepayments of their mortgage loans, these prepayments will result in early payment of the
applicable mortgage-related securities. In that event the Fund may be unable to invest the proceeds
from the early payment of the mortgage-related securities in an investment that provides as high a
yield as the mortgage-related securities. Consequently, early payment associated with
mortgage-related securities may cause these securities to experience significantly greater price
and yield volatility than that experienced by traditional fixed-income securities. The occurrence
of mortgage prepayments is affected by factors including the level of interest rates, general
economic conditions, the location and age of the mortgage and other social and demographic
conditions. During periods of falling interest rates, the rate of mortgage prepayments tends to
increase, thereby tending to decrease the life of mortgage-related securities. During periods of
rising interest rates, the rate of mortgage prepayments usually decreases, thereby tending to
increase the life of mortgage-related securities. If the life of a mortgage-related security is
inaccurately predicted, the Fund may not be able to realize the rate of return its adviser
expected.
The types of mortgages underlying securities held by the Fund may differ and may be affected
differently by market factors. For example, the Funds investments in residential mortgage-backed
securities will likely be affected significantly by factors affecting residential real estate
markets and mortgages generally; similarly, investments in commercial mortgage-backed securities
will likely be affected significantly by factors affecting commercial real estate markets and
mortgages generally.
Mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities are less effective than other types of securities
as a means of locking in attractive long-term interest rates. One reason is the need to reinvest
prepayments of principal; another is the possibility of significant unscheduled prepayments
resulting from declines in interest rates. These prepayments would have to be reinvested at lower
rates. As a result, these securities may have less potential for capital appreciation during
periods of declining interest rates than other securities of comparable maturities, although they
may have a similar risk of decline in market value during periods of rising interest rates.
Prepayments may also significantly shorten the effective maturities of these securities, especially
during periods of declining interest rates. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates, a
reduction in prepayments may increase the effective maturities of these securities, subjecting them
to a greater risk of decline in market value in response to rising interest rates than traditional
debt securities, and, therefore, potentially increasing the volatility of the Fund.
Prepayments may cause losses on securities purchased at a premium. At times, some
mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities will have higher than market interest rates and
therefore will be purchased at a premium above their par value.
If the Fund purchases mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities that are subordinated to
other interests in the same mortgage pool, the Fund as a holder of those securities may only
receive payments after the pools obligations to other investors have been satisfied. An
unexpectedly high rate of defaults on the mortgages held by a mortgage pool may limit substantially
the pools ability to make payments of principal or interest to the Fund as a holder of such
subordinated securities, reducing the values of those securities or in some cases rendering them
worthless. The risk of such defaults is generally higher in the case of mortgage pools that
include so-called subprime mortgages. An unexpectedly high or low rate of prepayments on a
pools underlying mortgages may have
-21-
a similar effect on subordinated securities. A mortgage pool may issue securities subject to
various levels of subordination; the risk of non-payment affects securities at each level, although
the risk is greater in the case of more highly subordinated securities.
CMOs and CMO residuals may be issued by a U.S. Government agency or instrumentality or by a
private issuer. Although payment of the principal of, and interest on, the underlying collateral
securing privately issued CMOs and CMO residuals may be guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its
agencies or instrumentalities, these CMOs and CMO residuals represent obligations solely of the
private issuer and are not insured or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities or any other person or entity.
Prepayments could cause early retirement of CMOs. CMOs are designed to reduce the risk of
prepayment for investors by issuing multiple classes of securities, each having different
maturities, interest rates and payment schedules, and with the principal and interest on the
underlying mortgages allocated among the several classes in various ways. Payment of interest or
principal on some classes or series of CMOs may be subject to contingencies or some classes or
series may bear some or all of the risk of default on the underlying mortgages. CMOs of different
classes or series are generally retired in sequence as the underlying mortgage loans in the
mortgage pool are repaid. If enough mortgages are repaid ahead of schedule, the classes or series
of a CMO with the earliest maturities generally will be retired prior to their maturities. Thus,
the early retirement of particular classes or series of a CMO would have the same effect as the
prepayment of mortgages underlying other mortgage-backed securities. Conversely, slower than
anticipated prepayments can extend the effective maturities of CMOs, subjecting them to a greater
risk of decline in market value in response to rising interest rates than traditional debt
securities, and, therefore, potentially increasing their volatility.
In the case of CMO residuals, the cash flow generated by the mortgage assets underlying a
series of CMOs is applied first to make required payments of principal and interest on the CMOs and
second to pay the related administrative expenses of the issuer. The residual in a CMO structure
generally represents the interest in any excess cash flow remaining after making the foregoing
payments. Each payment of such excess cash flow to a holder of the related CMO residual represents
income and/or a return of capital. The amount of residual cash flow resulting from a CMO will
depend on, among other things, the characteristics of the mortgage assets, the coupon rate of each
class of CMO, prevailing interest rates, the amount of administrative expenses and the prepayment
experience on the mortgage assets. In particular, the yield to maturity on CMO residuals is
extremely sensitive to prepayments on the related underlying mortgage assets, in the same manner as
an IO class of stripped mortgage-backed securities. See below with respect to stripped
mortgage-backed securities. In addition, if a series of a CMO includes a class that bears interest
at an adjustable rate, the yield to maturity on the related CMO residual will also be extremely
sensitive to changes in the level of the index upon which interest rate adjustments are based. As
described below with respect to stripped mortgage-backed securities, in certain circumstances the
Fund may fail to recoup some or all of its initial investment in a CMO residual.
CMO residuals are generally purchased and sold by institutional investors through several
investment banking firms acting as brokers or dealers. The CMO residual market has developed fairly
recently and CMO residuals currently may not have the liquidity of other more established
securities trading in other markets. Transactions in CMO residuals are generally completed only
after careful review of the characteristics of the securities in question. In addition, CMO
residuals may, or pursuant to an exemption therefrom, may not, have been registered under the 1933
Act. CMO residuals, whether or not registered under the 1933 Act, may be subject to certain
restrictions on transferability, and may be deemed illiquid.
Prepayments could result in losses on stripped mortgage-backed securities. Stripped
mortgage-backed securities are usually structured with two classes that receive different portions
of the interest and principal distributions on a pool of mortgage loans. The yield to maturity on
an interest only or IO class of stripped mortgage-backed securities is extremely sensitive not
only to changes in prevailing interest rates but also to the rate of principal payments (including
prepayments) on the underlying assets. A rapid rate of principal prepayments may have a measurable
adverse effect on the Funds yield to maturity to the extent it invests in IOs. If the assets
underlying the IO experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, the Fund may fail
to recoup fully, or at all, its initial
-22-
investment in these securities. Conversely, principal only securities or POs tend to
increase in value if prepayments are greater than anticipated and decline if prepayments are slower
than anticipated.
The secondary market for mortgage-backed securities, particularly stripped mortgage-backed
securities, or those comprised of subprime mortgages (mortgages rated below A, or its equivalent,
by Standard & Poors, Moodys or Fitch) may be more volatile and less liquid than that for other
mortgage-backed securities, potentially limiting the Funds ability to buy or sell those securities
at any particular time.
Loan Participations and Other Floating Rate Loans.
The Fund may invest in loan
participations. By purchasing a loan participation, the Fund acquires some or all of the interest
of a bank or other lending institution in a loan to a particular borrower. Many such loans are
secured, and most impose restrictive covenants that must be met by the borrower. These loans are
typically made by a syndicate of banks, represented by an agent bank that has negotiated and
structured the loan and that is responsible generally for collecting interest, principal, and other
amounts from the borrower on its own behalf and on behalf of the other lending institutions in the
syndicate, and for enforcing its and their other rights against the borrower. Each of the lending
institutions, including the agent bank, lends to the borrower a portion of the total amount of the
loan, and retains the corresponding interest in the loan.
The Funds ability to receive payments of principal and interest and other amounts in
connection with loan participations held by it will depend primarily on the financial condition of
the borrower. The failure by the Fund to receive scheduled interest or principal payments on a loan
participation would adversely affect the income of the Fund and would likely reduce the value of
its assets, which would be reflected in a reduction in the Funds net asset value. Banks and other
lending institutions generally perform a credit analysis of the borrower before originating a loan
or participating in a lending syndicate. In selecting the loan participations in which the Fund
will invest, however, Schroders will not rely solely on that credit analysis, but will perform its
own investment analysis of the borrowers. Schroders analysis may include consideration of the
borrowers financial strength and managerial experience, debt coverage, additional borrowing
requirements or debt maturity schedules, changing financial conditions, and responsiveness to
changes in business conditions and interest rates. Schroders will be unable to access non-public
information to which other investors in syndicated loans may have access. Because loan
participations in which the Fund may invest are not generally rated by independent credit rating
agencies, a decision by the Fund to invest in a particular loan participation will depend almost
exclusively on Schroders, and the original lending institutions, credit analysis of the borrower.
Investments in loan participations may be of any quality, including distressed loans, and will be
subject to the Funds credit quality policy.
Loan participations may be structured in different forms, including novations, assignments and
participating interests. In a novation, the Fund assumes all of the rights of a lending institution
in a loan, including the right to receive payments of principal and interest and other amounts
directly from the borrower and to enforce its rights as a lender directly against the borrower. The
Fund assumes the position of a co-lender with other syndicate members. As an alternative, the Fund
may purchase an assignment of a portion of a lenders interest in a loan. In this case, the Fund
may be required generally to rely upon the assigning bank to demand payment and enforce its rights
against the borrower, but would otherwise be entitled to all of such banks rights in the loan. The
Fund may also purchase a participating interest in a portion of the rights of a lending institution
in a loan. In such case, it will be entitled to receive payments of principal, interest and
premium, if any, but will not generally be entitled to enforce its rights directly against the
agent bank or the borrower, and must rely for that purpose on the lending institution. The Fund may
also acquire a loan participation directly by acting as a member of the original lending syndicate.
The Fund will in many cases be required to rely upon the lending institution from which it
purchases the loan participation to collect and pass on to the Fund such payments and to enforce
the Funds rights under the loan. As a result, an insolvency, bankruptcy or reorganization of the
lending institution may delay or prevent the Fund from receiving principal, interest and other
amounts with respect to the underlying loan. When the Fund is required to rely upon a lending
institution to pay to the Fund principal, interest and other amounts received by it, Schroders will
also evaluate the creditworthiness of the lending institution.
-23-
The borrower of a loan in which the Fund holds a participation interest may, either at its own
election or pursuant to terms of the loan documentation, prepay amounts of the loan from time to
time. There is no assurance that the Fund will be able to reinvest the proceeds of any loan
prepayment at the same interest rate or on the same terms as those of the original loan
participation.
Corporate loans in which the Fund may purchase a loan participation are made generally to
finance internal growth, mergers, acquisitions, stock repurchases, leveraged buy-outs and other
corporate activities. Under current market conditions, most of the corporate loan participations
purchased by the Fund will represent interests in loans made to finance highly leveraged corporate
acquisitions, known as leveraged buy-out transactions. The highly leveraged capital structure of
the borrowers in such transactions may make such loans especially vulnerable to adverse changes in
economic or market conditions. In addition, loan participations generally are subject to
restrictions on transfer, and only limited opportunities may exist to sell such participations in
secondary markets. As a result, the Fund may be unable to sell loan participations at a time when
it may otherwise be desirable to do so or may be able to sell them only at a price that is less
than their fair market value.
Certain of the loan participations acquired by the Fund may involve revolving credit
facilities under which a borrower may from time to time borrow and repay amounts up to the maximum
amount of the facility. In such cases, the Fund would have an obligation to advance its portion of
such additional borrowings upon the terms specified in the loan participation. To the extent that
the Fund is committed to make additional loans under such a participation, it will at all times
hold and maintain in a segregated account liquid assets in an amount sufficient to meet such
commitments. Certain of the loan participations acquired by the Fund may also involve loans made in
foreign currencies. The Funds investment in such participations would involve the risks of
currency fluctuations described above with respect to investments in the foreign securities.
Notwithstanding its intention generally not to receive material, non-public information with
respect to its management of investments in floating rate loans, Schroders may from time to time
come into possession of material, non-public information about the issuers of loans that may be
held in the Funds portfolio. Possession of such information may in some instances occur despite
Schroders efforts to avoid such possession, but in other instances Schroders may choose to receive
such information (for example, in connection with participation in a creditors committee with
respect to a financially distressed issuer). As, and to the extent, required by applicable law,
Schroders ability to trade in these loans for the account of the Fund could potentially be limited
by its possession of such information. Such limitations on Schroders ability to trade could have
an adverse effect on the Fund by, for example, preventing the Fund from selling a loan that is
experiencing a material decline in value. In some instances, these trading restrictions could
continue in effect for a substantial period of time.
In some instances, other accounts managed by Schroders may hold other securities issued by
borrowers whose floating rate loans may be held in the Funds portfolio. These other securities may
include, for example, debt securities that are subordinate to the floating rate loans held in the
Funds portfolio, convertible debt or common or preferred equity securities. In certain
circumstances, such as if the credit quality of the issuer deteriorates, the interests of holders
of these other securities may conflict with the interests of the holders of the issuers floating
rate loans. In such cases, Schroders may owe conflicting fiduciary duties to the Fund and other
client accounts. Schroders will endeavor to carry out its obligations to all of its clients to the
fullest extent possible, recognizing that in some cases certain clients may achieve a lower
economic return, as a result of these conflicting client interests, than if Schroders client
accounts collectively held only a single category of the issuers securities.
Forward Commitments.
The Fund may enter into contracts to purchase securities for a fixed
price at a future date beyond customary settlement time (forward commitments) if the Fund holds,
and maintains until the settlement date in a segregated account, cash or liquid securities in an
amount sufficient to meet the purchase price, or if the Fund enters into offsetting contracts for
the forward sale of other securities it owns. Forward commitments may be considered securities in
themselves, and involve a risk of loss if the value of the security to be purchased declines prior
to the settlement date, which risk is in addition to the risk of decline in the value of the Funds
other assets. Where such purchases are made through dealers, the Fund relies on the dealer to
consummate the sale. The dealers failure to do so may result in the loss to the Fund of an
advantageous yield or price.
-24-
Although the Fund will generally enter into forward commitments with the intention of
acquiring securities for its portfolio or for delivery pursuant to options contracts it has entered
into, the Fund may dispose of a commitment prior to settlement if Schroders deems it appropriate to
do so. The Fund may realize short-term profits or losses upon the sale of forward commitments.
Floating Rate and Variable Rate Demand Notes.
Floating rate and variable rate demand notes and
bonds may have a stated maturity in excess of one year, but may have features that permit a holder
to demand payment of principal plus accrued interest upon a specified number of days notice.
Frequently, such obligations are secured by letters of credit or other credit support arrangements
provided by banks. The issuer has a corresponding right, after a given period, to prepay in its
discretion the outstanding principal of the obligation plus accrued interest upon a specific number
of days notice to the holders. The interest rate of a floating rate instrument may be based on a
known lending rate, such as a banks prime rate, and is reset whenever such rate is adjusted. The
interest rate on a variable rate demand note is reset at specified intervals at a market rate.
Municipal Bonds.
Municipal bonds are investments of any maturity issued by states, public
authorities or political subdivisions to raise money for public purposes; they include, for
example, general obligations of a state or other government entity supported by its taxing powers
to acquire and construct public facilities, or to provide temporary financing in anticipation of
the receipt of taxes and other revenue. They also include obligations of states, public authorities
or political subdivisions to finance privately owned or operated facilities or public facilities
financed solely by enterprise revenues. Changes in law or adverse determinations by the Internal
Revenue Service (IRS) or a state tax authority could make the income from some of these
obligations taxable.
Short-term municipal bonds are generally issued by state and local governments and public
authorities as interim financing in anticipation of tax collections, revenue receipts or bond sales
to finance such public purposes.
Certain types of private activity bonds may be issued by public authorities to finance
projects such as privately operated housing facilities; certain local facilities for supplying
water, gas or electricity; sewage or solid waste disposal facilities; student loans; or public or
private institutions for the construction of educational, hospital, housing and other facilities.
Such obligations are included within the term municipal bonds if the interest paid thereon is, in
the opinion of bond counsel, exempt from federal income tax and state personal income tax (such
interest may, however, be subject to federal alternative minimum tax). Other types of private
activity bonds, the proceeds of which are used for the construction, repair or improvement of, or
to obtain equipment for, privately operated industrial or commercial facilities, may also
constitute municipal bonds, although current federal tax laws place substantial limitations on the
size of such issues.
Participation interests
. The Fund may invest in municipal bonds either by purchasing them
directly or by purchasing certificates of accrual or similar instruments evidencing direct
ownership of interest payments or principal payments, or both, on municipal bonds, provided that,
in the opinion of counsel, any discount accruing on a certificate or instrument that is purchased
at a yield not greater than the coupon rate of interest on the related municipal bonds will be
exempt from federal income tax to the same extent as interest on the municipal bonds. The Fund may
also invest in municipal bonds by purchasing from banks participation interests in all or part of
specific holdings of municipal bonds. These participations may be backed in whole or in part by an
irrevocable letter of credit or guarantee of the selling bank. The selling bank may receive a fee
from the Fund in connection with the arrangement. The Fund will not purchase such participation
interests unless it receives an opinion of counsel or a ruling of the IRS that interest earned by
it on municipal bonds in which it holds such participation interests is exempt from federal income
tax.
Stand-by commitments
. When the Fund purchases municipal bonds, it has the authority to acquire
stand-by commitments from banks and broker-dealers with respect to those municipal bonds. A
stand-by commitment may be considered a security independent of the municipal bond to which it
relates. The amount payable by a bank or dealer during the time a stand-by commitment is
exercisable, absent unusual circumstances, would be substantially the same as the market value of
the underlying municipal bond to a third party at any time. It is expected that stand-by
-25-
commitments generally will be available without the payment of direct or indirect
consideration. It is not expected that the Fund will assign any value to stand-by commitments.
Yields
. The yields on municipal bonds depend on a variety of factors, including general money
market conditions, effective marginal tax rates, the financial condition of the issuer, general
conditions of the municipal bond market, the size of a particular offering, the maturity of the
obligation and the rating of the issue. The ratings of nationally recognized securities rating
agencies represent their opinions as to the credit quality of the municipal bonds that they
undertake to rate. It should be emphasized, however, that ratings are general and are not absolute
standards of quality. Consequently, municipal bonds with the same maturity and interest rate but
with different ratings may have the same yield. Yield disparities may occur for reasons not
directly related to the investment quality of particular issues or the general movement of interest
rates and may be due to such factors as changes in the overall demand or supply of various types of
municipal bonds or changes in the investment objectives of investors. Subsequent to purchase by the
Fund, an issue of municipal bonds or other investments may cease to be rated, or its rating may be
reduced below the minimum rating required for purchase by the Fund. Neither event will require the
elimination of an investment from the Funds portfolio, but Schroders will consider such an event
in its determination of whether the Fund should continue to hold an investment in its portfolio.
Moral obligation bonds
. The Fund does not currently intend to invest in so-called moral
obligation bonds, where repayment is backed by a moral commitment of an entity other than the
issuer, unless the credit of the issuer itself, without regard to the moral obligation, meets the
investment criteria established for investments by the Fund.
Municipal leases
. The Fund may acquire participations in lease obligations or installment
purchase contract obligations (collectively, lease obligations) of municipal authorities or
entities. Lease obligations do not constitute general obligations of the municipality for which the
municipalitys taxing power is pledged. Certain of these lease obligations contain
non-appropriation clauses, which provide that the municipality has no obligation to make lease or
installment purchase payments in future years unless money is appropriated for such purpose on a
yearly basis. In the case of a non-appropriation lease, the Funds ability to recover under the
lease in the event of non-appropriation or default will be limited solely to the repossession of
the leased property, and in any event, foreclosure of that property might prove difficult.
Additional risks
. Securities in which the Fund may invest, including municipal bonds, are
subject to the provisions of bankruptcy, insolvency and other laws affecting the rights and
remedies of creditors, such as the federal Bankruptcy Code (including special provisions related to
municipalities and other public entities), and laws, if any, that may be enacted by Congress or
state legislatures extending the time for payment of principal or interest, or both, or imposing
other constraints upon enforcement of such obligations. There is also the possibility that, as a
result of litigation or other conditions, the power, ability or willingness of issuers to meet
their obligations for the payment of interest and principal on their municipal bonds may be
materially affected.
From time to time, proposals have been introduced before Congress for the purpose of
restricting or eliminating the federal income tax exemption for interest on debt obligations issued
by states and their political subdivisions. Federal tax laws limit the types and amounts of
tax-exempt bonds issuable for certain purposes, especially industrial development bonds and private
activity bonds. Such limits may affect the future supply and yields of these types of municipal
bonds. Further proposals limiting the issuance of municipal bonds may well be introduced in the
future. If it appeared that the availability of municipal bonds for investment by the Fund and the
value of the Funds portfolio could be materially affected by such changes in law, the Trustees
would reevaluate its investment objective and policies and consider changes in the structure of the
Fund or its dissolution.
NON-PRINCIPAL INVESTMENTS, INVESTMENT PRACTICES AND RISKS
In addition to the principal investment strategies and the principal risks of the Fund
described in the Prospectuses and this SAI, the Fund may employ other investment practices and may
be subject to additional risks, which are described below.
-26-
Short Sales.
To the extent permitted under Investment Restrictions below and in the
Prospectuses, the Fund may seek to hedge investments or realize additional gains through short
sales.
Short sales are transactions in which the Fund sells a security it does not own, in
anticipation of a decline in the market value of that security. To complete such a transaction, the
Fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The Fund then is obligated to replace
the security borrowed by purchasing it at the market price at or prior to the time of replacement.
The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the
Fund. Until the security is replaced, the Fund is required to repay the lender any dividends or
interest that accrue during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the Fund also may be
required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. The net proceeds of
the short sale will be retained by the broker (or by the Funds custodian in a special custody
account), to the extent necessary to meet margin requirements, until the short position is closed
out. The Fund also will incur transaction costs in effecting short sales.
The Fund will incur a loss as a result of the short sale if the price of the security
increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the Fund replaces the borrowed
security. The Fund may realize a gain if the security declines in price between those dates. The
amount of any gain will be decreased, and the amount of any loss increased, by the amount of the
premium, dividends, interest or expenses the Fund may be required to pay in connection with a short
sale. The Funds loss on a short sale could theoretically be unlimited in a case where the Fund is
unable, for whatever reason, to close out its short position. There can be no assurance that the
Fund will be able to close out a short position at any particular time or at an acceptable price.
In addition, short positions may result in a loss if a portfolio strategy of which the short
position is a part is otherwise unsuccessful.
At any time that the Fund has sold a security short, it will maintain liquid securities, in a
segregated account with its custodian, in an amount that, when combined with the amount of
collateral deposited with the broker in connection with the short sale, equals the value at the
time of securities sold short.
Loans of Fund Portfolio Securities.
The Fund may lend its portfolio securities, provided: (1)
the loan is secured continuously by collateral consisting of U.S. Government securities, cash, or
cash equivalents adjusted daily to have market value at least equal to the current market value of
the securities loaned; (2) the Fund may at any time call the loan and regain the securities loaned;
(3) the Fund will receive any interest or dividends paid on the loaned securities; and (4) the
aggregate market value of the Funds portfolio securities loaned will not at any time exceed
one-third of the total assets of the Fund. While the Fund may loan portfolio securities with an
aggregate market value of up to one third of the Funds total assets at any time, entering into
securities loans is not a principal strategy of any Fund and the risks arising from lending
portfolio securities are not principal risks of investing in the Fund. In addition, it is
anticipated that the Fund may share with the borrower some of the income received on the collateral
for the loan or that it will be paid a premium for the loan. Before the Fund enters into a loan,
Schroders considers all relevant facts and circumstances, including the creditworthiness of the
borrower. The risks in lending portfolio securities, as with other extensions of credit, consist of
possible delay in recovery of the securities or possible loss of rights in the collateral should
the borrower fail financially. Although voting rights or rights to consent with respect to the
loaned securities pass to the borrower, the Fund retains the right to call the loans at any time on
reasonable notice, and it will do so in order that the securities may be voted by the Fund if the
holders of such securities are asked to vote upon or consent to matters materially affecting the
investment. The Fund will not lend portfolio securities to borrowers affiliated with that Fund.
Repurchase Agreements.
The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements without limit. A
repurchase agreement is a contract under which the Fund acquires a security for a relatively short
period (usually not more than one week) subject to the obligation of the seller to repurchase and
the Fund to resell such security at a fixed time and price (representing the Funds cost plus
interest). It is the Trusts present intention to enter into repurchase agreements only with member
banks of the Federal Reserve System and securities dealers meeting certain criteria as to
creditworthiness and financial condition, and only with respect to obligations of the U.S.
Government or its agencies or instrumentalities or other investment grade short-term debt
obligations. Repurchase agreements may also be viewed as loans made by the Fund that are
collateralized by the securities subject to repurchase. Schroders will monitor such transactions to
ensure that the value of the underlying securities will be at least equal at all times to the total
amount of
-27-
the repurchase obligation, including the interest factor. If the seller defaults, the Fund
could realize a loss on the sale of the underlying security to the extent that the proceeds of sale
including accrued interest are less than the resale price provided in the agreement including
interest. In addition, if the seller should be involved in bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings,
the Fund may incur delay and costs in selling the underlying security or may suffer a loss of
principal and interest if the Fund is treated as an unsecured creditor and required to return the
underlying collateral to the sellers estate.
To the extent that the Fund has invested a substantial portion of its assets in repurchase
agreements, the Funds investment return on such assets, and potentially the Funds ability to
achieve its investment objectives, will depend on the counterparties willingness and ability to
perform their obligations under the repurchase agreements.
When-Issued Securities.
The Fund may from time to time purchase securities on a when-issued
basis. Debt securities are often issued on this basis. The price of such securities, which may be
expressed in yield terms, is fixed at the time a commitment to purchase is made, but delivery and
payment for the when-issued securities take place at a later date. Normally, the settlement date
occurs within one month of the purchase. During the period between purchase and settlement, no
payment is made by the Fund and no interest accrues to that Fund. To the extent that assets of the
Fund are held in cash pending the settlement of a purchase of securities, that Fund would earn no
income. While the Fund may sell its right to acquire when-issued securities prior to the settlement
date, the Fund may intend actually to acquire such securities unless a sale prior to settlement
appears desirable for investment reasons. At the time the Fund makes the commitment to purchase a
security on a when-issued basis, it will record the transaction and reflect the amount due and the
value of the security in determining the Funds net asset value. The market value of the
when-issued securities may be more or less than the purchase price payable at the settlement date.
The Fund will establish a segregated account in which it will maintain cash and U.S. Government
securities or other liquid securities at least equal in value to commitments for when-issued
securities. Such segregated securities either will mature or, if necessary, be sold on or before
the settlement date.
Temporary Defensive Strategies.
As described in the Prospectuses, Schroders may at times judge
that conditions in the securities markets make pursuing the Funds basic investment strategies
inconsistent with the best interests of its shareholders and may temporarily use alternate
investment strategies primarily designed to reduce fluctuations in the value of the Funds assets.
In implementing these defensive strategies, the Fund would invest in investment grade debt
securities, cash, or money market instruments to any extent Schroders considers consistent with
such defensive strategies. It is impossible to predict when, or for how long, the Fund will use
these alternate strategies, and the Fund is not required to use alternate strategies in any case.
One risk of taking such temporary defensive positions is that the Fund may not achieve its
investment objective.
Service Providers.
The Fund may be subject to credit risk with respect to the custodian. In
the event of the custodians bankruptcy, even if the Funds custodian does have sufficient assets
to meet all claims, there could be a delay before the Fund receives assets to satisfy their claims.
In addition, in the event of the bankruptcy of the Funds administrator, transfer agent or
custodian there are likely to be operational and other delays and additional costs and expenses
associated with changes in service provider arrangements.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
Fundamental Policies:
As fundamental investment restrictions, which may only be changed with approval by the holders
of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, the Fund may not:
1. Issue any class of securities which is senior to the Funds shares of beneficial interest,
except to the extent the Fund is permitted to borrow money or otherwise to the extent consistent
with applicable law from time to time.
Note: The Investment Company Act currently prohibits an open-end investment company from issuing
any senior securities, except to the extent it is permitted to borrow money (see Note following
restriction 2, below).
-28-
2. Borrow money, except to the extent permitted by applicable law from time to time.
Note: The Investment Company Act currently permits an open-end investment company to borrow money
from a bank so long as the ratio which the value of the total assets of the investment company
(including the amount of any such borrowing), less the amount of all liabilities and indebtedness
(other than such borrowing) of the investment company, bears to the amount of such borrowing is at
least 300%. An open-end investment company may also borrow money from other lenders in accordance
with applicable law and positions of the SEC and its staff. The Fund may engage in reverse
repurchase arrangements without limit, subject to applicable requirements related to segregation of
assets.
3. Act as underwriter of securities of other issuers except to the extent that, in connection with
the disposition of portfolio securities, it may be deemed to be an underwriter under certain
federal securities laws.
4. As to 75% of its total assets, purchase any security (other than Government securities, as such
term is defined in the 1940 Act, and securities of other investment companies), if as a result more
than 5% of the Funds total assets (taken at current value) would then be invested in securities of
a single issuer or the Fund would hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such
issuer.
Note: Government securities are defined in the 1940 Act as any security issued or guaranteed as to
principal or interest by the United States, or by a person controlled or supervised by and acting
as an instrumentality of the Government of the United States pursuant to authority granted by the
Congress of the United States, or any certificate of deposit for any of the foregoing.
5. Purchase any security (other than Government securities, as such term is defined in the 1940
Act) if as a result 25% or more of the Funds total assets (taken at current value) would be
invested in a single industry; for clarity, investments in other investment companies will not be
considered to be investments in securities of issuers in any one industry.
6. Make loans, except by purchase of debt obligations or other financial instruments, by entering
into repurchase agreements, or through the lending of its portfolio securities.
Note: Loans of portfolio securities will not exceed 33
1
/
2
% of the Funds total assets.
7. Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts, except that the Fund may purchase or sell
financial futures contracts, options on financial futures contracts, and futures contracts, forward
contracts, and options with respect to foreign currencies, and may enter into swap transactions or
other financial transactions, and except in connection with otherwise permissible options, futures,
and commodity activities as described elsewhere in the Prospectuses or this SAI from time to time.
8. Purchase or sell real estate or interests in real estate, including real estate mortgage loans,
although the Fund may purchase and sell securities which are secured by real estate and securities
of companies, including limited partnership interests, that invest or deal in real estate and it
may purchase interests in real estate investment trusts. (For purposes of this restriction,
investments by the Fund in mortgage-backed securities and other securities representing interests
in mortgage pools shall not constitute the purchase or sale of real estate or interests in real
estate or real estate mortgage loans).
Non-Fundamental Policies:
It is contrary to the current policy of the Fund, which policy may be changed without
shareholder approval, to invest more than 15% of its net assets in securities which are not readily
marketable, including securities restricted as to resale (other than securities restricted as to
resale but determined by the Trustees, or persons designated by the Trustees to make such
determinations, to be readily marketable).
The Fund may, as a non-fundamental policy, pledge up to one-third of its assets in connection
with permissible borrowings by the Fund. In addition, as a non-fundamental policy, the Fund will
not invest in other companies for the purpose of exercising control of those companies.
-29-
All percentage limitations on investments (except the limitation with respect to securities
that are not readily marketable set forth above) will apply at the time of investment and shall not
be considered violated unless an excess or deficiency occurs or exists immediately after and as a
result of such investment; except that, if the Fund ceases to maintain the 300% asset coverage
ratio described above in the Note following restriction 2, it will take steps to restore that asset
coverage ratio within three days thereafter (excluding Sundays and holidays) or such longer period
as may be prescribed by applicable regulations.
Except for the investment restrictions listed above as fundamental or to the extent designated
as such in the Prospectuses, the other investment policies described in this SAI or in the
Prospectuses are not fundamental and may be changed by approval of the Trustees without notice to
the shareholders.
The 1940 Act provides that a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the
Fund means the affirmative vote of the lesser of (1) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the
Fund, or (2) 67% or more of the shares present at a meeting if more than 50% of the outstanding
shares are represented at the meeting in person or by proxy.
DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS
Through filings made with the SEC on Form N-CSR and Form N-Q, the Fund makes its full
portfolio holdings publicly available to shareholders on a quarterly basis. The Fund normally makes
such filings on or shortly before the sixtieth day following the end of a fiscal quarter. The Fund
delivers its complete portfolio schedules for the second and fourth fiscal quarters, required to be
filed on Form N-CSR, to shareholders in the Funds semi-annual and annual reports. The Fund does
not deliver its complete portfolio schedules for the first and third fiscal quarters, required to
be filed on Form N-Q, to shareholders, but these schedules are available on the SEC website at
www.sec.gov and on the Schroders website at www.schroderfunds.com.
In addition to filings made with the SEC, the Fund intends to make its full portfolio holdings
as of the end of each calendar quarter available on the Funds website at
www.schroderfunds.com
, on the last business day of the following month. Schroders may
exclude from disclosure on the Funds website all or any portion of the Funds portfolio holdings,
or modify the timing of such disclosure, as it deems necessary to protect the interests of the
Fund.
To the extent that the Funds portfolio holdings have previously been disclosed publicly
either through a filing made with the SEC on Form N-CSR or Form N-Q, or by being posted to the
Funds website, such holdings may also be disclosed to any third party that requests them.
Policies and Procedures.
The Schroder Funds have adopted policies and procedures with respect
to disclosure of Fund portfolio holdings. These procedures apply both to arrangements, expected to
be in place over a period of time, to make available information about the securities in the Funds
portfolio and with respect to disclosure on a one-time, irregular basis. These procedures provide
that neither Schroders nor SIMNA Ltd., as applicable, nor the Funds receive any compensation in
return for the disclosure of information about the Funds portfolio securities or for any ongoing
arrangements to make available information about the Funds portfolio securities. Portfolio
holdings may be disclosed to certain third parties in advance of their public disclosure. In each
instance of such advance disclosure, a determination will have been made by Schroders or SIMNA
Ltd., as applicable, that such disclosure is supported by a legitimate business purpose of the Fund
and that the recipients, except as described below, are subject to an independent duty not to
disclose (whether contractually or as a matter of law) or trade on the nonpublic information. The
Fund currently discloses nonpublic portfolio holdings information only to recipients who have
agreed in writing with Schroders, or SIMNA Ltd., as applicable, to keep such information
confidential. In some cases these recipients are subject to a contractual obligation to keep
portfolio holdings information confidential including a duty not to trade on the non-public
information, and in other cases they are subject to a duty of confidentiality under the federal
securities laws to keep information disclosed to them by the Fund confidential. Recipients of
nonpublic portfolio holdings information are also subject to legal requirements prohibiting them
from trading on material nonpublic information. The Fund has no ongoing arrangements to make
available
-30-
nonpublic portfolio holdings information, except pursuant to the procedures described below.
The following list describes the circumstances in which the Fund discloses its portfolio holdings
to select third parties:
Portfolio Managers.
Portfolio managers shall have full daily access to portfolio holdings for
the Fund for which they have direct management responsibility. Under Schroders code of ethics,
portfolio managers are prohibited from disclosing nonpublic information to third parties, other
than in accordance with the Funds portfolio holdings policies and procedures. Portfolio managers
may release and discuss specific portfolio holdings with various broker-dealers, on an as-needed
basis, for purposes of analyzing the impact of existing and future market changes on the prices,
availability or demand, and liquidity of such securities, as well as for the purpose of assisting
portfolio managers in the trading of such securities.
Schroders.
Schroders personnel, including personnel of its affiliates that perform services
for or related to the Fund, may have full daily access to the Funds portfolio holdings. Employees
of SIMNA Ltd., Schroder Investment Management Limited and Schroder Fund Advisors Inc. (SFA) with
access to portfolio holdings information are provided with training on the Trusts policies and
procedures regarding disclosure of portfolio holdings information. Training is provided by the
Schroders compliance department in the applicable jurisdiction, after consultation with Schroders
plcs global compliance department located in London. The Trusts Chief Compliance Officer reports
to the Trustees regarding compliance by such affiliates.
External Servicing Agents
. The Funds primary service providers, including distributors,
administrators, transfer agents, custodians, and their respective personnel, may receive or have
access to nonpublic portfolio holdings information on a daily basis. In addition, third parties
that provide services to the Fund, and their affiliates, such as trade execution measurement
systems providers, independent pricing services, proxy voting service providers, the Funds
insurers, computer systems service providers, lenders, counsel, accountants/auditors, and rating
and ranking organizations (such as Morningstar, Lipper, Thomson and Bloomberg) may also receive or
have access to full portfolio holdings information more frequently than publicly available. Such
parties, either by agreement or by virtue of their duties, are required to maintain confidentiality
with respect to such nonpublic portfolio holdings.
Other Third Parties
. Any additions to the list of persons eligible to receive portfolio
holdings information requires approval by the President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Funds.
Such disclosure may only be made where the President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Funds have
determined that: (i) the Fund has a legitimate business purpose for the disclosure; (ii) the
disclosure is in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders; and (iii) the recipients are
subject to a confidentiality agreement, including a duty not to trade on the non-public
information, or the Funds President and Chief Compliance Officer have determined that the policies
of the recipient are adequate to protect the information that is disclosed and the entity is
subject to a duty of confidentiality under the federal securities laws. In making such
determinations, the President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Funds shall review, among other
considerations: (i) the type of fund involved; (ii) the purpose for receiving the holdings
information; (iii) the intended use of the information; (iv) the frequency of the information to be
provided; (v) the length of the lag, if any, between the date of the information and the date on
which the information will be disclosed; (vi) the proposed recipients relationship to the Funds;
(vii) the ability of Schroders to monitor that such information will be used by the proposed
recipient in accordance with the stated purpose for the disclosure; and (viii) whether any
potential conflicts exist regarding such disclosure between the interests of Fund shareholders, on
the one hand, and those of the Funds investment adviser, principal underwriter, or any affiliated
person of the Fund. Such disclosures shall be reported to the Board of Trustees.
In general, the Schroder Funds policies and procedures provide that disclosure by Schroders
of information about the holdings of client accounts other than the Funds accounts is governed by
the policies relating to protection of client information pursuant to Regulation S-P. Details about
the holdings of any portfolio other than the Fund, however, may provide holdings information that
is substantially identical to holdings of the Fund that have not yet been publicly released. The
President and Chief Compliance Officer may approve disclosure by Schroders or SIMNA Ltd. of
non-Fund portfolios other than to clients holding the portfolios and their consultants, provided
they make certain determinations set forth in the Schroder Funds policies and procedures.
-31-
Nothing in the Schroder Funds policies and procedures prohibits any investment group from
providing to a research service provider a coverage list that identifies securities that the
investment group follows for research purposes provided that: (i) the list of securities does not
consist exclusively of the current portfolio holdings of the Fund; and (ii) no information about
actual holdings by any account is included.
The Board of Trustees of the Trust reviews and reapproves the policies and procedures related
to portfolio disclosure, including the list of approved recipients, as often as deemed appropriate,
but not less than annually, and may make any changes it deems appropriate.
MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST
The Trustees of the Trust are responsible for the general oversight of each of the Trusts
business. Subject to such policies as the Trustees may determine, Schroders furnishes a continuing
investment program for the Fund and makes investment decisions on its behalf except that SIMNA
Ltd., an affiliate of Schroders, serves as sub-adviser responsible for portfolio management of the
Fund. Subject to the control of the Trustees, Schroders also manages the Funds other affairs and
business.
The names, addresses and ages of the Trustees and executive officers of the Trust, together
with information as to their principal business occupations during the past five years, are set
forth in the following tables. Unless otherwise indicated, each Trustee and executive officer shall
hold the indicated positions until his or her resignation or removal.
-32-
Disinterested Trustees
The following table sets forth certain information concerning Trustees of the Trust who are
not interested persons (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the Trust (each, a
Disinterested Trustee).
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Term of Office and
|
|
Principal
|
|
Portfolios in Fund
|
|
Other Directorships
|
Name, Age and Address of
|
|
Position(s) Held
|
|
Length of Time
|
|
Occupation(s)
|
|
Complex Overseen by
|
|
Outside of Schroders
|
Disinterested Trustee
|
|
with Trust
|
|
Served
|
|
During Past 5 Years
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Fund Complex
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
William L. Means, 73*
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Indefinite
since 1997
|
|
Retired.
|
|
[8]
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
James D. Vaughn, 64*
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, New York 10022
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Indefinite since
2003
|
|
Retired. Formerly,
Managing Partner,
Deloitte & Touche
USA, LLP-Denver
(accounting).
|
|
[8]
|
|
AMG National Trust Bank
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
Also serves as a member of the Audit Committees for each Trust on which he serves. Mr. Vaughn
is the Chairman of the Audit Committees.
|
Interested Trustee
The following table sets forth certain information concerning a Trustee who is an interested
person (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the Trust (an Interested Trustee).
|
|
|
|
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|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of
|
|
Other Directorships
|
|
|
|
|
Term of Office and
|
|
Principal
|
|
Portfolios in Fund
|
|
Outside of
|
Name, Age and Address of
|
|
Position(s)
|
|
Length of Time
|
|
Occupation(s)
|
|
Complex Overseen by
|
|
Schroders Fund
|
Interested Trustee
|
|
Held with Trust
|
|
Served
|
|
During Past 5 Years
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Complex
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Catherine A. Mazza, 50*
875 Third Avenue, 22nd Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Trustee and Chairman
|
|
Indefinite since 2006
|
|
Institutional Relationship Director, Schroders; Director, SFA. Formerly, President and
Chief Executive Officer, Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) and Schroder Series Trust.
|
|
[8]
|
|
None
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
Ms. Mazza is an interested person (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trust. She is an
interested person due to her status as an officer and employee of Schroders and its affiliates.
|
-33-
Officers
The following table sets forth certain information concerning the Trusts officers. The
officers of the Trust are employees of the Trusts adviser and certain of its affiliates.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name, Age and Address
|
|
Position(s) Held with
|
|
Term of Office
|
|
Principal Occupation(s)
|
of Officer
|
|
Trust
|
|
and Length of Time Served
|
|
During Past 5 Years
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Catherine A. Mazza, 50
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Trustee and Chairman
|
|
Indefinite since 2006
|
|
Institutional
Relationship Director,
Schroders; Director,
SFA. Formerly,
President and Chief
Executive Officer,
Schroder Series Trust
and Schroder Capital
Funds (Delaware).
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mark A. Hemenetz, 53
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
President and Principal
Executive Officer
|
|
Indefinite
since May 2004
|
|
Chief Operating
Officer Americas,
Schroder; Chairman and
Director, SFA.
Formerly, Executive
Vice President and
Director of Investment
Management, Bank of
New York.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Alan M. Mandel, 52
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Treasurer and Chief
Financial Officer
|
|
Indefinite
since 1998
|
|
Head of Fund
Administration,
Schroders; Director,
SFA.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Carin F. Muhlbaum, 47
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Vice President
|
|
Indefinite
Vice President since 1998
|
|
General Counsel and
Chief Administrative
Officer, Schroders;
Senior Vice President,
Director, Secretary
and General Counsel,
SFA; Vice President,
Schroder Series Trust,
Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware), and
Schroder Global Series
Trust.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
William Sauer, 46
875 Third Avenue, 22nd Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Vice President
|
|
Indefinite
Vice President since 2008
|
|
Head of Investor
Services, Schroders.
Formerly, Vice
President, The Bank of
New York.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Stephen M. DeTore, 58
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Chief Compliance Officer
|
|
Indefinite
since 2005
|
|
Chief Compliance
Officer, Schroders;
Senior Vice President
and Director, SFA.
Formerly, Deputy
General Counsel,
Gabelli Asset
Management, Inc.;
Associate General
Counsel, Gabelli Asset
Management, Inc.;
Assistant Director,
Office of Examination
Support, U.S.
Securities and
Exchange Commission.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Abby L. Ingber, 47
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Chief Legal Officer and
Secretary/Clerk
|
|
Indefinite
Chief Legal Officer since 2006
Secretary/Clerk since 2007
|
|
Deputy General
Counsel, Schroders.
Formerly, Senior
Counsel, TIAA-CREF.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Angel Lanier, 48
875 Third Avenue, 22
nd
Fl.
New York, NY 10022
|
|
Assistant Secretary
|
|
Indefinite
since 2005
|
|
Legal Assistant,
Schroders; Assistant
Secretary, SFA.
Formerly, Associate,
Schroders.
|
-34-
Certain Affiliations
The following table lists the positions held by the Trusts officers and any Interested
Trustees with affiliated persons or principal underwriters of the Trust:
|
|
|
|
|
Positions Held with
|
|
|
Affiliated Persons or
|
|
|
Principal Underwriters
|
Name
|
|
of the Trust
|
|
|
|
Catherine A. Mazza
|
|
Trustee and Chairman of Schroder Series Trust, Schroder
Capital Funds (Delaware), and Schroder Global Series
Trust; Institutional Relationship Director, Schroders;
Director, SFA.
|
|
|
|
Mark A. Hemenetz
|
|
President and Principal Executive Officer of Schroder
Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), and
Schroder Global Series Trust; Chief Operating Officer
Americas, Schroders; Director and Chairman, SFA.
|
|
|
|
Alan M. Mandel
|
|
Head of Fund Administration, Schroders; Director, SFA;
Treasurer & Principal Financial and Accounting Officer,
Schroder Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware), and Schroder Global Series Trust.
|
|
|
|
Carin F. Muhlbaum
|
|
General Counsel and Chief Administrative Officer,
Schroders; Director and Secretary, SFA; Vice President,
Schroder Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware), and Schroder Global Series Trust.
|
|
|
|
William Sauer
|
|
Head of Investor Services, Schroders; Vice President,
Schroder Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware), and Schroder Global Series Trust.
|
|
|
|
Stephen M. DeTore
|
|
Chief Compliance Officer, Schroders; Senior Vice
President and Director, SFA; Chief Compliance Officer,
Schroder Series Trust, Schroder Capital Funds
(Delaware), and Schroder Global Series Trust.
|
|
|
|
Abby L. Ingber
|
|
Deputy General Counsel, Schroders; Chief Legal Officer
and Secretary/Clerk, Schroder Series Trust, Schroder
Capital Funds (Delaware), and Schroder Global Series
Trust.
|
|
|
|
Angel Lanier
|
|
Legal Assistant, Schroders; Assistant Secretary, SFA;
Assistant Clerk/Secretary, Schroder Series Trust,
Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), and Schroder Global
Series Trust.
|
Committees of the Board of Trustees
Audit Committee
. The Board of Trustees has a separately-designated standing Audit Committee
composed of all of the Disinterested Trustees of the Trust (currently, Messrs. Means and
Vaughn). The Audit Committee provides oversight with respect to the internal and external
accounting and auditing procedures of the Fund and, among other things, considers the selection of
the independent registered public accounting firms for the Fund and the scope of the audit,
approves all audit and permitted non-audit services proposed to be performed by those accountants
on behalf of the Fund, and considers other services provided by those accountants to the Fund and
Schroders and their affiliates and the possible effect of those services on the independence of
those accountants. The Audit Committee met [ ] times during the fiscal year ended October 31,
2009.
-35-
Nominating Committee
. All of the Disinterested Trustees (currently, Messrs. Means and
Vaughn) of the Trust serve as a Nominating Committee responsible for reviewing and recommending
qualified candidates to the Board in the event that a position is vacated or created. The
Nominating Committee will consider nominees recommended by shareholders if the Committee is
considering other nominees at the time of the nomination and the nominee meets the Committees
criteria. Nominee recommendations may be submitted to the Secretary of the Trust at the Trusts
principal business address. The Nominating Committee met [ ] times during the fiscal year ended
October 31, 2009.
Securities Ownership
For each Trustee, the following table discloses the dollar range of equity securities
beneficially owned by the Trustee in the Fund, on an aggregate basis, in any registered investment
companies overseen by the Trustee within the Schroder family of investment companies, as of
December 31, 2009.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Aggregate Dollar Range
|
|
|
|
|
of Equity Securities
|
|
|
|
|
in All Registered
|
|
|
|
|
Investment Companies
|
|
|
|
|
Overseen by Trustee in
|
|
|
Dollar Range of Equity
|
|
Family of Investment
|
Name of Trustee
|
|
Securities in the Fund
|
|
Companies*
|
|
|
Ranges:
None
$1-$10,000
$10,001-$50,000
$50,001-$100,000
Over $100,000
|
|
Ranges:
None
$1-$10,000
$10,001-$50,000
$50,001-$100,000
Over $100,000
|
Disinterested Trustees
|
|
|
|
|
William L. Means
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
James D. Vaughn
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
Interested Trustees
|
|
|
|
|
Catherine A. Mazza
|
|
[ ]
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
For these purposes, the Trust, Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) and Schroder Global Series Trust
are considered part of the same Family of Investment Companies.
|
For Disinterested Trustees and their immediate family members, the following table provides
information regarding each class of securities owned beneficially in an investment adviser or
principal underwriter of the Trust, or a person (other than a registered investment company)
directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with an investment
adviser or principal underwriter of the Trust, as of December 31, 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name of Owners and
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Relationships to
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Name of Trustee
|
|
Trustee
|
|
Company
|
|
Title of Class
|
|
Value of Securities
|
|
Percent of Class
|
William L. Means
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
James D. Vaughn
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
-36-
Trustees Compensation
Effective January 1, 2007, Trustees who are not employees of Schroders or its affiliates
receive an annual retainer of $25,000 for their services as Trustees of all open-end investment
companies distributed by SFA (the Trusts), and $2,500 per meeting attended in person or $1,000
per meeting attended by telephone. The Chairman of the Audit Committee receives an additional
annual retainer from the Trusts of $5,000, and each member of an Audit Committee receives a fee of
$1,000 from the Trusts for each Audit Committee meeting attended in person or by telephone. Payment
of the Trustee fees is allocated 50% to each Trust and the remaining 50% to the Trusts based on
their respective amount of assets. If a meeting relates only to a single Fund or group of Funds,
payments of such meeting fees are allocated only among those Funds to which the meeting relates.
The following table sets forth approximate information regarding compensation received by
Trustees from the Fund Complex for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009. (Interested Trustees
who are employees of Schroders or its affiliates and officers of the Trusts receive no compensation
from the Trusts and are compensated in their capacities as employees of Schroders and its
affiliates).
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Compensation
|
|
|
Aggregate
|
|
from Trust and Fund
|
s
|
|
Compensation
|
|
Complex Paid to
|
Name of Trustee
|
|
from Schroder Series Trust
|
|
Trustees*
|
Peter S.
Knight**
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
William L. Means
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
James D. Vaughn
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
|
|
*
|
|
The Total Compensation shown in this column for each Trustee includes compensation for services
as a Trustee of the Trust, Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), and Schroder Global Series Trust. The
Trust, Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), and Schroder Global Series Trust are considered part of
the same Fund Complex for these purposes.
|
|
**
|
|
Mr. Knight resigned from the Board of Trustees effective December 31, 2009.
|
The Declaration of Trust provides that the Trust will indemnify its Trustees and officers
against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection with litigation in which they may be
involved because of their offices with the Trust, except if it is determined in the manner
specified in the Trusts Declaration of Trust, that they have not acted in good faith in the
reasonable belief that their actions were in the best interests of the Trust or that such
indemnification would relieve any officer or Trustee of any liability to the Trust or its
shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard
of his or her duties. The Trusts bylaws provide that the conduct of a Trustee shall be evaluated
solely by reference to a hypothetical reasonable person, without regard to any special expertise,
knowledge, or other qualifications of the Trustee, or any determination that the Trustee is an
audit committee financial expert. The Trusts bylaws provide that the Trust will indemnify its
Trustees against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection with litigation or formal or
informal investigations in which they may become involved because of their service as Trustees,
except to the extent prohibited by the Trusts Declaration of Trust. The Trust, at its expense,
provides liability insurance for the benefit of its Trustees and officers.
-37-
SCHRODERS AND ITS AFFILIATES
Schroders serves as the investment adviser for the Fund. Schroders is a wholly-owned
subsidiary of Schroder U.S. Holdings Inc., which currently engages through its subsidiary firms in
the asset management business. Affiliates of Schroder U.S. Holdings Inc. (or their predecessors)
have been investment managers since 1927. Schroder U.S. Holdings Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Schroder International Holdings, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Schroders plc, a
publicly-owned holding company organized under the laws of England. Schroders plc, through certain
affiliates currently engages in the asset management business, and as of December 31, 2009, had
under management assets of approximately $[ ]. Schroders address is 875 Third Avenue,
22
nd
Floor, New York, New York 10022.
SIMNA Ltd., an affiliate of Schroders, is expected to be retained as sub-adviser to the Fund
by Schroders.
SFA, the Trusts principal underwriter, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Schroders.
PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
The portfolio managers primarily responsible for making investment decisions are Johanna
Kyrklund and Michael Spinks.
Other Accounts Managed.
The following tables show information regarding other accounts
managed by the portfolio managers of the Fund, as of October 31, 2009:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Assets in
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Number of Accounts
|
|
Accounts where
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
where Advisory Fee
|
|
Advisory Fee is
|
|
|
Number of
|
|
Total Assets
|
|
is Based on Account
|
|
Based on Account
|
|
|
Accounts
|
|
in Accounts
|
|
Performance
|
|
Performance
|
Johanna Kyrklund, CFA
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Michael Spinks, CFA
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Registered
Investment
Companies
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Pooled
Investment
Vehicles
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Other Accounts
|
|
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
[None]
|
|
[None]
|
Material Conflicts of Interest.
Whenever a portfolio manager of the Fund manages other
accounts, potential conflicts of interest exist, including potential conflicts between the
investment strategy of the Fund and the investment strategy of the other accounts. For example, in
certain instances, a portfolio manager may take conflicting positions in a particular security for
different accounts, by selling a security for one account and continuing to hold it for another
-38-
account. In addition, the fact that other accounts require the portfolio manager to devote less
than all of his or her time to the Fund may be seen itself to constitute a conflict with the
interest of the Fund.
Each portfolio manager may also execute transactions for another fund or account at the
direction of such fund or account that may adversely impact the value of securities held by the
Fund. Securities selected for funds or accounts other than the Fund may outperform the securities
selected for the Fund. Finally, if the portfolio manager identifies a limited investment
opportunity that may be suitable for more than one fund or other account, the Fund may not be able
to take full advantage of that opportunity due to an allocation of that opportunity across all
eligible funds and accounts. Schroders policies, however, require that portfolio managers allocate
investment opportunities among accounts managed by them in an equitable manner over time. Orders
are normally allocated on a pro rata basis, except that in certain circumstances, such as the small
size of an issue, orders will be allocated among clients in a manner believed by Schroders to be
fair and equitable over time. See Brokerage Allocation and Other Practices for more information
about this process.
The structure of a portfolio managers compensation may give rise to potential conflicts of
interest. A portfolio managers base pay tends to increase with additional and more complex
responsibilities that include increased assets under management, which indirectly links
compensation to sales. Also, potential conflicts of interest may arise since the structure of
Schroders compensation may vary from account to account.
Schroders has adopted certain compliance procedures that are designed to address these, and
other, types of conflicts. However, there is no guarantee that such procedures will detect each and
every situation where a conflict arises.
Compensation
. Schroders methodology for measuring and rewarding the contribution made by
portfolio managers combines quantitative measures with qualitative measures. The Funds portfolio
managers are compensated for their services to the Fund and to other accounts they manage in a
combination of base salary and annual discretionary bonus, as well as the standard retirement,
health and welfare benefits available to all Schroders employees. Base salary of Schroders
employees is determined by reference to the level of responsibility inherent in the role and the
experience of the incumbent, is benchmarked annually against market data to ensure competitive
salaries, and is paid in cash. The portfolio managers base salary is fixed and is subject to an
annual review and will increase if market movements make this necessary or if there has been an
increase in responsibilities.
Each portfolio managers bonus is based in part on performance. Discretionary bonuses for
portfolio managers may be comprised of an agreed contractual floor, a revenue component and/or a
discretionary component. Any discretionary bonus is determined by a number of factors. At a macro
level the total amount available to spend is a function of the compensation to revenue ratio
achieved by Schroders globally. Schroders then assesses the performance of the division and of a
management team to determine the share of the aggregate bonus pool that is spent in each area.
This focus on team maintains consistency and minimizes internal competition that may be
detrimental to the interests of Schroders clients. For each team, Schroders assesses the
performance of their funds relative to competitors and to relevant benchmarks, which may be
internally-and/or externally-based, over one and/or three year periods, the level of funds under
management and the level of performance fees generated. Performance is evaluated for each quarter,
year and since inception of the relevant Fund. The portfolio managers compensation for other
accounts they manage may be based upon such accounts performance.
For those employees receiving significant bonuses, a part may deferred in the form of
Schroders plc stock. These employees may also receive part of the deferred award in the form of
notional cash investments in a range of Schroders funds. These deferrals vest over a period of
three years and are designed to ensure that the interests of the employees are aligned with those
of the shareholders of Schroders.
For the purposes of determining the portfolio managers bonuses, the relevant external
benchmarks for performance comparison vary. For the pooled vehicle managed by Ms. Kyrklund and Mr.
Spinks, the return target is linked to the Consumer Price Index. For the other accounts managed by
the portfolio managers, performance of the fund is measured against a customized benchmark or they
have an absolute return approach.
-39-
Ownership of Securities.
[
As of October 31, 2009, none of the portfolio managers beneficially owned securities of the
Fund.]
The portfolio managers are not residents of the United States. It is not necessarily
advantageous in light of tax and other considerations for non-U.S. residents to invest in
U.S.-registered mutual funds.
MANAGEMENT CONTRACT
Management Contract.
Under the Management Contract between the Trust, on behalf of the Fund,
and Schroders, Schroders, at its expense, provides the Fund with investment advisory services and
advises and assists the officers of the Trust in taking such steps as are necessary or appropriate
to carry out the decisions of its Trustees regarding the conduct of business of the Trust and the
Fund, and in addition, at its expense, provides the Fund with management and administrative
services necessary for the operation of the Fund, including preparation of shareholder reports and
communications, regulatory compliance, such as reports to and filings with the SEC and state
securities commissions, and general supervision of the operation of the Fund, including
coordination of the services performed by the Funds administrator or sub-administrator, transfer
agent, custodian, independent auditors, legal counsel and others.
Under the Management Contract, Schroders is required to continuously furnish the Fund with an
investment program consistent with the investment objective and policies of the Fund, and to
determine, for the Fund, what securities shall be purchased, what securities shall be held or sold,
and what portion of the Funds assets shall be held uninvested, subject always to the provisions of
the Trusts Declaration of Trust and by-laws, and of the Investment Company Act, and to the Funds
investment objective, policies, and restrictions, and subject further to such policies and
instructions as the Trustees may from time to time establish.
As compensation for services provided to the Fund pursuant to the Management Contract,
Schroders is entitled to receive from the Trust a fee, computed and paid quarterly, at the annual
rate (based on the Funds average daily net assets) of: 0.75%.
The Funds adviser has contractually agreed through February 28, 2010 (i) to reduce its
management fee compensation by 0.21% and (ii) if necessary, in order to limit expenses of the
Funds shares, to pay or reimburse the Fund for expenses to the extent that the Total Annual Fund
Operating Expenses of the Fund (other than Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses, interest, taxes, and
extraordinary expenses, which may include typically non-recurring expenses such as, for example,
organizational expenses, litigation expenses, and shareholder meeting expenses) allocable to each
share class of the Fund exceed the following annual rates (based on the average daily net assets
attributable to each of the Funds share classes taken separately): Investor Shares 1.25%; A
Shares: 1.50%; Advisor Shares: 1.50%; and R Shares: 1.75%. The fee waivers and/or expense
limitations for the Fund may only be terminated during their term by the Board of Trustees.
Schroders makes available to the Trust, without additional expense to the Trust, the services
of such of its directors, officers, and employees as may duly be elected Trustees or officers of
the Trust, subject to their individual consent to serve and to any limitations imposed by law.
Schroders pays the compensation and expenses of officers and executive employees of the Trust.
Schroders also provides investment advisory research and statistical facilities and all clerical
services relating to such research, statistical, and investment work. Schroders pays the Trusts
office rent.
Under the Management Contract, the Trust is responsible for all its other expenses, which may
include clerical salaries not related to investment activities; fees and expenses incurred in
connection with membership in investment company organizations; brokers commissions; payment for
portfolio pricing services to a pricing agent, if any; legal expenses; auditing expenses;
accounting expenses; payments under any distribution plan; shareholder servicing payments; taxes
and governmental fees; fees and expenses of the transfer agent and investor servicing agent of the
Trust; the cost of preparing share certificates or any other expenses, including clerical expenses,
incurred in
-40-
connection with the issue, sale, underwriting, redemption, or repurchase of shares; the expenses of
and fees for registering or qualifying securities for sale; the fees and expenses of the Trustees
of the Trust who are not affiliated with Schroders; the cost of preparing and distributing reports
and notices to shareholders; public and investor relations expenses; and fees and disbursements of
custodians of the Funds assets. The Trust is also responsible for its expenses incurred in
connection with litigation, proceedings, and claims and the legal obligation it may have to
indemnify its officers and Trustees with respect thereto.
The Management Contract provides that Schroders shall not be subject to any liability to the
Trust or to any shareholder for any act or omission in connection with rendering services to the
Trust in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of
its duties.
The Management Contract may be terminated as to the Fund without penalty by vote of the
Trustees, by the shareholders of the Fund, or by Schroders, on 60 days written notice. The
Management Contract also terminates without payment of any penalty in the event of its assignment.
In addition, the Management Contract may be amended only by a vote of the shareholders of the Fund
and by the vote, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, of
a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of Schroders. The Management Contract
provides that it will continue in effect from year to year (after an initial two-year period) only
so long as such continuance is approved at least annually by vote of either the Trustees or the
shareholders of the Fund, and, in either case, by a majority of the Trustees who are not
interested persons of Schroders. In each of the foregoing cases, the vote of the shareholders is
the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities (as defined above in
Investment Restrictions).
Recent Management Fees
. The following table sets forth the management fees paid by the Fund
during the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009 and October 31, 2008. The fees listed in this table
reflect reductions pursuant to expense limitations and/or fee waivers in effect during such
periods.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
Management Fees
|
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
Fund
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/09
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/08
|
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
0
|
|
Waived Fees
. For the periods shown above, a portion of the advisory fees payable to Schroders
was waived in the following amounts pursuant to expense limitations and/or fee waivers observed by
Schroders for the Fund during such periods.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fees Waived During
|
|
Fees Waived During
|
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
Fund
|
|
10/31/09
|
|
10/31/08
|
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
630,821
|
|
Subadvisory Agreement.
The Board of Trustees of Schroder Series Trust has approved separate arrangement whereby
Schroders would retain SIMNA Ltd. to serve as sub-adviser to the Fund. In connection therewith,
the Board of Trustees of Schroder Series Trust approved an Investment Subadvisory Agreement between
Schroders, SIMNA Ltd. and the Trust on behalf of the Fund (the Subadvisory Agreement), which went
into effect on December 20, 2008.
Under the Subadvisory Agreement, subject to the oversight of the Trustees and the direction
and control of Schroders, SIMNA Ltd. is required to provide on behalf of the Fund the portfolio
management services required of Schroders under the Funds Management Contract. Accordingly, SIMNA
Ltd. will be required to regularly provide the Fund with investment research, advice, and
supervision and furnish continuously investment programs consistent with the investment objectives
and policies of the Fund, and determine, what securities shall be purchased, what securities shall
be held or sold, and what portion of the Funds assets shall be held uninvested, subject always to
the provisions of the Trusts Declaration of Trust and By-laws, and of the Investment Company Act,
and to the Funds
-41-
investment objectives, policies, and restrictions, and subject further to such policies and
instructions as the Trustees may from time to time establish.
For the services to be rendered by SIMNA Ltd., Schroders (and not the Trust or the Fund) will
pay to SIMNA Ltd. a monthly fee in an amount equal to fifty percent (50%) of all fees actually paid
by the Fund to Schroders for such month under the Management Contract, provided that SIMNA Ltd.s
fee for any period will be reduced such that SIMNA Ltd. will bear fifty percent (50%) of any
voluntary fee waiver observed or expense reimbursement borne by Schroders with respect to the Fund
for such period.
The Subadvisory Agreement provides that SIMNA Ltd. shall not be subject to any liability to
the Trust or Schroders for any mistake of judgment or in any event whatsoever in connection with
rendering service to the Trust in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence,
or reckless disregard of its duties.
The Subadvisory Agreement relating to the Fund may be terminated with respect to the Fund
without penalty (i) by vote of the Trustees or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities (as defined above) of the Fund on 60 days written notice to SIMNA Ltd., (ii) by
Schroders on 60 days written notice to SIMNA Ltd. or (iii) by SIMNA Ltd. on 60 days written
notice to Schroders and the Trust. The Subadvisory Agreement will also terminate without payment of
any penalty in the event of its assignment. The Subadvisory Agreement may be amended only by
written agreement of all parties thereto and otherwise in accordance with the Investment Company
Act.
Recent Subadvisory Fees
. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, pursuant to the
Subadvisory Agreement on behalf of the Fund, Schroders paid a sub-advisory fee of $[ ]. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 2008, pursuant to the Subadvisory Agreement on behalf of the Fund,
Schroders did not pay a sub-advisory fee to SIMNA Ltd.
Administrative Services
. The Trust, on behalf of the Fund, has entered into an administration
and accounting agreement with SEI, under which SEI provides administrative services necessary for
the operation of the Fund, including recordkeeping, preparation of shareholder communications,
assistance with regulatory compliance (such as reports to and filings with the SEC and state
securities commissions), preparation and filing of tax returns, preparation of the Trusts periodic
financial reports, and certain other fund accounting services. Under that agreement, as amended,
the Trust, together with Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware), pays fees to SEI based on the combined
average daily net assets of all the funds of Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) and the Trust,
according to the following annual rates: 0.095% on the first $1 billion of such assets, 0.085% on
the next $1 billion of such assets, 0.07% on the next $1 billion of such assets, 0.06% on the next
$2 billion and 0.05% on assets in excess of $5 billion. The Fund pays its pro rata portion of such
expenses. The administration and accounting agreement is terminable by either party at the end of a
three year initial term or thereafter, at any time, by either party upon six (6) months written
notice to the other party. The administration and accounting agreement is terminable by either
party in the case of a material breach.
Recent Administrative Fees.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 2009 and October 31, 2008,
the Fund paid the following administration and accounting fees to SEI. The fees listed in the
following table reflect reductions pursuant to fee waivers and/or expense limitations in effect
during such periods.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
Administration Fees
|
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
|
Paid for Fiscal
|
Fund
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/09
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/08
|
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
24,673
|
|
DISTRIBUTOR; DISTRIBUTION PLAN
Pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with the Trust, SFA (the Distributor), 875 Third
Avenue, 22
nd
Floor, New York, New York 10022, serves as the distributor for the Trusts
continually offered shares. The Distributor pays all of its own expenses in performing its
obligations under the Distribution Agreement. The Distributor is not
-42-
obligated to sell any specific amount of shares of the Fund. Please see Schroders and its
Affiliates for ownership information regarding the Distributor.
Distribution plan for A Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares.
The Fund has adopted a
Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act that allows the Fund to
compensate the Distributor in connection with the distribution of the Funds A Shares, Advisor
Shares and R Shares. Under the Plan, the Fund may make payments based on the average daily net
assets attributable to its A Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares, taken separately, at the
following annual rates: A Shares: up to 0.25%; Advisor Shares: up to 0.25%; and R Shares: up to
0.50%. Because the fees are paid out of the Funds assets attributable to its A Shares, Advisor
Shares and R Shares, on an ongoing basis, over time these fees will increase the cost of an
investment in A Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares and may cost an investor more than paying other
types of sales charges. Investor Shares are not subject to the Distribution Plan.
The Distribution Plan is a compensation plan. The various costs and expenses that may be paid
or reimbursed by amounts paid under the Distribution Plan include advertising expenses, costs of
printing prospectuses and other materials to be given or sent to prospective investors, expenses of
sales employees or agents of the Distributor, including salary, commissions, travel and related
expenses in connection with the distribution of A Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares, payments to
broker-dealers who advise shareholders regarding the purchase, sale, or retention of A Shares,
Advisor Shares and R Shares, and payments to banks, trust companies, broker-dealers (other than the
Distributor), or other financial organizations.
The Distribution Plan may benefit the Fund by increasing sales of A Shares, Advisor Shares and
R Shares and reducing redemptions of these shares, resulting potentially, for example, in economies
of scale and more predictable flows of cash into and out of the Fund. Because 12b-1 fees are paid
out of the Funds assets, shareholders share the expense; however, because shareholders hold their
shares through varying arrangements (for example, directly or through financial intermediaries),
they may not share equally in the benefits of the Distribution Plan.
In addition, to compensate SFA for the services it provides and for the expenses it bears in
connection with the distribution of the Funds A Shares, SFA will be entitled to receive any
initial sales load applicable to the sale of A Shares. There is no initial sales load or contingent
deferred sales load for Advisor Shares, Investor Shares or R Shares. For more information on sales
loads, please see How To Buy Shares below.
The Distribution Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount of payments
permitted thereunder without the approval of a majority of the outstanding A Shares, Advisor Shares
and R Shares, respectively, of the Fund. Any other material amendment to the Distribution Plan must
be approved both by a majority of the Trustees and a majority of those Trustees (Qualified
Trustees) who are not interested persons (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the
Trust, and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the Distribution
Plan or in any related agreement, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose. The
Distribution Plan will continue in effect for successive one-year periods provided each such
continuance is approved by a majority of the Trustees and the Qualified Trustees by vote cast in
person at a meeting called for the purpose. The Distribution Plan may be terminated at any time by
vote of a majority of the Qualified Trustees or by vote of a majority of the Funds outstanding A
Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares, respectively.
Broker-dealers with which SFA has entered into selling agreements may charge their customers a
processing or service fee in connection with the purchase or redemption of Fund shares. The amount
and applicability of such a fee is determined and disclosed to such customers by each individual
broker-dealer.
During the fiscal periods ended October 31, 2009 and October 31, 2008, the Fund (in respect of
its A Shares, Advisor Shares, and R Shares) paid fees under the Distribution Plan in the following
amounts:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
|
Fiscal Year Ended
|
Class
|
|
October 31, 2009
|
|
October 31, 2008
|
A Shares
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
51,822
|
|
Advisor Shares
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
7,761
|
|
R Shares
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
2,046
|
|
-43-
BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND OTHER PRACTICES
Selection of Brokers.
Schroders, in selecting brokers to effect transactions on behalf of the
Fund, seeks to obtain the best execution available.
Allocation.
Schroders may deem the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interests
of the Fund as well as other clients of Schroders. In such cases, Schroders may, but is under no
obligation to, aggregate all such transactions in order to obtain the most favorable price or lower
brokerage commissions and efficient execution. Orders are normally allocated on a pro rata basis,
except that in certain circumstances, such as the small size of an issue, orders will be allocated
among clients in a manner believed by Schroders to be fair and equitable over time.
Brokerage and Research Services.
Transactions on U.S. stock exchanges and other agency
transactions involve the payment by the Trust of negotiated brokerage commissions. Schroders may
determine to pay a particular broker varying commissions according to such factors as the
difficulty and size of the transaction. Transactions in foreign securities often involve the
payment of fixed brokerage commissions, which are generally higher than those in the United States,
and therefore certain portfolio transaction costs may be higher than the costs for similar
transactions executed on U.S. securities exchanges. There is generally no stated commission in the
case of securities traded in the over-the-counter markets, but the price paid by the Fund usually
includes an undisclosed dealer commission or mark-up. In underwritten offerings, the price paid by
the Trust includes a disclosed, fixed commission or discount retained by the underwriter or dealer.
Schroders places all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities and buys and
sells securities through a substantial number of brokers and dealers. In so doing, it uses its best
efforts to obtain the best execution available. In seeking the best price and execution, Schroders
considers all factors it deems relevant, including price, the size of the transaction, the nature
of the market for the security, the amount of the commission, the timing of the transaction (taking
into account market prices and trends), the reputation, experience, and financial stability of the
broker-dealer involved, and the quality of service rendered by the broker-dealer in other
transactions.
It has for many years been a common practice in the investment advisory business for advisers
of investment companies and other institutional investors to receive research, statistical, and
quotation services from several broker-dealers that execute portfolio transactions for the clients
of such advisers. Consistent with this practice, Schroders receives research, statistical, and
quotation services from many broker-dealers with which it places the Funds portfolio transactions.
These services, which in some cases may also be purchased for cash, include such matters as general
economic and security market reviews, industry and company reviews, evaluations of securities, and
recommendations as to the purchase and sale of securities. Some of these services are of value to
Schroders and its affiliates in advising various of their clients (including the Trust), although
not all of these services are necessarily useful and of value in managing the Fund. The investment
advisory fee paid by the Fund is not reduced because Schroders and its affiliates receive such
services.
As permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
Securities Exchange Act), and by the Management Contract, Schroders may cause the Fund to pay a
broker that provides brokerage and research services to Schroders an amount of disclosed commission
for effecting a securities transaction for the Fund in excess of the commission that another
broker would have charged for effecting that transaction. Schroders authority of the Trust to
cause the Fund to pay any such greater commissions is also subject to such policies as the Trustees
may adopt from time to time.
SIMNA Ltd., in its capacity as sub-adviser to the Fund, observes substantially the same
allocation and brokerage and research policies and practices as those observed by Schroders
described above.
-44-
The following tables show the aggregate brokerage commissions paid for the fiscal years ended
October 31, 2009 and October 31, 2008 with respect to the Fund that incurred brokerage costs.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Brokerage Commissions
|
|
Brokerage Commissions
|
|
|
Paid During Fiscal
|
|
Paid During Fiscal
|
Fund
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/09
|
|
Year Ended 10/31/08
|
Schroder Multi-Asset
Growth Portfolio
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
|
$
|
28,795
|
|
The following table shows the aggregate amount of brokerage commissions paid to firms that
provided research services in the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009. The provision of research
services to Schroders and its affiliates was not necessarily a factor in the placement of fund
transactions with these firms.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Commissions Paid
|
|
|
with Respect to Such
|
Fund
|
|
Transactions
|
Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio
|
|
$
|
[ ]
|
|
Other Practices.
Schroders and its affiliates also manage private investment companies (hedge
funds) that are marketed to, among others, existing Schroders clients. These hedge funds may
invest in the same securities as those invested in by the Fund. The hedge funds trading
methodologies are generally different than those of the Fund and usually include short selling and
the aggressive use of leverage. At times, the hedge funds may be selling short securities held long
in the Fund.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
The net asset value per share of the Fund is determined daily as of the close of trading on
the New York Stock Exchange (the Exchange) (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time) on each day the
Exchange is open for trading.
Securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued at those quotations.
Securities for which current market quotations are not readily available are valued at fair value
pursuant to procedures established by the Board of Trustees of the Trust, which are summarized
below. It is possible that fair value prices will be used by the Fund to a significant extent. The
value determined for an investment using the Funds fair value guidelines may differ from recent
market prices for the investment.
Equity securities listed or traded on a domestic or foreign stock exchange for which last
sales information is readily available are valued at the last reported sale price on the exchange
on that day or, in the absence of sales that day, at the mean between the closing bid and ask
prices (the mid-market price) or, if none, the last sale price on the preceding trading day.
(Where the securities are traded on more than one exchange, they are valued based on trading on the
exchange where the security is principally traded.) Securities purchased in an initial public
offering and that have not commenced trading in a secondary market are valued at cost. In the case
of securities traded primarily on the National Association of Securities Dealers Automated
Quotation System (NASDAQ), the NASDAQ Official Closing Price will, if available, be used to value
such securities as such price is reported by NASDAQ to market data vendors. If the NASDAQ Official
Closing Price is not available, such securities will be valued as described above for
exchange-traded securities.
Reliable market quotations are not considered to be readily available for many bonds
(excluding U.S. Treasury securities), certain preferred stocks, tax-exempt securities and certain
foreign securities. Such securities are valued at fair value, generally on the basis of valuations
furnished by pricing services, which determine valuations for normal, institutional-size trading
units of such securities using methods based on market transactions for comparable securities and
various relationships between securities that are generally recognized by institutional traders.
Below investment grade debt instruments (high yield debt) and emerging markets debt instruments
will generally be valued at prices furnished by pricing services based on the mean of bid and asked
prices supplied by brokers or dealers, although, if the bid-asked spread exceeds five points, that
security will typically be valued at the bid price. Short-term
-45-
fixed income securities with
remaining maturities of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, unless Schroders believes
another valuation is more appropriate.
Unlisted securities for which market quotations are readily available generally are valued at
the most recently reported sale prices on any day or, in the absence of a reported sale price, at
mid-market prices. Options and futures contracts traded on a securities exchange or board of trade
generally are valued at the last reported sales price or, in the absence of a sale, at the closing
mid-market price on the principal exchange where they are traded. Options and futures not traded on
a securities exchange or board of trade for which over-the-counter market quotations are readily
available generally are valued at the most recently reported mid-market price. Credit default and
interest rate swaps are valued at the estimate of the mid-market price, together with other
supporting information. Options on indices or ETF shares are valued at the closing mid-market
price. If such prices are not available, unlisted securities and derivatives are valued by
Schroders at their fair values based on quotations from dealers, and if such quotations are not
available, based on factors in the markets where such securities and derivatives trade, such as
security and bond prices, interest rates, and currency exchange rates.
All other securities and other property are valued at fair value based on procedures
established by the Board of Trustees of the Trust.
If the Funds assets are invested in one or more open-end investment management companies that
are registered under the 1940 Act, the Funds NAV is calculated based upon the value of the
securities held directly by the Fund and the net asset values of the registered open-end investment
management companies in which the Fund invests, and the prospectuses for these companies explain
the circumstances under which these companies will use fair value pricing.
All assets and liabilities of the Fund denominated in foreign currencies are translated into
U.S. dollars as of the close of trading of the Exchange (normally 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time) based on
the mean between the last quoted bid and ask price of such currencies against the U.S. dollar.
If any securities held by the Fund are restricted as to resale, Schroders will obtain a
valuation based on the current bid for the restricted security from one or more independent dealers
or other parties reasonably familiar with the facts and circumstances of the security. If Schroders
is unable to obtain a fair valuation for a restricted security from an independent dealer or other
independent party, a pricing committee (comprised of certain officers at Schroders) shall determine
the bid value of such security. The valuation procedures applied in any specific instance are
likely to vary from case to case. However, consideration is generally given to the financial
position of the issuer and other fundamental analytical data relating to the investment and to the
nature of the restrictions on disposition of the securities (including any registration expenses
that might be borne by the Trust in connection with such disposition). In addition, specific
factors are also generally considered, such as the cost of the investment, the market value of any
unrestricted securities of the same class (both at the time of purchase and at the time of
valuation), the size of the holding, the prices of any recent transactions or offers with respect
to such securities, and any available analysts reports regarding the issuer.
Generally, trading in certain securities (such as foreign securities) is substantially
completed each day at various times prior to the close of the Exchange. The values of these
securities used in determining the net asset value of the Funds shares are computed as of such
times. Also, because of the amount of time required to collect and process trading information as
to large numbers of securities issues, the values of certain securities (such as convertible bonds
and U.S. Government securities) are determined based on market quotations collected earlier in the
day. Occasionally, events affecting the value of such securities may occur between such times and
the close of the Exchange. If events materially affecting the value of such securities occur during
such period, then the Fair Value Committee of the Trust may consider whether it is appropriate to
value these securities at their fair value.
The Fund uses a third-party fair valuation vendor that provides a fair value for foreign
securities held by the applicable Fund based on certain factors and methodologies applied by the
vendor in the event that there is movement in specified U.S. market prices that exceeds a specific
threshold established by the Fair Value Committee, in
-46-
consultation with the Trustees. Such
methodologies generally involve tracking valuation correlations between the U.S. market and each
non-U.S. security. The Fair Value Committee also determines a confidence interval that will be
used, when the threshold is exceeded, to determine the level of correlation between the value of a
foreign security and movements in the U.S. market before a particular security will be fair valued.
In the event that the threshold established by the Fair Value Committee is exceeded on a specific
day, the Fund will typically value non-U.S.
securities in their portfolios that exceed the applicable confidence interval based upon the
fair values provided by the vendor.
The proceeds received by the Fund for each issue or sale of its shares, and all income,
earnings, profits, and proceeds thereof, subject only to the rights of creditors, will be
specifically allocated to the Fund, and constitute the underlying assets of the Fund. The
underlying assets of the Fund will be segregated on the Trusts books of account, and will be
charged with the liabilities in respect of the Fund and with a share of the general liabilities of
the Trust. The Funds assets will be further allocated among its constituent classes of shares on
the Trusts books of account. Expenses with respect to any two or more funds or classes may be
allocated in proportion to the net asset values of the respective funds or classes except where
allocations of direct expenses can otherwise be fairly made to a specific fund or class. The net
asset value of the Funds A Shares, Advisor Shares and R Shares will generally differ from that of
its Investor Shares due to the variance in dividends paid on each class of shares and differences
in the expenses of A Shares, Advisor Shares, R Shares and Investor Shares.
HOW TO BUY SHARES
Each Prospectus describes how investors may buy shares of the Fund and identifies the share
class(es) offered by the Prospectus. Because of different sales charges and expenses, the
investment performance of the classes will vary. This section of the SAI contains more information
on how to buy shares. For more information, including your eligibility to purchase certain classes
of shares, contact a service organization such as a bank, trust company, broker-dealer, or other
financial organization (a Service Organization) or Boston Financial Data Services (at
1-800-464-3108). Investors who purchase shares at net asset value through employee benefit plans or
employer-sponsored retirement plans should also consult their employer for information about the
extent to which the matters described in this section and in the sections that follow apply to
them.
General information.
The Fund is currently making a continuous offering of its shares. The
Fund receives the entire net asset value of shares sold. The Fund will accept unconditional orders
for shares to be executed at the public offering price based on the net asset value per share next
determined after the order is placed. In the case of A Shares, the public offering price is the net
asset value plus the applicable initial sales load, if any. (The public offering price is thus
calculable by dividing the net asset value by 100% minus the initial sales load, expressed as a
percentage.) Advisor Shares, Investor Shares and R Shares do not have an initial sales load.
Purchases of A Shares, Advisor Shares and Investor Shares are subject to the minimums stated
in the Prospectuses, except that the minimum investment is waived for investors purchasing
additional A Shares, Advisor Shares or Investor Shares through the automatic purchase option.
Reinvestment of distributions.
Distributions to be reinvested are reinvested without a sales
charge in shares of the same class as of the ex-dividend date using the net asset value determined
on that date, and are credited to a shareholders account on the payment date.
A Shares Sales Charges.
This section describes certain key features of A Shares offered to
investors and that are not sold at net asset value. Much of this information addresses the sales
charges, including an initial sales load, which may be imposed on A Shares. This information
supplements the description of the A Shares included in that classs Prospectus. The public
offering price of A Shares is the net asset value plus an initial sales load that varies depending
on the size of your purchase (calculable as described above). The Fund receives the net asset
value. The table below indicates the sales charges applicable to purchases of A Shares of the Fund.
The variations in sales charges reflect the varying efforts required to sell shares to different
categories of purchasers.
-47-
The sales charge is allocated between your investment dealer and SFA as shown in the tables
below, except when SFA, in its discretion, allocates the entire amount to your investment dealer.
The underwriters commission, or dealer reallowance, is the sales load shown in the applicable
Prospectus less any applicable dealer discount. SFA will give dealers ten days notice of any
changes in the dealer discount. SFA retains the entire sales charge on any retail sales made by it.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reallowance
|
|
|
Sales Load
|
|
Reallowance to
|
|
payable
|
|
|
as a % of
|
|
selected dealers
|
|
to SFA as of
|
Amount of Purchase Payment
|
|
Offering Price
|
|
as % of offering price
|
|
offering price
|
Less than $50,000
|
|
|
4.50
|
%
|
|
|
4.00
|
%
|
|
|
0.50
|
%
|
$50,000 to $99,999
|
|
|
4.00
|
%
|
|
|
3.50
|
%
|
|
|
0.50
|
%
|
$100,000 to $249,999
|
|
|
3.50
|
%
|
|
|
3.00
|
%
|
|
|
0.50
|
%
|
$250,000 to $499,999
|
|
|
2.50
|
%
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
|
|
|
0.50
|
%
|
$500,000 to $999,999
|
|
|
2.00
|
%
|
|
|
1.75
|
%
|
|
|
0.25
|
%
|
$1,000,000 or more
|
|
|
0
|
%
|
|
|
0
|
%
|
|
|
0
|
%
|
A Shares may be purchased without initial sales loads by: (i) investment advisory clients of
Schroders; (ii) current or former Trustees; (iii) trustees or custodians of any employee benefit
plan or employer-sponsored retirement plan, IRA, Keogh plan, or trust established for the benefit
of an employee or officer of Schroders and any of its affiliates; (iv) any trust company or bank
trust department exercising discretionary investment authority and holding unallocated accounts in
a fiduciary, agency, custodial, or similar capacity; and (v) certain financial intermediaries such
as broker-dealers, financial institutions, and registered investment advisers, and their investors
who buy through accounts established with certain fee-based investment advisers or financial
planners, wrap fee accounts and other managed agency/asset allocation accounts.
You may also qualify for a reduced initial sales load through the Rights of Accumulation
program and through investment by a letter of intent, as described in the Prospectuses. Information
about sales loads discounts is also available free of charge on the following website:
www.schroderfunds.com.
Initial sales charges on shares sold outside the United States may differ from those applied
to U.S. sales.
REDEMPTION OF SHARES
The Fund imposes a 2.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed (including in connection with an
exchange) two months or less from their date of purchase. The fee is not a sales charge (load); it
is paid directly to the Fund.
To the extent that the redemption fee applies, the price you will receive when you redeem your
shares of the Fund is the net asset value next determined after receipt of your redemption request
in good order, minus the redemption fee. The Fund permits exceptions to the redemption fee policy
for the following transactions:
|
|
|
to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the
intermediary agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected
clients, redemptions or exchanges by discretionary asset allocation or wrap
programs (wrap programs) that are initiated by the sponsor of the program as part
of a periodic rebalancing, provided that such rebalancing occurs no more frequently
than quarterly, or, if more frequent, was the result of an extraordinary change in
the management or operation of the wrap program leading to a revised investment
model that is applied across all applicable accounts in the wrap program;
|
|
|
|
|
to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the
intermediary agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected
clients, redemptions or exchanges by a wrap program that are made as a result of a
full withdrawal from the wrap program or as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
|
-48-
|
|
|
to the extent the exception is requested by a financial intermediary and the
intermediary agrees to administer the exception uniformly among similarly-affected
clients, the following transactions in participant-directed retirement plans:
|
|
|
|
where the shares being redeemed were purchased with new
contributions to the plan (
e.g.
, payroll contributions, employer
contributions, and loan repayments);
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions made in connection with taking out a loan
from the plan;
|
|
|
|
|
redemptions in connection with death, disability,
hardship withdrawals, or Qualified Domestic Relations Orders;
|
|
|
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redemptions made as part of a systematic withdrawal plan;
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redemptions made by a defined contribution plan in
connection with a termination or restructuring of the plan;
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redemptions made in connection with a participants termination of employment; and
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redemptions made as part of a periodic rebalancing under an asset allocation model.
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involuntary redemptions, such as those resulting from a shareholders failure to
maintain a minimum investment in the Fund;
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redemptions of shares acquired through the reinvestment of dividends or
distributions paid by the Fund;
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redemptions and exchanges effected by other mutual funds (
e.g.
, funds of funds)
that are sponsored by Schroders or its affiliates;
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to the extent the Fund is used as a qualified default investment alternative
under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 for certain 401(k) plans;
and
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otherwise as the officers of Schroders or the Trust may determine is appropriate
after consideration of the purpose of the transaction and the potential impact to
the Fund.
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The application of the redemption fee and exceptions may vary among intermediaries, and certain
intermediaries may not apply the exceptions listed above. If you purchase or sell fund shares
through an intermediary, you should contact your intermediary for more information on whether the
redemption fee will be applied to redemptions of your shares.
ARRANGEMENTS PERMITTING FREQUENT PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS OF FUND SHARES
The Fund has no arrangements with any person to permit frequent purchases and redemptions of
the Fund shares.
TAXES
The following discussion of U.S. federal income tax consequences is based on the Code,
existing U.S. Treasury regulations, and other applicable authority, as of the date of this SAI.
These authorities are subject to change by legislative or administrative action, possibly with
retroactive effect. The following discussion is only a summary of some of the important U.S.
federal tax considerations generally applicable to investments in the Fund. It does not address
special tax rules applicable to certain classes of investors, such as IRAs and other retirement
plans, tax-exempt entities, foreign investors, insurance companies, financial institutions and
investors making in-kind contributions to the Fund. You should consult your tax advisor for more
information about your own tax situation, including possible other federal, state, local, and,
where applicable, foreign tax consequences of investing in the Fund.
Taxation of the Fund.
The Fund intends to qualify and to elect to be treated each year as a
RIC under Subchapter M of the Code. In order to qualify for the special tax treatment accorded
RICs and their shareholders, the Fund must, among other things: (a) derive at least 90% of its
gross income for each taxable year from (i) dividends, interest, payments with respect to
securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities, or foreign
currencies, and other income (including but not limited to gains from options, futures, or forward
contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities, or
currencies and (ii) net income derived from interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships
(as defined below); (b) diversify its holdings so that, at the close of each quarter of the Funds
taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the market value of the Funds total assets consists
-49-
of cash,
cash items, U.S. Government securities, securities of other RICs and other securities limited in
respect of any one issuer to a value not greater than 5% of the value of the Funds total assets
and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (ii) not more than
25% of the value of the Funds total assets is invested (x) in the securities (other than those of
the U.S. Government or other RICs) of any one issuer or of two or more issuers that the Fund
controls and that are engaged in the same, similar or related trades or businesses, or (y) the
securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships (as defined below); and (c)
distribute with respect to each taxable year at least 90% of the sum of its investment company
taxable income (as that term is defined in the Code without regard to the deduction for dividends
paid generally, taxable ordinary income and the excess, if any, of net short-term capital gains
over net long-term capital losses) and net tax-exempt interest income, for such year. The Fund
intends to make such distributions.
In general, for purposes of the 90% gross income requirement described in (a) above, income
derived from a partnership will be treated as qualifying income only to the extent such income is
attributable to items of income of the partnership that would be qualifying income if realized by
the RIC. However, 100% of the net income derived from an interest in a qualified publicly traded
partnership (defined as a partnership (x) interests in which are traded on an established
securities market or readily tradable on a secondary market or the substantial equivalent thereof,
(y) that derives at least 90% of its income from passive income sources defined in Code section
7704(d), and (z) that derives less than 90% of its income from the qualifying income described in
(a)(i) above) will be treated as qualifying income. In addition, although in general the passive
loss rules of the Code do not apply to RICs, such rules do apply to a RIC with respect to items
attributable to an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership.
For purposes of meeting the diversification requirement described in (b) above, in the case of
the Funds investment in loan participations, the identity of the issuer may vary according to the
terms of the underlying contract. Also, for purposes of (b) above, the term outstanding voting
securities of such issuer will include the equity securities of a qualified publicly traded
partnership.
If the Fund qualifies as a RIC that is accorded special tax treatment, the Fund will not be
subject to federal income tax on income distributed in a timely manner to its shareholders in the
form of dividends (including capital gain dividends, as defined below).
If the Fund were to fail to qualify as a RIC accorded special tax treatment for any taxable
year, the Fund would be subject to taxes on its taxable income at corporate rates, and all
distributions from earnings and profits, including any distributions of net tax-exempt income and
net long-term capital gains would be taxable to shareholders as ordinary income. Some portions of
such distributions may be eligible for the dividends received deduction in the case of corporate
shareholders. In addition, the Fund may be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay substantial
taxes and interest, and make certain distributions.
If the Fund fails to distribute in a calendar year an amount equal to the sum of 98% of its
ordinary income for such year and 98% of its capital gain net income for the one-year period ending
October 31 of such year (or later if the Fund is permitted so to elect and so elects), plus any
retained amount from the prior year (to the extent not previously subject to tax under subchapter
M), the Fund will be subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax on the undistributed amounts. For
these purposes, the Fund will be treated as having distributed any amount on which it has been
subject to corporate income tax in the taxable year ending within the calendar year. A dividend
paid to shareholders by the Fund in January of a year generally is deemed to have been paid by the
Fund on December 31 of the preceding year, if the dividend was declared and payable to shareholders
of record on a date in October, November, or December of that preceding year. The Fund intends
generally to make distributions sufficient to avoid imposition of the 4% excise tax, although there
can be no assurance that it will be able to do so.
Taxable distributions
. For federal income tax purposes, distributions of investment income
(other than exempt-interest dividends, as described below) are generally taxed to shareholders as
ordinary income. Taxes on distributions of capital gains are determined by how long the Fund owned
the investments that generated the gains, rather than how long a shareholder has owned his or her
shares. Distributions of net capital gains from the sale of investments that the Fund has held for
more than one year and that are properly designated by the Fund as capital gain
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dividends will be
taxable as long-term capital gains. Distributions from capital gains are generally made after
applying any available capital loss carryovers long-term capital gain rates applicable to
individuals have been temporarily reduced in general, to 15% with lower rates applying to
taxpayers in the 10% and 15% rate brackets for taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011.
Distributions of gains from the sale of investments that the Fund owned for one year or less will
be taxable as ordinary income.
Because the Fund will invest a potentially significant portion of its assets in shares of
underlying funds, it is possible that its distributable income and gains will normally consist in
significant measure of distributions from underlying funds and gains and losses on the disposition
of shares of underlying funds. To the extent that an underlying fund realizes net losses on its
investments for a given taxable year, the Fund will not be able to recognize its shares of those
losses (so as to offset distributions of net income or capital gains from other underlying funds)
until it disposes of shares of the underlying fund. Moreover, even when the Fund does make such a
disposition, a portion of its loss may be recognized as a long-term capital loss, which will not be
treated as favorably for federal income tax
purposes as a short-term capital loss or an ordinary deduction. In particular, the Fund will not
be able to offset any capital losses from its dispositions of underlying fund shares against its
ordinary income (including distributions of any net short-term capital gains realized by an
underlying fund).
In addition, in certain circumstances, the wash sale rules under Section 1091 of the Code
may apply to the Funds sales of underlying fund shares that have generated losses. A wash sale
occurs if shares of an underlying fund are sold by the Fund at a loss and the Fund acquires
additional shares of that same underlying fund 30 days before or after the date of the sale. The
wash-sale rules could defer losses in the Funds hands on sales of underlying fund shares (to the
extent such sales are wash sales) for extended (and, in certain cases, potentially indefinite)
periods of time. In addition to the wash-sale rules, certain related-party transaction rules may
cause any losses generated by the Fund on the sale of an underlying funds shares to be deferred
(or, in some cases, permanently disallowed) if the Fund and the underlying fund are part of the
same controlled group (as defined in Section 267(f) of the Code) at the time the loss is
recognized. For instance, for these purposes, the Fund and an underlying fund will be part of the
same controlled group if the Fund owns more than 50% of the total outstanding voting securities of
the underlying fund.
As a result of the foregoing rules, and certain other special rules, it is possible that the
amounts of net investment income and net capital gains that the Fund will be required to distribute
to shareholders will be greater than such amounts would have been had the Fund invested directly in
the securities held by the underlying funds, rather than investing in shares of the underlying
funds. For similar reasons, the character of distributions from the Fund (
e.g.
, long-term capital
gain, exempt interest, eligibility for dividends-received deduction, etc.) will not necessarily be
the same as it would have been had the Fund invested directly in the securities held by the
underlying funds.
For taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011, qualified dividend income received by an
individual will be taxed at the rates applicable to long-term capital gain. In order for some
portion of the dividends received by the Fund shareholders to be qualified dividend income, the
Fund must meet holding period and other requirements with respect to some portion of the
dividend-paying stocks in its portfolio and shareholders must meet holding period and other
requirements with respect to the Funds shares. A dividend will not be treated as qualified
dividend income (at either the Fund or shareholder level) (1) if the dividend is received with
respect to any share of stock held for fewer than 61 days during the 121-day period beginning on
the date that is 60 days before the date on which such share becomes ex-dividend with respect to
such dividend (or, on the case of certain preferred stock, 91 days during the 181-day period
beginning 90 days before such date), (2) to the extent that the recipient is under an obligation
(whether pursuant to a short sale or otherwise) to make related payments with respect to positions
in substantially similar or related property, (3) if the recipient elects to have the dividend
income treated investment income for purposes of the limitation on deductibility of investment
interest, or (4) if the dividend is received from a foreign corporation that is (a) not eligible
for the benefits of a comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States (with the exception of
dividends paid on stock of such a foreign corporation readily tradable on an established security
market in the United States) or (b) treated as a passive foreign investment company (as defined
below).
If the Fund receives dividends from an underlying fund that qualifies as a RIC, and the
underlying fund designates such dividends as qualified dividend income, then the Fund may
designate a portion of its distributions
-51-
as qualified dividend income, provided the Fund meets the
holding period and other requirements with respect to shares of the underlying fund.
In general, distributions of investment income designated by the Fund as derived from
qualified dividend income will be treated as qualified dividend income by a shareholder taxed as an
individual provided the shareholder meets the holding period and other requirements described above
with respect to the Funds shares. If the aggregate qualified dividends received by the Fund during
any taxable year are 95% or more of its gross income (excluding net long-term capital gain over net
short-term capital loss), then 100% of the Funds dividends (other than dividends properly
designated as capital gain dividends) will be eligible to be treated as qualified dividend income.
For this purpose, the only gain included in the term gross income is the excess of net short-term
capital gain over net long-term capital loss.
Distributions are taxable to shareholders even if they are paid from income or gains earned by
the Fund before a shareholders investment (and thus were included in the price the shareholder
paid). Distributions are taxable whether shareholders receive them in cash or reinvest them in
additional shares.
Long-term capital gain rates applicable to individuals have been temporarily reduced in
general, to 15%, with lower rates applying to taxpayers in the 10% and 15% rate brackets for
taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011.
Return of capital distributions.
If the Fund makes a distribution to a shareholder in excess
of its current and accumulated earnings and profits in any taxable year, the excess distribution
will be treated as a return of capital to the extent of such shareholders tax basis in his or her
shares, and thereafter as capital gain. A return of capital is not taxable, but it reduces a
shareholders tax basis in his or her shares, thus reducing any loss or increasing any gain on a
subsequent taxable disposition of the shareholders shares.
Dividends and distributions on the Funds shares are generally subject to federal income tax
as described herein to the extent they do not exceed the Funds realized income and gains, even
though such dividends and distributions may economically represent a return of a particular
shareholders investment. Such distributions are likely to occur in respect of shares purchased at
a time when the Funds net asset value reflects either unrealized gains, or realized but
undistributed income or gains. Such realized income and gains may be required to be distributed
even when the Funds net asset value also reflects unrealized losses.
Securities issued or purchased at a discount.
The Funds investment in securities issued at a
discount and certain other obligations will (and investments in securities purchased at a discount
may) require the Fund to accrue and distribute income not yet received. In order to generate
sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions, the Fund may be required to sell securities in
its portfolio that it otherwise would have continued to hold.
Transactions in Fund shares.
The sale, exchange or redemption of Fund shares may give rise to
a gain or loss. In general, any gain or loss realized upon a taxable disposition of shares will be
treated as long-term capital gain or loss if the shares have been held for more than 12 months.
Otherwise the gain or loss on the taxable disposition of Fund shares will be treated as short-term
capital gain or loss. However, any loss realized upon a taxable disposition of shares held for six
months or less will be treated as long-term, rather than short-term, to the extent of any long-term
capital gain distributions received (or deemed received) by the shareholder with respect to the
shares. If a shareholder sells shares at a loss within six months of purchase, any loss will be
disallowed for federal income tax purposes to the extent of any exempt-interest dividends received
on such shares. In addition, any loss (not already disallowed as provided in the preceding
sentence) realized upon a taxable disposition of shares held for six months or less will be treated
as long-term, rather than short-term, to the extent of any amounts treated as distributions from
the Fund of long-term capital gain with respect to the shares during the six-month period. All or a
portion of any loss realized upon a taxable disposition of Fund shares will be disallowed if other
shares of the same Fund are purchased within 30 days before or after the disposition. In such a
case, the basis of the newly purchased shares will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.
-52-
Depending on the Funds percentage ownership in an underlying fund before and after a
redemption of underlying fund shares, the Funds redemption of shares of such underlying fund may
cause the Fund to be treated as receiving a dividend on the full amount of the distribution instead
of receiving capital gain income on the shares of the underlying fund. This would be the case
where the Fund holds a significant interest in an underlying fund and redeems only a small portion
of such interest. It is possible that such a dividend would qualify as qualified dividend income;
otherwise, it would be taxable as ordinary income.
Foreign currency transactions.
The Funds transactions in foreign currencies, foreign
currency-denominated debt obligations and certain foreign currency options, futures contracts and
forward contracts (and similar instruments) may give rise to ordinary income or loss to the extent
such income or loss results from fluctuations of the foreign currency concerned.
The Fund may have significant exposure to foreign currencies and may take significant
positions in forward currency contracts. As described under Taxation of the Fund above, at least
90% of a funds gross income for each taxable year must consist of certain types of qualifying
income. The Code grants the Secretary of the Treasury the right to issue tax regulations that would
exclude income and gains from direct investments in foreign currencies from treatment as qualifying
income for purposes of the 90% gross income requirement in cases where the foreign currency gains
are not directly related to the companys principal business of investing in stocks or securities
(or options or
futures with respect to stocks or securities). In light of this grant of regulatory authority,
there is no assurance that the Secretary will not issue regulations. Moreover, there is a remote
possibility that such regulations may be applied retroactively. If the Fund were to fail to qualify
as a RIC in any year, the Fund would be subject to federal income tax on its net income and capital
gains at regular corporate income tax rates (without a deduction for distributions to shareholders)
and other adverse consequences previously described.
Foreign investments.
With respect to investment income and gains received by the Fund from
sources within foreign countries, such income and gains may be subject to foreign taxes that are
withheld at the source. Tax treaties between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce or
eliminate such taxes.
If more than 50% of the Funds assets at year end consist of the securities of foreign
corporations, the Fund may elect to permit shareholders to claim a credit or deduction on their
income tax returns for their pro rata portions of qualified taxes paid by the Fund to foreign
countries in respect of foreign securities the Fund has held for at least the minimum period
specified in the Code. In such a case, shareholders will include in gross income from foreign
sources their pro rata shares of such taxes. A shareholders ability to claim a foreign tax credit
or deduction in respect of foreign taxes paid by the Fund may be subject to certain limitations
imposed by the Code, which may result in a shareholder not receiving a full credit or deduction for
the amount of such taxes. In particular, shareholders must hold their Fund shares (without
protection from risk of loss) on the ex-dividend date and for at least 15 additional days during
the 30-day period surrounding the ex-dividend date to be eligible to claim a foreign tax credit
with respect to a given dividend. Shareholders who do not itemize on their federal income tax
returns may claim a credit (but no deduction) for such foreign taxes. It is anticipated that
shareholders of the Fund generally will not be entitled to claim a credit or deduction with respect
to foreign taxes.
Under current law, a fund of funds cannot pass through to shareholders foreign tax credits
borne in respect of foreign securities income earned by an underlying fund. A fund is permitted to
elect to pass through to its shareholders foreign income taxes it pays only if it directly holds
more than 50% of its assets in foreign stock and securities at the close of its taxable year.
Foreign securities held indirectly through an underlying fund do not contribute to this 50%
threshold.
Passive Foreign Investment Companies.
Equity investments by the Fund in certain passive
foreign investment companies (PFICs) could potentially subject the Fund to U.S. federal income
tax (including interest charges) on distributions received from the company or on proceeds received
from the disposition of shares in the company. This tax cannot be eliminated by making
distributions to Fund shareholders. However, the Fund may elect to avoid the imposition of that
tax by electing to treat a PFIC as a qualified electing fund (i.e., make a QEF election), in
which case the Fund will be required to include its share of the companys income and net capital
gains
-53-
annually, regardless of whether it receives any distribution from the company. The Fund may
also make an election to mark the gains (and to a limited extent losses) in such holdings to the
market as though it had sold and repurchased its holdings in those PFICs on the last day of the
Funds taxable year. Such gains and losses are treated as ordinary income and loss. The QEF and
mark-to-market elections may accelerate the recognition of income (without the receipt of cash) and
increase the amount required to be distributed by the Fund to avoid taxation. Making either of
these elections may require the Fund to liquidate other investments (including when it is not
advantageous to do so) to meet its distribution requirement, which also may accelerate the
recognition of gain and affect the Funds total return. Dividends paid by PFICs are not eligible
to be treated as qualified dividend income.
Hedging transactions.
If the Fund engages in hedging transactions, including transactions in
options, forward or futures contracts, and straddles, or other similar transactions, it will be
subject to special tax rules (including constructive sale, mark-to-market, straddle, wash sale, and
short sale rules), the effect of which may be to accelerate income to the Fund, defer losses to the
Fund, cause adjustments in the holding periods of the Funds securities, convert long-term capital
gain into short-term capital gain, or convert short-term capital losses into long-term capital
losses. These rules could therefore affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to
shareholders. The Fund will monitor its transactions, determine whether to make certain applicable
tax elections and make appropriate entries in its books and records.
Certain of the Funds hedging activities (including its transactions, if any, in foreign
currencies or foreign currency-denominated instruments) are likely to produce a difference between
the Funds book income and its taxable
income. If the Funds book income exceeds the sum of its taxable income and net tax-exempt
income (if any), the distribution (if any) of such excess will be treated as (i) a dividend to the
extent of the Funds remaining earnings and profits (including earnings and profits arising from
tax-exempt income), (ii) thereafter as a return of capital to the extent of the recipients basis
in the shares, and (iii) thereafter as gain from the sale or exchange of a capital asset. If the
Funds book income is less than the sum of its taxable income and net tax-exempt income (if any),
the Fund could be required to make distributions exceeding book income to qualify as a RIC that is
accorded special tax treatment.
In general, 40% of the gain or loss arising from the closing out of a futures contract traded
on an exchange approved by the CFTC is treated as short-term gain or loss, and 60% is treated as
long-term gain or loss.
Certain Investments in REITs.
The Fund is permitted to invest in REITs. Investments in REIT
equity securities may require the Fund to accrue and distribute income not yet received. To
generate sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions, the Fund may be required to sell
securities in its portfolio (including when it is not advantageous to do so) that it otherwise
would have continued to hold. The Funds investments in REIT equity securities may at other times
result in the Funds receipt of cash in excess of the REITs earnings. If the Fund distributes
these amounts, these distributions could constitute a return of capital to Fund shareholders for
federal income tax purposes. Dividends received by the Fund from a REIT generally will not
constitute qualified dividend income.
Some of the REITs in which the Fund invests may be permitted to hold residual interests in
real estate mortgage investment conduits (REMICs), REITS that are themselves taxable mortgage
pools (TMPs) or REITs that may invest in TMPs.. Under a notice issued by the IRS in October 2006
and Treasury regulations that have yet to be issued but may apply retroactively, a portion of the
Funds income (including income allocated to the Fund from a REIT or other pass-through entity)
that is attributable to the REITs residual interest in a REMIC or TMP (referred to in the Code as
an excess inclusion) will be subject to federal income tax in all events. This notice also
provides, and the regulations are expected to provide, that excess inclusion income of a RIC will
be allocated to shareholders of the RIC in proportion to the dividends received by such
shareholders, with the same consequences as if the shareholders held the related REMIC or TMP
residual interest directly. As a result, the Fund may not be a suitable investment for charitable
remainder trusts, as noted below.
In general, excess inclusion income allocated to shareholders (i) cannot be offset by net
operating losses (subject to a limited exception for certain thrift institutions), (ii) will
constitute unrelated business taxable income (UBTI) to entities (including a qualified pension
plan, an individual retirement account, a 401(k) plan, a Keogh plan
-54-
or other tax-exempt entity)
subject to tax on UBTI, thereby potentially requiring such an entity that is allocated excess
inclusion income, and otherwise might not be required to file a tax return, to file a tax return
and pay tax on such income, and (iii) in the case of a non-U.S. shareholder, will not qualify for
any reduction in U.S. federal withholding tax. The Fund does not intend to invest in REITs in which
a substantial portion of the assets will consist of residual interests in REMICs.
Tax-Exempt Shareholders.
Under current law, the Fund generally serves to block UBTI from
being realized by tax-exempt shareholders. Notwithstanding this blocking effect, a tax-exempt
shareholder could realize UBTI by virtue of its investment in the Fund if Fund shares constitute
debt-financed property in the hands of the tax-exempt shareholder within the meaning of Code
Section 514(b).
A tax-exempt shareholder may also recognize UBTI if the Fund recognizes excess inclusion
income derived from direct or indirect investments in REMIC residual interests or TMPs if the
amount of such income recognized by the Fund exceeds the Funds investment company taxable income
(after taking into account deductions for dividends paid by the Fund). Furthermore, any investment
in residual interests of a Collateralized Mortgage Obligation (a CMO) that is treated as a REMIC
can create complex tax consequences, especially if the Fund has state or local governments or other
tax-exempt organizations as shareholders.
In addition, special tax consequences apply to charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) that
invest in RICs that invest directly or indirectly in residual interests in REMICs or equity
interests in TMPs. Under legislation enacted in December 2006, a CRT (as defined in section 664 of
the Code) that realizes any UBTI for a taxable year must pay an excise tax annually of an amount
equal to such UBTI. Under IRS guidance issued in October 2006, a CRT will not
recognize UBTI solely as a result of investing in a fund that recognizes excess inclusion
income. Rather, if at any time during any taxable year a CRT (or one of certain other tax-exempt
shareholders, such as the United States, a state or political subdivision, or an agency or
instrumentality thereof, and certain energy cooperatives) is a record holder of a share in a fund
that recognizes excess inclusion income, then the fund will be subject to a tax on that portion of
its excess inclusion income for the taxable year that is allocable to such shareholders at the
highest federal corporate income tax rate. It is unclear how applicable this IRS guidance remains
in light of the December 2006 legislation. To the extent permitted under the 1940 Act, the Fund is
permitted to elect to specially allocate any such tax to the applicable CRT, or other shareholder,
and thus reduce such shareholders distributions for the year by the amount of the tax that relates
to such shareholders interest in the Fund. The Fund has not made such an election, but reserves
the right to do so in the future. CRTs are urged to consult their tax advisors concerning the
consequences of investing in the Fund.
Backup withholding.
The Fund is generally required to withhold and remit to the U.S. Treasury
a percentage of the taxable distributions and redemption proceeds paid to any individual
shareholder who fails to properly furnish the Fund with a correct taxpayer identification number
(TIN), who has under-reported dividend or interest income, or who fails to certify to the Fund
that he or she is not subject to such withholding. The backup withholding tax rate is 28% for
amounts paid through 2010. This rate will expire and the backup withholding tax rate will be 31%
for amounts paid after December 31, 2010 unless Congress enacts tax legislation providing
otherwise.
In order for a foreign investor to qualify for exemption from the backup withholding tax rates
under income tax treaties, the foreign investor must comply with special certification and filing
requirements. Foreign investors in the Fund should consult their tax advisers in this regard.
Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld may be credited against the
shareholders U.S. federal income tax liability, provided the appropriate information is furnished
to the IRS.
Tax shelter reporting regulations
. Under Treasury regulations, if a shareholder recognizes a
loss of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate
shareholder, the shareholder must file a disclosure statement on Form 8886 with the IRS. Direct
shareholders of portfolio securities are in many cases excepted from this reporting requirement,
but under current guidance, shareholders of a RIC are not excepted. Future guidance may extend the
current exception from this reporting requirement to shareholders of most or all RICs. The fact
that a loss is reportable under these regulations does not affect the legal determination of
whether the taxpayers
-55-
treatment of the loss is proper. Shareholders should consult their tax
advisors to determine the applicability of these regulations in light of their individual
circumstances.
Non-U.S. Shareholders.
Distributions properly designated as capital gain dividends and
exempt-interest dividends generally will not be subject to withholding of federal income tax.
However, exempt-interest dividends may be subject to backup withholding (as discussed above). In
general, dividends (other than capital gain dividends) paid by the Fund to a shareholder that is
not a U.S. person within the meaning of the Code (a foreign person) are subject to withholding
of U.S. federal income tax at a rate of 30% (or lower applicable treaty rate) even if they are
funded by income or gains (such as portfolio interest, short-term capital gains, or foreign-source
dividend and interest income) that, if paid to a foreign person directly, would not be subject to
withholding. However, effective for taxable years of the Fund beginning before January 1, 2010, the
Fund will not be required to withhold any amounts (i) with respect to distributions (other than
distributions to a foreign person (w) that has not provided a satisfactory statement that the
beneficial owner is not a U.S. person, (x) to the extent that the dividend is attributable to
certain interest on an obligation if the foreign person is the issuer or is a 10% shareholder of
the issuer, (y) that is within certain foreign countries that have inadequate information exchange
with the United States, or (z) to the extent the dividend is attributable to interest paid by a
person that is a related person of the foreign person and the foreign person is a controlled
foreign corporation) from U.S.-source interest income of types similar to those not subject to U.S.
federal income tax if earned directly by an individual foreign person, to the extent such
distributions are properly designated by the Fund (an interest-related dividend), and (ii) with
respect to distributions (other than (a) distributions to an individual foreign person who is
present in the United States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the year
of the distribution and (b) distributions subject to special rules regarding the disposition of
U.S. real property interests) of net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term capital
losses, to the extent such distributions are properly designated by the Fund (a short-term capital
gain dividend). Depending on the circumstances, the Fund may make designations of interest-related
dividends and/or short-term capital gain dividends with respect to all, some or none of its
potentially eligible dividends and/or treat such dividends, in whole or in part, as
ineligible for these exemptions from withholding. Absent legislation extending these
exemptions, for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2010, these special withholding
exemptions for interest-related and short-term capital gain dividends will expire and these
dividends generally will be subject to withholding as described above. It is currently unclear
whether Congress will extend the exemptions for tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2010.
The fact that the Fund achieves its investment objectives in potentially significant measure
by investing in underlying funds will generally not adversely affect the Funds ability to pass on
to foreign shareholders the full benefit of the interest-related dividends and short-term capital
gain dividends that it receives from its underlying investments in the funds, except possibly to
the extent that (1) interest-related dividends received by the Fund are offset by deductions
allocable to the Funds qualified interest income or (2) short-term capital gain dividends received
by the Fund are offset by the Funds net short-term or long-term capital losses, in which case the
amount of a distribution from the Fund to a foreign shareholder that is properly designated as
either an interest-related dividend or a short-term capital gain dividend, respectively, may be
less than the amount that such shareholder would have received had they invested directly in the
underlying funds.
In the case of shares held through an intermediary, the intermediary may withhold even if a
Fund makes a designation with respect to a payment. Foreign persons should contact their
intermediaries regarding the application of these rules to their accounts.
A beneficial holder of shares who is a foreign person is not, in general, subject to U.S.
federal income tax on gains (and is not allowed a deduction for losses) realized on the sale of
shares of the Fund or on capital gain dividends unless (i) such gain or capital gain dividend is
effectively connected with the conduct of a trade or business carried on by such holder within the
United States, or (ii) in the case of an individual holder, the holder is present in the United
States for a period or periods aggregating 183 days or more during the year of the sale or the
receipt of the capital gain dividend and certain other conditions are met.
-56-
PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES
To the knowledge of the Trust, as of [ ], 2010, no person owned beneficially or of record
more than 5% of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, except as indicated in Appendix A
hereto.
[To the knowledge of the Trust, as of [ ], 2010, the Trustees of the Trust and the officers
of the Trust, as a group, owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the Fund.]
CUSTODIAN
JPMorgan Chase Bank, 270 Park Avenue, New York, New York, is the custodian of the assets of
the Fund. The custodians responsibilities include safeguarding and controlling the Funds cash and
securities, handling the receipt and delivery of securities, and collecting interest and dividends
on the Funds investments. The custodian does not determine the investment policies of the Fund or
decide which securities the Fund will buy or sell.
LINE OF CREDIT
The Fund, along with certain other series of the Trust, Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) and
Schroder Global Series Trust entered into a Credit Agreement dated October 6, 2008 with JPMorgan
Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, for up to $25 million in a revolving line of credit (the
Line of Credit). Any advance under the Line of Credit is contemplated primarily for temporary or
emergency purposes consistent with the investment objectives and fundamental investment
restrictions of the borrower, or to finance the redemption of the shares of a shareholder of the
borrowing Fund. It is possible that a Fund may wish to borrow money under the Line of Credit but
may not be able to do so.
TRANSFER AGENT AND DIVIDEND DISBURSING AGENT
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc., 2000 Crown Colony Drive, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169, is
the Trusts registrar, transfer agent, and dividend disbursing agent.
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
[ ], the Trusts independent registered public accounting firm, provides audit services, and
tax return preparation services. Its address is [ ].
CODE OF ETHICS
Schroders, SFA, and SIMNA Ltd. have each adopted a Code of Ethics, and the Trust has adopted a
combined Code of Ethics as amended from time to time, pursuant to the requirements of Rule 17j-1 of
the Investment Company Act. Subject to certain restrictions, these Codes of Ethics permit personnel
subject to the Codes to invest in securities, including securities that may be purchased or held by
the Fund. The Codes of Ethics have been filed as exhibits to the Trusts Registration Statement.
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
The Trust has delegated authority and responsibility to vote any proxies relating to voting
securities held by the Fund to Schroders, which intends to vote such proxies in accordance with its
proxy voting policies and procedures. A copy of Schroders proxy voting policies and procedures is
attached as Appendix B to this SAI. Information regarding how Schroders voted proxies relating to
portfolio securities during the most recent twelve month period ended June 30 is available without
charge, upon request, through the Schroders Funds website at www.schroderfunds.com or by calling
(800) 464-3108 and on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov.
-57-
LEGAL COUNSEL
Ropes & Gray LLP, One International Place, Boston, Massachusetts 02110-2624, serves as counsel
to the Trust.
SHAREHOLDER LIABILITY
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders could, under certain circumstances, be held personally
liable for the obligations of the Trust. However, the Trusts Declaration of Trust disclaims
shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust and requires that notice of such
disclaimer be given in each agreement, obligation, or instrument entered into or executed by the
Trust or the Trustees. The Trusts Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification out of the
relevant Funds property for all loss and expense of any shareholder held personally liable for the
obligations of such Fund. Thus, the risk of a shareholders incurring financial loss on account of
shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Fund would be unable to meet its
obligations.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, Financial Highlights, and
Financial Statements in respect of the Fund is included in the Funds Annual Report to Shareholders
for the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009 under Rule 30d-1 of the Investment Company Act, filed
electronically with the SEC on [ ], 2010 in the Funds Report on Form N-CSR for the period ending
October 31, 2009 for Schroder Series Trust, File No. 811-07840; Accession No. [ ]. The Report,
Financial Highlights and Financial Statements referred to above relating to the Fund are
incorporated by reference into this SAI.
-58-
APPENDIX A
HOLDERS OF OUTSTANDING SHARES
To the knowledge of the Trust, as of [ ], 2010, no person owned beneficially or of record 5%
or more of the outstanding shares of the Fund, except as set forth below.
Investor Shares
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Number of Outstanding
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Percentage of Outstanding
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Record or Beneficial Owner
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Shares Owned
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Shares Owned
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[ ]
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[ ]
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[ ]
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Advisor Shares
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Number of Outstanding
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Percentage of Outstanding
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Record or Beneficial Owner
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Shares Owned
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Shares Owned
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[ ]
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[ ]
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[ ]
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A-1
APPENDIX B
SCHRODER INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT NORTH AMERICA INC.
POLICY RELATING TO IDENTIFYING AND ACTING UPON CONFLICTS
OF INTEREST IN CONNECTION WITH ITS PROXY VOTING OBLIGATIONS
This document sets forth Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.s (Schroders) policy
with respect to proxy voting and its procedures to comply with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment
Advisers Act of 1940 and Rule 30b1-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Specifically, Rule
206(4)-6 requires that Schroders:
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Adopt and implement written policies and procedures reasonably designed to ensure that
proxies are voted in the best interest of clients and
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Disclose its proxy voting policies and procedures to clients and inform them how they
may obtain information about how Schroders voted proxies.
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Rule 30b1-4 requires that the Schroder US Mutual Funds (the Funds):
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Disclose their proxy voting policies and procedures in their registration statements and
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Annually, file with the SEC and make available to shareholders their actual proxy
voting.
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(a) Proxy Voting General Principles
Schroders will evaluate and usually vote for or against all proxy requests relating to securities
held in any account managed by Schroders (unless this responsibility has been retained by the
client).
Proxies will be treated and evaluated with the same attention and investment skill as the trading
of securities in the accounts.
Proxies will be voted in a manner that is deemed most likely to protect and enhance the longer term
value of the security as an asset to the account.
Proxy Committee
The Proxy Committee consists of investment professionals and other officers and is responsible for
ensuring compliance with this proxy voting policy. The Committee meets quarterly to review proxies
voted, policy guidelines and to examine any issues raised, including a review of any votes cast in
connection with controversial issues.
The procedure for evaluating proxy requests is as follows:
Schroders Global Corporate Governance Team (the Team) is responsible for the initial evaluation
of the proxy request, for seeking advice where necessary, especially from the US small cap and mid
cap product heads, and for consulting with portfolio managers who have invested in the company
should a controversial issue arise.
When making proxy-voting decisions, Schroders generally adheres to the Global Corporate Governance
Policy (the Policy), as revised from time to time. The Policy, which has been developed by
Schroders Global Corporate Governance Team and approved by the Schroders Proxy Committee, sets
forth Schroders positions on recurring issues and criteria for addressing non-recurring issues.
The Policy is a part of these procedures and is incorporated herein by reference. The Proxy
Committee exercises oversight to assure that proxies are voted in accordance with the Policy and
that any votes inconsistent with the Policy or against management are appropriately documented.
Schroders uses Institutional Shareholder Services, Inc. (ISS) to assist in voting proxies. ISS
provides proxy research, voting and vote-reporting services. ISSs primary function with respect to
Schroders is to apprise the Group of shareholder meeting dates of all securities holdings,
translate proxy materials received from companies, provide
B-1
associated research and provide
considerations and recommendations for voting on particular proxy proposals.
Although Schroders may consider ISSs and others recommendations on proxy issues, Schroders bears
ultimate responsibility for proxy voting decisions.
Schroders may also consider the recommendations and research of other providers, including the
National Association of Pension Funds Voting Issues Service.
Conflicts
From time to time, proxy voting proposals may raise conflicts between the interests of Schroders
clients and the interests of Schroders and/or its employees. Schroders is adopting this policy and
procedures to ensure that decisions to vote the proxies are based on the clients best interests.
For example, conflicts of interest may arise when:
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Proxy votes regarding non-routine matters are solicited by an issuer that, directly or
indirectly, has a client relationship with Schroders;
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A proponent of a proxy proposal has a client relationship with Schroders;
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A proponent of a proxy proposal has a business relationship with Schroders;
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Schroders has business relationships with participants in proxy contests, corporate
directors or director candidates;
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The Team is responsible for identifying proxy voting proposals that may present a material conflict
of interest. If Schroders receives a proxy relating to an issuer that raises a conflict of
interest, the Team shall determine whether the conflict is material to any specific proposal
included within the proxy. The Team will determine whether a proposal is material as follows:
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Routine Proxy Proposals: Proxy proposals that are routine shall be presumed not to
involve a material conflict of interest unless the Team has
actual
knowledge that a routine
proposal should be treated as material. For this purpose, routine proposals would
typically include matters such as uncontested election of directors, meeting formalities,
and approval of an annual report/financial statements.
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Non-Routine Proxy Proposals: Proxy proposals that are non-routine will be presumed to
involve a material conflict of interest, unless the Team determines that neither Schroders
nor its personnel have a conflict of interest or the conflict is unrelated to the proposal
in question. For this purpose, non-routine proposals would typically include any
contested matter, including a contested election of directors, a merger or sale of
substantial assets, a change in the articles of incorporation that materially affects the
rights of shareholders, and compensation matters for management (
e.g.
, stock, option plans,
retirement plans, profit-sharing or other special remuneration plans). If the Team
determines that there is, or may be perceived to be, a conflict of interest when voting a
proxy, Schroders will address matters involving such conflicts of interest as follows:
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A. If a proposal is addressed by the Policy, Schroders will vote in accordance with such
Policy;
B. If Schroders believes it is in the best interests of clients to depart from the Policy,
Schroders will be subject to the requirements of C or D below, as applicable;
C. If the proxy proposal is (1) not addressed by the Policy or (2) requires a case-by-case
determination, Schroders may vote such proxy as it determines to be in the best interest of
clients, without taking any action described in D below, provided that such vote would be against
Schroders own interest in the matter (
i.e.,
against the perceived or actual conflict). The
rationale of such vote will be memorialized in writing; and
D. If the proxy proposal is (1) not addressed by the Policy or (2) requires a case-by-case
determination, and Schroders believes it should vote in a way that may also benefit, or be
perceived to benefit, its own interest, then
B-2
Schroders must take one of the following actions in
voting such proxy: (a) vote in accordance with ISS recommendation; (b) inform the client(s) of the
conflict of interest and obtain consent to vote the proxy as
recommended by Schroders; or (c) obtain approval of the decision from the Chief Compliance
Officer and the Chief Investment Officer. The rationale of such vote will be memorialized in
writing.
Record of Proxy Voting
The Team will maintain, or have available, written or electronic copies of each proxy
statement received and of each executed proxy.
The Team will also maintain records relating to each proxy, including (i) the voting decision with
regard to each proxy; and (ii) any documents created by the Team and/or the Proxy Committee, or
others, that were material to making the voting decision; (iii) any decisions of the Chief
Compliance Officer and the Chief Investment Officer.
Schroders will maintain a record of each written request from a client for proxy voting information
and its written response to any request (oral or written) from any client for proxy voting
information.
Such records will be maintained for six years and may be retained electronically.
Additional Reports and Disclosures for the Schroder Funds
The Funds must disclose their policies and procedures for voting proxies in their Statement of
Additional Information. In addition to the records required to be maintained by Schroders, the
following information will be made available to the Funds or their agent to enable the Funds to
file Form N-PX under Rule 30b1-4:
For each matter on which a fund is entitled to vote:
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Name of the issuer of the security;
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Exchange ticker symbol;
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CUSIP number, if available;
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Shareholder meeting date;
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Brief summary of the matter voted upon;
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Source of the proposal,
i.e.
, issuer or shareholder;
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Whether the fund voted on the matter;
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How the fund voted; and
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Whether the fund voted with or against management.
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Further, the Funds are required to make available to shareholders the Funds actual proxy voting
record. If requested, the most recently filed Form N-PX must be sent within three (3) days of
receipt of the request.
B-3
APPENDIX C
FIXED INCOME AND COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
Moodys Investors Service Inc. (Moodys)
Fixed Income Security Ratings
Aaa Fixed income securities that are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They carry
the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as gilt edge. Interest
payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable margin and principal is secure.
While the various protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are
most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa Fixed income securities that are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are generally known as high grade fixed income
securities. They are rated lower than the best fixed income securities because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be
of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present that make the long-term risks appear
somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
A Fixed income securities that are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are
to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to principal and
interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present that suggest a susceptibility to
impairment sometime in the future.
Baa Fixed income securities that are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations;
i.e.
, they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and principal
security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be
characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such fixed income securities lack
outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well.
Fixed income securities rated Aaa, Aa, A and Baa are considered investment grade.
Ba Fixed income securities that are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest and principal
payments may be very moderate, and therefore not well safeguarded during both good and bad times in
the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.
B Fixed income securities that are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the
contract over any long period of time may be small.
Caa Fixed income securities that are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or interest.
Ca Fixed income securities that are rated Ca present obligations that are speculative in a high
degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
C Fixed income securities that are rated C are the lowest rated class of fixed income
securities, and issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever
attaining any real investment standing.
Rating Refinements: Moodys may apply numerical modifiers, 1, 2, and 3 in each generic rating
classification from Aa through B. The modifier 1 indicates that the security ranks in the
higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid range ranking; and a
modifier 3 indicates that the issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating category.
C-1
Commercial Paper Ratings
Moodys Commercial Paper ratings are opinions of the ability to repay punctually promissory
obligations not having an original maturity in excess of nine months. The ratings apply to
Municipal Commercial Paper as well as taxable Commercial Paper. Moodys employs the following three
designations, all judged to be investment grade, to indicate the relative repayment capacity of
rated issuers: Prime 1, Prime 2, Prime 3.
Issuers rated Prime 1 have a superior capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligations. Issuers rated Prime 2 have a strong capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligations; and Issuers rated Prime 3 have an acceptable capacity for repayment of short-term
promissory obligations. Issuers rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating
categories.
Standard & Poors Rating Services (Standard & Poors)
Fixed Income Security Ratings
A Standard & Poors fixed income security rating is a current assessment of the creditworthiness of
an obligor with respect to a specific obligation. This assessment may take into consideration
obligors such as guarantors, insurers, or lessees.
The ratings are based on current information furnished by the issuer or obtained by Standard &
Poors from other sources it considers reliable. The ratings are based, in varying degrees, on the
following considerations: (1) likelihood of default capacity and willingness of the obligor as to
the timely payment of interest and repayment of principal in accordance with the terms of the
obligation; (2) nature of and provisions of the obligation; and (3) protection afforded by, and
relative position of, the obligation in the event of bankruptcy, reorganization or other
arrangement under the laws of bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors rights.
Standard & Poors does not perform an audit in connection with any rating and may, on occasion,
rely on unaudited financial information. The ratings may be changed, suspended or withdrawn as a
result of changes in, or unavailability of, such information, or for other reasons.
AAA Fixed income securities rated AAA have the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poors.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
AA Fixed income securities rated AA have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the highest rated issues only in small degree.
A Fixed income securities rated A have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal
although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and
economic conditions than fixed income securities in higher rated categories.
BBB Fixed income securities rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse
economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay
interest and repay principal for fixed income securities in this category than for fixed income
securities in higher rated categories.
Fixed income securities rated AAA, AA, A and BBB are considered investment grade.
BB Fixed income securities rated BB have less near term vulnerability to default than other
speculative grade fixed income securities. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or
exposure to adverse business, financial or economic conditions that could lead to inadequate
capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal.
C-2
B Fixed income securities rated B have a greater vulnerability to default but presently have
the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial or
economic conditions would likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay
principal.
CCC Fixed income securities rated CCC have a current identifiable vulnerability to default, and
the obligor is dependent upon favorable business, financial and economic conditions to meet timely
payments of interest and repayments of principal. In the event of adverse business, financial or
economic conditions, it is not likely to have the capacity to pay interest and repay principal.
CC The rating CC is typically applied to fixed income securities subordinated to senior debt
that is assigned an actual or implied CCC rating.
C The rating C is typically applied to fixed income securities subordinated to senior debt that
is assigned an actual or implied CC rating.
CI The rating CI is reserved for fixed income securities on which no interest is being paid.
NR Indicates that no rating has been requested, that there is insufficient information on which
to base a rating or that Standard & Poors does not rate a particular type of obligation as a
matter of policy.
Fixed income securities rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C are regarded as having predominantly
speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal. BB
indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest degree of speculation. While such
fixed income securities will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are out
weighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse conditions.
Plus (+) or minus (-): The rating from AA TO CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus or
minus sign to show relative standing with the major ratings categories.
Commercial Paper Ratings
Standard & Poors commercial paper rating is a current assessment of the likelihood of timely
payment of debt having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. The commercial paper rating
is not a recommendation to purchase or sell a security. The ratings are based upon current
information furnished by the issuer or obtained by Standard & Poors from other sources it
considers reliable. The ratings may be changed, suspended, or withdrawn as a result of changes in
or unavailability of such information. Ratings are graded into group categories, ranging from A
for the highest quality obligations to D for the lowest. Ratings are applicable to both taxable
and tax exempt commercial paper.
Issues assigned A ratings are regarded as having the greatest capacity for timely payment. Issues
in this category are further refined with the designation 1, 2, and 3 to indicate the
relative degree of safety.
A 1 Indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payment is very strong.
A 2 Indicates capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is strong. However, the
relative degree of safety is not as overwhelming as for issues designated A 1.
A 3 Indicates a satisfactory capacity for timely payment. Obligations carrying this designation
are, however, somewhat more vulnerable to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances than
obligations carrying the higher designations.
C-3
Fitch Investors Service, Inc. (Fitch)
Fixed Income Security Ratings
Investment Grade
AAA: Bonds considered to be investment grade and of the highest credit quality. The obligor has an
exceptionally strong ability to pay interest and repay principal, which is unlikely to be affected
by reasonably foreseeable events.
AA: Bonds considered to be investment grade and of very high credit quality. The obligors ability
to pay interest and repay principal is very strong, although not quite as strong as bonds rated
AAA. Because bonds rated in the AAA and AA categories are not significantly vulnerable to
foreseeable future developments, short-term debt of these issuers is generally rated F-1+.
A: Bonds considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality. The obligors ability to pay
interest and repay principal is considered to be strong, but may be more vulnerable to adverse
changes in economic conditions and circumstances than bonds with higher ratings.
BBB: Bonds considered to be investment grade and of satisfactory credit quality. The obligors
ability to pay interest and repay principal is considered to be adequate. Adverse changes in
economic conditions and circumstances, however, are more likely to have adverse impact on these
bonds, and therefore, impair timely payment. The likelihood that the ratings of these bonds will
fall below investment grade is higher than for bonds with higher ratings.
High Yield Grade
BB: Bonds are considered speculative. The obligors ability to pay interest and repay principal may
be affected over time by adverse economic changes. However, business and financial alternatives
that could assist the obligor in satisfying its debt service requirements can be identified.
B: Bonds are considered highly speculative. While bonds in this class are currently meeting debt
service requirements, the probability of continued timely payment of principal and interest
reflects the obligors limited margin of safety and the need for reasonable business and economic
activity throughout the life of the issue.
CCC: Bonds have certain identifiable characteristics which, if not remedied, may lead to default.
The ability to meet obligations requires an advantageous business and economic environment.
CC: Bonds are minimally protected. Default in payment of interest and/or principal seems probable
over time.
C: Bonds are in imminent default in payment of interest or principal.
DDD, DD, and D: Bonds are in default of interest and/or principal payments. Such bonds are
extremely speculative and should be valued on the basis of their ultimate recovery value in
liquidation or reorganization of the obligor. DDD represents the highest potential for recovery
on these bonds, and D represents the lowest potential for recovery.
Plus (+) or Minus (-): The ratings from AA to C may be modified by the addition of a plus or minus
sign to indicate the relative position of a credit within the rating category.
NR: Indicates that Fitch does not rate the specific issue.
Conditional: A conditional rating is premised on the successful completion of a project or the
occurrence of a specific event.
C-4
Short-Term Ratings
Fitch short-term ratings apply to debt obligations that are payable on demand or have original
maturities of generally up to three years, including commercial paper, certificates of deposit,
medium-term notes, and municipal and investment notes.
F-1+: Exceptionally Strong Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating are regarded as having the
strongest degree of assurance for timely payment.
F-1: Very Strong Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating reflect an assurance of timely payment
only slightly less in degree than issues rated F-1+.
F-2: Good Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating have a satisfactory degree of assurance for
timely payment, but the margin of safety is not as great as the F-1+ and F-1 categories.
F-3: Fair Credit Quality. Issues assigned this rating have characteristics suggesting that the
degree of assurance for timely payment is adequate, however, near-term adverse changes could cause
these securities to be rated below investment grade.
Duff & Phelps
Fixed Income Securities
Investment Grade
AAA: Highest credit quality. The risk factors are negligible, being only slightly more than for
risk-free US Treasury debt.
AA+, AA, and AA-: High credit quality. Protection factors are strong. Risk is modest but may vary
slightly from time to time because of economic conditions.
A+, A, and A-: Protection factors are average but adequate. However, risk factors are more variable
and greater in periods of economic stress.
BBB+, BBB, and BBB-: Below average protection factors but still considered sufficient for prudent
investment. Considerable variability in risk during economic cycles.
High Yield Grade
BB+, BB, and BB-: Below investment grade but deemed likely to meet obligations when due. Present or
prospective financial protection factors fluctuate according to industry conditions or company
fortunes. Overall quality may move up or down frequently within this category.
B+, B, and B-: Below investment grade and possessing risk that obligations will not be met when
due. Financial protection factors will fluctuate widely according to economic cycles, industry
conditions and/or company fortunes. Potential exists for frequent changes in the rating within this
category or into a higher or lower rating grade.
CCC: Well below investment grade securities. Considerable uncertainty exists as to timely payment
of principal interest or preferred dividends. Protection factors are narrow and risk can be
substantial with unfavorable economic/industry conditions, and/or with unfavorable company
developments.
C-5
Preferred stocks are rated on the same scale as bonds but the preferred rating gives weight to its
more junior position in the capital structure. Structured financings are also rated on this scale.
Certificates Of Deposit Ratings
Category 1: Top Grade
Duff 1 plus: Highest certainty of timely payment. Short-term liquidity including internal operating
factors and/or ready access to alternative sources of funds, is outstanding, and safety is just
below risk-free US Treasury short-term obligations.
Duff 1: Very high certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors are excellent and supported by
good Fundamental protection factors. Risk factors are minor.
Duff 1 minus: High certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors are strong and supported by good
Fundamental protection factors. Risk factors are very small.
Category 2: Good Grade
Duff 2: Good certainty of timely payment. Liquidity factors and company Fundamentals are sound.
Although ongoing Funding needs may enlarge total financing requirements, access to capital markets
is good. Risk factors are small.
Category 3: Satisfactory Grade
Duff 3: Satisfactory liquidity and other protection factors qualify issue as to investment grade.
Risk factors are larger and subject to more variation. Nevertheless timely payment is expected.
No ratings are issued for companies whose paper is not deemed to be of investment grade.
C-6
PART C: OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 28. EXHIBITS
(a) Agreement and Declaration of Trust (see Note 1).
(b) Third Amended Bylaws of the Registrant (see Note 12).
(c)
(i) Portions of Agreement and Declaration of Trust Relating to Shareholders Rights (see
Note 1).
(ii) Portions of Bylaws Relating to Shareholders Rights (see Note 1).
(d)
(i) Form of Management Contract between the Trust, on behalf of Schroder Enhanced Income
Fund, and Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (see Note 10).
(ii) Form of Amendment to the Management Contract between the Trust, on behalf of Schroder
Municipal Bond Fund, Schroder Short-Term Municipal Bond Fund and Schroder U.S. Core Fixed Income
Fund, and Schroder Investment Management North America, Inc. (see Note 11).
(iii) Management Contract between the Trust, on behalf of Schroder Municipal Bond Fund,
Schroder Short-Term Municipal Bond Fund, Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund (formerly,
Schroder U.S. Core Fixed Income Fund and Schroder Fixed Income Fund), and Schroder Investment
Management North America Inc. dated as of December 9, 2003 (see Note 12).
(iv) Management Contract between the Trust, on behalf of Schroder Global Equity Yield Fund,
Schroder Global Opportunities Fund, Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder Strategic Bond
Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund, and Schroder Investment Management
North America Inc. (see Note 16).
(v) Investment Subadvisory Agreement between the Trust, on behalf of Schroder Global Equity
Yield Fund, Schroder Global Opportunities Fund, Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, and Schroder
Strategic Bond Fund, Schroder Investment Management North America Inc., and Schroder Investment
Management North America Ltd. (see Note 17).
(vi) Management Contract between the Trust, on behalf of Schroder International Diversified
Value Fund, and Schroder Investment Management North America Inc. (see Note 20).
(vii) Management Contract between the Trust, on behalf of Schroder Multi-Asset Growth
Portfolio (formerly Schroder All Asset Fund), and Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.
(See Note 22).
(viii) Investment Subadvisory Agreement between the Trust, on behalf of Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund, Schroder Investment Management North America Inc., and Schroder Investment
Management North America Ltd. (see Note 20).
(ix) Investment Subadvisory Agreement between the Trust, on behalf of Schroder Multi-Asset
Growth Portfolio (formerly Schroder All Asset Fund), Schroder Investment Management North America
Inc. and Schroder Investment Management North America Ltd. (See Note 22).
(e) Distribution Agreement dated September 15, 1999 (see Note 3).
(f) Not applicable.
(g)
(i) Global Custody Agreement between the Trust and The Chase Manhattan Bank dated as of
December 9, 2003 (Global Custody Agreement) (see Note 5).
(ii) Amendment to Custody Agreement between the Trust and JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA (formerly,
The Chase Manhattan Bank) dated October 26, 2005 (see Note 15).
(iii) Form of Third Amended and Restated Exhibit B to Global Custody Agreement between the
Trust and JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA (see Note 15).
(iv) Fifth Amended and Restated Exhibit B to Global Custody Agreement between the Trust and
JPMorgan Chase Bank, NA relating to Schroder International Diversified Value Fund (see Note 20).
(v) Sixth Amended and Restated Exhibit B to Global Custody Agreement between the Trust and
JP Morgan Chase Bank, NA relating to Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio (formerly Schroder All
Asset Fund) (see Note 22).
(h)
(i) Transfer Agent and Service Agreement (see Note 1).
(ii) Form of Delegation Amendment to Transfer Agent and Service Agreement dated as of July
24, 2002 (see Note 6).
(iii) Amendment to Transfer Agent and Service Agreement relating to Schroder Municipal Bond
Fund and Schroder Short-Term Municipal Bond Fund, dated December 31, 2003 (see Note 12).
(iv) Form of Letter to State Street Bank and Trust, as Transfer Agent, relating to Schroder
Enhanced Income Fund (see Note 10).
(v) Form of Letter to State Street Bank and Trust, as Transfer Agent, relating to Schroder
Total Return Fixed Income Fund (formerly, Schroder U.S. Core Fixed Income Fund and Schroder Fixed
Income Fund) (see Note 11).
(vi) Amendment to Transfer Agent and Service Agreement between State Street Bank and Trust
Company and the Trust dated September 1, 2006 (see Note 21).
(vii) Form of Letter to State Street Bank and Trust, as Transfer Agent, relating to Schroder
Global Equity Yield Fund, Schroder Global Opportunities Fund, Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund,
Schroder Strategic Bond Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund (see Note 15).
(viii) Letter to State Street Bank and Trust, as Transfer Agent, relating to Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund (see Note 20).
(ix) Letter to State Street Bank and Trust, as Transfer Agent, relating to Schroder
Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio (formerly Schroder All Asset Fund) (see Note 22).
(x) Amended and Restated Exhibit A to Transfer Agency Agreement between the Trust and State
Street Bank and Trust Company dated July 22, 2008 (see Note 24).
(xi) Amendment to Transfer Agency Agreement between the Trust and State Street Bank and Trust
Company dated September 1, 2009 filed herewith.
(xii) Administration and Accounting Agreement among the Trust and SEI Investments Global Fund
Services dated as of October 8, 2001 (SEI Administration Agreement) (see Note 5).
(xiii) Form of Amendment No. 1 to the SEI Administration Agreement (see Note 8).
(xiv) Form of Amendment No. 2 to the SEI Administration Agreement relating to Schroder
Municipal Bond Fund and Schroder Short-Term Municipal Bond Fund (see Note 12).
(xv) Form of Amendment No. 4 to the SEI Administration Agreement relating to Schroder Global
Equity Yield Fund, Schroder Global Opportunities Fund, Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, and
Schroder Strategic Bond Fund (see Note 16).
(xvi) Amendment No. 5 to the SEI Administration Agreement relating to Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund (see Note 20).
(xvii) Amendment No. 6 to the SEI Administration Agreement relating to Schroder Multi-Asset
Growth Portfolio (formerly Schroder All Asset Fund) (see Note 22).
(xviii) Amendment No. 7 to the Administration and Accounting Agreement among the Trust and
SEI dated June 1, 2008 (see Note 24).
(xix) Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation Agreement between Schroder Investment Management
North America Inc. and the Trust relating to Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
International Diversified Value Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund,
effective October 1, 2008 through February 28, 2010 (see Note 24).
(xx) Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation Agreement between Schroder Investment Management North
America Inc. and the Trust relating to the Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund, effective
February 28, 2009 through February 28, 2010 (see Note 24).
(xxi) Fee Waiver and Expense Limitation Agreement between Schroder Investment Management
North America Inc. and the Trust relating to Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio, effective
February 28, 2009 through February 28, 2010 (see Note 24).
(xxii) Form of Credit Agreement between the Trust and JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. dated as of
October 6, 2008 (see Note 24).
(i)
(i) Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP (see Note 3).
(ii) Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP relating to Schroder Municipal Bond Fund, Schroder
Short-Term Municipal Bond Fund and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund (formerly, U.S. Core
Fixed Income Fund and Schroder Fixed Income Fund) (see Note 8).
(iii) Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP relating to Schroder Enhanced Income Fund (see Note 10).
(iv) Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP relating to Schroder Global Equity Yield Fund, Schroder
Global Opportunities Fund, Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder Strategic Bond Fund, and
Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund (see Note 15).
(v) Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP relating to Schroder International Diversified Value Fund (see
Note 20).
(vi) Opinion of Ropes & Gray LLP relating to Schroder Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio (see Note
22).
(j) Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm to be filed by amendment.
(k) Not applicable.
(l) Initial Capital Agreement (see Note 1).
(m)
(i) Distribution Plan and Agreement for Advisor Shares (see Note 8).
(ii) Distribution Plan and Agreement for Advisor Shares of Schroder Enhanced Income Fund
(see Note 10).
(iii) Distribution Plan and Agreement for Advisor Shares of Schroder Municipal Bond Fund,
Schroder Short-Term Municipal Bond Fund, and Schroder Total Return Fixed Income Fund (formerly,
Schroder U.S. Core Fixed Income Fund and Schroder Fixed Income Fund) (see Note 16).
(iv) Form of Distribution Plan and Agreement for Advisor Shares of Schroder Global Equity
Yield Fund, Schroder Global Opportunities Fund, Schroder Emerging Market Equity Fund, Schroder
Strategic Bond Fund, and Schroder U.S. Small and Mid Cap Opportunities Fund (see Note 16).
(v) Form of Distribution Plan and Agreement for Advisor Shares of Schroder International
Diversified Value Fund (see Note 20).
(vi) Distribution Plan and Agreement for Advisor Shares, A Shares and R Shares of Schroder
Multi-Asset Growth Portfolio (see Note 22).
(n)
(i) Fourth Amended and Restated Multiclass (Rule 18f-3) Plan (see Note 22).
(o) Reserved.
(p)
(i) Code of Ethics for Schroders and Schroder Fund Advisors Inc. filed herewith.
(ii) Amended Code of Ethics of the Trust (see Note 13).
(iii) Code of Ethics of SIMNA Ltd. (see Note 15).
(q) Power of Attorney for Mark A. Hemenetz, Alan M. Mandel, Catherine A. Mazza,
William L. Means, and James D. Vaughn (see Note 21).
Notes:
1.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 11 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 25, 1999, accession number
0000950135-97-000990.
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2.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on April 14, 1997, accession number
0000950135-97-012780.
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3.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 29, 2000, accession number
0000912057-009075.
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4.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 28, 2001, accession number
0000912057-01-006924.
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5.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 15 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on January 29, 2002, accession number
0000950136-02-000240.
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6.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 16 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 28, 2003, accession number
0000950136-03-000458.
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7.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 17 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on October 17, 2003, accession number
0000950136-03-002563.
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8.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on December 31, 2003, accession number
0000950136-03-003240.
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9.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 19 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 27, 2004, accession number
0000950136-04-000603.
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10.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 20 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on October 13, 2004, accession number
0000950136-04-003374.
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11.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 22 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on October 29, 2004, accession number
0000950136-04-003635.
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12.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 23 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on December 22, 2004, accession number
0000950136-04-004510.
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13.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 24 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 25, 2005, accession number
0000950136-05-001049.
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14.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on April 20, 2005, accession number
0000950136-05-002183.
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15.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 26 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on January 11, 2006, accession number
0000950136-06-000150.
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16.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 27 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 28, 2006, accession number
0000950136-06-001487.
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17.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on March 30, 2006, accession number
0000950136-06-002515.
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18.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 31 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on July 21, 2006, accession number
0000950136-06-005905.
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19.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 33 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on August 29, 2006, accession number
0000950136-06-007132.
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20.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on August 29, 2006, accession number
0000950136-06-007357.
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21.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 37 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 28, 2007, accession number
0000950136-07-001245.
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22.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 48 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on December 19, 2007, accession number
0000950136-07-008455.
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23.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 50 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 29, 2008, accession number
0000950136-08-001035.
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24.
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Exhibit incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 51 to the Trusts
Registration Statement on Form N-1A filed via EDGAR on February 27, 2009, accession number
0000950123-09-003702.
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ITEM 29. PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH THE FUNDS
None.
ITEM 30. INDEMNIFICATION
Article VIII of the Registrants Agreement and Declaration of Trust provides as follows:
SECTION 1. The Trust shall indemnify each of its Trustees and officers (including persons who serve
at the Trusts request as directors, officers or trustees of another organization in which the
Trust has any interest as a shareholder, creditor or otherwise) (hereinafter referred to as a
Covered Person) against all liabilities and expenses, including but not limited to amounts paid
in satisfaction of judgments, in compromise or as fines and penalties, and counsel fees reasonably
incurred by any Covered Person in connection with the defense or disposition of any action, suit or
other proceeding, whether civil or criminal, before any court or administrative or legislative
body, in which such Covered Person may be or may have been involved as a party or otherwise or with
which such Covered Person may be or may have been threatened, while in office or thereafter, by
reason of being or having been such a Covered Person except with respect to any matter as to which
such covered Person shall have been finally adjudicated in any such action, suit or other
proceeding (a) not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable
belief that such Covered Persons action was in the best interests of the Trust or (b) to be liable to the
Trust or its Shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or
reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of such Covered Persons office. Expenses,
including counsel fees so incurred by any such Covered Person (but excluding amounts paid in
satisfaction of judgments, in compromise or as fines or penalties), shall be paid from time to time
by the Trust in advance of the final disposition of any such action, suit or proceeding upon
receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of such Covered Person to repay amounts so paid to the
Trust if it is ultimately determined that indemnification of such expenses is not authorized under
this Article, provided, however, that either (a) such Covered Person shall have provided
appropriate security for such undertaking, (b) the Trust shall be insured against losses arising
from any such advance payments or (c) either a majority of the disinterested Trustees acting on the
matter (provided that a majority of the disinterested Trustees then in office act on the matter),
or independent legal counsel in a written opinion, shall have determined, based upon a review of
readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial type inquiry), that there is reason to believe
that such Covered Person will be found entitled to indemnification under this Article.
SECTION 2. As to any matter disposed of (whether by a compromise payment, pursuant to a consent
decree or otherwise) without an adjudication by a court, or by any other body before which the
proceeding was brought, that such Covered Person either (a) did not act in good faith in the
reasonable belief that his or her action was in the best interests of the Trust or (b) is liable to
the Trust or its Shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or
reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office, indemnification
shall be provided if (a) approved as in the best interests of the Trust, after notice that it
involves such indemnification, by at least a majority of the disinterested Trustees acting on the
matter (provided that a majority of the disinterested Trustees then in office act on the matter)
upon a determination, based upon a review of readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial
type inquiry) that such Covered Person acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that his or her
action was in the best interests of the Trust and is not liable to the Trust or its Shareholders by
reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties
involved in the conduct of his or her office, or (b) there has been obtained an opinion in writing
of independent legal counsel, based upon a review of readily available facts as opposed to a full
trial type inquiry), to the effect that such Covered Person appears to have acted in good faith in
the reasonable belief that his or her action was in the best interests of the Trust and that such
indemnification would not protect such Covered Person against any liability to the Trust to which
he or she would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence
or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office. Any approval
pursuant to this Section shall not prevent the recovery, from any Covered Person of any amount paid
to such Covered Person in accordance with this Section as indemnification if such Covered Person is
subsequently adjudicated by a court of competent jurisdiction not to have acted in good faith in
the reasonable belief that such Covered Persons action was in the best interests of the Trust or
to have been liable to the Trust of its Shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith,
gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of such Covered
Persons Office.
SECTION 3. The right of indemnification hereby provided shall not be exclusive of or affect any
other rights to which such Covered Person may be entitled. As used in this Article VIII, the term
Covered Person shall include such persons heirs, executors and administrators, and a
disinterested Trustee is a Trustee who is not an interested person of the Trust as defined in
Section 2(a)(19) of the 1940 Act (or who has been exempted from being an interested person by any
rule, regulation or order of the Securities and Exchange Commission) and against whom none of such
actions, suits or other proceedings or another action, suit or other proceeding on the same or
similar grounds is then or has been pending.
Nothing contained in this Article shall affect any rights to indemnification to which personnel of
the Trust, other than Trustees or officers, and other persons may be entitled by contract or
otherwise under law, nor the power of the Trust to purchase and maintain liability insurance on
behalf of any such person.
Article 12 of the Registrants Amended Bylaws provides as follows:
12.1 EFFECT OF AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT DESIGNATION. The conduct of a Trustee shall be
evaluated solely by reference to a hypothetical reasonable person, without regard to any special
expertise, knowledge or other qualifications of the Trustee. In particular, and without limiting
the generality of the foregoing, neither the determination that a Trustee is an audit committee
financial expert nor the knowledge, experience or other qualifications underlying such a
determination shall result in that Trustee being held to a standard of care that is higher than the
standard that would be applicable in the absence of such a determination or such knowledge,
experience or qualification, nor shall such a determination or such knowledge, experience or other
qualification impose any duties, obligations or liabilities that are greater than would obtain in
the absence of such a determination or such knowledge, experience or qualification. Any
determination of whether a Trustee has complied with any applicable standard of care, including
without limitation any standard of care set out in any constituent document of the Trust, and any
determination of whether a Trustee shall be entitled to indemnification pursuant to any provision
of the Declaration of Trust or these Bylaws, shall be made in light of and based upon the
provisions of this paragraph, and any person serving as Trustee, whether at the date of adoption of
this paragraph as a Bylaw or thereafter, shall be presumed conclusively to have done so in reliance
on this paragraph. No amendment or removal of this paragraph shall be effective in respect of any
period prior to such amendment or removal.
12.2. MANDATORY INDEMNIFICATION OF TRUSTEES. The Trust shall to the fullest extent legally
permissible indemnify each person who is or was a Trustee against all liabilities, costs and
expenses reasonably incurred by such person in connection with or resulting from any action, suit
or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, brought by any
governmental or self-regulatory authority, including without limitation any formal or informal
investigation into possible violations of law or regulation initiated by any governmental body or
self-regulatory authority, in which such person may be or may have been involved as a party or
otherwise or with which he may be or may have been threatened, while in office or thereafter, by
reason of he or she having been a Trustee, or by reason of any action taken or not taken in such
capacity, except to the extent prohibited by the Declaration of Trust. Any person serving as
Trustee, whether at the date of adoption of this paragraph as a Bylaw or thereafter, shall be
presumed conclusively to have done so in reliance on this paragraph. No amendment or removal of
this paragraph shall be effective in respect of any period prior to such amendment or removal or
any proceeding related to any period prior to such amendment or removal.
Reference is made to the Trusts Distribution Agreement which contains provisions for the
indemnification by Schroder Fund Advisors Inc. of the Registrant and Trustees and officers of the
Registrant under certain circumstances. Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the
Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to Trustees and officers of the Registrant pursuant to the
foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the
Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in
the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against
such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a
Trustee or officer of the
Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit, or proceeding) is asserted by such
Trustee or officer in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless
in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a
court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
ITEM 31. BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF INVESTMENT ADVISER
The directors and officers of the Registrants investment adviser, Schroder Investment Management
North America Inc. (Schroders), have been engaged during the past two fiscal years in no
business, vocation, or employment of a substantial nature other than as directors, officers, or
employees of the investment adviser or certain of its corporate affiliates, except the following,
whose principal occupations during that period, other than as directors or officers of the
investment adviser or certain of its corporate affiliates, are as follows: Keith Collins, Group
Head of Finance, who was formerly Global Head of Finance for Dresdners investment bank.
The address of Schroders and Schroder Fund Advisors Inc. is 875 Third Avenue, 22nd Floor, New York,
NY 10022. The addresses of certain corporate affiliates of Schroders are as follows: Schroder
Investment Management North America Limited, Schroder Ltd., and Schroders plc. are located at 31
Gresham St., London EC2V 7QA, United Kingdom. Each of Schroder Investment Management Limited,
Schroder Investment Management (UK) Limited, Schroder Investment Management (Europe), Korea
Schroder Fund Management Limited and Schroder Personal Investment Management, is located at 33
Gutter Lane, London EC2V 8AS United Kingdom. Schroder Investment Management (Singapore) Limited is
located at #47-01 OCBC Centre, Singapore. Schroder Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited is
located at 8 Connaight Place, Hong Kong. Schroder Investment Management (Australasia) Limited is
located at 225 George Place, Sydney, Australia. PT Schroder Investment Management Indonesia is
located at Lippo Plaza Bldg., 25 Jakarta, 12820. Schroders (C.I.) Limited is located at St. Peter
Port, Guernsey, Channel Islands, GY1 3UF. Schroder Properties Limited is located at Senator House,
85 Queen Victoria Street, London EC4V 4EJ, United Kingdom.
ITEM 32. PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITERS
(a) Schroder Fund Advisors Inc. currently acts as the principal underwriter for each series of
Registrant, each series of Schroder Capital Funds (Delaware) and each series of Schroder Global
Series Trust.
(b) The directors and officers of the Registrants principal underwriter are as follows:
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Name and Principal
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Position and Office
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Business Address*
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with Underwriter
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Position and Office with the Trust
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Catherine A. Mazza
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Director
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Trustee and Chairman
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Mark A. Hemenetz
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Director and Chairman
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President and Principal Executive
Officer
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Alan M. Mandel
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Director
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Treasurer & Principal Financial
and Accounting Officer
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Carin F. Muhlbaum
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Director and Secretary
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Vice President
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Stephen DeTore
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Director and Chief
Compliance
Officer
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Chief Compliance Officer
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William MacCarter Sims
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Director and President
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None
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Dean S. Allen
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Director
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None
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Robert Fortino
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Chief Financial
Officer and
Financial
Operations Principal
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None
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Angel Lanier
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Assistant Secretary
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Assistant Clerk
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*
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The principal business address of each individual listed above is 875 Third Avenue, 22nd Floor,
New York, New York 10022.
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(c) Not applicable.
ITEM 33. LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS
Persons maintaining physical possession of accounts, books, and other documents required to be
maintained by Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Rules promulgated
thereunder are Registrants Vice President, Carin F. Muhlbaum; Registrants Clerk, Abby Ingber;
Registrants investment adviser, Schroder Investment Management North America Inc.; Registrants
custodian, J.P. Morgan Chase Bank; and Registrants transfer agent and registrar, Boston Financial
Data Services, Inc. The address of the Vice President, Clerk and investment adviser is 875 Third
Avenue, 22nd Floor, New York, New York 10022.
The address of the custodian is 270 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10017. The address of the
transfer agent and registrar is 2000 Crown Colony Drive, Quincy, Massachusetts 02169.
ITEM 34. MANAGEMENT SERVICES
None.
ITEM 35. UNDERTAKINGS
(a) The Registrant undertakes to furnish each person to whom a prospectus is delivered with a copy
of the Registrants latest annual report to shareholders upon request and without charge.
(b) The Registrant undertakes, if requested to do so by the holders of at least 10% of the
Registrants outstanding shares of beneficial interest, to call a meeting of shareholders for the
purpose of voting upon the question of removal of a Trustee or Trustees and to assist, in
communications with other shareholders as required by Section 16(c) of the Investment Company Act
of 1940.
NOTICE
A copy of the Agreement and Declaration of Trust of Schroder Series Trust is on file with the
Secretary of State of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and notice is hereby given that this
instrument is executed on behalf of the Registrant by an officer of the Registrant as an officer
and not individually and that the obligations of or arising out of this instrument are not binding
upon any of the Trustees, officers, or shareholders individually but are binding only upon the
assets and property of the Registrant.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940,
the Registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereto duly authorized, in the City of New York and the State of New York, on this
31st day of December, 2009.
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SCHRODER SERIES TRUST
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By:
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/s/ Mark A. Hemenetz
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Name:
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Mark A. Hemenetz
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Title:
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President and Principal Executive Officer
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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this Amendment to the
Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities indicated
on December 31, 2009.
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Principal Executive Officer
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By:
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/s/ Mark A. Hemenetz
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Name:
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Mark A. Hemenetz
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Title:
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President and Principal Executive Officer
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Principal Financial and Accounting Officer
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By:
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/s/ Alan M. Mandel
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Name:
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Alan M. Mandel
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Title:
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Treasurer & Principal Financial and Accounting Officer
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*Catherine A. Mazza, Trustee
*William L. Means, Trustee
*James D. Vaughn, Trustee
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By:
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/s/ Alan M. Mandel
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Alan M. Mandel Attorney-in-Fact*
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*
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Pursuant to powers of attorney previously filed as exhibits
to this Registration Statement.
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EXHIBIT INDEX
(h)(xi) Amendment to Transfer Agency Agreement between the Trust and State Street Bank and Trust
Company dated September 1, 2009.
(p)(i) Code of Ethics for Schroders and Schroder Fund Advisors Inc.